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This READTHIS file is for Version 5.9D of PEP
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-----------------------------DISTRIBUTION DISK IS BOOTABLE
-----------------------------One of the primary goals of the EPROM+ system has been to provide a portable
solution which did not require software installation on a host computer. As
time has passed and software has become increasingly bloated and complex,
accomplishing true portability has become increasingly difficult. If windows
is the operating system, application software is usually composed of many
files which must be installed to your hard drive thereby making portability
of the application impossible. Our experience indicates that most users
want a fast, simple solution to program and product use. To address this
desire, the latest version of the EPROM+ programming software is provided on
a bootable disk. The operating system provided on the disk is FREEDOS.
FREEDOS is a functionally equivalent clone of the original MS-DOS operating
system and is provided, as the name implies, free under the GNU open source
license. More information may be obtained from www.freedos.org.
We have performed extensive testing of the FREEDOS version on a variety of
computers and have found no compatility problems with the package. The only
issue is that FREEDOS will not read a hard drive formatted with the NTFS file
system. It will read all other formats including FAT12, FAT16 and FAT32.
To boot your computer from the distribution disk (floppy or CD), your computer
must be set to look for a bootable disk other than your hard drive. If your
computer does not look for bootable media you must change the system start up
setting (bios setup). This is normally accomplished by pressing a key such
as DEL, F1 or F2 before the computer loads windows. You normally see a
message such as "PRESS DEL TO ENTER SETUP" or something similar. Once you
have entered setup, find the selection labeled BOOT, BOOT SEQUENCE, etc.
Change the sequence to have the system boot from your CD or FLOPPY before the
hard drive. Note the hard drive may be labeled IDE-HDD (Integrated Drive
Electronics-Hard Disk Drive). After you have made the change, save and exit.
Reboot your computer with the EPROM+ distribution disk to start the system.
Once the computer boots from the distribution disk, you will be presented
with a menu of three choices:
[1] START EPROM+ PROGRAMMING SYSTEM
[2] START EPROM+ PROGRAMMING SYSTEM WITH USB FLASH DRIVE SUPPORT
[3] BOOT TO COMMAND PROMPT (NO USB SUPPORT)
Select option 1 or 2 to start the EPROM+ system or 3 if you wish to boot
FREEDOS only. NOTE: Option 2 loads a USB driver with will allow you to
insert a USB flash drive into the USB port on your computer. This flash
drive will be accessable by the EPROM+ software once it is started.
Since many computer designs today have abandoned support for the expanded
memory standard, FREEDOS is configured to create a ram disk of sufficient
size to support the EPROM+ system buffer. Please note that the ram drive
will be displayed as a valid logical drive by the CHANGE DRIVE function
(ALT-V) available under the PATH COMMAND. If you view the contents of this
drive your will see the file PEP.BUF. This is the buffer swap file. Do not
save any data to this drive as it exists specifically to support the buffer.
-----------------------------------------

PROBLEMS WITH WINDOWS XP, SERVICE PACK 2

----------------------------------------If you have a computer which is running Windows XP, Service Pack 2 you may
encounter a problem where the computer will not recognize the programming
unit when the program starts. This is caused by Microsoft and their ongoing
calamity of security issues. In some, but not all releases of Windows XP
Service Pack 2, printer port access is disabled for real mode programs. We
assume that in the mind of Microsoft, this prevents some sneaky virus or
malware from gaining access to your computer through the printer port.
To address this issue there is a zip file on the distribution media called
FIX_NTXP. This zipped package contains user installable drivers which will
re-enable the printer port and bypass any interference from Windows. Read
the READTHIS file which is included in the zip package. Also note that
even if you are not experiencing problems with Windows NT, 2000 or XP the
USERPORT driver included in the package will usually result in a marked
performance increase for the programming system. This is because it blocks
windows interference with printer port access.
-----------------------------------------------------------SETUP YOUR EPROM+ UNDER WINDOWS 95, 98, ME, NT, 2000 AND XP
-----------------------------------------------------------The EPROM+ system is fully compatible with Windows 3.1, 95, 98, ME, NT,
2000 and XP. If you wish to start fast and run directly from the floppy
disk, read the section directly following called "STARTING FAST - RUNNING
FROM THE FLOPPY DISK".
To setup your system under Windows 95, 98 or ME follow the instructions
later in this file with the heading "HOW TO SETUP YOUR EPROM+ SYSTEM TO
WORK WITH WINDOWS 95, 98 or ME".
If you are running Windows NT, 2000 or XP follow the instructions with the
heading "HOW TO SETUP YOUR EPROM+ SYSTEM TO WORK WITH WINDOWS NT, 2000 or XP".
Also read the information called "ABOUT THE EPROM+ SYSTEM RUNNING UNDER
WINDOWS NT, 2000 or XP" as this will explain how the system will behave
under these environments.
Your distribution disk includes several batch files. A batch file is a list
of commands which execute as a "script" to perform a specific operation. You
can identify a batch file icon as a white square with a blue top enclosing
a gold gear. To execute a batch file under windows select START then RUN.
Browse to drive A, double click the batch file you wish to run and then click
OK in the RUN window. The batch file will execute and perform the operation.
There are PIF (Program Information Files) with the same name. A PIF icon
appears as an MSDOS shortcut.
INSTALL.BAT - This is the preferred method to install the EPROM+ software on
your hard drive. This program will install all files from the distribution
disk to a directory (folder) on drive C: called EPROM. After installation
you may run the system from your hard drive. Please see instructions at the
end of this file for setting up an ICON for the EPROM+ system.
----------------------------------------------------------STARTING FAST - RUNNING FROM THE FLOPPY DISK OR OTHER MEDIA
----------------------------------------------------------The EPROM+ system can be run directly from the floppy disk or other media
such as a USB flash drive. This allows the EPROM+ system to be used with any
computer, anywhere, anytime. To run from the floppy disk or other media use
the following procedure:
WINDOWS 95, 98 and ME

