Programming Flash Devices
v1.1
14-11
Programming with FlashPro
Setup
Properly connect the FlashPro ribbon cable with the programming header and turn on the switch.
Actel recommends running the self-test before programming any devices; see the
"PerformIn the programming software, from the File menu, choose Connect. In the FlashPro Connect to
Programmer dialog box that appears, select the port to which the FlashPro programmer is
connected, and select the device family. Disable voltages from the programmer if they are available
on the board.
Click Connect. A successful connect or any errors appear in the Log window.
Analyze Chain and Device Selection
From the File menu, choose Analyze Chain. Chain details appear in the Log window. If any failures
device to be programmed from the Device list. If only one device is present in the chain,
performing Analyze Chain selects that device automatically from the Device list.
Loading the STAPL file
FlashPro3, FlashPro Lite, and FlashPro programmers use a STAPL (*.stp) file to program the device.
To load the STAPL file, from the File menu, choose Open STAPL file, or click the Open File button in
the toolbar.
Selecting an Action
After loading the STAPL file, select an action from the Action list. See the "Programming File
Programming the Device
To program the device, in the Action list, select Program. Make the required selections and click
Execute to start programming. The progress of the programming action displays in the Log
window. The message "Exit 0" indicates that the device has successfully been programmed.
Note: Do not interrupt the programming sequence; it may damage the device or programmer.
Verify Correct Programming
To verify the device is programmed with the correct STAPL file, load the STAPL file and in the
Action list and click Verify. Click Execute to start the verification process. A successful verification
results in "Exit 0."
is an additional standalone option.
Programming Failure Allowances
Flash FPGAs are reprogrammable, so Actel tests the programmability for 100% of the devices
shipped.
Return Material Authorization (RMA) Policies
Actel consistently strives to exceed customer expectations by continuing to improve the quality of
our products and our quality management system. Actel has RMA procedures in place to address
programming fallout. Customers should be mindful of the following RMA policies.
All devices submitted for an RMA, must be within the Actel warranty period of one year from date
of shipment. Actel will reject RMAs for devices that are no longer under warranty.
RMAs will only be authorized for current Actel devices. Devices that have been discontinued will
not receive RMAs. All functional failure analysis requests must be initiated by opening a case with
Actel Technical Support. Devices returned for failure analysis against an RMA should be in their
original packaging and must have an RMA number issued by Actel.