Project Description

In the dynamic field of electronics manufacturing, efficiency and reliability are essential. SMH Technologies’ FlashRunner HS platform has been designed to meet these requirements, providing a robust, multi-end programming system that enhances production environments. This article examines the features and benefits of the FlashRunner HS platform, with a particular focus on the Active Modules for 8SPI, a crucial component for high-speed data communication.

Overview of FlashRunner HS Platform

The FlashRunner HS platform is engineered to address the highest requirements of production efficiency. The system is modular, comprising a control unit and up to eight active modules, which can be selected and configured to meet specific project requirements. The platform’s modular design facilitates seamless integration and optimised signal integrity, making it an ideal solution for complex manufacturing environments.

The Control Unit is the central hub of the FlashRunner HS platform and it is designed to be installed within the machinery’s fixed section. It manages data, commands and the power supply to the active modules, ensuring seamless operation.

Active Modules are installed in the fixture’s interchangeable section, offering flexibility and adaptability for a variety of programming tasks. 

A comprehensive range of technology-specific Active Modules is available, each designed for different classes of programmable electronic devices. Each of them is fully supported by both the FlashRunner Control Unit and the new FlashRunner Control Unit Plus, ensuring compatibility and enhanced performance across different programming tasks.

In a previous article we explained more about these devices: https://smh-tech.com/corporate-blog/exploring-the-advanced-capabilities-of-smh-technologies-active-modules/

Spotlight on 8SPI Active Modules

Among the various Active Modules, the 8SPI stand out for their advanced capabilities in interfacing with Octal SPI flash memory devices. These modules are designed to support an 8-bit data bus SPI communication protocol, crucial for high-speed data transfer applications.

Features of 8SPI Active Modules

The 8SPI Active Module: 

-features a USB-C connector that links it to the FlashRunner Control Unit. This connection provides data, commands, and power supply, ensuring efficient and reliable operation

-supports one ISP device connector, while the 8SPI-2 module supports two. These connectors interface with programmable devices, allowing for flexible and scalable programming solutions

-is equipped with status LEDs for each ISP device interface. These LEDs indicate the current status of the Active Module, providing clear and immediate feedback during the programming process.

Technical Specifications

-Digital IO Lines: 12 digital IO lines support the 8SPI data bus, ensuring robust data transmission.

-High Communication Frequency: capable of operating at communication frequencies up to 75 MHz, depending on the target 8SPI technology.

-Programmable Voltage Lines: each channel includes two independent, programmable voltage lines, enhancing compatibility and performance.

-Connector Options: the modules offer 30 positions for each channel, with vertical or right-angle connector options, facilitating easy integration into various hardware setups.