FlashPro Express
Overview
The Microsemi FlashPro Express programming system is a combination of Microsemi's FlashPro software and hardware programmers. Together they provide in-system programming (ISP) for all FPGAs in the PolarFire SoC, PolarFire, IGLOO2, SmartFusion2, RTG4, IGLOO® Series and ProASIC3 Series (including RT ProASIC3), and the SmartFusion, Fusion, ProASICPLUS, and Legacy & Discontinued Flash FPGA families.
Starting with Libero SoC v12.0, The FlashPro programming software will no longer be included in the Libero design software nor will it be available in stand-alone mode. Microsemi will be supporting the FlashPro Express v12.0 programming software, which replaces the FlashPro programming software. The last versions of Libero that supports FlashPro are Libero SoC v11.9 and Libero SoC PolarFire v2.3.
Microsemi Flash Programming System
Software | Description | Hardware | Description |
---|---|---|---|
FlashPro Express | Software for Windows and Linux platforms, supporting all hardware programmers. This tool is simplified to provide ease of use for operators in a production programming environment |
FlashPro6 | Hardware programmer supports PolarFire SoC, PolarFire, RTG4, SmartFusion2/IGLOO2 devices for Windows and Linux platforms |
FlashPro | Software for Windows platform, supporting all hardware programmers. Discontinued from Libero SoC v12.0 | FlashPro5 | Hardware programmer supports all SoC FPGA and FPGA devices on Windows (except ProASICPlus), and PolarFire, RTG4, SmartFusion2/IGLOO2 devices are also supported on Linux |
FlashPro4 | Hardware programmer supporting all SoC and FPGA devices except ProASICPlus for Windows platform | ||
FlashPro Lite | Hardware programmer supporting ProASICPLUS for Windows platform |
Whether you are programming a board containing a single device or multiple devices connected in a chain, you can quickly program and reprogram Microsemi flash FPGAs by connecting to a PC and the target board. FlashPro programmers provide everything you need to program flash FPGAs for compliance with IEEE 1149, using the JTAG port.
Hardware
Starting with Libero SoC v12.0, The FlashPro programming software will no longer be included in the Libero design software nor will it be available in stand-alone mode. Microsemi will be supporting the FlashPro Express v12.0 programming software, which replaces the FlashPro programming software. The last versions of Libero that supports FlashPro are Libero SoC v11.9 and Libero SoC PolarFire v2.3.FlashPro Programmer
FlashPro series of hardware programmers save you board space because a single JTAG chain can be used for all JTAG devices. In-system programming using the JTAG port adds the flexibility of field upgrades or post-assembly production-line characterization. Production costs are significantly reduced as a result of the elimination of expensive sockets on the board.
The FlashPro series of programmers can also be used for interactive debugging of designs using embedded IP in the flash FPGAs in conjunction with SmartDebug or Synopsys ® Identify Microsemi Edition software. Visit the SmartDebug webpage for feature details and more information.
Key Features
- Supports in-system programming
- Supports IEEE 1149 JTAG programming through STAPL
- Supports USB 2.0/3.0 available
Feature | FlashPro61,7 | FlashPro52 | FlashPro43 | FlashProLite |
---|---|---|---|---|
FlashPro Software | Windows only | Windows only | Windows only | Windows only |
FlashPro Express Software | Windows and Linux | Windows and Linux | Windows only | Not Supported |
Supported Devices | PolarFireSoC8 , PolarFire, SmartFusion2, IGLOO2, RTG4, |
PolarFireSoC8,PolarFire, SmartFusion2, IGLOO2, RTG4 SmartFusion, IGLOO, ProASIC3, Fusion RT ProASIC3, |
PolarFireSoC8, PolarFire, SmartFusion2, IGLOO2, RTG4 SmartFusion, IGLOO, ProASIC3, Fusion RT ProASIC3, |
ProASICPLUS |
JTAG Programming | ||||
SPI-Slave Programming | PolarFireSoC8, PolarFire,SmartFusion2,IGLOO2, | SmartFusion2,IGLOO2 | ||
SmartDebug Support | ||||
Synopsys Identify Support | ||||
Soft Console Support | TBD | Available with SoftConsole v4.0 and later releases | ||
USB3.0(super speed) | ||||
USB 2.0 (high speed) | ||||
USB 1.1 | ||||
Parallel Port |
Notes:
- Libero SoC v12.2 / FlashPro Express v12.2 / SmartDebug v12.2 software or later versions are required to use FlashPro6
-
Libero SoC v11.4/Libero SoC PolarFire v1.1/ FlashPro v11.4 software or later versions are required to use FlashPro5.