1. click START - click RUN - select BROWSE

2. Navigate to the drive and double click WINPEP (not the MSDOS shortcut)
3. Click OK - The program will execute
NOTE: If you wish to alter any program settings such as SCREEN or MEMORY,
you may do so by right clicking on the MSDOS shortcut icon which is the
PIF file for the associated batch file operation. Select PROPERTIES and
choose the TAB which reflects the area you wish to alter.
WINDOWS NT, 2000 and XP
1. click START - click RUN - select BROWSE
2. Navigate to the drive and double click NTPEP
3. Click OK - The program will execute
NOTE: If you wish to alter any program settings such as SCREEN or MEMORY,
you may do so by right clicking on the MSDOS shortcut icon which is the
PIF file for the associated batch file operation. Select PROPERTIES and
choose the TAB which reflects the area you wish to alter.
---------------------------------------------------------------TROUBLE WITH SOME NOTEBOOKS - PRINTER PORTS AND EXPANDED MEMORY
---------------------------------------------------------------PRINTER PORT - Although rare, some notebook computers do not have parallel
printer ports which conform to the standard drive capability of desk top
computers. If your EPROM+ is connected to a notebook computer and the
software will not recognize the programming unit (you see the message
"THE PROGRAMMING UNIT IS NOT RESPONDING") it is likely the printer port is
low power. The AR-32A programming unit is designed to operate with a
standard printer port, however there is an internal adjustment which you can
perform should allow the unit to operate with your notebook. The procedure
is listed near the end of this file.
----------------------LEARN WITH THE TUTORIAL
----------------------We now have a tutorial which guides you through each operation and command in
your EPROM+ system. The tutorial requires that you have a 8K EPROM or EEPROM
such as a 28C64 (recommended), 2764 or 2764A. The tutorial is a text file
named PEPTUTOR.TXT. You may view the file on screen, however we suggest that
you print it as this makes it easier to reference as you perform each exercise.
Also note that we have provided a file on this disk which is used in the
tutorial. It's called TESTFILE.BIN and is the same file we use for driver
and device testing.
---------------------ALL ABOUT MEMORY CHIPS
---------------------There is a file on this disk which describes the different memory chips,
technologies, common terms and other questions which our customers have asked
over the years. If you have a question or are just curious about memory
devices take a moment to read this file. Use the LIST utility by typing
LIST MEMCHIPS.TXT. Also note that at the end of this file there is a list
of chip suppliers.
------------------------------FEATURES ADDED TO VERSION 5.9D
------------------------------Version 5.9D is a minor release in which new devices were added plus updates
to drivers for the ACOM2 (HC08/908). In addition to new devices, progress
counters have been added to the INSPECT command. This allows you to view
system progress as the device is accessed. Progress counters have also been
modified to allow the progress count to display a viewable value for counts

less than 256 bytes. This enhances operation for devices such as serial
eeproms and Motorola microcontrollers.
------------------------------FEATURES ADDED TO VERSION 5.9C
------------------------------This version of PEP includes many new features and enhancements.
SYSTEM BUFFER CREATION AND MANAGEMENT
A major enhancement is the ability of the software to establish the system
buffer on a logical drive (hard drive or ram drive) if expanded memory is not
available. If expanded memory is not available, the software will scan the
host computer to locate the fastest logical drive with available space. The
system buffer (16 megs) will then be created as a swap file on that drive.
The swap file is deleted when the program terminates. The software indicates
the scanning progress, buffer creation and buffer initialization as each
activity is completed. This change to the buffer creation and management
algorithm removes a limitation imposed by many windows systems which no longer
support the expanded memory standard.
CHANGE DRIVE COMMAND ENHANCEMENT
The CHANGE DRIVE (ALT-V) option which is a sub-function of the PATH COMMAND
now scans the host system for logical drives. The list of available drive
letters is displayed which allows you to choose the drive you wish to use
for the system path. This option was added as it is now possible to boot
the EPROM+ system without windows. When the system is booted without windows
logical drive letters may be assigned to alternative devices. Also if a RAM
DRIVE is used for the system buffer, a drive letter will be assigned and
you will see the file PEP.BUF as the only file on the drive. Do not use this
drive to store files or data as it will be lost when the computer is powered
off. When ALT-V is pressed while the PATH COMMAND is active you will see the
message "SCANNING FOR DRIVES..." followed by a list of available drives.
Enter the drive letter you wish to assign to the path. NOTE: The system will
not display drive B due to the way the bios on certain motherboards responds
if a disk is not in the drive. You may still select drive B, it simply will
not be displayed in the list.
PROGRESS COUNTERS ADDED
Progress counters have been added to additional system commands. As it is
now possible for the system buffer to be established on a logical drive,
certain commands may require additional time to complete. The commands which
now display progress counters are:
COMMAND 7 (copy device), COMMAND A (save device to disk file), COMMAND 4
(load file into buffer) plus EDITOR COMMANDS (transfer and clear).
PROGRAMMING UNIT NOT RESPONDING
You may now select from five options if the programming unit does not respond
when the program is started. These are:
1. Retry - Pressing "R" causes the software to attempt to locate the
programming unit each time the key is pressed.
2. eXit - Pressing "X" exits back to the operating system.
3. Continue - Pressing the "C" key three times will cause the program run
without locating the programming unit. This option is provided for those
users who wish to use the program features without the programming unit.
A warning message is displayed indicating that the programming unit is not
active.
4. Manually enter port - Pressing "M" will cause the prompt:
"ENTER I/O PORT BASE ADDRESS ->"
If your computer has a parallel port card which is mapped to a non-standard
address you may enter the base address. NOTE: This address is not retained

