What is a programmer? What are the different types of programmers?
2025-05-06 11:56
What is a programmer? A programmer, also known as a burner, is a tool used to write data into programmable integrated circuits. Programmers are mainly used for programming (or flashing) chips such as microcontrollers (including embedded systems) and memory (including BIOS). Programmers primarily modify programs in read-only memory and typically connect to a computer and programming software for operation. Generally, when people mention burners, most think of CD-RWs. Only electronics engineers understand that the IC-specific programmers used in factories and R&D units are a different, older, and more professional electronic product.
Programmers can be categorized into universal programmers, mass production programmers, and dedicated programmers. Dedicated programmers have the lowest price and support fewer chip types, suitable for programming a specific type or class of chips, such as only PIC series. Universal programmers generally cover almost (but not all) currently programmable chips. Due to complex design and high cost, sales are limited, resulting in very high prices. They are suitable for programming many types of chips.
Manual Programmer
A manual programmer connects to a PC via USB and to a LAN via Ethernet for local or remote PC communication. This process can operate offline independently, is convenient, and easy to expand, making it suitable for small-batch operations.
Generally, this type of programmer supports numerous models. However, due to limitations in the supporting fixture and test socket, it is only usable for one type of package and cannot be used for others, resulting in higher costs. This offline programming method avoids losses from dismantling chips due to programming and debugging issues. Offline programming is stable and efficient, suitable for small-batch production.
Additionally, this type of programmer has comprehensive functions, allowing users to organize commonly used command sequences such as erasing, checking for empty space, programming, verification, and encryption into a single command for one-step completion. It is worth noting that programmers supporting more chip models are generally better, maximizing output.
Automatic Programmer
Automatic programmers are generally expensive and use microcomputer control with a batch suction nozzle for material handling. The material dispensing structure can independently complete various operations.
This equipment can program 30-80 chips simultaneously. Designed as a fully automated intelligent IC programming device, it is suitable for mass production of electronic products without human intervention. The machine automatically alarms in case of anomalies. This type of equipment is expensive, ranging from 110,000 to 500,000 yuan, so most purchasers are specialized programming factories or SMT lines.
UFS Programmer
The UFS programmer is a manual mass production IC programmer that can expand to a maximum of 96 programming sockets, with a writing speed of up to 180 Mbytes per second. The actual writing speed varies depending on the chip.
Multiple programmers can operate simultaneously on the same PC, fully meeting the needs of small-batch copying tasks. The price of the UFS programmer reportedly ranges from a few hundred to 15,000 yuan.
In-Circuit Programming
In-circuit programming involves programming the chip after it has been mounted on the PCB. However, due to the flexibility of in-circuit programming (products can be produced first, and then different firmware can be programmed according to customer orders).
The advantages of in-circuit programming include suitability for large-scale operations, high production capacity, and security, with FRB file encryption to prevent hacker intrusion. The disadvantages include difficulty in rework, potential for batch losses, and susceptibility to issues like cold solder joints or component quality problems, which can lead to programming failures if not handled properly, resulting in lower stability. However, due to its low equipment cost, it has become the preferred programming method for many manufacturers.
In summary, programmers are classified according to different chips and customer needs. There are dedicated programmers, such as those for microcontrollers, with many manufacturers having their own dedicated programmers. Most larger companies involved in IC programming generally use universal programmers. Programmers can be categorized into universal programmers, mass production programmers, and dedicated programmers. Dedicated programmers have the lowest price and support fewer chip types, suitable for programming a specific type or class of chips.
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