TDA4VM: Remote access to EVM

There is a test automation interface supported on the EVM (Connector J50 on Common Processor Board).  It allows I2C access for setting boot mode pins, as well as Power-ON/Off control and reset.  You test infrastructure would need to interface and control this interface to be able to control the EVM (remotely).

Can you please provide any reference documentation?

We really don't have much documentation supporting this interface, as is targeted to support our internal developers.  Mentioned in the schematic (pg 56) is the interfacing cable that can be used to interface with EVM (Parlex-050R40-76B, 0.5m pitch flex cable).  The I2C interface is used to control on-board buffers (TCA6424A) for setting the BOOTMODE (pg 55 of schematic).  Please review the schematic and let me know if you have specific questions.

do you have any visual image of setup you explained above?

I am not familiar with this type of connector. So if you have any demo setup it will help me a lot.

I do not have anything to show.  TI developed an adapter board for a Launchpad to control this interface.  This allows the EVM to be powered on/off remotely, as well as reset, and BOOTMODE control.  This seems similar to what you are asking.  The EVM interface is capable - you will just need something to connect/control the interface.

Other option include a remote control power supply.  This would allow you to cycle power remotely - but not change the bootmode switches.

Hi Robert, I am not able to understand where to connect other end of Parlex-050R40-76B, 0.5m pitch flex cable?

Do I need to setup some external board to connect my laptop to this cable? In other words, do I need any intermediate interface between laptop and Parlex cable?

The test automation interface on the EVM is a custom interface, and therefore does not directly plug into any off-shelf PC or controller.  As mentioned, TI has developed a adapter board for controlling the interface with a TI Launchpad (micro-controller EVM) - but this solution is for TI-internal only.  There are 3rd party I2C controllers and GPIO controllers that could be wired up to this interface - but it would not be a pluggable solution.  It would likely take wire and soldering to attached, and then software to send the various I2C commands and GPIO states.