INTRODUCTION TO THE SOFTWARE

4.4USER INTERFACE

The user interface to the iECM-86 supports commands to initiate and configure the ECM-86, perform I/O operations involving DOS files, execute user programs, and interrogate variables in the target system. Interrogation can be done in a number of formats and in most cases can be done concurrently with user code execution.

4.4.1Numeric Input

The command parser used by the iECM-86 software requires that numeric inputs always start with the digits 0-9. Hexadecimal numbers that start with A–F must be preceded by a zero. For example, enter “0AA55” instead of “AA55.” This requirement is similar to that of ASM86.

4.4.2Controlling Lengthy Commands

Most of the commands supported by iECM-86 appear to complete without delay. Some commands (for example, displaying or filling a large area of memory) take an appreciable length of time to complete. In general, these commands can be aborted by pressing Enter. Those commands that display a large amount of information can be paused by pressing the spacebar. After you have checked the data on the screen, you can press the spacebar again to resume the output.

4.4.3Aborting from iECM-86

Press Ctrl+C to close any open files and return to DOS.

4.5INITIATING AND TERMINATING iECM-86

This section describes the commands for invoking iECM-86 from DOS and exiting back to DOS.

4.5.1ECM86

This command, entered at the DOS prompt, loads the iECM-86 software and executes it. Several options are available with this command. Option strings always start with a hyphen (-) and can be entered in upper or lower case. The operation of these options is described below. Any or all of these options can be entered in any order. If the options are contradictory, the actual option accepted is the last one entered.

4-3

4

Page 45
Image 45
Intel 80L188EB, 80L188EC, 80L186EB, 80L186EC, 80C186EB, 80C188EB, 80C188EC, 80C186EC user manual User Interface

80L188EB, 80C188EC, 80C188EB, 80L186EB, 80C186EB specifications

The Intel 80L188EC, 80C186EC, 80L186EC, 80C186EB, and 80L186EB microprocessors represent a significant evolution in Intel's 16-bit architecture, serving various applications in embedded systems and computing during the late 1980s and early 1990s. These microprocessors are designed to offer a blend of performance, efficiency, and versatility, making them suitable for a range of environments, including industrial control, telecommunications, and personal computing.

The Intel 80L188EC is a member of the 186 family, notable for its low-power consumption and integrated support for a range of peripheral devices. It operates at clock speeds of up to 10 MHz and features a 16-bit architecture, providing a balance of processing power and energy efficiency. The 80C186EC, on the other hand, is a more advanced version, offering enhanced performance metrics with faster clock speeds and improved processing capabilities, making it ideal for applications that require more computational power.

The 80L186EC shares similarities with the 80L188EC but is enhanced further for various low-power applications, especially where battery life is crucial. With a maximum clock speed of 16 MHz, it excels in scenarios demanding energy-efficient processing without sacrificing performance.

In contrast, the 80C186EB and 80L186EB are optimized versions that bring additional features to the table. The 80C186EB operates at higher clock speeds, coupled with an extended instruction set, enabling it to handle more complex tasks and run sophisticated software. These enhancements allow it to serve well in environments that require reliable performance under load, such as data acquisition systems or advanced control systems.

The 80L186EB is tailored for specific low-power scenarios, integrating Intel's sophisticated low-power technologies without compromising on speed. Utilizing advanced process technologies, these chips benefit from reduced heat output and extended operating life, a significant advantage in embedded applications.

Overall, these microprocessors showcase Intel's commitment to innovation in 16-bit processing, marked by their varying capabilities and power profiles tailored to meet the demands of diverse applications, from industrial systems to consumer electronics. Their legacy continues to influence subsequent generations of microprocessor designs, emphasizing performance, energy efficiency, and versatile applications in computing technology. As such, the Intel 80C186 and 80L188 families play a crucial role in understanding the evolution of microprocessor technology.