TransCore encompass 4 - Operating Parameters; Power Fail; Program Download

Operating Parameters
The Encompass 4 Readers maintain their operating parameters in non-volatile memory (NVRAM) so that
the parameters are preserved after a power-down sequence.
Caution:
To save user parameter changes to NVRAM, you must send command #00 before powering
down the reader.
Power Fail
The system maintains a power fail flag. The host transmits command #520 Display Power Fail Bit
to determine if a power down has occurred. This flag is cleared by both command #63 Reset Reader
and command #65 Reset Power Fail Bit.
Program Download
Program download stores the Encompass 4 applications software into the reader’s flash memory. Program
download is used to install program upgrades, add features, and to recover from corrupted program data.
Note: Program download is a hosted process. Exercise caution so that you don’t inadvertently enter
download mode.
Download Considerations
You should consider the following factors when performing program download:
• The Encompass 4 Reader does not process tags while in download mode.
• The Encompass 4 Reader does not accept any program data unless a successful erase of flash
memory has been performed before transmitting the data. Erasing the flash memory typically takes
two seconds.
• Exiting from download mode re-executes startup. If the new software has been loaded without
errors, the Encompass 4 Reader comes up in data mode. If a flash checksum error is detected,
the Encompass 4 Reader reenters download mode and transmits a sign-on message with a boot
version of 0.00x and without a serial number.
Note: The Encompass 4 Reader uses default communications parameters when operating in
download mode – 38400 baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity, basic protocol – and does not echo
commands.
Download Procedures
If TransCore releases a new version of the Encompass 4 Reader software or if the Encompass
4 Reader seems not to be working properly, you may need to download the software to the
Encompass 4 Reader. Contact technical support or your TransCore Encompass 4 Reader sales
representative.
Chapter 5 General Software Information
TransCore Proprietary
5–69