Kneron

Firmware Update (DFU) Guide

Keep your Kneron NPU up to date. Firmware updates unlock new operators, improve inference speed, and fix critical bugs.

CRITICAL WARNING:
  • Do NOT unplug the device while the progress bar is moving.
  • Do NOT close the terminal window during the flash.
  • Ensure your laptop is plugged into power.
  • Failure to follow these steps may brick your device.

1. Understanding Firmware

Kneron NPUs run two distinct firmware binaries. They must be updated together.

SCPU (System CPU)

Handles USB communication, model loading, and OS scheduling.

filename: scpu_fw_v*.bin
NCPU (Neural Core)

Handles the actual matrix multiplication and AI operators.

filename: ncpu_fw_v*.bin

2. Check Current Version

Before updating, check what you are currently running.

kneron status
Device Index: 0
Serial: 32310001
SCPU Version: 1.3.4 (Needs Update)
NCPU Version: 1.3.4 (Needs Update)

3. Enter DFU Mode

The device must be in "Device Firmware Upgrade" mode to accept new code.

If your device is working normally, simply run:

kneron dfu --trigger

The device LED will change from Green (Idle) to Blinking Red (DFU Mode).

If the software trigger fails, you must force DFU mode physically.

1. Locate the BOOT_SEL Jumper
_______________________ | USB Port [ ] [ ] | | [x] [x] | <-- Short these two pins | BOOT_SEL | |_______________________|
  1. Unplug the USB cable.
  2. Place a jumper cap (or use a wire) to short the `BOOT_SEL` pins.
  3. Plug the USB cable back in.
  4. Remove the jumper cap immediately (within 2 seconds).

4. Flash Firmware

Once in DFU mode (ID `3231:1000`), run the flash command.

kneron dfu --flash-all latest

Note: `latest` will download the best firmware for your specific hardware revision automatically.

5. Verification

The device will reboot automatically. Run status one last time.

Verify that versions now match the target (e.g., v2.4.1).
Steps