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AFE4403EVM: How to check the operation of the AFE4403EVM Kit firmware

Part Number: AFE4403EVM

Is it possible to operate the AFE4403EVM Kit, set breakpoints in the firmware source, and check the association between the operation of the application and the operation of the firmware?

  • Hello, 

    While the firmware source is modifiable, using breakpoints in the firmware source code and using the EVM GUI at the same time is only feasibly by using a TAG connector on the EVM alongside the TI Code Composer studio with the MSP firmware to step through the programming for the MCU.  


    However, if you'd like to see how to configure the AFE using an MCU, the scripting info located within the installation folder for the EVM may be helpful. Default path: C:\Program Files(x86)\Texas Instruments\AFE4403EVM GUI\Documentation 

    Kind regards,
    Nick Z

  • Thank you for your reply.

    if possible,
    Use breakpoints in the firmware source code to
    I would like to use the EVM GUI at the same time.

    What is EVM's TAG connector and TI Code Composer Studio?
    Is there an explanation written somewhere?

  • Hello again, 

    With both a JTAG connection and using Code Composer to step through the MSP's operation, you should be able to both understand the MSP's operation while running the EVM GUI. 

    Code Composer Studio is an integrated development environment (IDE) that supports TI's Microcontroller and Embedded Processors portfolio. More info:  https://www.ti.com/tool/CCSTUDIO-MSP 

    We have a connector for JTAG communication on the EVM board, I circled it in red. Here's some further information on using the JTAG system on the MSP430. https://www.ti.com/cn/lit/an/slaa763/slaa763.pdf 

    May I ask why you feel this is necessary? If I understand why you're looking to use breakpoints in the MSP firmware code, we may have a better way for you to interact with our AFE. 

    Kind regards,
    Nick Z

  • thank you for your answer.

    Is it necessary to have a Debug Probe connected by JTAG for step operation?
    Is it possible to connect only with a USB connection from a computer?

    Why is it necessary?
    In preparation for creating firmware that controls the AFE,
    This is because I want to use the EVM to check the relationship between one AFE command and the actual input/output signal of the AFE.

  • Hello, 

    No, step functionality will occur in code composer, but JTAG will allow you to observe the waveforms of the MSP430 if you're interested in the device functionality when stepping through the AFE GUI software. 

    More info on using JTAG with the MSP430: https://www.ti.com/lit/pdf/slau320 

    However, if you're more interested in how the AFE responds to commands, then it may be better to probe the AFE itself. 

    Kind regards,
    Nick Z