---+ SPI Flash Programmer

Impact sucks for flashing Cryo boards:

• it's really, really slow,
• it doesn't always work reliably through the JTAG -> FPGA -> SPI Flash flow
• The direct JTAG -> SPI Flash flow isn't supported in newer ISE Impact releases
• Xilinx JTAG pods are expensive ($300)

It's worth considering a standalone programmer that can be used with third-party tools.

• Spring-loaded connectors mounted on the bottom of the board to connect to the (unpopulated) flash programming pins on the board:
  • ED8181-ND
• Programmer: the flashrom project
• USB-Serial interface: FTDI FT2232
  • Supported by flashrom: FTDI FT2232H
  • Buy a finished module for $30: DLP-USB1232H
    • Schematics here
• Board fabs: maybe APCircuits (apcircuits.com). Adam usually uses PCBExpress, I've used sierra proto express

---

This topic: CryoElectronics > WebHome > SPIFlashProgrammer Topic revision: r1 - 2011-03-31 - GraemeSmecher

---