KeeYees SOP8 SOIC8 Test Clip and CH341A USB Programmer Flash User Manual

Product Overview

The KeeYees SOP8 SOIC8 Test Clip and CH341A USB Programmer Flash is a versatile tool designed for in-circuit programming of 24/25 series BIOS chips. This kit provides a convenient solution for backing up, erasing, programming, and calibrating various software on compatible chips without the need for desoldering, making BIOS flashing simpler and more efficient.

The main purpose of the CH341A Programmer is to facilitate these operations on a wide range of memory chips, while the SOP8 test clip allows for direct connection to the chip on the circuit board.

Figure 1: Complete KeeYees CH341A Programmer and SOP8 Test Clip Kit.

Package Contents

The following items are included in your KeeYees SOP8 SOIC8 Test Clip and CH341A USB Programmer Flash kit:

• 1 x CH341A Programmer
• 1 x SOP8 Test Clip
• 1 x 8Pin to 8Pin Converter
• 2 x SOP8 SOP16 to 8Pin Converter
• 2 x 2.54mm 4Pin header

Key Features

• In-Circuit Programming: The SOP8 clip enables programming without disassembling the chip, streamlining the process.
• Multi-Functionality: The CH341A Programmer supports backing up, erasing, programming, and calibrating various software.
• Broad Chip Compatibility: Supports most 24/25 series SOP8 chips on the market. Users must verify their chip model against the provided compatibility list.
• Versatile Clip Design: The SOP8 clip accommodates both wide and narrow body SOP8 chips with a 1.27mm pitch.
• Comprehensive Support: Detailed PDF tutorials, CH341A software, and drivers are provided to assist with setup and operation.

Setup and Connection

Before using the programmer, ensure you have installed the necessary drivers and software. These are typically provided via email after purchase. Refer to the detailed PDF tutorial for specific installation instructions.

CH341A Programmer Overview

Figure 2: CH341A Programmer with key components labeled, including Professional Custom USB, Power Indicators, R&W Indicators, 500mA Self-Recovery Fuse, 12M Crystal Oscillator, New Original CH341A Chip, Programming/TTL Conversion Interface, SPI PIN Leads, Multi-function Extension, IC Block, and Black-Gold PCB.

SOP8 Test Clip and Converters

The SOP8 Test Clip is designed for in-circuit programming. It connects to the CH341A programmer via a ribbon cable. The kit also includes various converters for different chip types.

Figure 3: SOP8 Test Clip and included converters. The clip is suitable for 1.27mm Pitch Wide and Narrow SOP8 Chips. The red line on the ribbon cable indicates the 1st pin of the chip. Dual-use boards are included for soldering 8/16 PIN chips.

Connecting the Components

1. Connect the SOP8 Test Clip ribbon cable to the appropriate converter board (e.g., SOP8 SOP16 to 8Pin Converter).
2. Insert the converter board into the ZIF socket on the CH341A Programmer. Ensure correct orientation.
3. Connect the CH341A Programmer to a USB port on your computer.
4. Carefully attach the SOP8 Test Clip to the target BIOS chip on your circuit board. Ensure all pins of the clip align correctly with the chip's pins. The red line on the ribbon cable typically indicates Pin 1.

Figure 4: Example of the CH341A Programmer connected to the SOP8 Test Clip and a converter board.

Figure 5: Close-up view of the SOP8 Test Clip properly attached to a BIOS chip on a motherboard.

Operating Instructions

Once the hardware is connected and drivers are installed, you can proceed with programming operations using the CH341A software.

1. Launch Software: Open the CH341A programming software on your computer.
2. Detect Chip: Use the software's "Detect" or "Identify" function to ensure the programmer recognizes the connected chip.
3. Read Chip: To back up the existing firmware, use the "Read" function. Save the read data to a file on your computer. It is highly recommended to create a backup before any write operations.
4. Erase Chip: If you intend to write new firmware, you may need to erase the chip first using the "Erase" function.
5. Load Firmware: Load the new firmware file (e.g., a BIOS update) into the software.
6. Program Chip: Use the "Program" or "Write" function to flash the new firmware to the chip.
7. Verify Chip: After programming, use the "Verify" function to compare the data on the chip with the loaded firmware file to ensure a successful write operation.

For detailed step-by-step instructions and software interface guidance, please refer to the comprehensive PDF tutorial provided by KeeYees.

Figure 6: The CH341A Programmer can be used to backup, erase, burn, and verify various software on devices such as routers, computers, and set-top boxes.

Compatibility Information

The CH341A programmer supports a wide range of 24/25 series SOP8 chips. However, it is crucial to verify that your specific chip model is within the supported range before attempting any operations. Below are important considerations regarding compatibility:

• The programmer supports most, but not all 24/25 series EEPROM SOP8 chips. Always cross-reference your chip model with the detailed compatibility list provided in the PDF tutorial.
• Due to the characteristics of the CH341A chip, certain chips, such as the ESMT SST class 25 chip, are only readable and cannot be written.
• Some chips may be affected by peripheral circuits on the motherboard, preventing direct clipping. Before using the clip, check the location of the chip and ensure there is sufficient space around it for the clip to make proper contact. The thickness of the end of the clip is approximately 3mm, and its width is 6mm.

Partial List of Supported 25 Series BIOS Chips:

Note: This is a partial list. For a complete and updated list, please refer to the official PDF tutorial.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues while using the KeeYees CH341A Programmer and SOP8 Test Clip, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:

• Chip Not Detected or Programming Failure:
  • Clip Connection: The SOP8 test clip can be finicky. Ensure it is seated perfectly straight and making firm, reliable contact with all pins of the chip. The red line on the ribbon cable should align with Pin 1 of the chip.
  • Chip Compatibility: Double-check that your specific chip model is listed as compatible in the official PDF tutorial. Remember that some chips, like ESMT SST class 25, are read-only.
  • Peripheral Circuits: Verify that surrounding components on the motherboard do not interfere with the clip's ability to make full contact with the chip.
  • Software/Driver Issues: Ensure the correct CH341A drivers are installed and the programming software is up-to-date. Reinstalling them might resolve connectivity problems.
• Voltage Concerns (for 3.3V chips):

  While some online discussions suggest modifications for 3.3V chips, the manufacturer's design intends for the device to correctly handle voltage during read/write operations without user modification. If you experience issues, first ensure proper connection and software configuration before considering hardware alterations.
• Corrupted BIOS/Firmware:

  Always back up the original firmware before attempting to write new data. If a programming operation fails, attempting to re-flash the original backup can often restore functionality.

Specifications

Support and Resources

For comprehensive guidance, including detailed PDF tutorials, the latest CH341A software, and drivers, please refer to the resources provided by KeeYees. These materials are typically sent via email after your order. If you have not received them or require further assistance, please contact KeeYees customer support directly.

It is recommended to always use the official software and drivers to ensure proper functionality and compatibility with your programmer.