2.5.1.1 SAM-BA

Microchip SAM-BA (SAM Boot Assistant) tools are used in the development and deployment lifecycle of embedded systems built on Microchip 32-bit MPUs. Designed to simplify firmware uploading and device programming, SAM-BA acts as a bridge between a developer's host computer and the target MPU, enabling seamless communication over interfaces like USB, UART and JTAG. It is particularly useful for initial board bring-up, production-line flashing and firmware updates in the field.

Unlike traditional programming methods that require dedicated hardware debuggers, SAM-BA leverages the on-chip bootloader— i.e., the ROM code—present in all Microchip 32-bit MPU devices. This allows users to program their devices using only a serial or USB connection, significantly reducing hardware dependencies and setup complexity.

Whether you are building a prototype, deploying at scale or maintaining devices in the field, SAM-BA provides a flexible, reliable and low-footprint programming solution tailored to the needs of developers working with Microchip’s powerful Arm-based microprocessors.

For this document, SAM-BA version 3.9.1 is used.

Install the SAM-BA tool on the host PC:

  1. Download the latest version of the SAM-BA tool from www.microchip.com.
  2. Unzip the archive into a working directory.
  3. Add the SAM-BA install directory path to the environment variables.
  4. Open a command prompt and enter the following command to launch SAM-BA and ensure it is installed properly:
    • sam-ba -v
Figure 2-10. SAM-BA Version on Host

SAM-BA is now fully installed on the host computer.