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What's the simplest way to add OTA firmware updates for attendees?

What's the Simplest Way to Add OTA Firmware Updates for Attendees?

At Badge Pirates, we make firmware updates simple for attendees by using Wi-Fi OTA (Over-the-Air) updates built directly into the badge firmware.

Here’s how it works:

  1. The badge connects to Wi-Fi
    When triggered (usually from a menu option or on boot), the badge automatically connects to a configured Wi-Fi network.

  2. It checks for the latest firmware version
    The badge downloads a small text file (called the manifest) from our server. This file contains the latest firmware version number.

  3. It compares the version
    If the server version is newer than what the badge is running, it begins the update process.
    If the badge is already up-to-date, it shows a message and restarts.

  4. It securely downloads and installs the new firmware
    The badge downloads the latest .bin firmware file directly over Wi-Fi and flashes itself — no cables, no flashing tools needed.

  5. The badge restarts automatically
    Once updated, the badge reboots into the new firmware, ready to go.

Why do we like this method?
- It's seamless for the attendee — just connect to Wi-Fi and click "Update." - No need to install any flashing software. - Updates can be pushed even after the event if new features or bug fixes are released. - It's fast and reliable, tested directly on the hardware.

Pro Tip: We recommend attendees stay plugged into a power source (or fully charged) before starting an update, just in case!

How Does the Badge Pirates OTA Update System Work? (Developer Details)

Badge Pirates badges implement OTA updates using the ESPhttpUpdate library on the ESP32 platform.
Here’s a deeper technical overview:

  • Manifest Check:
    The badge downloads a simple text file (e.g., firmware.version) from a predefined OTA server URL.
    This manifest contains the latest firmware version number.

  • Version Comparison:
    The downloaded version is compared to the running firmware version embedded in the badge (VERSION macro).
    If a newer version is available, the update process begins.

  • Firmware Download:
    The badge then downloads the corresponding .bin firmware file (e.g., firmware.bin) from the OTA server.

  • Flashing and Reboot:
    Using ESPhttpUpdate, the badge flashes the new firmware into memory over Wi-Fi and triggers a reboot.

  • Error Handling:
    Common OTA errors (Wi-Fi unavailable, download failure, already up-to-date) are visually indicated on the badge's display using the TFT.

Hosting Requirements: - A server or hosting platform capable of serving static files (.bin and .version files). - Accessible by the badge via HTTP.

Example Folder Structure: https://your-server.com/ota/ ├── firmware.version └── firmware.bin

Libraries Used: - ESPhttpUpdate - TFT_eSPI (for display updates)

By using this Wi-Fi based OTA method, Badge Pirates can rapidly deploy firmware patches, new features, or post-event updates with minimal attendee involvement.