Programming the MSP430 via USB?

any update on this?

Hi berms03,

Which MSP430 do you intend to program via USB? I am doing some research and I will get back to you. Thanks,

MSP430F5438

The 5438, besides the SBW/JTAG interface, has a built-in bootloader for serial programming. You can invoke this bootloader and send it data (or read/mass erase etc.) by a special sequence on the MSPs reset/TEST pins and P1.1/P1.2. The BSL users guide slau319a.pdf has a schematic for an external interface. Basically, reset and TEST are connected with DTR and RTS signals, so it can be utilized by a normal serial connection (with proper level shifter from RS232 to TTL level).

If you can provide these signals and a normal 9600Bd serial RX/TX then you can use this bootloader to load new firmware, erase the device or even inspect it (read info memory or ram, or, if this bootloaders is activated from within the applicaiton instead of the reset/test sequence, you can even inspect registers or variables.).

A simple USB/serial adapter can be used for this. However, it must be ensured that the commands for controlling RTS and DTR are transmitted in separate USB frames, so they don't execute simultaneously.

The MSP430F55xx with internal USB controller have a bootloader that can do a direct update from USB. It requires, however, a manual signal (button press during USB power-up) to be invoked.

I guess I should be a little more specific about my question.  I want to know is there a common interface to program both an MSP430 and a Stellaris, other then a JTAG header? Ideally I would like to use a USB-JTAG chip, (FTDI is used with the stellaris).  I was hoping to use the SPI-BY wire for the MSP and the SWD for the Stellaris.  

Is this a one-board solution or do you have a separate board for the Stellaris and the MSP430? Currently TI does not offer a common interface for the MSP430 and a Stellaris MCU. However, you can program the Stellaris MCU with the FTDI solution that you have, and use the BSL module on the 5438 to program them MSP430.

This is for a one board solution

The MCU's would be programmed individually, not at the same time.  

Your best bet would be to go with the FTDI for the Stellaris and the BSL for the MSP430. See SLAU319a for more info on the BSL.

I would like the ability to Debug and I don't think that's possible with the BSL.