by the system once the program terminates. If you wish to specify a nonstandard port address for the software to use during initialization you may
pass the address with the command line switch /PXXXX where XXXX is the port
address. The address must be four valid hex digits.
5. Troubleshoot - Pressing "T" causes the software to continuously retry all
standard printer ports. It will cease if the programming unit responds.
This option is primarily intended for troubleshooting the programming unit
in the event of a communication failure.
COMMAND LINE SWITCH TO SPECIFY PARALLEL PORT ADDRESS
A new command line switch has been added to allow you to specify a nonstandard printer port address. The format is /PXXXX where XXXX is the base
address for the parallel port. This option has been added to address
parallel port cards which will automatically have their address assigned by
windows. EXAMPLE: If you install a PCI parallel port card into your computer
windows will assign the physical address. This address may be somewhere in
the upper port address space such as DFF8, etc. Standard port address are
0278, 0378 or 03BC. To determine where the port actually exists, use the
windows system settings and navigate to the resources information for the
parallel port. Write down the port base address. Windows NT, 2000 or XP
will not allow the EPROM+ software to address any ports other than the
original three. To access the non-standard printer port use the bootable
disk in conjunction with the /P command line switch or the "M" option
from the "Programming unit not responding" prompt.
------------------------------FEATURES ADDED TO VERSION 5.9B
------------------------------Version 5.9B was a short lived intermediate version of what became version
5.9C. Version 5.9B included support for implementing the system buffer on
disk if expanded memory is not available. This version was only distributed
via email and was never posted on the website.
------------------------------FEATURES ADDED TO VERSION 5.9A
------------------------------Version 5.9A includes support for many new devices. These include additional
flash eproms used in bios applications, support for the Motorola (Freescale)
68HC05 family with eeprom plus support for a large number of new PIC and
ATMEL microcontrollers.
REPLACE OPTION ADDED TO SEARCH COMMAND
In addition to a large number of new devices, an option has been added to the
editor SEARCH command. You may now REPLACE the data located as the result of
the search. The REPLACE option allows you to replace, skip replace or
replace all. This new option allows complex binary data sets to be easily
scanned for specific patterns and then updated without the time consuming
manual entry of each replacement string.
The REPLACE option operates as follows:
Use the SEARCH command as usual to locate the first occurance of the data
pattern in which you have interest. Once the data pattern is located the
system will prompt you with: Continue|Modify|Replace|Exit (C|M|R|E) ->.
To replace the data press "R". You are now prompted with:
EXISTING DATA PATTERN ->XX XX XX XX (XX is shown to illustrate four bytes).
ENTER DATA TO REPLACE ->YY YY YY YY (YY is shown to illustate your new data).
REPLACE? Yes|No|All|Exit (Y|N|A|E) -> (Choose the desired option)
"Y" - Replaces the current data with your new data and begins searching
for the next occurance of the existing data pattern.

"N" - Skips the replacement of this occurance and begins searching for
the next occurance of the existing pattern. If another occurance
is found you may again REPLACE (Y) or SKIP (N).
"A" - Replaces the first occurance and all following occurances of the
pattern until the buffer end is encountered.
"E" - Exits the replace option and returns to the editor prompt.
NOTE: You may replace an existing data pattern with a longer string than was
initially found. The replacement string can be up to 16 hex bytes or 32
ASCII characters.
------------------------------FEATURES ADDED TO VERSION 5.8A
------------------------------Version 5.8A, although not apparent from the main display screen, includes
significant changes to the internal program structure. These changes allow the
EPROM+ system to overcome previous limitations imposed by the code KERNEL used
in Windows NT, 2000 and XP. The software drivers for STANDARD or NT are
selected using a command line switch or by invoking the appropriate batch file
located on the distribution disk (NTPEP.BAT for NT, 2000, XP or WINPEP.BAT
for 95, 98 or ME). The command line switch is /N for NT drivers.
The new software features are listed below:
1. COMMAND 8 (Compare device with buffer) now displays an error count during
the compare process. Any errors increment a count located below the progress
counter. This allows you to abort the compare (also a new feature) if you do
not wish to wait for the entire compare process to complete.
2. ABORT/CANCEL option has been added to commands which previously would
require you to wait until the command terminated. This feature has been added
to COMMAND 3 (Read device into buffer), COMMAND 8 (Compare device with buffer)
as well as certain ERASE FLASH DEVICE (COMMAND Z) procedures.
3. ZONE READ ADDED TO BUFFER EDITOR - You may now perform a ZONE read while
in the buffer editor (COMMAND 5). The command is invoked by pressing "Z". You
may then specify a device starting address, device ending address and buffer
starting address into which the device address range will be read. This is the
same function which was only available from the main command 3 options.
4. MULTILPE PAGES IN PATH COMMAND - In the event that you have more directory
entries in the root of the current disk drive than may be viewed on a single
page you may now page down (PgDn) to view these entries.
5. REMOVE FILE FROM DIRECTORY OF FILES (COMMAND D) SCREEN - You may now delete
a file from the list displayed by the directory command. Place the lite bar
over the file you wish to remove and press [ALT-R]. The software will prompt
for confirmation before the file is removed.
6. BUFFER INITIALIZATION VALUE DISPLAYED - The buffer initialization value
(00 or FF) is now displayed while the initialization is in process. This
allows you to confirm that the buffer is being initialized to the actual
value you desire.
7. FUNCTION KEYS MAY BE USED AS ALTERNATES TO [ALT-1], [ALT-4] and CTRL-HOME
The DIRECTORY command allows you to directly program or load the file which
is currently hi-lited on the screen. These are shortcuts to Command 1 and
Command 4. You may now use the F1 key and the F4 key to accomplish these
same shortcuts. In the PATH command you may press F10 to force the path to
the root directory in addition to pressing CTRL-HOME.
8. COMMUNICATION INTEGRITY TEST - The software now performs a more rigorus
parallel port communication test. This test is designed to expose any problem
which would cause corrupt or incorrect data to be transferred to or from the
programming unit. If the test fails, you are given the option to continue,
retry or exit. If you continue, the program and associated device algorithms
may not provide reliable or consistent results. We suggest that the reason
for the failure be determined and corrected.