-
Libero IDE v8.6 SP1 or FlashPro v8.6 SP1 software or later versions are required to use FlashPro4.
- FlashPro Express does not support FlashProLite
- FlashPro and FlashProExpress software support our earlier discontinued hardware programmer FlashPro3 also. For more information, read the product discontinuation notification.
- FloashPro software is discontinued after 11.9SPx
- Libero v12.3 / FlashProExpress 12.3 / SmartDebug v12.3 software or later version are required to user Flashpro6 for SPI-Flash Programming. It also require FlashPro6 to be updated.Scroll down for more details.
- Requires 12.5 or later that supports same as Polarfire
NOTE: The JTAG labels on the backside of the FlashPro devices are meant to be representative of the JTAG header only. Please use the notch on the header and the red stripe on the ribbon cable and standard JTAG guidelines for accurate pin determination.
FlashPro6
FlashPro6 is the newest programmer, which along with Windows, supports Linux platforms, in conjunction with LiberoSoC, FlashPro Express, and SmartDebug software. It supports all FPGA devices in PolarFire, SmartFusion2, IGLOO2 and RTG4, series. This is completely backward-compatible and complies with the requirements specified in EMC Directive 2004/108/IEC and RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU. The minimum version requirements to run FlashPro6, on Windows and Linux, are Libero SoC, FlashPro Express and SmartDebug version 12.2 or later.
NOTE: FlashPro6 can be updated in the field to allow enhancements in programming speed. Please check back on this page for future updates
FlashPro6 updates for Libero / FlashPro Express v12.3 or later:
- This update is required to enable SPI-Slave programming. Please review the readme file before the update.
- Windows: FlashPro6 Update v12.3 Windows
- Linux: FlashPro6 Update v12.3 Linux
FlashPro5
FlashPro5 is the programmer, which along with Windows, supports Linux platforms also such as RedHat Enterprise Linux 6 and CentOS 6, in conjunction with FlashPro Express software. It supports all FPGA devices in PolarFire, SmartFusion2, IGLOO2, RTG4, SmartFusion, Fusion, IGLOO, ProASIC3 and RT ProASIC3 series. This is completely backward-compatible and complies with the requirements specified in EMC Directive 2004/108/IEC and RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU.The minimum version requirements to run FlashPro5, on Windows and Linux, are Libero SoC, Libero SoC PolarFire v1.1 or FlashPro v11.4.
FlashPro4
FlashPro4 is a programmer supporting all FPGAs in the PolarFire, SmartFusion2, IGLOO2, RTG4, IGLOO, ProASIC3, (including RT ProASIC3), SmartFusion and Fusion families. FlashPro4 offers extremely high performance through the use of USB 2.0 and is high-speed compliant for full use of the 480 Mbps bandwidth. Powered exclusively via USB, FlashPro4 provides a VPUMP voltage of 3.3 V for programming these devices. For IGLOO nano FPGAs, programming at 1.2V Core Voltage is supported.
For SmartFusion designs, FlashPro4 hardware supports device programming for both the FPGA Libero IDE-generated hardware design as well as software design coming from Microsemi's SoftConsole embedded software design and debug.
