Eprom Programmers

[WindDrake]

Ed: Really? I've done a bunch of GAL's now with it, and a few Atmega8's, no issues.

You using the latest software, should be 6.10.

There's also a software package out there that lets you reflash the CS model hardware with the A model firmware, which is supposedly a little more dependable (and allows you to add the ICSP port). I reflashed mine to the A firmware, but haven't added the ICSP header yet.

 

[G-P-E]

Version 6.10.
Lattice (or AMD or National or Cypress) PALCE16V8B. If the part you want to program isn't in the very small list of GAL's then you're hosed. Tried programming it using the Atmel ATF16V8 (works on my Advin) -- nothing. Tried as a Lattice GAL16V8B... errors out.
Doesn't cover any of the older PAL series. Kind of strange to not cover the older parts especially considering that very few companies even make this type of programmable logic or memory anymore (sole survivor is Atmel).

 

[WindDrake]

Version 6.10.
Lattice (or AMD or National or Cypress) PALCE16V8B. If the part you want to program isn't in the very small list of GAL's then you're hosed. Tried programming it using the Atmel ATF16V8 (works on my Advin) -- nothing. Tried as a Lattice GAL16V8B... errors out.
Doesn't cover any of the older PAL series. Kind of strange to not cover the older parts especially considering that very few companies even make this type of programmable logic or memory anymore (sole survivor is Atmel).

http://www.autoelectric.cn/minipro/MiniProSupportList.txt

Yeah, no PAL devices at all for the Minipro, it only wants flash-based PLD's.

 

[G-P-E]

http://www.autoelectric.cn/minipro/MiniProSupportList.txt

Yeah, no PAL devices at all for the Minipro, it only wants flash-based PLD's.

I'm surprised they don't support the PALCE's though. These are similar flash based PLDs -- just a little different with the algorithm and just as common as the Lattice GAL series (and equally obsolete).

 

[Biltronix]

I recently bought a new Xeltek SuperPro-610P on AliExpress for $268 shipped. It works great. It's USB connected and has its own external regulated supply. It also supports ISCP using a DIP adapter (you can buy one or just make your own).

Wrt this thread, it supports TMS2532, and many PAL/PALCE/GAL devices. I've used it on Lattice GAL16V8 and Atmel ATF16V8 with no problems.
Full device list 610p.

The 610P programmer also has 4000/7400 logic chip test support and the ability to allow you to create your own custom logic tests. If someone was ambitious, they could probably create a test sequence for the Atari AVG chip if they really put their mind to it.

I used to use a Xeltek SuperPro-Z with a parallel port. I wanted something that would run natively under Win7 and from USB and that was supported by free updates. I bought a MCU Mall GX-4Q and it works on older EPROMs using an external supply. However, it doesn't test logic and I wanted to have an alternative device on hand so I bought the Xeltek SuperPro-610p as well. I have not been disappointed.

The price for the Xeltek SuperPro-610p at most Canadian distributors is ridiculous at around $740 CAD and I've seen it priced in the USA starting at $400 and as high as $650. The unit that I bought at AliExpress is the exact same device and it came with the OEM compartmented box, supply, CD, USB cable. I recommend avoiding listings offering the 610P with a bunch of cheap package adapters because those adapters are generic, not specifically for the 610P and they are available very cheap separately.

Bill B.

 

[WindDrake]

I recently bought a new Xeltek SuperPro-610P on AliExpress for $268 shipped. It works great. It's USB connected and has its own external regulated supply. It also supports ISCP using a DIP adapter (you can buy one or just make your own).

Wrt this thread, it supports TMS2532, and many PAL/PALCE/GAL devices. I've used it on Lattice GAL16V8 and Atmel ATF16V8 with no problems.
Full device list 610p.

The 610P programmer also has 4000/7400 logic chip test support and the ability to allow you to create your own custom logic tests. If someone was ambitious, they could probably create a test sequence for the Atari AVG chip if they really put their mind to it.

