FFLash V3.85test Object file:

Updated 1/16/00

FFlash v3.85 update files (FLASH385.ZIP)

Object files (in Motorola S19 ASCII format) for upgrading the FFlash firmware.

There are two (2) files in the ZIP package:

FLASH385.html ... (this file)
FLASH385.S19 ... FFlash object file

FFlash README Notes:

FFlash v3.85

Wed, Dec 29, 1999, 14:50

Added "S0" record feature to allow object file to designate target device (i.e., U3, U4HI, etc...). This reduces the programming procedure to two steps: "FLERA ALL" and "XWRITE". One object file contains all of the FF-800 firmware, so it is no longer necessary to upload three separate files. NOTE: This object format is not compatible with the original Motorola format. Do not use the modified object files with any other programming system.

FFlash v3.84

Thu, Nov 25, 1999, 14:06

Fixed several bugs in the XMODEM code. These bugs would cause timeouts and aborts if a bad block was received.
Added display driver to provide basic status information via the FF-8010 display:
- DV led is command execution in progress indicator.
- DVL led is xmodem error (non-fatal)
- RING led is programmer error (fatal errors only)
- OUT1-8 is "gas guage" progress indicator (OUT1-8 = all on after reset, any command turns them off). The guage "rolls" during program and erase commands to indicate that the system is processing data.

Instructions for FFlash upgrade ({ret} = Carraige Return, Enter, or Return key on your keyboard):

Expanded U5 device IS required to install this upgrade. Be sure to install the U5 upgrade before attempting the FFlash upgrade

!IMPORTANT! Download your controller's system configuration (SAVE) before re-programming your FF-800!
Download the FFlash update files and unzip them into a directory of your choice.
Connect your PC to the FF-800 and log-on to the serial command port.
Once you have the FF-800 logon message displayed, type "LOAD" and do an ASCII upload of the FLASH385.S19 file.
When finished, The system will reset...Logon again and enter "STATE 1 S".
Place the FFlash into programming mode (flip the FFlash switch to PROG, reset the controller, and issue a serial BREAK). You should see the FFlash V3.85 message.
Return the FFlash to NORM and reset the controller.
Your installation is complete!

If the V3.85 message is not observed, repeat the above procedure. The most likely cause of difficulty would be an error in the LOAD process. In this case, the controller will be reset to factory defaults. Be sure that your XON/XOFF settings are correct (see the FF-800 manual for details). If you encounter the factory defaults, it is best to re-load your configuration before repeating the FFlash upgrade.

U5 Expanded Memory Upgrade

If you need to obtain an expansion memory chip for U5, contact Component Distributors at 800-848-4234. This is their Plano, TX office, so don't be disturbed if they give you another number to call. The device is a SIMTEK 32K x 8 NVRAM, part# STK11C88-45P. The "-xxP" suffix indicates the access time (i.e., 45ns) while the P indicates narrow plastic DIP. There are a variety of speeds that will work, -35P, -25P or -15P. Basically, whatever they have in stock should work. Also, industrial parts (-45PI) will also work. The cost should be less than $20 plus shipping. If you have any difficulties obtaining this part, let me know.

Be Sure to note the orientation of the existing U5 before replacing it with the new device. The SIMTEK parts are half-wide, so the U5 socket actually consists of three rows of equally spaced socket pins. This arrangement allows a normal width part to be used in place of the narrow SIMTEK part. The SIMTEK device should be installed so that it occupies the two socket rows closest to U4.

After installing the new device, you should perform a factory initialization sequence as described below.

FFLASH users:

!IMPORTANT! Download your controller's system configuration (SAVE) before re-programming your FF-800!
Using the serial command port, sent the command: "WR B7FD 01 {ret}" (enables new U5 device).
Remove the chassis power and open the chassis. Remove the existing U5 device (STK11C68).
Install the new U5 device (STK11C88).
Remove the P28 FFLASH connector (located adjacent to the DIP switch) -- Be sure to note its orientation.
Set the DIP switch so that positions 1-4 are all off (this should be its current setting).
Apply power. The FF-800 will begin an initialization sequence. When complete, the controller will key TXA and send the standard reset announcement which indicates that the initialization is complete.
Remove Power. Re-install the FFLASH connector at P28.
Leave the DIP switch so that positions 1-4 are all off.
Replace the chassis lid and return the chassis to its operating position.
Reapply power.
Log on the serial command port and LOAD your configuration data.
Your installation is complete!