Introduction
Flash and EPROM Cards can be programmed in the Z88 itself. What is the attraction of using an EPROM Programmer that is used with the Desktop computer? Program updates are desktop computer to program updates available on the internet. ?
Using the Z88
The proceedure procedure of updating the Z88 card is as follows:-
- Download From the desktop, download the software image for the Z88Transfer the software (ROMupdate) and the image and the ROMupdate program to the Z88.
- Use ROMupdate to program the card.
The disadvantage of using this method is when using the programming multiple 512K/512K Flash RAM Card is that when multiple cards need to be programmed this Cards. This operation needs to be repeated from 2 for each card, because removing the programmed card with the RAM causes a FAIL. A HARD RESET looses the transferred software previously transferred.
Using the EPROM Programmer
The proceedure procedure of updating the Z88 card is as follows:-
- Download the software image for the Z88
- Program the cardUse ROMupdate to program the card.
The advantage of using this method is when using the 512K/512K Flash RAM Card is that when multiple cards need to be programmed, this operation the cards can be changed one after another.
Conclusion
Unless there is an requirement for programming chips like for example an internal ROM or programming multiple Z88 cards, it is not worth using the EPROM Programmer.
EPROM Programmers
Testing the EPROM Programmer
Use an existing Flash card to read the data and then verify it. Make sure that all your soldered joints are good ones as bad ones will produce errors when testing the card as well as testing your patience. If you get any data errors, check all your connections and soldered joints.
EPROM Programmer Requirements
TL866A UNIVERSAL EEPROM Programmer
This uses a single USB connection for Power and control.
It has a 40 pin ZIF socket which allows it to program the 1M and 512K Flash Cards.
This has not been tested as it tests whether all the pins have been connected.
Operating Systems
8
New Break-out card?
Making a break-out card using the Z88 extender card exposed some shortcomings that may be rectified with a new design.
It would not be economic just to make this card for just the Z88, so a new section has been started.
Features
The Z88 Extender Card can be used to program
- EPROM Cards
- 512K/512K Flash RAM
- and the 1M Flash Card.
The Z88 Extender Card needs to be modified. This is described in a separate section.
A number of EPROM programmers have been tested. These are described individually.
Conclusion
It has been shown that Z88 Flash cards can be programmed with the
Which programmer to choose depends on which Operating System (OS) the desktop is using. Windows is supported by all programmers. If a different OS is required, the price for the programmer may increase.
This is a very fast method of programming multiple Z88 cards without using the Z88 for programmers and manufactures.