OVERVIEW - SMH Technologies In-System Programming

Why FlashRunner

FlashRunner is a universal, production In-System Programmer.

It is the result of many years of experience in developing programming

and debugging solutions for microcontrollers.

FlashRunner has been carefully designed to be:

Universal

Supports multiple device manufacturers

Fast

Reduced programming time means reduced production costs

Flexible

Can be applied to any programming configuration

Reliable

Features ensuring data integrity and uninterrupted production flow

Why In-System Programming

In-System programming (ISP) overcomes limitations associated with on socket programming and pre-programming systems.

ISP makes manufacturing

easier and cheaper

ISP devices

can be programmed while the devices are already soldered to the PCB

ISP makes firmware updates

possible without additional costs

Lower manufacturing costs,

enables flexible in-circuit testing, and delivers faster time-to-market

The top panel protects the main hardware and replicates status LEDs. CAn be easily removed if space is an issue when integrating in your programming/testing system.

A built-in timekeeper/calendar allows for detailed, timestamped logs. Production problems can thus be traced back to the exact moment they happened.

Flashrunner uses a standard, removable Secure Digital card (up to 2GB) to store binary image files, projects and log files.

Mounts easily inside ATE and test fixtures. Compatible with Agilent, Teradyne, SPEA, Genrad and other systems.

The connection layer provides connectors to interface to your programming/testing system. Includes optoisolation circuity and an Ethernet connector to interface to a host system.

The programming engine layer (common to all Flashrunner Series instruments) contains all of the Flashrunner electronics in a compact footprint.

Built for Speed

FlashRunner has been built for speed. Both the hardware and firmware have been engineered to work together in such an efficient way as to eliminate communication bottlenecks. On top of this, fast Programming Algorithms have been developed that reach the memory technology speed limit of the target device. This makes FlashRunner one of the fastest universal In-System Programmers on the market, enabling you to significantly cut production costs.

Extensive Device Coverage

FlashRunner’s fully reconfigurable and flexible hardware is capable of programming a vast amount of Flash-based microcontrollers and serial memories. Currently supporting more than 5000 devices, FlashRunner’s device list is continuously increasing at a fast pace. Thanks to special partnerships with the most important Silicon Manufacturers, our engineers are constantly updated with first-hand technical information, which results in prompt and comprehensive device support.

Compact and Robust

FlashRunner features state-of-the-art electronics to provide you with high integration flexibility in a compact footprint. Every component of the system has been engineered to withstand the harshest production environments. Optoisolation, ESD protection, CRC on data transfers and detailed reports make FlashRunner the perfect choice when certainty of the programming flow is of the utmost importance.

Easy ATE and Fixture Integration

Its simple and versatile interface system allows FlashRunner to be easily and seamlessly integrated into Automatic Test Equipment (ATE) systems.

FlashRunner is compatible with Agilent, Teradyne, SPEA, Genrad, and other systems and test fixtures. FlashRunner works either in standalone mode or driven by a host system, through Ethernet or RS-232 connections.

Data Protection System

FlashRunner implements an optional data protection system that makes the contents of the binary file to be programmed to the target device not readable (and not duplicable) by non-authorized people. Moreover, the protection system extends to the programming cycle, preventing production personnel from tampering with the programming flow.

Paneled PCB Programming

FlashRunner supports programming of paneled PCBs. Multiple ISP outputs are provided, which allow multiple device programming whether on a single board or distributed across multiple boards in a panel assembly.

Technical Support and Services

Purchasing a product is only part of solving your programming needs. We know that you must count on professional help should the need arise. FlashRunner is sold and supported by a worldwide network of resellers and system integrators; and is backed up by knowledgeable and fast technical support. Additionally, our engineers are available for custom designs and validation reports, to help you start up your projects and provide you with accurate programming flow certifications.