How to change Xbee firmware without RS232 port?

Question

I need to change the firmware of a Xbee3 to support 802.15.4. I have both:
https://www.sparkfun.com/products/13225
https://www.sparkfun.com/products/11812
But It seems that the usb board doesnt support changing firmware (since it doesn't have a DTR signal), and I can't find a computer with a RS232 D9 port (it seems they dont make them anymore).  Is there any solution to changing the firmware of Xbee modules?

Answer 1

The two boards you have are what are called Breakout boards and not a development board. The fastest solution is to obtain an XBIB-U-Dev development board. This would allow you to do it.

You could also obtain a USB to RS232 adapter board but without the DTR line, that could be an issue.

Another option is to follow the steps outlined at https://www.digi.com/resources/documentation/digidocs/90001539/#concepts/c_xbee_bootloader.htm%3FTocPath%3DConfigure%2520the%2520XBee%25203%2520Zigbee%2520RF%2520Module%7C_____5 to manually enter the bootloader and upload the needed firmware file via XModem.