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Put your TRMNL in "flashing mode"

Recover a device with malfunctioning firmware.

Ryan Kulp avatar
Written by Ryan Kulp
Updated this week

For a TRMNL PCB to accept data transfer via a USB-C cable, it needs to be in "boot mode," also sometimes called flashing mode.

OG TRMNL

If you have a 7.5" native TRMNL device...

Basic method

  1. Plug a data enabled USB-C cable into your TRMNL.

  2. Turn off the TRMNL.

  3. While pressing down on the circular ("boot") button below the power switch, turn the device back on.

  4. Let go of the boot button.

Stubborn method (if Basic does not work)

  1. Turn off the device.

  2. Hold down on the circular ("boot") button below the power switch.

  3. While pressing down, plug a data enabled USB-C cable into your TRMNL.

  4. Keep pressing the boot button and turn the device back on.

  5. Let go of the boot button.

If the above methods both fail, turn off your device for 10-15 minutes and try again. There may be a static charge or heat buildup that needs to dissipate.

TRMNL X

(Coming soon...)

Seeed Studio

Check out our Seeed guide for steps to understand the buttons and how to enter flashing mode on your DIY Kit, E1001, E1002, and other devices.

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