Need a new ROM Programmer.

[Moogle!]

Well, it seems my trusty GQ-4X4 has hit the floor too many times and now no longer works. I originally bought it after a disastrous attempt to use a TL866, which bricked itself on the first run of the software. I am planning on getting another GQ-4X4, but I wanted to stop in here and see if anyone else had another suggestion.

 

[maxtherabbit]

I've used my TL866II quite extensively without issue

 

[Moogle!]

Apparently they guy who designed and sold them had issues with counterfeits and put something in the later versions of the software to brick them but I guess there was a problem and it would sometimes brick older legitimate models as well.


It just goes to show that one should research something before you buy it. Especially considering how expensive even a cheap burner is.

 

[gekaufman]

The obvious question is what are you trying to program....

 

[Moogle!]

Mostly BIOS roms, which the 4X4 handled just fine. I was just curious as to what else is out there.

 

[ldkraemer]

My Minipro-TL866 works good so far. It's a bit of work to check all the settings, but after a
couple of IC's it much easier. I'd recommend it again. What is the part number you were programming?

Larry

 

[Chuck(G)]

If you're programming vintage EPROMs and have a parallel port available on your PC, look for one of the used programmers to save money, or at least one of the Willem parallel-port varieties. You'll save about half the price of a new USB programmer.

 

[ldkraemer]

Yes, Chuck is Right! Buy a "Willem PCB6.0E LPT EPROM Programmer". I've got one of those too! Works GREAT!
It just needs a Parallel Port. Works In Linux!

http://keeelectronics.com/WillemPCB5ESoftNew.html
http://www.keeelectronics.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=22&products_id=33
http://www.keeelectronics.com/catalog/product_reviews_info.php?products_id=53&reviews_id=5
http://www.shrubbery.net/~heas/willem/
http://forums.debian.net/viewtopic.php?f=16&t=135301
http://www.benryves.com/products/remappediodll
https://www.downtowndougbrown.com/2014/08/using-a-willem-programmer-in-linux-with-wine/
http://www.madrigaldesign.it/forum/viewtopic.php?t=104

Larry

 

[Chuck(G)]

I have an old thin client dedicated to running my Superpro with parallel interface.

 

[Malc]

I've heard good and bad about the Willem and Minipro programmers and the GQ4x, They all have their pro's and con's, I have the older model GQ4x i bought new back in 2010 and never had a problem with it.