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Our FETP programming adapter is functionally equivalent to the JTAG programming module supplied with the Texas Instruments Flash Emulation Tools, but has improved low power performance. It features: Parallel port operation Use with any of our eval kits to function with third-party emulation software External power option This item has been discontinued and is permanently out of stock.

• Need a parallel port cable? Add our CBL25.
• If using our breadboard series, add a JFPC for adapting the FPC connector.
• Rather have a USB programmer? Try our USBP.
• Our REP430 replicator is perfect for stand-alone production programming.
• Use with our PA430QFN24 to program the 24-pin QFN (RGE) packages.
• Use with our PA430QFN32 to program the 32-pin QFN (RHB) packages.
• Use with our PA430PW20 to program the 20-pin TSSOP (PW) packages.
• Use with our PA430DW20 to program the 20-pin SOIC (DW) packages.

Q1: Is the FETP we offer an additional part needed for the TI FETs?
A1: No, the FETP is a robust programming module that replaces the TI FETs. Using a MSP430 programming environment with the FETP and an hardware tool you will have all that is necessary to get started with your development in the MSP430 world.

Q2: I have a MSP430 JTAG pod from another source, and it doesn't work on my PC. What is the problem?
A2: The original MSP430 JTAG pod design from TI was intended to provide additional features that were never fully implemented by the original hardware designer. As a result, the stock pods, and clones from third parties, have power supply issues on some notebooks, and even some "green" PCs that use low-power notebook parallel ports. To fill this gap, TI asked us to design our FETP to fully implement the available feature set, and ignore those that will never exist. So, our FETP has been demonstrated to work on PCs that thwart other pods. As of this writing (5 May 03), we have not received a SINGLE failure complaint regarding our FETP, and multiple instances where our FETP works on a PC that other pods don't.

Q3: I want to supply external power to my FETP. What is the connector to use on J3?
A3: J3 is a CUI Stack PJ-102A, Digikey #CP-102A. Center positive, 2.1mm. Do not exceed the VIN rating of the TPS77001 (U3), which is 10v. D6 is a footprint for a 9.1v Zener diode to protect U3, Digikey #SMAZ9V1DICT.

Q4: I'm having trouble getting my target to work with (any IDE), will your FETP help?
A4: Yes, our FETP is likely to help your favorite IDE work better. But we highly recommend you change to our USBP for even better results.

Q5: Can I power my target externally while using the FETP?
A5: Yes. The FETP, and any MSP430 programmer powered by the parallel port, can only supply a limited amount of current, determined by the strength of the parallel port it is connected to. If during operation of the debugger the FETP VCC drops below 2.7v, flash will not program reliably. In this case, you can either power the FETP through J3, J4, or J5 (4v to 9v DC max), or power your target. The maximum MSP430 VCC is 3.6v. The FETP will operate properly with target VCC between 2.7v and 3.6v.

Q6: Just to make sure, will your FETP work with IAR and/or TI boards?
A6: Of course. And, any target board with a properly wired JTAG header, etc... If whatever combination you're using works now without our FETP, our FETP will work with it also, along with curing many combinations that don't work.

Q7: How do I get my FETP to operate at lower voltages?
A7: As you know, the MSP430 requires VCC to be 2.7v or higher to reliably program flash. A typical interaction with the target using the FETP will require flash programming at some point. In addition, if VCC is low enough the PC's parallel port may no longer recognize ones as ones. However, if you must use the FETP for debugging the target below 2.7v, then exchange R24 for a lower value resistor, depending on the output voltage desired. Refer to the datasheet for the TPS77001 for guidance on selection of the proper value.

As SoftBaugh continues efforts to increase features, along with ease of use, we find and consider feedback and suggestions essential to creating a better product for the customer.

Please note that if your intent is to receive technical support, or you if have general questions regarding this item, it is best to contact SoftBaugh directly, by phone or e-mail.

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