Firmware Update EL/ES/EM/ELM/EPxxxx

This section describes the device update for Beckhoff EtherCAT slaves from the EL/ES, ELM, EM, EK and EP series. A firmware update should only be carried out after consultation with Beckhoff support.

Notice

Only use TwinCAT 3 software!

A firmware update of Beckhoff IO devices must only be performed with a TwinCAT 3 installation. It is recommended to build as up-to-date as possible, available for free download on the Beckhoff website.

To update the firmware, TwinCAT can be operated in the so-called FreeRun mode, a paid license is not required.

The device to be updated can usually remain in the installation location, but TwinCAT has to be operated in the FreeRun. Please make sure that EtherCAT communication is trouble-free (no LostFrames etc.).

Other EtherCAT master software, such as the EtherCAT Configurator, should not be used, as they may not support the complexities of updating firmware, EEPROM and other device components.

Storage locations

An EtherCAT slave stores operating data in up to three locations:

Each EtherCAT slave has a device description, consisting of identity (name, product code), timing specifications, communication settings, etc.
This device description (ESI; EtherCAT Slave Information) can be downloaded from the Beckhoff website in the download area as a zip file and used in EtherCAT masters for offline configuration, e.g. in TwinCAT.
Above all, each EtherCAT slave carries its device description (ESI) electronically readable in a local memory chip, the so-called ESI EEPROM. When the slave is switched on, this description is loaded locally in the slave and informs it of its communication configuration; on the other hand, the EtherCAT master can identify the slave in this way and, among other things, set up the EtherCAT communication accordingly.

Notice

Application-specific writing of the ESI-EEPROM

The ESI is developed by the device manufacturer according to ETG standard and released for the corresponding product.
- Meaning for the ESI file: Modification on the application side (i.e. by the user) is not permitted.
- Meaning for the ESI EEPROM: Even if a writeability is technically given, the ESI parts in the EEPROM and possibly still existing free memory areas must not be changed beyond the normal update process. Especially for cyclic memory processes (operating hours counter etc.), dedicated memory products such as EL6080 or IPC's own NOVRAM must be used.

Depending on functionality and performance EtherCAT slaves have one or several local controllers for processing I/O data. The corresponding program is the so-called firmware in *.efw format.
In some EtherCAT slaves the EtherCAT communication may also be integrated in these controllers. In this case the controller is usually a so-called FPGA chip with *.rbf firmware.

Customers can access the data via the EtherCAT fieldbus and its communication mechanisms. Acyclic mailbox communication or register access to the ESC is used for updating or reading of these data.

The TwinCAT System Manager offers mechanisms for programming all three parts with new data, if the slave is set up for this purpose. Generally the slave does not check whether the new data are suitable, i.e. it may no longer be able to operate if the data are unsuitable.

Simplified update by bundle firmware

The update using so-called bundle firmware is more convenient: in this case the controller firmware and the ESI description are combined in a *.efw file; during the update both the firmware and the ESI are changed in the terminal. For this to happen it is necessary

for the firmware to be in a packed format: recognizable by the file name, which also contains the revision number, e.g. ELxxxx-xxxx_REV0016_SW01.efw
for password=1 to be entered in the download dialog. If password=0 (default setting) only the firmware update is carried out, without an ESI update.
for the device to support this function. The function usually cannot be retrofitted; it is a component of many new developments from year of manufacture 2016.

Following the update, its success should be verified

ESI/Revision: e.g. by means of an online scan in TwinCAT ConfigMode/FreeRun – this is a convenient way to determine the revision
Firmware: e.g. by looking in the online CoE of the device

Notice

Risk of damage to the device!

Note the following when downloading new device files

Firmware downloads to an EtherCAT device must not be interrupted
Flawless EtherCAT communication must be ensured. CRC errors or LostFrames must be avoided.
The power supply must adequately dimensioned. The signal level must meet the specification.

In the event of malfunctions during the update process the EtherCAT device may become unusable and require re-commissioning by the manufacturer.

Further Information