I used to use a Xeltek SuperPro-Z with a parallel port. I wanted something that would run natively under Win7 and from USB and that was supported by free updates. I bought a MCU Mall GX-4Q and it works on older EPROMs using an external supply. However, it doesn't test logic and I wanted to have an alternative device on hand so I bought the Xeltek SuperPro-610p as well. I have not been disappointed.

The price for the Xeltek SuperPro-610p at most Canadian distributors is ridiculous at around $740 CAD and I've seen it priced in the USA starting at $400 and as high as $650. The unit that I bought at AliExpress is the exact same device and it came with the OEM compartmented box, supply, CD, USB cable. I recommend avoiding listings offering the 610P with a bunch of cheap package adapters because those adapters are generic, not specifically for the 610P and they are available very cheap separately.

Bill B.

The Xeltek stuff can be had from the Chinese distributors for a lot less than what the American & Canadian ones want for them. Same products and all. I know this causes a lot of friction with Xeltek vendors because Xeltek forces them to buy the stuff at the regional (higher) rate rather than just buy the stuff at what the Chinese distributors are charging.

Still, if you know where to look, the prices are nice. I used to use a Xeltek SuperPro 580U at my old job all the time. Worked well.

 

[mrbill08]

Back to my old Advin Pilot U84+ programmer. Old, huge and cumbersome but at least it's reliable and works PROPERLY on practically everything.

I feel the same way about my Data I/O 29B and UniPak2/LogicPak. I've tried to find a more modern replacement and gave up. It's old, large, and noisey but it reliably programs all classic arcade era parts. Dosbox has freed me to run on a Win7 machine so I no longer need a dedicated computer for it. It sits on a shelf above the computer in my lab. I am resigned to the fact that I will always have a Data I/O and one other "modern" programmer to cover all programmable parts. I no longer search for the "holy grail" universal programmer - it does not exist. No current programmer manufacturer will spend all of the time and money to develop every algorithm for every manufacturer for programmable parts that are over 25 years old and need "exotic" programming voltages and currents.

What I would really like to see the collector community do? Collaborate on a database for "what model programmers have successfully programmed what parts" so if you are looking for a programmer and you know what parts you need to program, you can refer to the chart. I can only imagine how many hours and threads have been spent on researching/hunting for a programmer. I would be willing to contribute a lot of info for that.


Bill

 

[channelmanic]

Sounds like something a smartsheet could be used for.

 

[G-P-E]

I feel the same way about my Data I/O 29B and UniPak2/LogicPak. I've tried to find a more modern replacement and gave up. It's old, large, and noisey but it reliably programs all classic arcade era parts. Dosbox has freed me to run on a Win7 machine so I no longer need a dedicated computer for it. It sits on a shelf above the computer in my lab. I am resigned to the fact that I will always have a Data I/O and one other "modern" programmer to cover all programmable parts. I no longer search for the "holy grail" universal programmer - it does not exist. No current programmer manufacturer will spend all of the time and money to develop every algorithm for every manufacturer for programmable parts that are over 25 years old and need "exotic" programming voltages and currents.

Bill

Yep. We also have an old Data OhNo 29B with Unipak and gangpak adapters. Still works but the fan is loud as heck.
We recently got rid of an even older EPROM programmer. Huge beast with the Intel 4004 chipset inside (CPU, memory & peripherals). Internal boards were based on a generic Intel 4004 computer with custom interface boards added. Made a killing selling that fully functional 4004 computer board on ebay.

 

[Pasky]

Had my TOP 3000 going on 2 or months now, haven't had any issues with GAL's or eproms.

Would also recommend the Mini pro if you don't need more than 40 pins, had that sucker for over a year and no issues.

 

[mdesfosses]

2564 with GQ-4X

Hi,

Did anyone succeed in burning 2564 chips with their GQ-4X ? I am willing to make an adapter if needed, just want to avoid wasting my time.

Thanks !