Programming adapter overview
The programming adapters are used to convert the pin out configuration of one IC packages to another.
Embedded system devices and
hardware are available in a variety of
integrated circuit (IC) packages. In order to convert one IC package type to another a programming adapter is used. So a programming adapter attaches the device to the programmer and converts between IC packages.
Basic functionality
Programming adapter contains a socket. The socket supports various IC packages. Programming Adapter is plugged into the device programmer. IC package is inserted into the socket without any soldering.
Device programmer programs the specific functions of the IC according to the configuration supported by programming adapter.
Programming adapter Types
In a bigger picture programming adapters are categorized in to two types. One is device package and pin support and other is programmer package socket and pin support. Device packages offer specific number of pins with single in line
memory module (SIMM) configuration.
Programmer packages, also known as IC packages, offer specific pin numbers or pin configuration. Programmer adapters with programmer package socket support allow attaining that particular configuration by just inserting the IC into the socket.
Programming adapter Configurations and packages
Programmer adapters are available to support all the packages. The most common packages include SOIC (small outline
integrated chips), SSOP (shrink small outline package), QFP (quad flat package), and PLCC (plastic leaded chip carriers). Programming adapters also offer support for
FPGA,
Compact Flash, MLF (military flat ) package, LAP (leadless array package), quad flat package (QFP), (ZIP), Zig Zag inline package, PGA, SOJ, SOT, DIP, SDIP, and PLCC.
Programming Adapter Features
Besides the basic functionality programming adapters offer a variety of features. These include reset switch, ZIF (zero insertion force), power conditioning circuits, crystal oscillator socket, and replaceable socket. Programming adapters with replaceable sockets supports various socket configurations in a single module.
Programming adapter's debugging mode connector
Programming adapters also contain debug mode connector. This allows using adapter as
debugger or simulator to test or run the circuit. This also allows to use the adapter for prototyping and providing customized interconnects. Some programming adapters offer multiple microprocessor compatibility.
Programming Adapter's Socket module
Programming adapter often contains socket modules. These socket modules offer various functions depending upon various available configurations. Configuring a socket module provides the programming adapter multiple
devices support. It can be configured to support only Flash memory devices. Programming adapter's socket module can also adapt pin configuration of various templates.
