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Any alternative method to TMS570LS21xx/31xx Data Flash programming than F021 API?

Chuck Wong
Genius 3950 points


Hi there, I've read from many threads of this forum regarding the subject matter on Data Flash programming (or to create a bootstrap loader application) for silicon such as TMS570LS21xx/31xx, produced using the 65 nm manufacturing process, and have learned that it is mandatory to use the TI supplied F021 API in the static DLL library form to link end-user application, for data stability, reliability and retention guarantee etc, and it is not possible to obtain the API source code in electronic form. With a signed NDA, TI can release source code listing of the API for code review purpose only. As a matter of fact, this is the same in the case of F035 API (TMS570LS20xxx). Is my understanding correct? Thank you for clarifying this. Regards.
  • 0
    TI__Mastermind 22375 points

    Chuck,

    I've forwarded your question to our Flash Software Team.
    They will be back to you.

    Please note that with the Holidays this week, our answer may be delayed.

     

  • 0
    TI__Genius 9015 points

    Hello Chuck,

    We require more than an NDA for getting the source code listing for code review only.  We require a specially signed and executed license agreement for either the F021 or Platform F035 Flash API's.  This process would be initiated by contacting your local TI representative.

  • 0 in reply to John Hall
    Genius 3950 points

    Hi John,

    Sorry for the formatting of my first post with IE11, for some reason the formatting toolbar is not shown, so all texts are presented without line-spacing ... now switching to Firefox.

    Well the NDA or whatever it needs is not a problem. What I would like to inquire is the fact that apparently, we cannot write those low-level access drivers without also linking the TI-provided F021 API. Is this the case?

    We are writing safety-critical aeronautical embedded applications, possibly for some DO-178B/C Level A softwares. The certification guidelines require that every line of code is executed and code coverage recorded. Without the actual source code in electronic form, then compiled and linked by the development tool-chain, this activity cannot take place, thus impossible to certify the products.

    If this is indeed the case, do you have any user experience or alternate method to share with us, as far as software certification is concerned?

    Many thanks!

  • 0 in reply to Chuck Wong
    Genius 3950 points

    Hi John,

    Any update on my question?

    I need an answer because if writing to the Data Flash is too complicate, then we have to embed an external SPI EEPROM to the design instead.

    Thanks.

  • 0 in reply to Chuck Wong
    TI__Genius 9015 points

    Hello Chuck,

    Sorry for the delayed response.  Your question came in after I had already left for the Thanksgiving holiday.

    The only functions that actually must be used from the F021 API are Fapi_initializeFlashBanks() and Fapi_setActiveFlashBank(). 

    The App Note SPNA148 (Advanced F021 Flash API Erase/Program Usage) gives all the information required to write your own erase and program functions.

    In the SafeTI Compliance Support Packages for our Hercules devices we provide:

    • Software/Tool Safety Requirements document
    • Software/Tool Safety Architecture document
    • Code Review Report (Misra-C:2004)
    • Quality Review Report (HIS Quality metrics)
    • Dynamic Coverage Analysis Report (Statement, Branch, and MC/DC coverage)
    • Unit Test Regression Report
    • Test Manager Report (Summary of the Code Review, Quality Review and Unit Test Reports)
    • Test Results Report
    • Traceability Report
    • Software Safety Manual
    • ISO 26262/IEC 61508 Assessment Report

    I would suggest having a conference call If you still need further information.

  • 0 in reply to John Hall
    Genius 3950 points

    Thank you John for your reply.

    I believe that we now have what is required to make a decision.

    Best regards.