MasterCRD Programmer
The MasterCRD programmer: (Category Universal Programmers)
The MasterCRD family of programmers is almost identical to the MasterA & VX Multi programmers. These programmers (MasterA & MasterCRD) are my favorite. I have never had a VX Multi to test, so I cannot judge about that one. The MasterA family of programmers are very versatile and really user friendly. And they come in a robust enclosure which is (at least until recently) rather rare for hobby programmers.
Their price tag will inevitably put them out of reach for some people, but if it fits your budget, don't hesitate and buy one. You won't regret it. When it comes to programming, there is nothing that the version 1 will not do that the version 2 does, except for editing Chipcards like GSM cards.
The MasterCRD's biggest asset is the possibility to work with the ChipCat, CardWriter, DMSSC & MasterBurner software. These software packages are amongst the most user friendly programs around when it comes to programming smart cards. The MasterCRD's will handle any type of smart card, provided you have the proper software for it.
The MasterCRD's need 8.2 Volts of external power. Thanks to their built in Voltage regulator, they will program any card without problems, as long as your power supply meets the minimum requirements.
OK then, the pro's & cons:
Advantages:
- will work with almost every popular programmer software
- is able to read/program all popular card types
- manual selection of the right programmer mode
- no problems with power supplies, due to the perfect Voltage regulator
- a sturdy and nicely finished enclosure
Disadvantages:
- no on/off switch
Please make sure that you insert the cards with the contacts facing UP.
The operating modes:
Mode 0:
Smartmouse/Phoenix mode (6 MHz). This is the operating mode required by a software program like CardWriter when programming the eeprom of a card via through pic programming. This mode is also used when updating a card by means of. CRD files.
Mode 1:
Identical to Mode 0, but now in 3.58 MHz.
Mode 2:
JDM/Ludipipo compatibility mode. This mode is used to program the PIC on a Pic wafer card. In combination with the right software, you can program any 16Fxxx type chip in this mode.
Mode 3:
JDM/Ludipipo compatibility mode too, but this mode is used to program the eeprom on a Pic wafer card directly if the card has 8 contacts (the so called direct programming lines).
Mode 4:
The Atmel/Jupiter compatibility mode. In this mode it is possible to program AVR type processors like the 90Sxxxx on the Fun- and Jupiter cards.
Mode 5:
This mode is available only after a firmware upgrade.
The upgrade is easy to perform yourself, but be sure to be very precise in following the instructions.
This mode allows you to edit your GSM card or other chip cards.