FlashPro4 connects to any PC with a USB port and operates with USB 1.1 (full-speed) or USB 2.0 (both high-speed and full-speed modes). Multiple FlashPro4 programmers can be connected to a single PC using USB hubs, enabling the end user to set up a small-scale production environment with concurrent ISP occurring across multiple boards and the FlashPro software.
FlashPro4 replaces FlashPro3 and FlashPro3X and is completely backward-compatible, supporting additional features such as lower cost, smaller form factor and the latest flash FPGA families. Libero IDE v8.6 SP1 or FlashPro v8.6 SP1 is the minimum software and version required to use FlashPro4.
FlashPro Lite
FlashPro Lite is used exclusively with the ProASICPLUS family. FlashPro Lite provides all required programming voltages. The programming connection to the target board is a 26-pin SAMTEC micro header on the target board. A replaceable programming cable is connected to the FlashPro Lite. FlashPro Lite is conveniently powered by the target board.
If the PC/Laptop does not have a parallel port a PCMCIA to parallel port converter can be used as an alternative.
To program the ProASICPLUS device via USB, QuickFlash Programmer can be used as an alternative. Microsemi has tested the functionality of the QuickFlash Programmer. However, Microsemi is not responsible for programming or functional failures resulting from the usage of this third party programmer.
FlashPro Hardware Programmer
Operating Systems | FlashPro5 | FlashPro41,3 | FlashPro Lite1,4 |
---|---|---|---|
Linux | |||
RHEL 7 64-bit | |||
CentOS 7 64-bit | |||
RHEL 6 64-bit | |||
CentOS 6 64-bit | |||
Microsoft Windows | |||
Windows 10 64 bit | |||
Windows 8.1 64 bit | |||
Windows 7 Professional |
Notes:
- Both x86 32-bit and x64 operating systems are supported for USB.
- x86 32-bit operating systems only.
- FlashPro3 was discontinued in 2009 and replaced with FlashPro4. For more information, read the product discontinuation notification.
- FlashPro Lite supports only the ProASICPLUS family.
Software
Starting with Libero SoC v12.0, The FlashPro programming software will no longer be included in the Libero design software nor will it be available in stand-alone mode. Microsemi will be supporting the FlashPro Express v12.0 programming software, which replaces the FlashPro programming software. The last versions of Libero that supports FlashPro are Libero SoC v11.9 and Libero SoC PolarFire v2.3.Programming & Debug Tools are installed automatically with Libero SoC.
It is also available for standalone download for convenience if needed for production programming and lab use.
Programming and Debug Tools now include the following software.
- FlashPro programming software for Windows only
- FlashPro Express programming software for Windows and Linux
- SmartDebug device debug tool for PolarFire Soc, PolarFire, SmartFusion2, IGLOO2, and RTG4
- Job Manager for Secured Production Programming Solution
Always download the latest version of the software available
Download Most Recent Release
Service Packs (SP) are incremental updates and must be installed on top of the base release. The most recent SP will include all updates from previous Service Packs.
Note: You do not need to install Program and Debug tools if you have already installed, or plan to install, Libero software. Program and Debug tools are included with
Libero software installation.
Programming and Debug v12.6 (Does not include FlashPro) (12/11/20)
- Programming and Debug Tools v12.6 Release Notes
- Download Programming and Debug v12.6 for Windows
- Download Programming and Debug v12.6 for Linux
Programming and Debug v12.5 SP1 (Does not include FlashPro) (11/05/20)
- Programming and Debug Tools v12.5 SP1 Release Notes
- Download Programming and Debug v12.5 SP1 for Windows
- Download Programming and Debug v12.5 SP1 for Linux
Programming and Debug v12.5 (Does not include FlashPro) (09/08/20)
- Programming and Debug Tools v12.5 Release Notes
- Download Programming and Debug v12.5 for Windows
- Download Programming and Debug v12.5 for Linux
Programming and Debug v12.4 (Does not include FlashPro) (04/16/20)
- Programming and Debug Tools v12.4 Release Notes
- Download Programming and Debug v12.4 for Windows
- Download Programming and Debug v12.4 for Linux
Programming and Debug v12.3 (Does not include FlashPro) (12/10/19)
- Programming and Debug v12.3 Release Notes
- Download Programming and Debug v12.3 for Windows
- Download Programming and Debug v12.3 for Linux
Programming and Debug v12.2 (Does not include FlashPro) (09/24/19)
- Programming and Debug v12.2 Release Notes
- Download Programming and Debug v12.2 for Windows
- Download Programming and Debug v12.2 for Linux
Programming and Debug v11.9 SP4 (Includes FlashPro v11.9) (06/11/19)
Note: Microsemi had not released Programming & Debug v11.9 service packs prior to SP4. This Service Pack 4 must be installed on top of Programming & Debug v11.9.
