Project Description

FRB Synchronizer

Introduction

In modern industrial production environments, reliable management of programming data is essential to ensure quality, efficiency, and operational continuity.

Inconsistent configurations, incorrect data versions, or unreliable transfers can result in production downtime, rework, and unexpected costs.

FRB Synchronizer, developed by SMH Technologies, is designed to address these challenges by providing a robust solution for FRB generation and controlled data distribution to programming units.

The software helps manufacturers maintain consistency, traceability, and process reliability across complex production lines, supporting stable operations in demanding industrial environments.

Operational note:

• First setup: create the .frc configuration file and generate the initial FRB.

• When source files are updated: use FRB Synchronizer to regenerate the FRB and distribute it to connected programming units.

A Core Tool for Data Management

FRB Synchronizer acts as a core tool for managing the lifecycle of programming data, from preparation to deployment.

It enables organizations to:

  • Standardize data preparation processes
  • Reduce manual configuration errors
  • Improve operational visibility
  • Support consistent production outcomes

By structuring and validating data before deployment, the system helps ensure that every unit operates with the correct and approved information.

Prerequisites

Before running FRB Synchronizer, the environment should include:

  • A valid .frc configuration file
  • All required input files referenced by the configuration
  • At least one reachable programming target (LAN or serial)

These prerequisites ensure the workflow can run without interruptions and with consistent results.

FRB Generation

At the core of FRB Synchronizer is the controlled generation of the FRB file.

Structured Generation Process

During FRB creation, the software:

  • Collects configuration and input files
  • Validates the presence and consistency of required data
  • Verifies alignment with defined production parameters
  • Generates a standardized and repeatable FRB file
  • Produces documentation and records for traceability

Business Benefits

This structured approach allows manufacturers to:

  • Eliminate ambiguity in data preparation
  • Improve process repeatability
  • Reduce configuration-related defects
  • Ensure that only validated FRB files reach production

Each FRB becomes a reliable reference for programming activities, supporting quality and compliance requirements.

Controlled Distribution to Programming Units

FRB Synchronizer manages the delivery of FRB files to multiple programming units in a controlled and predictable manner.

The system supports distribution across:

  • Network-connected devices
  • Serial-connected devices
  • Mixed environments with different connection types

Distribution Capabilities

Key features include:

  • Validation of destination targets
  • Sequential and controlled data delivery
  • Consistent use of the same FRB across multiple units
  • Individual reporting for each target
  • Clear visibility of outcomes

Operational Advantages

Through this approach, organizations benefit from:

  • Reduced risk of version mismatches
  • Improved synchronization between workstations
  • Greater stability in multi-station environments
  • Faster troubleshooting in case of issues

Data distribution becomes a managed and repeatable process rather than a manual activity.

Quality, Verification, and Traceability

Integrated Checks

FRB Synchronizer incorporates automated validation throughout the workflow to ensure data consistency and reliable execution. It includes input validation before FRB generation, consistency checks between configuration and data, verification of transferred files, monitoring of transfer outcomes, and documentation of critical operations.

Operational Reporting

The system produces structured reports for each job, with status information for every target unit, clear indication of successful and failed operations, summary views of deployment activities, and records for traceability and review. These controls help detect issues early, prevent incorrect deployments, and support audit and compliance activities.

Typical Workflow Summary

A standard execution flow is simple and repeatable:

  1. Prepare configuration and input files
  2. Generate the FRB file
  3. Distribute the FRB to one or more targets
  4. Review the per-target result report

This summary provides a quick operational overview for production teams.

Practical Use Cases and Command-Line Examples

Below are typical operational scenarios with representative usage examples.

1. Auto-Detect Inputs

Scenario
A valid .frc configuration file and the related input files are already present in the input folder.Example:
frb_synchronizer.exe -transfer 192.168.10.50

 

Result
The system automatically prepares the FRB and distributes it to the specified unit.

2. Manual Inputs with -importConfig

Scenario
Loading a new product variant and explicitly defining all required files.Example:
frb_synchronizer.exe -importConfig C:\config.frc -input C:\fw_main.hex -input C:\fw_radio.bin -transfer 192.168.10.50

Result
The FRB is generated using the specified inputs and delivered in a controlled manner.

3. Custom Output Path (-output)

Scenario
Saving the generated FRB file to a user-defined output directory.Example:
frb_synchronizer.exe -importConfig C:\config.frc -input C:\fw_main.hex -input C:\fw_radio.bin -output D:\output\2026_02_02.frb -transfer 192.168.10.50

 

Result
The generated FRB is stored in a dedicated archive location before distribution.

4. Multi‑Target Transfer (LAN + Serial)

Scenario
Synchronizing multiple programming units within the same job.Example:
frb_synchronizer.exe -transfer 192.168.10.50,192.168.10.51,COM7

 

Result
The same FRB is distributed sequentially to all targets, with individual reports.

5. AM Channel Selection (@am=)

Scenario
Targeting specific Active Modules on FlashRunner HS units.Examples:
frb_synchronizer.exe -transfer 192.168.10.50@am=1
frb_synchronizer.exe -transfer 192.168.10.50@am=1,2

 

Result
Only the selected channels receive the generated FRB file.

Typical Application Scenarios

Multi-Station Production Lines

In environments with several programming stations, FRB Synchronizer ensures that all units receive the same validated FRB, preventing discrepancies between parallel workstations.

Frequent Product Updates

When firmware or configuration data changes, the system allows fast regeneration and controlled redistribution of updated FRB files.

Quality Assurance and Compliance

With structured validation and reporting, FRB Synchronizer simplifies quality control activities and supports traceability requirements in regulated or certified production environments.

Fit into Existing Production Workflows

FRB Synchronizer can fit into existing production workflows, supporting structured and repeatable operating procedures without requiring major changes to established processes.

It supports:

  • Multi-unit production setups
  • Sequential programming workflows
  • Coordinated data preparation
  • Standardized operating procedures

This flexibility allows the software to adapt to different plant sizes and production models.

Conclusion

FRB Synchronizer is more than a technical utility; it is a strategic component that helps manufacturers improve reliability, reduce operational risk, and maintain consistent product quality.

By combining:

  • Validated FRB generation
  • Controlled multi-unit distribution
  • Integrated file integrity verification
  • Clear per-target reporting
  • Structured operational traceability

the system supports stable, efficient, and reliable production operations.

In environments where data accuracy and consistency are essential, FRB Synchronizer helps maintain predictable and reliable industrial processes.