Northern UTA220/UTA220k - Manual (Page 111)

UTA220/UTA220k
13-1
Softload
Chapter 13
Softload
The optional softload feature lets you download new software
into the TA through the local DTE port. The new software is
stored in nonvolatile flash-programmable read-only memory
devices (PROMS) and is retained even when the unit is
powered down. This allows software updates and new features
to be added to the TA without physically removing the unit
from service.
The new software files are downloaded into the TA from the
customer’s host computer using the YModem-G file transfer
protocol. Password protection prevents unauthorized software
changes.
Note: If the softload feature is not present, the %P1, $Q, $Y=x,
$Y2=x, and $T=x commands will return an ERROR message.
The softload feature does not interfere with normal TA
operation, except for the swap command. While the softload
is in progress the TA remains fully operational.
TA SOFTWARE ARCHITECTURE
The concepts of sets of software and how the TA’s Central
Processing Unit (CPU) use them are described below.
Software Sets
The TA has two sets of operational software: the active set and
the alternate set. The TA operates from the active set and
performs software downloads into the alternate set.
A swap command allows the user to swap software sets at any
time. The active software becomes the alternate software, and
vice versa. This swap also allows the unit to return to its
previous version of software. The active software set selected
is stored in a separate nonvolatile memory location and is
retained even after powering down the unit.
Swaps to invalid software are prevented. If a power-up occurs
in an invalid set of software, the TA automatically swaps to
the alternate set of software.
Software Format
Updated software for the TA is provided on a standard
PC-compatible 5.25” high-density floppy diskette. The host
computer can be a PC on any other system capable of
reading PC-formatted floppy disks and transferring files via
YModem-G.