1. Programming algorithm execution engine: Most programmers in the market use technology, which is up to 10 years old. Programming algorithm runs in a host CPU and program timing is generated using software timing loop. Since the timing loop accuracy depends on speed of the CPU chip, operating system used, any other process running in the system, speed of the connection between the PC and the programmer, etc. Any compensation or adjustment method used to stabilize timing loop is unstable at best.
As a result, some chips may program in a certain environment, but not in other. Sometimes, chips may get damaged, and worse yet, chips programmed may not be reliable over long-term period.
The best current hardware technology is to use a high speed MCU chip built inside the programmer. Program timing is independent of the host CPU speed, parallel or serial port speed, operating system used, and any other process used in the host system.
SUPERPRO 3000U, 580U, and 280U series programmers employ a very high-speed MCU chip producing not only reliable programming algorithms but also an astounding programming speed. For example, the Intel 28F320 32Mbit flash chip is programmed and verified in 13.5 seconds! The MCU chip used is one of the industry's latest and fastest and the programmer technology was developed in 2003 making it the latest in the industry.
2. Programming speed: Chip programming speed usually goes hand in hand with the level of hardware design technology used. Slower programmers, in general, utilize simplified hardware design relying on the PC o do most of the job, which also tends to produce inaccurate program timing. These are not suitable o program most of the latest IC devices. Do not expect an old and slow programmer to program your latest chips reliably.
3. Hardware components used: Many programmers in the market still use through-hole components taking up large PCB space and running long signal wires. Besides being bulky and unreliable, longer signal wires tend to produce excessive Vcc and ground loop noise. The noise causes degradation in the programming reliability and limits the ability to program low voltage devices.
Xeltek SUPERPRO 3000U, 580U, and 280U series programmers utilize SMD components mounted on both sides of multi-layer PCB resulting in very compact design with minimized noise factor. Along with the low voltage components selection, they program devices down to 1.5 volts.
4. 48Pin universal pindirver: Each programming pin is populated with, typically, Vcc, Vpp (1 or 2), logical I/O, ground, and clock signals. If each pin is fully populated with all the signals then it is called a universal pindriver, meaning that the pin can be used for any purpose. Low cost programmers generally do not populate all the pins with all the signals in order to save cost. For example, an EPROM programmer will have signals optimized to program such chips.
There are some 40pin universal programmers available in the market, for example, HiLo-All11. For such programmers, in order to program a device with 48 or 56pins, it would require a special pin converter be made by skipping unused pins. The problem is that the unused pins would be different from chip to chip, so the manufacturer would have to come out with chip specific pin converters, making it expensive to stock multiples of 48pin socket adapters.
5. 100pin universal pindriver: Xeltek SUPERPRO 3000U-100 is one of the 100pin universal programmers available. A device with up to 100pins can be easily updated without having to resort to a new socket adapter design. Typically, new device update period is a few days instead of months.
A user who purchased SUPERPRO 3000U may upgrade to -100 model by simply purchasing PEP3000 100pin expander module.
6. Project file save: This is a convenient time saving feature for engineering and manufacturing alike. Programming data and setup parameters such as manufacturer and chip selected, program, verify, and security options, and program data may be saved for later recall (Load) for ready use.
The feature is especially valuable in volume production environment where an inexperienced operator may be utilized to program various chips with efficiency and reliability.
7. Production mode: This feature is also convenient when programming chips in volume. The chip inserted into the socket is autoID'ed, blank checked, programmed, and verified. The operator only needs to insert a chip and replace with the next chip without having to operate any key.
8. Stand-alone mode operation: This is a unique feature designed to ease volume programming and field service. Xeltek SUPERPRO 3000U, 2000, and SUPERPRO 8000 gang programmers are designed to be operated without being connected to a host PC.
At the beginning, the user downloads desired programming algorithms and data onto flash memory resident inside the programmer. Afterward, the user may operate the programmer form the built-in keyboard and LCD display without being attached to a host PC. Low-level operator may be utilized to program chips in volume.
Optional compact flash (CF) card in SUPERPRO 3000U may store multiple projects and user data. It also can be removed for safekeeping.
9. Terminal mode operation: Data or terminal mode operation is available in SUPERPRO 3000U. This mode is used when the programmer is connected to equipment for external control and operation. Automatic programming interface is one of the applications.
10. Versatility: SUPERPRO 3000U is two programmers in one. It is an engineering programmer supporting 11,000 devices. It is also an ideal programmer for volume production. Used in stand-alone mode without the PC, it programs devices with minimal operator interaction. Migration from engineering to manufacturing is smooth.
Product Reliability
1. Product design: Consistent with today's technology, Xeltek SUPERPRO 3000U, 580U, and 280Us utilize surface mounted components enhancing hardware reliability substantially. Also, due to compact PCB layout and optimum routing, circuit noises are minimized for reliable programming of low-voltage devices down to 1.5volts. The new easy to use main software minimizes user error and improves effiency.
2. Goverment certification: SUPERPRO 3000U, 580U, 280U, SUPERPRO 2000, and SUPERPRO 680 are CE certified. Also the USB series products are being produced at an ISO9002 approved facility.
3. Product Service: New IC devices are updated and uploaded to the website regularly for free download. On high-end programmers, devices are updated monthly or sooner. This continues as long as the product is on the current price list.
4. Product Value: Value of a product is a combination of price, the number of devices supported, programming speed, regular update of devices and free downloads, and reliability. The new Xeltek product is designed with above factors in mind and to date they provide best value in the industry.
5. The Company: Xeltek has been in the business for 20years. To date, it has the best capability to design and manufacture new high performance product at the best price among the low cost programmer manufacturers. When most companies laid engineer and staffs off Xeltek hired more people to bolster its position in the market.