Update TinySA firmware on a Mac

This guide explains how to update the firmware on a TinySA device using a Mac computer. The process involves installing software tools, downloading firmware files, and using terminal commands to complete the update.

To update TinySA firmware:

:step1: Install MacPorts from here. Pick your operating system from the list.

:step1: Open up a terminal. The terminal app can be found in Applications > Utilities > Terminal

:step1: Copy/Paste this in to your terminal and press enter: sudo port install dfu-util.

This command installs the dfu utility that allows the computer to send firmware to your device.

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:stepresult1: You'll be prompted to enter your password. Visit this link if you want to learn more.

:step1: Close the terminal that you were just in.

:step1: Download the firmware from the tinysa.org website. Look for a file that ends in .bin

for TinySA Ultra, use this link.
for a standard TinySA, use this link.

:step1: Rename the .bin file to tinySA.bin

:step1: Open a new terminal window.

:step1: Type dfu-util and press Enter.

:stepresult1: Does the terminal display any output text?

If yes, you're ready to continue.
If no, please go back and repeat the dfu-util installation step above.

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To resolve installation issues:

:step1: Locate the downloaded .bin file. It's typically in your Downloads folder.

:step1: Navigate your terminal to the folder containing the .bin file.

:step1: By default, the terminal opens in your Home folder (shortcut: ~).

You'll see something like "➜ ~"

:step1: From the Home folder, type cd ./Downloads.

Press Enter to move to your Downloads folder. (cd means "change directory" and ./ refers to your current location.)

To verify you're in the correct folder:

:step1: Type ls and press Enter.

:stepresult1: This will show a list of files in your Downloads folder.

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:step1: Enter DFU mode on the TinySA.

The standard TinySA has a menu option for this mode.
The Ultra needs to be connected to your computer, and powered on while holding the jog wheel down. The screen will go black when this occurs. </aside>

:step1: Finally type dfu-util -a 0 -s 0x08000000:leave -D tinySA.bin and press Enter.

:stepresult1: This will load the (renamed) tinySA.bin onto the device.

If you have any errors, please visit this website.

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