Programming of flash with ICT rights and responsibilities

The popularity of easy to program, easy to erase, flash memory has led to the logical idea of programming code onto printed circuit board product via in-circuit test systems. If a test department can add a process to support this, huge cost reduction will result due to decreased inventory, reduced device fallout, and just-in-time manufacturing. When a manufacturer decides to move flash programming in-line, certain rights and responsibilities should be given to the test programmer. This paper describes some of the changes that may need to be made in the design, test and manufacturing process to achieve fast, reliable, and repeatable flash programming results