------------------------------FEATURES ADDED TO VERSION 5.6B

------------------------------There are two new features added to Version 5.6B. The first allows you to
interrupt the "DEVICE ERASE" procedure. Press the ESC key to terminate the
erase test and proceed directly to programming. This is handy if you are
working with the large flash eproms (8, 16 and 32 meg) as the erase verify
time is lengthy. The erase verify test has also been removed after the
"ERASE FLASH DEVICE" operation has concluded for most flash devices.
The second feature added are progress counters. You will now notice a 4 digit
counter displayed below the messages READING, COMPARING and VERIFYING.
These counters count down to 0 as the associated procedure progresses
thereby providing feedback regarding the time remaining. There is also a
progress counter which appears during ERASE VERIFICATION.
------------------------------FEATURES ADDED TO VERSION 5.6A
------------------------------In addition to a number of new devices, Version 5.6A adds three new sofware
features. The first allows the user to determine the buffer preset value.
In previous versions of this program the buffer was always initialized to
the value FF before a file was loaded. In certain circumstances it is
desirable to initialize the buffer to 00 or bypass the initialization
process altogether. This may now be accomplished using COMMAND 4 - OPTION 5.
Selecting this command and option indicates the current initialization
setting and presents you with three choices: 0 to initialize the buffer
to 00, 1 to initialize the buffer to FF and X to leave the buffer unchanged.
If you wish to load multiple files into the buffer use the X option.
The second feature allows you to arrange the data in the buffer for 2 or 4
devices. This is necessary for proper programming of devices used in 16 and
32 bit applications. To fully understand the purpose of this command you must
understand what is required to support a 16 or 32 bit data path with 8 or 16
bit eproms. A 16 bit data path requires two 8 bit eproms. One eprom contains
the lower 8 bits (even part) of the word. The second eprom contains the upper
8 bits (odd part) of the word. The same applies to a 32 bit data path. A 32
bit data path may be implemented with four 8 bit or two 16 bit eproms. In the
event of two 16 bit eproms the first eprom contains the lower word (even part)
while the second eprom contains the upper word (odd part). In the event of
8 bit eproms four are required. Two for the lower word (lower and upper byte)
and two for the upper word (lower and upper byte). These are called bytes 0,
1, 2 and 3. The buffer editor G COMMAND (ARRANGE BUFFER) allows you to load
a file and then arrange the buffer into blocks of data representing two or
four devices depending on the data path. To arrange the buffer select the
buffer editor (COMMAND 5) and press G. Choose from one of the six options:
BYTES for 16 bit data path (even/odd or odd/even). WORDS for 32 bit data path
(even/odd or odd/even). 32 BIT (bytes 0,1,2 and 3). Option 5 (custom) is
a special organization used by some flash rom assemblies such as SHARP ICU
parts.
The third feature allows you to program a series of devices from the buffer.
This feature was added specifically to use after you have used COMMAND G to
arrange the buffer for programming multiple parts. The feature is accessed
from COMMAND 2 (program device from buffer) OPTIONS. Choose option 3
(PROGRAM A SERIES OF DEVICES). The system will prompt you to enter the number
of devices in the series. This will be either 2 or 4. After the number of
devices has been entered the system will automatically calculate the proper
buffer range over which the devices will be programmed. You will be presented
with requests to insert device 1 for programming followed by device 2 (or

more). This option provides a simple method for the programming of chips
for which the data has been specifically arranged in the buffer without the
need to manually specify a buffer address range over which to program.
----------------------------------ENHANCEMENTS ADDED TO VERSION 5.5B
----------------------------------The primary feature addition to Version 5.5B is support for the Motorola
68HC11 family of microcontrollers. Support for this family includes not only
traditional eprom support but also access to the chips internal eeprom plus
direct writes to ram and I/O. Features have also been added which allow the
EPROM+ system to serve as a limited software development platform including
passing control to a user program, displaying a returned byte or value and
returning control to the EPROM+ software.
----------------------------------ENHANCEMENTS ADDED TO VERSION 5.5A
----------------------------------There were two feature enhancements to Version 5.5A. The first is that you
may now change the disk drive directly from the Path command. To change the
drive press [ALT-V] and enter a new drive letter. If the drive is not ready
or has a problem, the error is now reported with the opportunity for recovery.
The second feature involves the editor. The "B" command which previously
would swap the buffer bytes, now offers three additional options. You may swap
bytes by pressing "B". You may swap buffer byte nibbles by pressing "N". You
may extract the EVEN buffer words by pressing "E". You may extract the ODD
buffer words by pressing "O". The EVEN and ODD options are primarily intended
for organizing the buffer for 32 bit data operations.
Version 5.5A also supports many new devices including the latest 32 meg eprom
from ST Microelectronics (27C322).
------------------------------------------------------IF YOU ARE UPGRADING FROM A RELEASE BEFORE VERSION 5.4B
------------------------------------------------------The primary enhancement to Version 5.4B in addition to new devices (such as 16
and 32 MEG flash eproms) are improvements to both the PATH and DIRECTORY
commands. We have also added a lite bar to the DEVICE SELECTION TABLE and
part number selection process plus have improved the editor SEARCH command.
DEVICE SELECTION ENHANCEMENTS - A lite bar has been added to the DEVICE
SELECTION TABLE. You move the lite bar within a technology family catagory
(such as EPROMS) using the arrow keys. You change catagories by pressing the
<TAB> key. Once the lite bar is positioned over the part number, press the
<Ins> key to select the device.
PATH COMMAND ENHANCEMENTS - The PATH command operation has been changed to
remove the need to capture an on-screen directory using the Insert key <Ins>.
The Insert key now causes the hi-lited directory to immediately become the
CURRENT PATH used by the system. To make the hi-lited directory the CURRENT
PATH simply press <Ins>. You may now force the CURRENT PATH directly to
the root directory by pressing <CTRL HOME>. You also now have the ability to
directly access the DIRECTORY command from the PATH command screen. Press
<ALT-D> to view the files in the hi-lited directory. This short cut removes
the need to exit the PATH command before invoking the DIRECTORY command.
The only caution with this short cut is that the CURRENT PATH is changed
to reflect the path to the directory of the files you are viewing. If you
had a different path set, it will be changed after you press <ALT-D>. You
may return to the PATH command from the DIRECTORY command by pressing <ALT-P>.

