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MSP-EXP430FR5969: For the eZ-FET Rev 1.2 version firmware

Part Number: MSP-EXP430FR5969
Other Parts Discussed in Thread: MSP-FET, MSP430FR5969

Tool/software:

Problem Description: During an attempt to upgrade the firmware of the onboard eZ-FET, the upgrade process failed. Afterward, I tried re-plugging the USB cable, and as a result, the computer completely failed to recognize the LaunchPad. No ports (COM devices) appeared in Device Manager. Although the LED on the LaunchPad displayed a normal green indicator, it was definitively not recognized. I suspect that the eZ-FET firmware is completely lost or corrupted.

Hardware Information:

  • LaunchPad Model: MSP-EXP430FR5969
  • Onboard Debugger Version: eZ-FET Rev 1.2

Steps I have tried (but all ineffective):

  • Re-plugging the USB cable: Attempted multiple times, and tried different USB ports and USB cables.
  • Changing computers: Tested on multiple Windows 10/11 computers, with the same result (no recognition).
  • Installing/Updating Drivers: Confirmed that the latest versions of CCS (Code Composer Studio) and TI drivers are installed, but since the device is not recognized, drivers cannot be installed or updated.
  • Attempting "Update eZ-FET Firmware" in CCS: Since the device is not recognized, CCS cannot detect the LaunchPad, rendering this function unusable.
  • Attempting to power on while holding down the user button or reset button: Had no effect; the device still remains unrecognized.

My Questions/Requests for Help:

  1. For the eZ-FET Rev 1.2 version, if the firmware is completely lost, is there a way to externally flash/recover the eZ-FET firmware via the JTAG interface on the LaunchPad (or by other means)? I have another working LaunchPad or debuggers like J-Link/MSP-FET at hand; can these be used for the repair?
  2. Do TI official tools or the community provide the firmware file (.txt or .hex) for eZ-FET Rev 1.2 and its corresponding flashing method?
  3. Are there any other diagnostic steps or repair methods I haven't tried?
  • Hi user,
    1 & 3. I recommend to look over this previous E2E threads which mention some instance where a similar problem occured: Firmware bricked
    2. I think you should still be able to program the target device MSP430FR5969 (through JTAG, i.e., using your MSP-FET since this skips having to use the eZ-FET)

    Best Regards,

    Diego Abad

  • My MSP-EXP430FR5969 LaunchPad's onboard eZ-FET had previously been working normally in the latest version of CCS 20.3.0.14 environment, allowing for flashing and debugging. However, recently I installed IAR Embedded Workbench for MSP430 V7.10.1. When attempting to compile and debug, the IAR software prompted me to update the debugger firmware. I followed the prompt and performed the firmware update operation. During the update process, the LaunchPad's red and green indicator lights illuminated simultaneously and remained frozen/stuck. Subsequently, I tried disconnecting and reconnecting the USB cable. Although now only the green indicator light is on, the LaunchPad has since then been completely unrecognized by the computer. I have already tried searching numerous forum posts about bricked firmware, but none have helped me revive my onboard eZ-FET.

  • Hi user,
    If the other E2E forums don't help, I think it is very unlikely it can be recovered. I would recommend to avoid using it, and instead use the MSP-FET to program the device from now on.

    Best Regards,

    Diego Abad

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