Electrical computers and digital processing systems: support – Digital data processing system initialization or configuration – Loading initialization program
Reexamination Certificate
1999-01-11
2001-10-09
Heckler, Thomas M. (Department: 2182)
Electrical computers and digital processing systems: support
Digital data processing system initialization or configuration
Loading initialization program
Reexamination Certificate
active
06301656
ABSTRACT:
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates in general to electronic devices and more particularly to a method and apparatus for initial programming of flash based firmware.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Flash memory (also known as EEPROMs) are often used in systems where a microprocessor is embedded on a control board. The flash memory provides programming to the microprocessor. The advantage of using flash memory is that they are capable of having old programming removed and new programming installed. Therefore, updated software can be loaded onto the flash memory to be used by the microprocessor.
In a typical operation, on power up, a control board, including a microprocessor, executes its on-board programming which includes a setup protocol for establishing communication with components external to the control board. Once communication is established, the microprocessor can receive a new programming load. This programming is written onto the flash memory. When a board with an embedded processor is originally built, the flash memory must be programmed with a boot code so that the board can establish communication with the outside world. This is typically done by taking unprogrammed flash memories and placing them on a programmer. They are then programmed and replaced on the board. The board is then booted and the programming can be loaded from the flash memory to the microprocessor. If a new boot code is required, the flash devices are removed, reprogrammed and then reinstalled. To allow for removal, flash memories are typically installed in sockets instead of being soldered onto the board. The handling of flash memory can damage its metal leads or produce dangerous static electricity which can damage the memories. Also, using a programmer to program flash memory is a slow process.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
From the foregoing, it may be appreciated that a need has arisen for a method and apparatus for initial programming of flash based firmware. In accordance with the present invention a method and apparatus for initial programming of flash based firmware is provided which substantially eliminates or reduces the disadvantages and problems associated with prior programming methods.
In one embodiment an apparatus for programming flash based firmware is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a programmable control card and a processor card. The programmable control card includes a control card connector and a programmable flash device. The processor card includes a programming connector, a processor and on-board flash devices. The control card is operable to connect to the processor card by connecting the control card connector with the programming connector. Upon starting the processor card, the control card is operable to transfer programming code to the processor card.
The present invention provides various technical advantages over the conventional programming methods. For example, flash devices may be reprogrammed without removing them a multitude of times. Another technical advantage is that different code can be loaded at different times using the present invention. Additionally, testing procedures can be programmed efficiently into flash devices located on a microprocessor control board. Other technical advantages are readily apparent to one skilled in the art from the following figures, descriptions and claims.
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patent: 5887145 (1999-03-01), Harari et al.
patent: 5909502 (1999-06-01), Mazur
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Glassie Neil E.
Streett David J.
Alcatel USA Sourcing L.P.
Baker & Botts L.L.P.
Heckler Thomas M.
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