DIRECTORY COMMAND ENHANCEMENTS - The DIRECTORY command has been improved with
the addition of two command short cuts. These short cuts allow you to directly
access COMMAND 1 (Program device from disk file) or COMMAND 4 (Read disk file
into buffer). The short cuts are invoked by pressing <ALT-1> or <ALT-4>.
Pressing <ALT-1> causes the hi-lited file to be passed directly to COMMAND 1,
which then loads the file just as though you had manually entered or recalled
the filename. Pressing <ALT-4> causes the hi-lited file to be passed directly
to COMMAND 4 (OPTION 1) which loads the file into the buffer. Our experience
indicates that most users want to find their file of interest and either
program a device or load it into the buffer. These short cuts permit you to
perform these operations without exiting and invoking a second command.
Please note that we have used the command letters and numbers in conjunction
with the ALT key to avoid confusion. EXAMPLE: <ALT-D> for Directory, <ALT-P>
for Path. Our goal is to keep the operation of the EPROM+ simple so we try to
use as few obscure function keys as possible.
EDITOR SEARCH COMMAND IMPROVED - The editor SEARCH "S" command has been
improved to allow easy selection of HEX or ASCII entry modes. To change the
data entry mode press <TAB>. You no longer need to proceed the ASCII search
string with a forward slash "/" and the option has been removed.
----------------------------------------------CONFIGURATION FILE SUPPORT ADDED IN VERSION 5.3
----------------------------------------------The configuration file (PEP.CFG) allows you to set five parameters used
by the system when it starts. These are PATH, FILE, DEVICE, COMMAND and DISPLAY.
PATH sets the initial path used by the system to the directory in which you
will be working. FILE is the name of the file within the directory or any file
you would like to have available for use at a FILENAME prompt. DEVICE is the
part number of the chip with which you will be working. This is the same number
that is found in the DEVICE SELECTION TABLE accessed from COMMAND 9. COMMAND
is the system command you wish to have executed when the software starts such
as 1 for PROGRAM DEVICE FROM DISK FILE, etc. DISPLAY allows you to set the
system to (M)ONOCHROME or (C)OLOR depending upon the compter you are using.
The system configuration is accessed from COMMAND 0. Instead of exiting, choose
"O" for system options. This will display the current configuration parameters
used by the system. If no configuration file was available when the system was
started, the fields in the display will be blank. There are four selections
from which to choose to work with the configuration file parameters. TAB causes
the cursor to move sequentially to each field in the display. ALT[S] will save
the configuration parameters in the configuration file. A configuration file
will be created if one does not exist. ALT[U] retrieves the existing system
settings and displays them in the configuration parameter fields. This allows
you to retrieve and save the system configuration you are using, thereby
avoiding manually filling in each field. NOTE: The COMMAND field will always
be blank when ALT[U] is pressed as this is a selection which must be made by
you. Press ESC if you want to exit without saving, although any changes you
have made will be retained if you save later before the system software is
terminated. The configuration file is a convenient way to save the system
parameters which you commonly use or save the system settings if you quit
before your work is complete.
If you are upgrading from Version 5.1F software there are two new features in
version 5.3A. The first is the addition of Command B - SAVE DEVICE TO DISK FILE.
This command allows you to save a single device or a series of devices directly
to a disk file without first reading the contents to the buffer. It greatly
eases the sometimes confusing task of backing-up or archiving chips. The second
new feature is added to the editor. The "N" (select number base) command allows
you to enter and display byte data in HEX, OCTAL, DECIMAL, BINARY and ASCII.

You select the command from the editor prompt by pressing "N". A feature has
been added to the "M" (modify buffer) command which allows you to switch
between the current number base and ASCII by pressing the "TAB" key. The entry
mode toggles each time the "TAB" key is pressed.
-----------------------------------------------IF YOU ARE UPGRADING FROM A RELEASE BEFORE V5.1F
-----------------------------------------------New features added beginning with Version 5.1F. The first is added support
for dealing with a series of devices for programming, comparing and checksum.
SERIES OF DEVICES - A series is defined as more than one device installed in
a product. EXAMPLE: Assume a machine has firmware which requires four 2764
eproms. We refer to the four eproms as a series. The eproms in the series
are numbered 1 to 4 with each eprom containing 8K of the 32K total program.
Commands 2 and 8 now allow you to program or compare an individual device
within a series. To program or compare, the buffer must be first be loaded
with the data for the device. The series option is selected using the (O)ption
from the command prompt. To program or compare a specific device you need
only enter the device position number in the series. The command will
automatically use the proper buffer starting address for the program or
compare operation. This allows you to load a file for the series of devices
and then compare each device for proper content. If a defective part is found
you may then program a replacement using command 2.
CHECKSUM COMMAND - The main screen CHECKSUM command has been enhanced to allow
you to perform a checksum operation over a segment of a file which has been
loaded into the buffer or a checksum of the entire file. The file segment
checksum uses the device size to perform the calculation and requests that
you enter the device position number in the series to establish the starting
address for the checksum operation. The file segment option allows you to
load a file and then perform a checksum operation which can then be compared
to an existing device.
The second enhancement to Version 5.1F is that the name of the last file
loaded into the buffer is displayed in the ACTIVITY/STATUS area. The
filename will be displayed as long as the file is in the buffer. Clearing the
buffer using the "C"lear command in the editor will remove the name from
the display.
--------------------------------GENERAL NEW THINGS IN VERSION 5.1
--------------------------------V5.1 was a new release of PEP. All new features are fully described in the
manual. Please take a moment to read it. Some new things added to this
release allow easier use of commands 2, 3, 8 and A. The program now does
not require you to specify a buffer starting address each time a command
is invoked. It initially assumes you wish to program (2), read (3) or
compare (8) with a single device starting at buffer address 0. Therefore
when a command is invoked you need only respond to the initial prompt with
"Y" (yes) to execute the function. You may still specify the buffer start
address plus select other options by responding to the initial prompt with
"O" (options).
--------------------ENHANCED PATH COMMAND
--------------------The PATH command has been significantly enhanced. In previous releases the
path command allowed you to enter a path to your current working directory.
In this release the command now has the following enhancements:

