MiniSDK programmer
The MiniSDK programmer: (Category Universal Programmers)
This is a universal programmer of a whole different bread than all the other UP's on this website. It's clearly built to suit the needs of the advanced hobbyist. This is one of only very few programmers, backed up by an extensive support site, with lots of in depth technical information.
The complete instruction set, to operate the programmer from your own application, is available from the MiniSDK website. But there is even more: a lot of software, all kind of modifications and a number of add on's is available for the MiniSDK too. So if you want to do more with it, than just plain programming a smart card, the MiniSDK should absolutely be on you short list. Just visit the MiniSDK website for a complete overview of all features, options and add on's.
Now you might ask if all these advanced features don't make operating the MiniSDK too difficult.
Well, the answer is simply NO. It isn't difficult at all.
The software that comes with the MiniSDK, supports a wide variety of cards and is really easy to operate. You can read all about it in the software chapter.
You will need this dedicated MiniSDK software to program a card. You cannot use software like Chipcat, Cardwriter or MasterBurner. However, you can use all software that requires a Phoenix or Smartmouse mode, like MOSC software, or update the eeprom on your card with ISVedit or Picbined for instance.
The MiniSDK is very fast, thanks to its on board UART which operates at 115K baud. This means that the programmer can communicate with your PC at 115K baud. As you would expect, this makes the programming process very fast. And that's especially true when programming a PIC chip based card.
Below you can see the MiniSDK programmer on the left, and the special "case" on the right.
Please make sure that you insert the cards with the contacts facing DOWN.
As you can see on the photograph, the MiniSDK is constructed traditionally. All hole mounted components. It doesn't look as sophisticated as the SMD version PCB's of some of the competition, but it surely is easier to repair or modify if needed.
Clanzers recommends an unregulated 12-15 Volt / 500 mA power supply for the MiniSDK. The polarity is no issue, as the on board rectifier will always ensure correct polarization.
I found that when playing around with different cards and programming modes, the programmer needs to be reset rather often. The only way to do that is by powering the unit down and connecting it again. So, what goes for the majority of the programmers on this website, goes for the MiniSDK most certainly: I really miss a power switch (or at least a reset switch).
There is a kind of enclosure available for the MiniSDK too. On the above right photograph, you can see it. It is a very simple but effective solution. Just 2 pieces of transparent perspex mounted on some spacers.
OK then, the pro's & cons:
Advantages:
- is able to read/program all popular card types
- very fast programming
- one of the most feature rich programmers available
- a very extensive support site with a large amount of support info
- a software toolbox is available to create your own applications
- lots of add on's available
- enclosure is available
Disadvantages:
- no power switch (or reset switch)
If you want to do more than plain programming of a (SAT or GSM) smart card, you should absolutely have a close look at this programmer. You can hardly go wrong with this one.