MultiPro USB
The MultiPro USB programmer: (Category Other Programmers)
USB programmers are hot news these days. I guess the explanation for their sudden popularity must be their speed, combined with their ease of use. Even though ease of use does not come from the programmer, but from the software, there is a reason why most USB programmers are that easy to operate: they all are supplied with dedicated software which does all the mode switching for you. And as mentioned, they do so very fast indeed.
So here we have yet another new USB programmer: the MultiPro USB.
The first MultiPro was a serial version. That version set a high quality standard and it was probably one of the first to put a lot of effort in the design of the enclosure. And on top of that they also came up with a clever solution to supply power to the programmer. This idea has since then been copied by some manufacturers. And as you know, being copied is the best compliment you van get.
Well then, how about this latest MultiPro in USB version?
No surprises there. This programmer does live up to its expectations: Well built, well finished, performing very well and with the modified version of the CardPro software, it is very easy to use.
Make sure you insert the cards with their contacts facing down!!!
So aren't there any drawbacks, you might ask.
Well, there are some indeed.
The biggest drawback is the lack of a Phoenix/Smartmouse option. For any serious hobbyist, sooner or later the need for a Phoenix mode will arise. And you will not find a usefull Phoenix/Smartmouse interface on any single port USB programmer.
Let me explain this:
No USB programmer will ever be able to offer a usefull Phoenix or Smartmouse mode via USB.
The only solution to turn a USB programmer into a universal programmer is by adding a real serial port to it.
They might be able to do a conversion so that the programmer can communicate with your PC at 3.5MHz or 6MHz, but all the software that requires a Phoenix interface (like MOSC software), will look for a COM port, not a USB port. So a conversion alone is not sufficient.
Then there is another feature that the USB version lacks, compared to the serial MultiPro: a GSM card option. Again, because the programming modes of the MultiPro USB cannot be selected seperately, you will not be able to edit your GSM cards with this programmer.
So how should the overall verdict be?
It is a great looking, very well built programmer and it is very fast.
If you can live with the lack of a Phoenix/Smartmouse mode, this programmer is absolutely worth a serious consideration.