NeonProg 500
The NeonProg 500 Programmer: (Category Universal Programmers)
This programmer was given to me by Bobo, for testing purposes.
The NeonProg 500 is a universal programmer with 5 programmer modes. Only problem is, I haven't been able to find out what Mode 0 is used for. The function of the other programming modes is described at the bottom of this page.
I have tested the NeonProg with most universal software, and it worked flawless with all of them.
So from a viewpoint of funcionality, this programmer works just fine.
But there are more criteria to be taken into consideration, when rating a programmer.
And there certainly are some remarks to be made.
I am not sure how it is on your desk, but here the cables are coming from behind the desk. Now look at the picture down here and pay special attention to the placement of the decimal point in the display. See what I mean? The display on this programmer is placed in such a way that you can only read the display normaly, when the connectors (and so the cables too) are pointing towards you. Very clumsy if you ask me.
Another negative point is the lack of any protection of the vulnerable underside of the programmer. Not even a cheap rubber foot to give it some extra height. No, your programmer is in direct contact with the surface it is lying on.
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
Disadvantages:
- unhandy placement of connectors vs. display orientation
- no enclosure, nor any protection at the bottom side
- no GSM card support
Please make sure that you insert the cards with the contacts facing DOWN.
The operating modes:
Mode 0:
I have no idea what this mode is for.
If you know what this mode is used for, please inform me.
Mode 1:
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 2:
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 3:
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 4:
Identical to Mode 2, but now in 3.58 MHz.