Programming and Debug v12.1 (Does not include FlashPro) (04/18/19)
- Programming and Debug v12.1 Release Notes
- Download Programming and Debug v12.1 for Windows
- Download Programming and Debug v12.1 for Linux
Programming and Debug v12.0 (Does not include FlashPro) (01/23/19)
- Programming and Debug v12.0 Release Notes
- Download Programming and Debug v12.0 for Windows
- Download Programming and Debug v12.0 for Linux
Programming and Debug PolarFire v2.3 (Includes FlashPro v2.3) (09/17/18)
- Programming and Debug PolarFire v2.3 Release Notes
- Download Programming and Debug PolarFire v2.3 for Windows
- Download Programming and Debug PolarFire v2.3 for Linux
Programming and Debug v11.9 (Include FlashPro v11.9) (08/17/18)
- Programming and Debug v11.9 Release Notes
- Download Programming and Debug v11.9 for Windows
- Download Programming and Debug v11.9 for Linux
Archives
Version Release History
Installation Notes
- To install the software, you must have administrator privileges.
- You should install FlashPro v11.4 software in a new folder, separate from Libero or other versions of FlashPro.
- Program and Debug Software Installation Instructions
- Program and Debug Software Installation for Linux
Flash Programming Support for Libero Software
Libero SoC Version |
FPGA Families |
Supported FlashPro versions |
Supported FlashPro Express versions |
Libero SoC v11.9 or earlier | Fusion, SmartFusion, ProASIC3, IGLOO, RT ProASIC3 | FlashPro v11.9 or earlier | Not Supported |
SmartFusion2, IGLOO2 and RTG4 | FlashPro Express v11.5 to v11.9 | ||
Libero SoC PolarFire v2.3 or earlier | PolarFire | FlashPro PolarFire v2.3 or earlier | FlashPro Express PolarFire and later |
Libero SoC v12.0 and later | PolarFire SoC (Starting from Libero SoC v12.5) PolarFire, SmartFusion2, IGLOO2 and RTG4 | There is a workaround to use FlashPro v11.9 and FlashPro PolarFirev2.3 versions. Refer the notes* below for more details. | FlashPro Express v12.0 |
*Notes: Libero SoC design suite v12.0 generates STAPL and JOB files. The users working with Libero SoC v12.0 and would like to work on FlashPro standalone programming software using STAPL file, they can export a STAPL file generated by Libero SoC design suite v12.0 and program the FPGA using standalone versions of FlashPro v11.9 or FlashPro PolarFire v2.3 releases.
Important Points:
- FlashPro Express does not support Fusion, SmartFusion, ProASIC3, IGLOO FPGA devices
- Libero SoC v12.0 or later releases does not support Fusion, SmartFusion, IGLOO and ProASIC3 FPGA devices
- FlashPro v11.9 and FlashPro PolarFire v2.3 are standalone support for Libero SoC v12.0
FlashPro Programming Software
Operating Systems | FlashPro | FlashPro Express | SmartDebug | Job Manager |
---|---|---|---|---|
Linux | ||||
RHEL 6 64-bit | ||||
CentOS 6 64-bit | ||||
Microsoft Windows | ||||
Windows 8 64 bit | ||||
Windows 7 Professional |
Notes: Windows XP is no longer supported.
