Find out how to Backup Flight Controller Utilizing STM32CubeProgrammer (Saving Firmware and Config)

A large thanks to @John_Gardi on X for the tip on again up and restore flight controllers utilizing STM32CubeProgrammer. This software reads the processor’s reminiscence, making an entire backup of the firmware and configurations in a single file, which you’ll be able to later restore.

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Disclaimer

I’ve solely briefly examined this technique. Whereas it appears to work effectively, I counsel warning. I’m not answerable for any injury or configuration loss to your FC attributable to following these directions. All the time again up your flight controller utilizing standard strategies earlier than attempting this one.

For a secure backup/restore technique, see this information: https://oscarliang.com/backup-restore-betaflight-config/

Why It Issues?

In my restricted testing, I efficiently switched between two totally different Betaflight variations, retaining all custom-made settings. The backup and restore course of took solely about 30 seconds, making it an efficient and environment friendly technique.

This technique ought to work with any flight controller utilizing STM32 processors, however I’ve examined it with F405 to this point. It ought to work on each Betaflight and iNav flight controllers.

Obtain

Get STM32CubeProg right here: https://www.st.com/en/development-tools/stm32cubeprog.html

Enter DFU Mode

Observe this information to place your flight controller in DFU mode: https://oscarliang.com/dfu-mode/

Shut Betaflight Configurator, however go away the FC related to your pc (nonetheless in DFU mode).

Connecting STM32CubeProg

Run STM32CubeProgrammer.

Within the dropdown checklist subsequent to ‘join’, choose “USB”, then click on ‘Join’.

Studying Flight Controller

After connecting, select ‘Learn all’. This reads your complete processor reminiscence which may then be saved.

Backing Up Information

To save lots of the info, choose “Save As”.

This may save each the firmware and all of the settings in a single file. The scale of the saved file ought to match the processor reminiscence – both 512KB or 1MB relying on the kind of FC processor. Study extra about FC processor right here: https://oscarliang.com/f1-f3-f4-flight-controller/

Restoring Information

To revive a flight controller, click on “Open file” to open the saved file.

Then click on “Obtain” choice (within the high proper blue field) to jot down the info to the flight controller. The method takes about 30 seconds.