1. When the command is invoked you will see a full screen display of the root
directory. You may use the arrow keys to move the litebar to any directory. In
the lower right hand corner of the screen is a subdirectory indicator. If the
hilited directory has subdirectories the indicator will indicate such. To move
down a directory level press the TAB key. The screen will display the subdirectories in the next level. You may continue to move down dirctory levels
by pressing TAB. You move back up directory levels by pressing [SHIFT] TAB.
As you move through the directory levels the NEW PATH to the directory is
displayed. The NEW PATH changes dynamically as you move up or down directory
levels. To establish the NEW PATH as the CURRENT PATH (used by the system)
press the INSERT key followed by ENTER. You may enter a new path manually at
any time by simply typing the desired path.
2. You may add a directory at any level by pressing [ALT] A (add). The lower
window will prompt you for the new directory name (8 characters max). After
the directory name is entered the path to the new directory plus the directory
name will be displayed and you will be asked to confirm your desire to create
the directory before the actual creation occurs. NOTE: If you wish to add a
new directory entry to the root, you must manually force the current path
to the root by typing the drive letter followed by a colon (C:). The command
always adds the new directory entry to the CURRENT PATH. After the directory
is created the command returns to the root display screen.
3. You may remove a directory at any time provided the directory is not part
of an existing path (has subdirectory entries) and also contains no files.
To remove a directory press [ALT] R (remove). The directory name currently
hilited will be displayed and you will be asked to confirm your desire to
remove the directory before the directory is actually removed. After the
directory is removed the command returns to the root display screen.
4. You may immediately display the root directory at any time by pressing the
HOME key. Press [ATL] H for a HELP summary.
ADDITIONAL OPTIONS FOR COMMAND 3 - Command 3 now allows you to perform a ZONE
READ of a device. You may specify a range of physical addresses within the
device and then read them into the buffer. You may also now read a series
of devices into the buffer. The software will automatically increment the
buffer pointer so that the devices are saved in contiguous blocks. The range
of devices read is automatically available to command A (save buffer to disk
file) so saving a single chip or a series does not require you to specify
buffer starting and ending addresses.
FILE LOAD SUMMARY - Command 4 now displays a FILE LOAD SUMMARY after a file
is loaded. This indicates where in the buffer the data was loaded and how
many bytes were transfered. If a hex file (INTEL or MOTOROLA) the summary
also indicated where hex data was actually encountered. This feature allows
you to load a hex file with unknown parameters and see where the data is
supposed to be loaded.
NEW COMMAND LINE SWITCHES - Two new command line switches have been added
which now allow you to specify a filename (including path) and a command to
execute. The filename switch is /F and has the syntax /Ffilename. The passed
filename can be recalled at any filename prompt by pressing the INSERT key.
The command to eXexute switch is /X and has the syntax /X? where the ? is any
of the command list selections. Note that if the /X switch is used the DIP
switch verification display is skipped to speed system operation.
NOTE: By combining the the /F, /D and the /X switches you can create batch
files to automate common programming operations.
WORD MODE ADDED TO EDITOR - If you are using the EPROM+ for PIC microcontroller

or 16 bit development, the editor can now be set to display buffer data in
word format (two bytes side by side as HI/LO). To set word mode, select the
buffer editor with command 5 and then press the "&" (shift 7) key. This key
operates in a toggle mode so press the key again to return to byte mode.
The editor will still operate on each byte with the "M"odify command, however
the address will display as a word with the indicator "H" or "L" for HI or LO
byte. All commands except "I"(inspect), "E" (single byte program) and "W"
(write data to device) operate in word mode. This means that the address
entered is a word address not a byte address. Also the "F" (fill) command
allows you to fill with a word constant and the "L" (logical operations)
command allows you to perform logical operations with word values. The buffer
size and device size are adjusted in the display for the number of words.
If you leave the editor in word mode all main screen commands expect word
addresses. The device size displayed on the main command screen will be in
words. To indicate this the size will be shown followed by a (W).
CHANGES TO PIC CONFIGURATION BIT SUPPORT - Version 5.1B now allows you to
read and modify the individual configuration bits. When you select the
"C" (configuration bits) from the "Z" (device options) main screen command
a configuration bit display will appear. You may change the bits by
selecting the change option and then using the left and right arrow keys
to position the cursor to the desired bit. To change the bit press "0"
or "1". To exit press ESC or ENTER.
NOTE - For any 14 bit processor in the PIC family you have access to all
14 configuration bits. The different families of 14 bit PIC processors have
different uses for the configuration bits. Reference the data sheet for
the specific device with which you are working. For the 16C5X family (12 bit)
you may only change the lower 4 bits as the upper 8 are not used.
SUPPORT FOR THE 16F83 AND 16F84 FLASH MICROCONTROLLERS - Version 5.1B now
supports the latest FLASH technology PIC processors. Note that in the
device options selection you may remove the code protect feature if the
part is code protected. Be aware that choosing this option will also erase
the program and data memory in the part.
--------------------------SUPPORT FOR DEVICE OPTIONS
--------------------------Version 5.1 supports software device options via the DEVICE OPTIONS
main screen selection (command Z). Command Z will allow for erasure of
FLASH devices plus programming of configuration fuses and security bits
for certain microcontrollers. If a device has optional supported features
command Z will present a list from which to choose. If the device has no
options the message * THIS DEVICE HAS NO OPTIONS * is displayed.
NOTE: If you choose a security bit or configuration fuse for a
microcontroller, please reference the documentation for the device to
determine the fuse or bit function.
CHANGES IN 874X ADAPTER OPERATION
Note that the 874X adapter is now powered immediately upon selection of
the device. This is indicated by the programming unit socket power led
being lit. This is normal and does not harm the device when installing
or removing it from the socket (the high voltage control lines are switched
off).
--------------------------------------BINARY TO INTEL HEX CONVERSION UTILITY
--------------------------------------Included on this disk is a utility called UNLD8616. This is a public domain
utility which converts binary files to INTEL HEX. The EPROM+ software does not

allow you to save files in the INTEL HEX or MOTOROLA S-RECORD format because
there is no way to determine where the data is actually loaded when read from
a device. We have had a few customers which have expressed the need to save
binary files in a HEX format for loading into EPROM emulators. To this end
we are providing this utility. The utility is stored in a ZIP format and
when UNZIPPED includes user documentation. We have tested this utility and it
seems to provide all the features plus more that have been requested.
To use the utility, you must save your chip or chips to a file with
COMMAND A - SAVE BUFFER TO DISK FILE. Follow the instructions for the utility
to convert the binary file to INTEL HEX.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------MODIFICATION OF THE PROGRAMMING UNIT TO OPERATE WITH LOW POWER NOTEBOOKS
-----------------------------------------------------------------------If the programming unit will not work with your notebook computer you may
remove a terminator resistor pak in the programming unit. This resistor
pak is installed to allow the programming unit to operate reliably with
switch boxes and extender cables installed on desktop computer printer ports.
With the resistor pak removed you may experience programming or reading errors
if the programming unit is not attached directly to the printer port.
REMOVING THE RESISTOR PAK - To remove the resistor pak first remove the four
hex cap screws in the bottom of the programming unit. Lift the programming
assembly from the black case. With the assembly removed turn it over and
position it with the square blue connector on the right (cable is across the
board and lays to the left. Under the gray ribbon cable right next to the
square blue connector is a thin part (usually black or blue) with 9 pins in
a straight line. This is the resistor pak. The part is between the 74LS244
and the square blue connector. The resistor pak is in a socket. Carefully
with your fingers or needle nose pliers grip the resistor pak and remove it
from the socket. If you cannot easily reach the resistor pak due to
interference from the cable you may remove the blue connector from its socket.
If you do this be careful because the blue connector pins are very fragile.
After the resistor pak is removed, reinstall the programming assembly into
the black case. This should solve the communication problem with your notebook.
-----------------------------------------------------------------HOW TO SETUP YOUR EPROM+ SYSTEM TO WORK WITH WINDOWS 95, 98 or ME
-----------------------------------------------------------------The EPROM+ software is a real mode program specifically written to run under
Windows. The core control program for the EPROM+ is called PEP and is provided
as a standard executable. To run the program with the appropriate memory,
screen and system settings you must use the appropriate batch file to start
PEP. The batch file for windows 95, 98 and ME is called WINPEP. You can
identify the batch file by the square white icon with a gold gear. There is a
PIF file with the same name which contains the actual settings. The PIF file
has an MSDOS shortcut icon. The batch file can be run from a floppy disk or
installed on your hard drive. If you are planning to run the system from your
hard drive, you should run INSTALL.BAT from the distribution disk. This will
install all files into a directory (folder) on your hard disk called EPROM.
These instructions assume that the files are indeed located in the directory
C:\EPROM. If you have placed the files into a different directory change the
procedure accordingly.
SETTING UP THE PROGRAM TO RUN FROM AN ICON UNDER WINDOWS 95, 98 AND ME
The following instructions will guide you through the steps necessary to
run the EPROM+ system directly from an ICON on your desktop.
1. Right click the desktop - select NEW - select SHORTCUT.
2. On the line marked Command line: type C:\EPROM\WINPEP.BAT - click NEXT.

