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minipro Chip Programming Utility Specification

1. Overview

minipro is an open-source, command-line utility used to program, read, erase, and verify a wide range of EEPROM, Flash, EPROM, SRAM, GAL, and logic devices using supported universal programmers such as the T48, TL866II Plus, and compatible models.

It is widely used in Linux, macOS, and Windows environments, especially for retrocomputing, firmware development, and electronics prototyping.

2. Supported Programmers

Programmer Notes
T48 Full support (recommended)
TL866II Plus Full support
TL866A / CS Limited / legacy support

3. Supported Device Types

3.1 Memory Devices

  • Parallel EEPROM (e.g., AT28C256)
  • Flash memory (29xxx series)
  • EPROM (27xxx series)
  • SRAM (read/verify only)

3.2 Logic and PLDs

  • GAL16V8 / GAL22V10
  • PAL devices (limited)

3.3 Other Devices

  • Some microcontrollers (device-dependent)
  • Logic IC testing (selected models)

4. Installation

4.1 Linux

sudo apt install minipro

or from source:

git clone https://github.com/vdudouyt/minipro.git
make
sudo make install

4.2 Windows

  • Install via MSYS2 or prebuilt binaries
  • Requires libusb driver (WinUSB)

5. Basic Command Syntax

minipro [options]

Common options:

Option Description
-p <device> Select target device
-r <file> Read device to file
-w <file> Write file to device
-e Erase device
-v Verify contents
-I Device information
-l List supported devices

6. Common Programming Operations

6.1 List Supported Devices

minipro -l

6.2 Identify Device

minipro -p AT28C256 -I

6.3 Read a Chip

minipro -p AT28C256 -r rom_dump.bin

6.4 Write a Chip

minipro -p AT28C256 -w rom.bin

6.5 Verify Only

minipro -p AT28C256 -v rom.bin

7. Programming EEPROMs (AT28C256 Example)

minipro -p AT28C256 -w monitor.bin
  • Software Data Protection is handled automatically
  • Write cycle delays are internally managed
  • Verification performed after programming

8. Programming Flash Memory

minipro -p SST39SF040 -e -w firmware.bin
  • Erase step required for Flash devices
  • Sector erase handled automatically

9. EPROM Operations

minipro -p 27C256 -r eprom.bin
  • UV erase required before reprogramming
  • minipro verifies blank state before write

10. GAL Programming

minipro -p GAL22V10 -w logic.jed
  • Uses JEDEC files
  • Supports read, write, and verify
  • Fuse maps viewable via -I

11. Error Handling and Messages

Message Meaning
Device not found Incorrect device selection
Verification failed Data mismatch
Chip protected Write protection enabled
Overcurrent detected Insertion or wiring error

12. Safety and Best Practices

  • Always confirm device orientation in ZIF socket
  • Use correct device identifier (-p)
  • Do not hot-insert chips during operation
  • Use adapters for PLCC, SOP, TSOP packages

13. Typical Retrocomputing Workflow

  1. Assemble ROM image
  2. Program EEPROM using minipro + T48
  3. Verify contents
  4. Install chip in SBC
  5. Test system boot

14. Limitations

  • Not all devices are supported
  • Some microcontrollers require proprietary tools
  • In-circuit programming (ISP) not supported

15. References