If done effectively, in-system programming, or the loading of software via a JTAG system like ScanWorks into flash memories or programmable logic devices after they have been assembled on-board can reduce costs in several ways. With ScanWorks and boundary scan as the programming conduit, a defense contractor found that it could program on-board device immediately following board test. In addition, the contractor reduced the re-design costs that had been associated with firmware upgrades. Netrix also discovered opportunities for cost savings by programming both flash memories and PLDs after the devices had been soldered to the circuit board.
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