Diamond Systems Low-Power PC/104 CPU Board With ZFx86 Processor Bios Download / Recovery, Ground

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7.2BIOS Download / Recovery

Because the BIOS is stored in reprogrammable Flash memory, it is possible that the BIOS could be accidentally erased when trying to write other files into the Flash. To recover from this situation the CPU chip on Prometheus-LC contains a special failsafe Boot-Up ROM (BUR) that can be activated on power-up. A Diamond Systems software utility is provided to enable system recovery by downloading the BIOS to the flash memory through serial port COM1 when the CPU is booted up to the BUR.

The recovery procedure requires another PC running Windows 95, or Windows 98. This host machine is connected to the Prometheus-LC CPU using a null modem serial cable connected to COM1 on each computer. Three files are required on the host PC: Zftrm.exe, Loadbios.com, and the file containing the BIOS, Prm1.rom. These files should be in the same directory.

PC Serial Port End (DB-9)

Prometheus-LC COM1 end

Corresponding pin on J6

2

(RX)

3

(TX)

2

(TX)

3

(TX)

2

(RX)

1

(RX)

5

(Ground)

5

(Ground)

3

(Ground)

 

Null modem cable required pinout

 

To boot up the Prometheus-LC CPU to BUR, set the jumper on J6 on Prometheus-LC to the BUR position. If using the Panel I/O board, press the Link switch while powering up or resetting the computer. The link switch must be held down slightly longer than the reset switch is released in order to power up to the BUR. When the Prometheus-LC CPU boots up you will see the BUR display in the terminal program. The required communication parameters are 9600, n, 8, 1.

Now run the accompanying batch file recover.bat to begin the process. This batch file executes the following command:

zftrm.exe loadbios.com prm1.rom

Each flash manufacturer utilizes a different programming protocol. Zfterm.exe knows about AMD and Atmel parts, which are used on Prometheus-LC boards. If the software cannot recognize the flash device as an AMD or Atmel part then the CPU might have a hardware problem, or else the program is an old version and needs to be upgraded. If this is the case, the software will exit with a message indicating that the device is not supported. Contact Diamond Systems technical support for further assistance.

After the software recognizes the device, it first completely erases the flash chip. This might take up to 90 seconds. After the chip is erased the software reports “Flash Erased” and then starts downloading the BIOS image from the host and programming the chip. To completely download and reprogram the BIOS takes several minutes. While this happens characters are continuously scrolled across the screen of the host PC. It is recommended that no other applications or tasks be running on the host PC during this time.

When the device is completely reprogrammed with the BIOS, the host will report the completion and the program will terminate. The Prometheus-LC CPU is now ready to reboot in normal mode. Remove the null modem cable, and return the jumper on J6 to its default position.

Prometheus-LC CPU User Manual V1.0

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Contents PROMETHEUS-LC Table of Contents 12.2 12.112.3 12.4Description Features System FeaturesProcessor Section J4 Not present PROMETHEUS-LC Board DrawingO Headers Main I/O Connector J3Cable a Cable BCOM1 COM4 Connector Part NumbersInput Power J11 USB J5 Output Power J12Watchdog/Failsafe Features J6 Auxiliary Serial Port Connector J15IDE Drive J8 Floppy Drive J7J2 PC/104 16-bit bus connector J1 PC/104 8-bit bus connector PC/104 Bus ConnectorsSystem Configuration J10 Jumper ConfigurationWatchdog Timer & System Recovery J6 System Features System ResourcesCPU Chip Selects Console Redirection to a Serial Port Watchdog Timer Backup Battery Failsafe Mode / Bios RecoverySystem Reset Flash MemoryBios Settings Bios FeaturesGround Bios Download / RecoveryInitial Setup DISK-ON-BOARD Flash File StorageOperating System Formatting Life Cycle Management and Calculations Known LimitationsSystem I/O Serial PortsParallel Port Installing an OS From a Floppy Drive onto a Flashdisk Module Installing an OS from a Hard Disk onto a Flashdisk Module Using the Flashdisk with Another IDE Drive ConfigurationPower Supply Flashdisk ModuleDescription 12. I/O Panel BoardPanel Board Top Side / External Use I/O Connectors Panel Board I/O ConnectorsLocation Type Description Panel Board HardwareJ12 pinout to/from DC/DC power supply Panel Board Power ConnectionsJ3 Pinout J5 USB J9 Pinout InstallationFlash Disk Programmer Board 14.I/O Cables Photo No Cable No DescriptionCable Kit C-PRZ-KIT VGA Accessory Board PL5 pin no PL5 Signal J25 pin no J25 SignalPL5 pin no DB15F pin no Signal Connector on Board Manufacturer Manufacturer Part No Mounting PROMETHEUS-LC on a BaseboardWebsite information Page 17.PC/104 Mechanical Drawing

Low-Power PC/104 CPU Board With ZFx86 Processor, PR-Z16-LC-ST specifications

The Diamond Systems Low-Power PC/104 CPU Board featuring the ZFx86 Processor, specifically the PR-Z16-LC-ST model, represents a significant advancement in embedded computing technology. This CPU board is designed to deliver robust performance while maintaining low power consumption, making it ideal for a wide array of industrial and embedded applications.

One of the standout features of the PR-Z16-LC-ST board is its ZFx86 Processor. This processor family is built with a focus on energy efficiency and low thermal output, which is crucial for applications where heat dissipation can be a challenge. The ZFx86 provides an excellent balance between processing power and energy consumption, featuring a 16-bit instruction set that facilitates compatibility with many existing software applications.

This board supports a variety of operating environments, including DOS, Linux, and Windows, ensuring versatility for developers. Its design includes a compact PC/104 form factor, which allows for streamlined stacking of multiple boards. This modularity is beneficial for system integrators looking to create customized solutions with limited space.

In terms of connectivity, the PR-Z16-LC-ST is equipped with a wide range of I/O ports. This includes digital and analog inputs and outputs, serial communication ports, and support for various peripheral devices. Such features make it a suitable choice for tasks such as data acquisition, control systems, and automation processes.

Additionally, the Diamond Systems board is designed with an onboard memory expansion capability, allowing users to enhance performance based on specific application needs. The support for both DRAM and flash memory options provides flexibility in memory configuration.

The board also emphasizes reliability and longevity, with rugged construction suitable for harsh environments. This durability is essential for applications in sectors such as transportation, telecommunications, and factory automation, where systems must withstand extreme conditions.

In summary, the Diamond Systems PR-Z16-LC-ST Low-Power PC/104 CPU Board with ZFx86 Processor combines efficiency with a robust feature set. Its low power consumption, modular design, and extensive connectivity options make it an attractive solution for developers in the embedded computing space seeking reliable performance in compact configurations.
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