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Blackfin/uClinux
ICEbear-JTAG
Software
VisionKit
AppNotes
Support

ICEbear JTAG adapter

The ICEbear adapter in conjunction with libbfemu, gdbproxy and the GNU toolchain (binutils, gdb, gcc) is a cost effective and stable development tool for Blackfin hardware platforms.
Based on a USB 2.0 (1.1 compatible) connection to the host PC, the JTAG sequence generation happens on a JTAG controller with a extensive usage of software queueing to gain maximum transfer speed compared to classical JTAG adapters.
Feature outline:
  • Support for Linux (32/64 bit), Windows 2000/NT/XP. Please see Software page for details.
  • High speed downloads, typical 120 kB/s up to 1MB/s (ICEbearPlus).
  • Fast flash programming (up to 100 kB/s). See also BFloader in the Software section
  • Loading and debugging of executables. Debugger support: GDB, Insight (Graphical debugger)
  • Well suited for standalone development and kernel debugging
  • Supports Xilinx FPGA programming (see XC3SPROG)
  • Automated system testing (memory tests, own applications)
  • Proof for production environment. Quite a few medical and automotive suppliers use the ICEbear (references on request)
  • Add-on packages (Python Scripting) on request

Supported CPUs (in brackets: CPU types that are compatible, but not extensively tested):
  • ADSP-BF506 and ADSP-BF51x on request
  • ADSP-BF52x
  • ADSP-BF533, BF531, (BF532) , ADSP-BF534
  • ADSP-BF536, BF537, BF539, BF539F4 (BF538)
  • ADSP-BF548(9)
  • ADSP-BF561 dual core
  • Multi device chain support (Xilinx, ADI, etc., ICEbear Plus only)
Special functionality available on request:
  • SHARC 2116X (Boundary Scan/Flash tool)
  • ARM-Support via OpenOCD
  • Generic boundary scan solution
  • NEW: Support for goJTAG added 07/2011, see here
Well tested and supported platforms:
  • EZKIT Lite ADSP-BF533, BF527, BF537, BF548 and BF561
  • STAMP BF533/537
  • SRV-1 Robot core module (www.surveyor.com)
  • CM-BF527/533/537/561(v1 and v2) from Bluetechnix
The ICEbear basically works on all platforms with ADI compatible JTAG connectors that are designed according to Analog Devices' application note EE-68.

Note that the ICEbear is not supported by Visual DSP as a debug target.

You can use the ICEbear in conjunction with VDSP with constraints:
  • Fast flash programming of binary LDR files
  • Assembly debugging VDSP code via GDB

It is also possible to use the ICEbear with various OpenSource tools, however, we can not provide support for that. See this website for more information

Image of JTAG adapter

The boundary scan tools for Blackfin were replaced by the Python scription solution. This is an add-on package to the ICEbear, see manual for more information. A more powerful, also Python based solution for generic boundary scan can be customized on request.

[ Download Manual ] [ Download Software ] [ Get Support ]

VAT is normally charged by your local custom authorities.


Status notes / current news
18.11.2011:ICEbear classic and light END OF LIFE notice: From 2012 on, the ICEbear light hardware will no longer be manufactured, we will provide a cheaper ICEbearPlus variant instead

ICEbearPlus (highspeed) without extended customer support

The ICEbearPlus JTAG adapter has the following software support:

  • All functionality from the ICEbear classic package
  • Standard customer support via email and forum
  • Limited support for multiple device JTAG chains. Please contact us for special custom hardware support packages

USD
199.-
Quote/Order Payment: Wire transfer
EUR
145.-
Quote/Order Payment: Wire transfer within Europe
CHF
185.- (+30.-)
Current rates

Quick Payment via PayPal/Credit card (US), standard registered shipping.
Swiss customers: please switch language to German for specific options.

ICEbear light (Blackfin flash programmer)

This ICEbear JTAG variant has the following software support:

  • Flash programming only (same speed as ICEbear classic)
  • No support for other than listed flashes and boards (see list)
  • No debugging support (see Note [1] below)
  • No support for multiple adapters and devices in JTAG chain
  • Graphical flash tool for Windows 32bit (not included in shipping, download only)
  • The ICEbear light has been reported to work with OpenSource tools such as xc3sprog and urjtag. Note that no support can be provided by section5 for these tools, however, we will look into providing source distributions or patches against the official releases.

The ICEbear light is no longer manufactured and being replaced by the ICEbearPlus

Net retail prices:

Europe / US, Canada CHF 95.-
(~ USD 90)
(~ EUR 79)

Sold out Quick ordering via Paypal/Credit card (worldwide)
CHF
90.- (+ additional shipping costs)
Quote/Order Payment: Wire transfer

If you have general questions, you may use the Feedback/Request form as well.

Order/Shipping Information

  • Shipping statement of € 20 added inside European community, US$ 30 outside.
  • We ship via SwissPost Priority Plus, you will receive a tracking number on shipment. Delivery takes 3-7 work days inside Europe, 4-8 days outside.
  • If you desire different shipping options, please use the order form and specify desired method and your order.
  • When using wire transfer, you must cover all transaction fees.

Product images

Note that color and cable style may change without notice.

ICEbearPlusICEbear classic/light
Photograph of new ICEbearPlus adapter ICEbear plugged into board

A few user reports

Notes

[1] Some OEM variants may have support for debugging with dedicated boards. Please contact your vendor or section5 for details

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Version: 11.2011