Question:
Is it possible to program flash or download firmware to processor without using VisualDSP++ environment (IDDE) or without purchasing full license for VisualDSP++.
Answer:
We have Stand-Alone Flash Programmer to flash in VDSP.
The Stand-Alone Flash Programmer, introduced as of VisualDSP++ 5.0, provides flash programming support between the development/prototype stage and early pre-production runs. It is accessible through the VisualDSP++ Automation Interface. Please note that while a full installation of the VisualDSP++ tools is required to use the SAFP, you do not need to apply a license in order to use it.
The Stand-Alone Flash Programmer makes use of the automation interface and you must create a script file to use it.This allows you to perform the flash programming without the IDDE being invoked and without the need for a license, however it still relies on other elements of the VisualDSP++ installation.
The Stand-Alone Flash Programmer (SAFP) is installed as part of the VisualDSP++ 5.0 tools, and the corresponding DLL is "WmSAFP.dll", located in the System Folder.
You can find detailed step by step information on how to use the SAFP, configuration of the script and supporting files required to execute the SAFP through Automation under VisualDSP++ help:
'Help'->'Contents'->'Emulation Tools'->'Stand-Alone Flash Programmer
VisualDSP++ help is accessible via IDE or also able to open help from below path.
Windows start->All Programs -> Analog Devices ->VisualDSP++ Environment<version_number> -> VisualDSP++ documentation for all processors
You can find examples demonstrate the methods LoadDriver, EraseAll, LoadFile, EraseBlock, FillFlash, CompareFlashWithFile, and SendCustom using SAFP in above mentioned help path.
Also, There is SAFP scripting examples at below installation path, which we hope would help you.
C:\Program Files (x86)\Analog Devices\VisualDSP <version>\Blackfin\Examples\Scripting Examples\SAFP