6 - 20 MC1000 with Windows CE 5.0 Integrator Guide
versions; incorrect downloading of an IPL causes permanent damage to the mobile computer. IPL is
mandatory for the mobile computer.
• Partition Table: Identifies where each partition is loaded in the mobile computer.
Downloading Partitions to the Mobile Computer
Use TCM to specify a hex destination file for each partition and download each file to the mobile computer. This
download requires a program loader stored on the mobile computer. The mobile computer comes with a program
loading utility, Initial Program Loader (IPL), stored in the mobile computer's write-protected flash.
IPL
IPL allows the user to upgrade the mobile computer with software updates and/or feature enhancements.
Partition Update vs. File Update
There are two types of updates supported by the mobile computer: partitions and files. The MC1000 uses the same
file system as the file system used on a desktop computer. A file is a unit of data that can be accessed using a file
name and a location in the file system. Replacing a file erases the contents of the previous file. The operating
system must be running for a file to be updated, so the IPL cannot perform individual file updates as it is a
stand-alone program that does not require the operating system to be running.
A typical partition is a group of files combined into a single “partition” that represents a specific area of storage.
Examples of partitions are the flash file systems such as Platform or Application. (Using the desktop computer
comparison, these partitions are roughly equivalent to a C: or D: hard disk drive.) In addition to the “hard disk”
partitions, some partitions are used for single items such as the operating system, monitor, or splash screen.
(Again using a desktop computer comparison, these partitions are roughly the equivalent of the BIOS or special
hidden system files.) Updating a partition erases all data previously in its storage region - i.e., it is not a merge but
rather a replacement operation. Typically, the operating system is not running when partitions are updated, so IPL
can perform partition updates.
Use TCM to create partition images for selected partitions. All partition images suitable for use by IPL are in hex file
format for transfer by TCM from the development computer to the mobile computer.
Upgrade Requirements
• The hex files to be downloaded (on development computer)
• A connection from the host computer and the mobile computer (either serial or wireless)
• TCM (on development computer) to download the files.
After satisfying these requirements, invoke IPL and navigate the menu to upgrade the MC1000. See Downloading
the Hex Image on page 6-7 for procedures on downloading a hex file to the mobile computer.
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