ic programmer|chip test|automated programmer system|Automated Device Programmers

Acroview, a leader in chip programming, has officially announced further expansion of its compatible chip model coverage with the release of a new version of its programming software. The company's core product – the universal programming platform AP8000 – has now achieved full adaptation with HOLTEK Semiconductor's 8-bit Flash microcontroller HT66F3185.

The HT66F3185 is an 8-bit Flash microcontroller with a high-performance reduced instruction set. In terms of memory features, the Flash memory's multiple programmability offers great convenience to users. In addition, it includes a RAM data memory and a True EEPROM memory for storing non-volatile data such as serial numbers and calibration data. Furthermore, through the use of IAP functionality, users can easily store measured data directly into the program memory or perform application updates.

In terms of analog features, this series of microcontrollers includes a multi-channel 12-bit A/D converter and comparator function. It also features multiple flexible timer modules that provide timing functions, pulse generation, and PWM generation. Built-in complete SPI, I²C, and UART functions offer designers an easy way to communicate with external hardware. Protection features such as an internal watchdog timer, low-voltage reset, and low-voltage detection, combined with excellent anti-interference and ESD protection performance, ensure reliable operation of the microcontroller in harsh electromagnetic interference environments.

The HT66F3185 provides a rich selection of internal and external high-speed and low-speed oscillator options, and includes a complete internal system oscillator requiring no external components. Its ability to dynamically switch between different operating modes provides users with a means to optimize microcontroller operation and reduce power consumption. Features including flexible I/O usage, time-base functions, and others ensure that the HT66F3185 can be widely applied in various home appliance products such as coffee machines, electric kettles, electric tea brewers, rice cookers, soymilk makers, and is also suitable for compact products such as smart wearable devices and lithium battery protection boards.

Features

CPU Features

• Operating Voltage

-- fSYS=8MHz: 1.8V~5.5V

-- fSYS=12MHz: 2.7V~5.5V

-- fSYS=16MHz: 3.3V~5.5V

• At VDD=5V and system clock of 16MHz, instruction cycle is 0.25μs

• Halt and wake-up functions provided to reduce power consumption

• Oscillator Types

-- External High-Speed Crystal – HXT

-- Internal High-Speed 8/12/16MHz RC – HIRC

-- External Low-Speed 32.768kHz Crystal – LXT

-- Internal Low-Speed 32kHz RC – LIRC

• Multiple operating modes: Fast, Slow, Idle, and Sleep

• Internal integrated oscillators require no external components

• All instructions can be completed in 1~3 instruction cycles

• Table read instructions

• 115 instructions

• 8-level stack

• Bit operation instructions

Peripheral Features

• Flash Program Memory: 4K×16

• RAM Data Memory: 256×8

• True EEPROM Memory: 128×8

• Watchdog Timer function

• Supports In-Application Programming – IAP

• Up to 26 bidirectional I/O pins

• Two external interrupt pins shared with I/O pins

• Programmable I/O source current for LED drive applications

• Multiple timer modules for time measurement, compare match output, PWM output, and single pulse output

• Serial Interface Module – SIM, for SPI or I²C communication

• Full-duplex/Half-duplex Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter – UART

• Software-controlled 1/3 bias LCD driver, up to 22 SCOM/SSEG pins and 4 SSEG pins

• Up to 12 external-channel 12-bit resolution A/D converter with programmable internal reference voltage VR

• One comparator function

• Dual time-base function for generating fixed time interrupt signals

• Low-Voltage Reset function

• Low-Voltage Detection function

• Package Types: 16-pin NSOP, 20-pin NSOP/SOP/SSOP, 24-pin SOP/SSOP/QFN, 28-pin SOP/SSOP/QFN

Block Diagram

The AP8000 universal programmer independently developed by Acroview Technology has become a benchmark professional programming solution in the industry. This device supports flexible and adjustable one-to-one and one-to-eight configuration modes, and provides both online and offline operating modes. It has developed dedicated programming solutions especially for memory chips such as eMMC and UFS, and can fully cover the bare-chip offline programming and on-board programming needs of HOLTEK's entire series of chips. The AP8000 adopts an innovative modular design with three core modules – mainframe, baseboard, and adapter socket – endowing the device with outstanding compatibility and expandability. As a universal programming platform, it not only adapts to various programmable chips on the market, but also, with stable and efficient performance, serves as a core component of Acroview's automated batch programming equipment IPS5800S, efficiently handling large-scale chip programming tasks to meet mass production requirements.

The AP8000 mainframe features flexible connection methods, equipped with both USB and NET interfaces, enabling convenient networking of multiple programmers. Through networking, users can easily achieve synchronized control of multiple programmers and efficiently carry out parallel programming operations. In terms of safety, the mainframe incorporates an intelligent safety protection circuit that monitors chip placement status and circuit connections in real time. Once abnormalities such as chip reverse insertion or short circuits are detected, it immediately triggers a power-off protection mechanism, comprehensively safeguarding the safe operation of chips and the programmer. The mainframe is equipped with a high-speed FPGA chip, significantly improving data transmission and processing efficiency to ensure a smooth and efficient programming process. To enhance user convenience, an SD card slot is provided on the back of the mainframe. Users only need to save the project file generated on a PC to an SD card and insert it into the slot, then use the physical buttons on the programmer to select, load, and execute programming operations, enabling standalone operation independent of a PC. This design not only reduces dependency on computer hardware configurations but also simplifies workspace setup, significantly enhancing operational flexibility.

In terms of expandability and compatibility, the AP8000 adopts a modular combination design of baseboard and adapter boards, effectively extending the mainframe's functional boundaries. Currently, the device supports products from all major semiconductor manufacturers, covering well-known brands such as SK hynix, Micron, SANDISK, ASR, Kingston, and others. Its supported device types are extensive, including NAND, NOR, MCU, CPLD, FPGA, EMMC, and more, and it is fully compatible with various industry-standard file formats such as Intel Hex, Motorola S, Binary, and POF, providing users with a one-stop, full-scenario chip programming solution.

Company Introduction

About HOLTEK Semiconductor: HOLTEK Semiconductor, established in 2012, is a subsidiary of the HOLTEK SEMICONDUCTOR INC. group in Taiwan. Its business scope primarily includes the design, development, and sales of microcontroller (MCU) ICs and their peripheral components. HOLTEK's product strategy has consistently adhered to the core focus on "Microcontrollers (MCU) and MCU Peripherals." Its product range includes general-purpose and application-specific microcontrollers (MCUs), covering application fields such as touch sensing, health measurement, industrial control/instrumentation, computer peripherals, home appliances, automotive, and security monitoring. In addition, it provides various power management, LCD/LED driver/control, RF communication chips, and various types of sensor modules and other peripheral components.

About Acroview Technology: Acroview Technology is a national-level "Little Giant" specialized and sophisticated enterprise engaged in the R&D, production, and sales of semiconductor chip testing and programming equipment. The company is committed to empowering the entire industrial chain, including Fabless, IDM, OSAT, wafer fabs, and end-device manufacturers, through innovative semiconductor testing technologies and solutions. Acroview's pioneering fully automatic burn-in test system – ABI (Auto Burn-In) – greatly enhances customers' chip burn-in testing efficiency and reduces Per DUT test costs. It also provides equipment products and solutions for various stages including PSV, CP, FT, ABI, SLT, and programming. By seamlessly integrating its leading product technology advantages, system-level expertise, and globally distributed R&D and sales service networks, Acroview creates value for customers to gain a competitive edge in the market.