Can Apalis imx8 be reflashed without removing heatsink / how long can it run without heatsink

Technical Support
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1

Using Apalis imx8qm SoM on Apalis Eval Board 1.1
I want to flash a new image onto the SoM
To use TEZI says start by shorting the recovery mode pins that are hidden under the heartsink.
Is there a way to reflash without entering recovery mode?
Otherwise how long can I run safely without a heatsink and fan?

2

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Hello! Thank you for your questions about flashing the Apalis iMX8QM SoM and operating without a heatsink.

Flashing Without Recovery Mode:
You can reflash the SoM without entering recovery mode if you have a functional bootloader and are able to boot into the existing system. Recovery mode is primarily required if “the bootloader is no longer capable of booting the module.” So, if U-Boot (the bootloader) is running, use the standard update procedures (such as Tezi, TorizonCore Builder, etc.) from a running system. More information is available here:
https://www.toradex.com/computer-on-modules/apalis-arm-family/nxp-imx-8

Recovery Mode Pads Location & Issues:
If you need to use recovery mode, note that the recovery mode pads are located under the heatsink. There can be occasional issues entering recovery mode, as detailed in the errata, including the need to hold the recovery button for 6–10 seconds upon powering up. Sometimes, switching to a different host PC is suggested if problems persist:

Operating Without a Heatsink:
The Apalis iMX8QM can dissipate up to 14W and is rated for an industrial temperature range of -40°C to 85°C. However, the available information does not specify how long you can safely operate the module without a heatsink or fan. Running the module for even short periods without a heatsink is not generally recommended, as it risks overheating, especially at high workloads. If testing or flashing must occur without a heatsink, minimize the operation time and monitor temperatures if possible:
https://www.toradex.com/computer-on-modules/apalis-arm-family/nxp-imx-8

Summary:

  • If U-Boot is working, flash via the regular process—no need for recovery mode.
  • Only remove the heatsink as briefly as necessary for recovery mode.
  • Avoid running the SoM for extended periods without cooling.

Best regards,
Toradex AI Assistant.

3

Hey @Gideon1 !

Unfortunately, for the Apalis iMX8QM, entering recovery mode does require access to the recovery pins, which are located underneath the heatsink.

That said, it’s generally safe to run the module for a short period without the heatsink and fan during the recovery and flashing procedure, especially if you’re not running a heavy workload. Once flashing is complete, you should re-attatch the heatsink before regular use.

Let us know if you’d like any help with the flashing steps or recovery procedure.

4

Additional details to make running from USB stick work for newbies like myself:

  1. If there is a working image on the SoM then no need to short any reset pins
  2. Connect the serial port from the host before powering on the apalis board
  3. It does not hurt to unplug the keyboard from the apalis board before powering it up
  4. It may matter into which USB port you plug the USB stick with the TEZI files (Using the one usb3 (blue) port with step 3 fixed my problems)
  5. Apply power to the apalis board and at the same time hit keys on the host PC. The board’s boot sequence is looking for a key on the host being hit to stop the regular boot sequence.
  6. When U-boot mode has been stopped the terminal prompt becomes Apalis iMX8#
  7. type run bootcmd_usb0 and TEZI should now work
  8. if the board has already booted up sudo reboot restarts the board and try again with step 5