ELF Files Explained – Part 2: Inside the ELF Format – Headers, Sections, Symbols and Debug Information
Part 2 of the "ELF Files Explained" Series
In Part 1, we explored the history of executable file formats and the evolution from early UNIX formats such as a.out and COFF to the Executable and Linkable Format. We also saw how ELF became the standard executable format for Linux and a fundamental component of modern embedded development toolchains.
In this article, we move beyond that historical perspective and begin examining the internal structure of an ELF file. Rather than treating it as an opaque binary, we will break it down into its major components and see how linkers, loaders and debuggers each interpret the information it contains.
UPDI Explained: The Complete Guide to Programming and Debugging Modern AVR Microcontrollers
A comprehensive guide to the Unified Program and Debug Interface (UPDI), including architecture, signalling, security, memory programming, debugging, recovery techniques and programmers.
A standalone AVR microcontroller programmer is a device that can program microcontrollers without needing to be connected to a computer during the programming process. These devices are useful for production environments, field updates, or any situation where a laptop or PC is not convenient.
Choosing the correct AVR programmer depends on the requirements of your project, budget and your experience level. There are a number of factors to consider when making your decision.
A standalone microcontroller programmer is a device that can be used to program microcontrollers without the need for a computer. This makes them ideal for use in portable applications, or for programming microcontrollers that are not easily accessible by a computer. They also simplify production tasks as the operator can be relatively unskilled.
Atmel, now Microchip, have been moving away from AVR ISP programming method for some time. All the latest AVR microcontrollers now use UPDI programming interface but some ATtiny chips used TPI interface, which is discussed here.
AVR microcontrollers were first introduced almost 30 years ago and since then there have been a few changes, especially since Microchip absorbed Atmel. The AVR was one of the first microcontrollers to have onboard flash memory that could be electrically erased and reprogrammed and this enabled the introduction of In System Programming or ISP.
Older versions of Kanda Software will not work with latest FTDI USB driver 2.12.36, released 17/06/2021. This applies to PIC and AVR handheld programmers, AVR keyfob and AVRISP-U programmers.
The solution is to roll back the driver to 2.12.28, released 16/08/2017.
Kanda have released a free Android App, for smart phones and tablets, that lets you update your AVR or PIC handheld programmer contents from your phone. Just load the programmer, copy it to a programmer file (.PRG), send it to your customer, distributor or engineer and they use their phone or tablet to update the programmer.
