µFR Zero Online – Unified Firmware Package System #
Introduction #
With the release of ESP32 firmware version 3.0.82, µFR Zero Online devices have adopted a unified firmware package system.
This change simplifies firmware management by allowing developers to update both the ESP32 main controller and the NFC reader-writer in a single process.
Instead of handling separate firmware updates, you now select from precompiled firmware packages that ensure both components always run mutually compatible versions.
This article explains how the new system works, what package types are available, and how to resolve common issues when working with firmware packages.
How Firmware Packages Work #
When you click “Check for Updates” in the device frontend:
- Individual firmware versions are no longer listed.
- Instead, you will see packages named in the format:
Zero_Online_YYYYMMDD
The date indicates when the package was created. A newer date corresponds to a newer firmware version.
Once selected, the package automatically installs the correct versions of:
- The ESP32 main unit firmware
- The NFC reader firmware
This ensures both parts of the device run on compatible builds.
Package Variants #
Three types of firmware packages are available:
- Zero_Online_YYYYMMDD – the standard package for most devices.
- Zero_Online_Lite_YYYYMMDD – for Lite variants of µFR Zero Online.
- Zero_Online_LogMode_YYYYMMDD – for devices that support log mode.
Choosing the correct package type ensures your device functions properly with its intended feature set.
Smarter and Faster Updates #
The new system also checks the installed firmware versions before updating.
- If both versions are already up to date, they are not reinstalled.
- This saves time and prevents unnecessary overwriting.
Downgrading to Previous Versions #
In some cases, your project may require a firmware version released before this upgrade.
To downgrade:
- Download the desktop flashing tool: uFR Online Flasher OneClick
- Connect your µFR Zero Online device.
- Select the desired older firmware version and flash it manually.
Troubleshooting #
1. I don’t see individual firmware versions anymore #
This is expected behavior. The new package system replaces individual version listings with package-based updates.
2. My project requires card emulation or MIFARE Plus support #
Some firmware builds may exclude specific features due to memory limitations. If your project requires one of these features, select a firmware version that includes it, or downgrade using the desktop tool.
3. The update did not install #
If the firmware is already up to date, the system skips reinstallation. If you require a reinstall (e.g., for troubleshooting), use the desktop flashing tool.
Conclusion #
The introduction of the unified firmware package system in ESP32 firmware 3.0.82 significantly improves firmware management for µFR Zero Online devices.
By combining both ESP32 and NFC reader updates into a single package, developers benefit from:
- Simplified update workflows
- Guaranteed compatibility between firmware components
- Faster update times with intelligent version checks
For advanced requirements, including downgrades or feature-specific builds, the desktop flashing tool remains available.
