ScanWorks^® JTAG Programming Stations

The ScanWorks Programming Stations (PLD Programming Station or Flash Programming Station) take advantage of JTAG or boundary-scan access to load programs or configuration data into flash memories or programmable logic devices (PLDs) after these devices have been bonded to a printed circuit board (PCB). In-system programming (ISP) or in-system configuration (ISC) operations are optimized on ScanWorks because of the system's high-speeds (up to 50 MHz) and the station's multi-port capabilities, which allows for flash memory programming or logic configuration on as many as four PCBs in parallel.

In-system programming has many benefits during the manufacturing process, but the ScanWorks Programming Station is very valuable during design as well. Some of the benefits of ISP and ISC include the following:

• More efficient manufacturing -- programming is accomplished as an integrated part of the overall manufacturing process.
• Reduced device handling -- Devices are soldered once and programmed or re-programmed on-board.
• Less risk of device damage -- No need to de-solder devices for re-programming.
• Easier inventory control -- Fewer devices to manage because only non-programmed devices are stored inventory, not multiple versions of the same device with different software or data loaded into each version.
• Simpler field upgrades -- Software/firmware can be upgraded in the field through JTAG programming.