3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.

Type "EPROM+ System" on the line or another name if you wish.

click FINISH - you will see an MSDOS shortcut with the name you typed.
right click the shortcut - select PROPERTIES - choose the PROGRAM TAB.
Click the "Change Icon" button.
On the FILENAME line type "C:\EPROM\EPROM.ICO" and press ENTER.
The EPROM icon appears - click the "OK" button - click "OK" again.
The EPROM icon is now on your desktop - double click to start the program.

ADDING THE EPROM+ TO YOUR START PROGRAMS MENU

1. Click START - Choose SETTINGS - Click TASKBAR.
2. Click START MENU PROGRAMS tab - Click the ADD button.
3. Create Shortcut appears - Type C:\EPROM\WINPEP.BAT and press ENTER.
4. Click the "NEXT" button - Type "EPROM+ system" or some other name.
5. Click the "FINISH" button - Click the "ADVANCED" button.
6. An EXPLORING window opens - click the PROGRAMS folder to open it.
7. Right click the WINPEP (MSDOS shortcut) - choose PROPERTIES.
8. Select the PROGRAM TAB.
6. Click the "Change Icon" button.
7. On the FILENAME line type "C:\EPROM\EPROM.ICO" and press ENTER.
8. The EPROM icon appears - click the "OK" button - click "OK" again.
9. Close the EXPLORER window - click "OK".
10. You should now find the EPROM icon and "EPROM+ System" in your
START PROGRAMS menu.
IMPROVING PERFORMANCE UNDER 95, 98 AND ME
The EPROM+ system uses the processor and memory in your computer to control
the programming unit. The less restricted the communication to the printer
port and screen, the faster your system will run. If you want maximum performance, give the system full access to your computer resources. Use the
MISC tab for properties and under "Background" check "Always suspend".
To improve screen performance you may set the display for "Full Screen".
If you run the program within a Window, display updates will be slower
however actual programming speed is unchanged.
-------------------------------------------------------------------ABOUT THE EPROM+ SYSTEM RUNNING UNDER WINDOWS NT, 2000 or XP
-------------------------------------------------------------------The EPROM+ programming system is compatible with Windows NT, 2000 and XP.
Our tests with Windows NT 4.0 Service pack 1, Windows 2000 and Windows XP
PROFESSIONAL indicate that all devices may be supported provided sufficient
processor time is allocated. The actual programming algorithms used to read
and program devices supported by the EPROM+ system run in the computer, not
in the programming unit. The programming unit performs critical timimg
operations independent of the computer but itself has no internal processor.
Windows NT, 2000 and XP are fully preemtive operating environments. This means
that all programs share the processor with equal time slices. In other words
the operating system has a list of all loaded programs and jumps from
program to program giving each a short time to execute. This provides the
appearance of simultaneous execution of all programs but in reality this
does not happen. The EPROM+ software will be temporarily suspended as are
all other active programs. This normally does not cause a problem except for
one specific family of devices. These are sector based flash eproms. A sector
based flash eprom, such as the 29C040A, must have a fixed amount of data to
be programmed delivered to the chip within a specified time window. If all
data is not delivered when the window closes, the chip will not program
correctly. If you encounter programming errors with a sector based part,
reduce the number of active programs or log off if you are on a network.
-------------------------------------------------------------------HOW TO SETUP YOUR EPROM+ SYSTEM TO WORK WITH WINDOWS NT, 2000 or XP

-------------------------------------------------------------------The EPROM+ software is a real mode program specifically written to run under
Windows. The core control program for the EPROM+ is called PEP and is provided
as a standard executable. To run the program with the appropriate memory,
screen and system settings you must use the appropriate batch file to start
PEP. The batch file for windows NT, 2000 and XP is called NTPEP. You can
identify the batch file by the square white icon with a gold gear. There is a
PIF file with the same name which contains the actual settings. The PIF file
has an MSDOS shortcut icon. The batch file can be run from a floppy disk or
installed on your hard drive. If you are planning to run the system from your
hard drive, you should run INSTALL.BAT from the distribution disk. This will
install all files into a directory (folder) on your hard disk called EPROM.
These instructions assume that the files are indeed located in the directory
C:\EPROM. If you have placed the files into a different directory change the
procedure accordingly.
WINDOWS NT, 2000 AND XP - PLACE AN ICON ON THE DESKTOP
1. Right click the desktop.
2. Select NEW - Select SHORTCUT.
3. Type C:\EPROM\NTPEP in the filename or location box.
4. Click NEXT - Click FINISH.
5. Right click the NTPEP icon on the desktop.
6. Click PROPERTIES.
7. Select the SHORTCUT tab then click CHANGE ICON.
8. An info window is displayed - click OK.
9. A CHANGE ICON window is displayed.
10. Click BROWSE - Enter C:\EPROM\EPROM.ICO in the file name box.
11. Click - OPEN - The EPROM icon is now in the CHANGE ICON window.
12. Click OK - Click APPLY - Click CLOSE or OK.
13. The EPROM icon should now be on your desktop.
WINDOWS NT AND 2000 - ADD ICON TO THE START MENU
1. Click START then SETTINGS then TASKBAR.
2. Clich START MENU PROGRAMS tab - Click ADD.
3. For command line type C:\EPROM\NTPEP.
4. Click NEXT - Click NEXT - Click FINISH.
5. From TASK BAR PROPERTIES click FINISH.
(For 2000 select ADVANCED tab then click ADD)
6. You will see EXPLORING - START MENU".
7. On the right side of the window double click PROGRAMS.
8. Right click NTPEP.
9. Click PROPERTIES - Select the SHORTCUT tab.
10. Click CHANGE ICON - Click OK to the info message.
11. Click BROWSE - In the file name box type C:\EPROM\EPROM and click OPEN.
12. The icon should appear - click OK.
13. Click APPLY - click CLOSE or OK.
14. Close the EXPLORING window and click OK.
15. The icon and shortcut should now appear in START - PROGRAMS.
WINDOWS XP - ADD ICON TO START MENU
1. Right click the START button - click PROPERTIES.
2. Select CLASSIC START MENU if not selected.
3. Click CUSTOMIZE - click ADVANCED.
4. Click ADD.
5. Type C:\EPROM\NTPEP in the location box.
6. Click NEXT - click NEXT - click FINISH.
7. This returns to the CUSTOMIZE window.
8. Click ADVANCED.
9. Double click the PROGRAMS folder.
10. Right click on NTPEP - select PROPERTIES.

