Infinity USB programmer
The Infinity USB Programmer: (Category Other programmers)
This is the easiest to use programmer I have yet seen. And it's the fastest too.
It comes complete with its own programming software which is a good thing as there is no other software to drive this unit with. And it is that combination of hardware and software which makes it so easy to use. If this programmer/software combination is a trendsetter (and I think it is) then we are in for some great new products in the near future.
Please make sure that you insert the cards with the contacts facing DOWN.
As said, this is "just" a first generation USB programmer, but it performs better than any other serial or parallel programmer I have ever tested. And best of all, you no longer need to know what type of card you are using. Just insert it in the Infinity and it will tell you what configuration your card is. And I know a lot of people will wholehartedly welcome this feature as they have problems identifying their cards.
So just insert your card, select the files you want on it and press the Writebutton. I don't think programming can be made any easier than this :-)
But because it is a first generation product, there are some drawbacks too:
- you cannot use any of the common software like Chipcat, Cardwriter, DMSSC etc. etc.
- there is no MOSC software available for this programmer (yet)
- direct editing of keys on your card (with ISVedit for instance) is not possible
To sum it up:
This programmer is so blazingly fast. You will be amazed.
But.... the Phoenix interface is an absolute must for any serious hobbyïst, so an additional (Phoenix capable) programmer should be at hand at all time. With that in mind, it is a rather expensive solution. But I.M.H.O. it will be just a matter of time before we will see Phoenix like solutions for these programmers too. The prospects are just too good to ignore.