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 available on the internet.
Using the Z88
The proceedure of updating the Z88 card is as follows:-
- Download the software image for the Z88
- Transfer the software (ROMupdate) and the image to the Z88
- Use ROMupdate to program the card.
The disadvantage of using this method is when using the 512K/512K Flash RAM Card is that when multiple cards need to be programmed this operation needs to be repeated from 2 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 of updating the Z88 card is as follows:-
- Download the software image for the Z88
- Program the card
- Use 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.
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
Hardware
To connect to the card it needs
- DIL Socket (32 pin minimum size)
- A19 to be available if programming the 1M Flash Card is required.
Programming Software
3 chips are used
EPROM Programmers
Using the Z88 Extender Card with an EPROM Programmer
Although I am showing this card being used with the Willem Universal EPROM Programmer, these techniques and instructions may be used with other models.
Solder the required components onto the card.