Hi all,

I just thought I let everyone know that 'The Engine' programmer software
is available for FREE on my web site. At the moment there is only a beta
version, but I have upgraded it quite a lot and should have this version
on line soon.

It has successfully programmed PIC's, and serial EEPROMs thus far,
mainly because that's all the time I've had to sort out the code.
However, it should be able to program 'just about' anything that is
programmable and it's a simple matter to 'roll your own'. I've looked at
the specs for AVR, Scenix, SGS etc. and I can't see why The Engine
cannot program them as well. I'm going to have a go at writing the
programming code for these soon, but time is a 'scrooge' these days.

I am going to make these programming algorithms freely available on the
web site. My hope is that if anyone else has had luck programming a new
chip, they too will make the software available as part of a routine
library on The Engines web page for all to use.

I have designed a PCB for the programmer and will post the project
details soon. If there is any interest, I will create a kit of parts for
it as well.

I've gone over the instruction set for The Engine tons of times, but I'm
sure there will be a need for enhancements, so any feedback is welcome.
It will be attended to.

The PIC source code will also be 'open' for upgrades as they appear. It
pains me to say it, but the PIC is probably not the best processor for
this application as the RAM addressing slows it's operation a bit, but
when the 18CXXX series arrives, things should improve. Also, when I get
access to a USB driver, The Engine will really get revved up.

--
Best regards

Tony

'The Engine' - Design your own programmer.

http://www.picnpoke.com/engine.html
Email picnpoke@cdi.com.au