Lloyd Research

F5000 Fast In-Circuit Flash Programmer

High speed programming The F5000 has been designed specifically for fast ’in-circuit’ serial programming. It uses a high performance Renesas 32 MHz processor and local storage of data to minimise programming time. In principle, any memory or microcontroller with a serial interface can be programmed. Algorithms are produced as required. Bespoke requirements, such as adding serial numbers, can be implemented.

Small size The programmer is housed in a small box (hardly bigger than a large matchbox so it can easily fit into an ATE jig or an operator’s hand.

In the real world, some parts cannot be programmed at the maximum clock speed so the set up facility has a parameter which can slow down the data rate to cater for cable capacitance and/or noise.

Data is downloaded to the F5000 in compressed Motorola S format. This is more efficient than binary because no file data is needed for unused address ranges.

No PC needed for programming The user starts by setting up a job using a PC. Once set up, a PC is no longer required since all information is stored in the F5000.

Local data storage Up to seven different sets of data can be stored in the F5000’s flash memory for any target device or a plug-in eprom can be fitted. Either USB or RS232 can be used to download code from a PC with the USB option being much faster and more convenient for laptops.

Once data has been stored in the F5000, there is no need for a PC and there are no delays for data to be downloaded from a PC during programming.

High speed communications with target Data can be programmed into the target at ‘non standard’ baud rates which minimise programming times particularly for targets with low clock speeds. Targets with high clock speeds can communicate at over 1M bits/second.

F5000 Fast In-Circuit Flash Programmer

USING AN F5000 IN AN ATE SYSTEM Being a little bigger than a large matchbox, the F5000 can easily be built into an ATE system. The simplest and probably the best way to control the programmer is to use the optically isolated logic interface. A logic signal is input to the F5000 which responds with a busy signal whilst the device is being programmed. On completion, the F5000 provides either a pass or fail signal. Optical isolation removes any chance of noise being generated in ground loops.

Alternatively, the F5000 can be controlled by software using either the PC application, a user written application or other control software such as LabView. The F5000 is controlled by a set of two character commands which are listed in the user manual.

Unusually, the F5000 can also supply a high voltage (up to 15V). Such voltages are sometimes needed to put devices into programming mode.

MANUAL PROGRAMMING The programmer can be connected to the target with a simple ribbon cable. Programming can be started by pushing a button or, in some cases, by detecting the presence of the target. Whilst the target is being programmed, a busy LED is lit. After programming, either a pass or fail LED is lit. Corresponding signals appear at the logic interface.

SERVICE USE The third application for the F5000 is for field service. In a typical application, a manufacturer would send a new file to a Service Depot over the internet. The data could be downloaded to the F5000’s flash and then the F5000 could be used by a Field Service Engineer to update equipment in the field.

It is possible that the Field Service Engineer may need to change programs from time to time in which case, either a laptop can be used or a ’chess key’ fitted to select the required data set if no computer is available.

The F5000 is housed in a strong plastic case so that it can be used as a service tool. It can store up to seven sets of target code which can be selected at will without using a PC