Getting started with VMUSIC2

Step 2 Programming the firmware

I ordered my VMUSIC2 module directly from FTDI. The biggest source of my frustration was that I found that my module had no firmware installed. Of course, I thought it was a problem with my connections, so I went on a wild goose chase trying to figure out what I was doing wrong! And I didn't realize that I could upgrade the firmware from the USB drive, so I ended up doing it the hard way. This instructable should spare you that.

Also, the default firmware is not set up to be friendly with hyperterminal. So, we will be modifying and updating the firmware.

First, go to the Vinculum website and download the latest Reflash(FTD) file there. Also get the VPROG Re-flash Utility (not used in this instructable, but will be helpful if you have trouble) and the Firmware Customizer from the Applications and Utilities section further down the page.

Start up the Firmware customizer and load the Reflash(FTD) file that you downloaded. You will see a summary of the programmed options in the firmware. Click next to begin editing the firmware.

(I have included screenshots of the sections that I have changed)

This is a summary of the options that I chose:
UART: 9600 baud, 8 bits, No Parity, 1 Stop bit, and No flow control (this one is important)
IPA Mode and Extended Command Set

Now, just click next through the rest of the options. You will be asked for a unique 3 character identifier for your custom firmware. I created two different firmwares and used these IDs; COM for hyperterminal friendly (this one) and MCU for the microcontroller friendly version. We are only concerned with the hyperterminal friendly version for this instructable.

Now, save your new image somewhere and name it FTRFB.FTD. You might need to change the file type in the drop down menu to save an FTD file. A ROM file will not work for this instructable as it cannot be flashed from the USB drive.

Now, copy the FTRFB.FTD file that you just created over to the root folder of the flash drive you are planning to use.

Alternately, you can name the original file something that will help you identify it later, and then just rename it to FTRFB.FTD after copying it to the flash drive. It MUST have this filename or the bootloader will not recognize it and reprogram itself.