Minimum System Requirements
Software/Platform | Disk Space | System | License Required |
---|---|---|---|
FlashPro Standalone | 500 MB | 64 bit, Windows 7 and Newer | No |
Documents
Starting with Libero SoC v12.0, The FlashPro programming software will no longer be included in the Libero design software nor will it be available in stand-alone mode. Microsemi will be supporting the FlashPro Express v12.0 programming software, which replaces the FlashPro programming software. The last versions of Libero that supports FlashPro are Libero SoC v11.9 and Libero SoC PolarFire v2.3.
IInstallation User Guides:
FlashPro Software and Hardware Installation Guide | 9/2015 |
Software User Guides and Manuals - Programming and Debug v12.6
FlashPro Express v12.6 User Guide for all the families | 12/2020 |
SmartDebug v12.6 User Guide for SmartFusion2, IGLOO2, and RTG4 | 12/2020 |
SmartDebug v12.6 User Guide for PolarFire | 12/2020 |
Software User Guides and Manuals - Programming and Debug v12.5
FlashPro Express v12.5 User Guide for all the families | 9/2020 |
SmartDebug v12.5 User Guide for SmartFusion2, IGLOO2, and RTG4 | 9/2020 |
SmartDebug v12.5 User Guide for PolarFire | 9/2020 |
Software User Guides and Manuals - Programming and Debug v12.4
FlashPro Express v12.4 User Guide for all the families | 4/2020 |
SmartDebug v12.4 User Guide for PolarFire | 4/2020 |
SmartDebug v12.4 User Guide for SmartFusion2, IGLOO2, and RTG4 | 4/2020 |
Software User Guides and Manuals - Programming and Debug v12.3
FlashPro Express v12.3 User Guide | 3/2020 |
SmartDebug v12.3 User Guide for PolarFire | 12/2019 |
SmartDebug v12.3 User Guide for SmartFusion2, IGLOO2, and RTG4 | 12/2019 |
Software User Guides and Manuals - Programming and Debug v12.2
FlashPro Express v12.2 User Guide for all the families | 9/2019 |
SmartDebug v12.2 User Guide for PolarFire | 9/2019 |
SmartDebug v12.2 User Guide for SmartFusion2, IGLOO2, and RTG4 | 9/2019 |
Software User Guides and Manuals - Programming and Debug v12.1
FlashPro Express v12.1 User Guide for all the families |
Software User Guides and Manuals - Programming and Debug v12.0
Software User Guides and Manuals - Programming and Debug v 11.9
FlashPro for Libero SoC v11.9 User’s Guide | 8/2018 |
FlashPro Express for Libero SoC v11.9 User’s Guide | 8/2018 |
Software User Guides and Manuals - Programming and Debug v 11.8
Software User Guides and Manuals - Programming and Debug v 11.7
FlashPro for Software v11.7 Users Guide | 1/2017 |
FlashPro Express for Software v11.7 Users Guide | 1/2017 |
Programming Job Manager User Guide for Libero SoC v11.7 SP2 | 8/2017 |
Hardware User Guides :
CN/PCN/PDN
CN 1216: FlashPro4 Replacement Recommended Due to Update Message on Limited Number of Units | 11/2012 |
Programming User Guides
UG0714: PolarFire FPGA Programming User Guide | 08/2020 |
UG0451: SmartFusion2 and IGLOO2 Programming User Guide | 05/2019 |
UG0602: RTG4 FPGA Programming User Guide | 05/2019 |
Application Notes
Application Briefs
AC351: PCMCIA Adapter for Parallel Port Programming App Brief | 4/2014 |
AC357: FlashPro4 Backward Compatibility with FlashPro3 App Brief | 10/2012 |
Archives
FlashPro for Software v11.3 User's Guide | 3/2014 |
FlashPro v9.1 User's Guide |
1/2011 |
FlashPro v9.1 Online Help | 1/2011 |