11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.

Select CHANGE ICON - click OK on the info window.

In the CHANGE ICON window click BROWSE.
In the file name box type C:\EPROM\EPROM.
Click OPEN - click OK - click APPLY - click OK.
Close the PROGRAMS window.
Click OK.
At this point you may change the start menu back to the XP style or
leave as classic.
18. Click APPLY - OK.
19. The START button will now contain the eprom icon to start the software.
-------------------------------------------------------------------RUNNING UNDER DOS OR WINDOWS 3.1
-------------------------------------------------------------------If you are running under DOS or Windows 3.1 and require support for
expanded memory, reference the following procedure.
INSTALLING THE EXPANDED MEMORY DRIVER - The control program uses expanded
memory to provide buffer space for devices greater than 256K bytes in size.
To accomodate larger parts you may need to install the Microsoft expanded
memory driver EMM386.EXE. The EMM386.EXE driver is usually located in the
C:\WINDOWS directory on your hard drive. To install the driver place the
following lines into the CONFIG.SYS file on your hard drive.
DEVICE=C:\WINDOWS\HIMEM.SYS
DEVICE=C:\WINDOWS\EMM386.EXE
If your CONFIG.SYS file already has these lines but the second line is
followed by the letters NOEMS, delete the NOEMS statement as this disables
the driver. Once the line is added to your CONFIG.SYS file, reboot your
computer to have the driver take effect. Once the driver is installed,
PEP will automatically use the additional memory as buffer space.
NOTE: You may copy the lines above direcly into your CONFIG.SYS file or
use them to create the CONFIG.SYS file which must be in the ROOT directory
of DRIVE C. There is a batch file called SETMEM which will force the creation
of the necessary CONFIG.SYS file on drive C. If you are unable to install the
expanded memory driver you may run the SETMEM batch file. This will remove
your existing CONFIG.SYS file and replace it with one specifically for
support of expanded memory. Do not use SETMEM if your CONFIG.SYS file loads
other drivers required by your computer.
---------------------------------------------------------------ADJUSTING THE AMOUNT OF EXPANDED MEMORY AVAILABLE TO THE PROGRAM
---------------------------------------------------------------Most computers have a minimum of 32 megs of memory available for
In the event that your computer has less than 32 megs of memory,
following procedure to adjust the amount of memory available for
space used by the EPROM+ system. You may choose a value from the
which is more than 256K but less than 16 megs (16384).
1.
2.
3.
4.

programs.
use the
buffer
list

Using the Windows EXPLORER program navigate to and open the EPROM folder.
Locate MSDOS shortcut WINPEP (95,98,ME) or NTPEP (NT,2000,XP).
Right click the file - Select PROPERTIES.
Select the MEMORY tab - Set EXPANDED MEMORY to some value less than 16384.
(EXAMPLE: Select 2048 or 4096 if your computer has 8 megs of memory)
5. Click APPLY then OK.
7. Close EXPLORER and start the program with the proper batch file.
---------------------------REMOVING THE EPROM+ SOFTWARE

---------------------------To remove the EPROM+ software use the Windows EXPLORER program and navigate
to the EPROM folder. Do not open the folder. Right click the folder and
choose delete. Send the folder to the recycle bin then empty the recycle
bin. Right click any eprom icons you have created and choose delete.
--------------------------------MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE CONFIGURATION
--------------------------------This section will allow you to set up a system which will deliver maximum
performance in terms of reading and programming speed. Use this information
only if you are running under Windows NT, 2000 or XP. The EPROM+ system
actually consists of two components. One is the programming unit, which by
itself contains critical timimg circuitry and the electronics which receive
the data from the printer port plus generates device power. The other system
component is the software. The software actually performs direct control of
the programming unit via the printer port. Maximum performance is achieved
when the program runs unrestricted on a computer with direct access to the
printer port. This is best achieved in a straight DOS environment but is
also possible in Windows 3.1, 95, 98 and ME. If maximum performance and
programming speed is important, we suggest you create a dual-boot system
if you are running Windows NT, 2000 or XP as your primary environment with
DOS, Windows 95, 98 or ME as the alternate selection. We also suggest that
you create a logical drive partition formatted as FAT16 which can be accessed
by both operating systems. Any files downloaded from the internet or network
may be stored on the logical drive which may then be accessed by the high
performance system. Creating a dual-boot system is beyond the scope of this
description however it is easily accomplished with a product such as
PARTITION MAGIC from POWERQUEST.
---------------------------------------------ADAPTERS ARE AVAILABLE FROM ANDROMEDA RESEARCH
---------------------------------------------If you choose, you may purchase any of the socket adapters from
Andromeda Research. These adapters allow the system to program a
wide variety of additional technology families. Complete information
is available from our website (http://www.arlabs.com).

Andromeda Research
P.O. BOX 222
Milford, Oh 45150
(513) 831-9708
FAX (513) 831-7562