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BPM Microsystems to Showcase the BPM310 Automated Programmer at IPC APEX 2024

BPM Microsystems to Showcase the BPM310 Automated Programmer at IPC APEX 2024

BPM Microsystems, Inc. will display its 10th Generation programming technology platform and the BPM310 Automated Programming System at the IPC APEX Expo, from April 9-11, 2024, in Anaheim, California at the Anaheim Convention Center. BPM’s 10th Generation offers the industry’s fastest programming times for UFS, eMMC, Flash, and MCUs with twice as many sockets per site as its predecessor. The BPM310 offers a capacity of up to 48 sockets, automotive-level quality, and reliability in a small footprint. 10th Gen delivers the fastest UFS programming performance in the industry achieving up to 440MB per second Read and 201MB per second Write. First-part time is accelerated owing to the fact that UFS programming can commence without pausing for data to download.

Set Appointment for One-on-One Demo

IPC APEX ’24

IPC APEX Expo is the largest event for electronics manufacturing in North America, attracting more than 9,000 professionals from 45 countries. From the industry’s leading technical conference and application-focused professional development courses to the innovation-driven exhibit floor, IPC APEX EXPO 2024 will be packed with seminars, awards, and amazing technology.

BPM is celebrating 23 years of exhibiting at APEX and has been a proud Member of IPC for 25 years. Make plans now to attend IPC APEX Expo ’24 April 9-11, 2024 at the Anaheim Convention Center.  (view event page here).

BPM310 APS

The BPM310 is positioned to outperform higher-priced systems and includes advanced features such as WhisperTeach™, on-the-fly vision alignment, CSP support, serialization, encryption, and JobMaster while providing true universal technology. 10th Gen supports the broadest range of devices including MCUs, eMMC, NAND, Serial Flash, UFS, and others. Highly configurable, the BPM310 provides options for Tape I/O, Tray I/O, Tube I/O, laser marking, and 3D inspection. 

“We’re anticipating another great show at APEX 2024, and we’re looking forward to meeting customers in this fantastic setting.” says Penny Santhanam, Sr. Director of Customer Success at BPM. “The market has really responded positively to our 10th Generation technology.  The flexible configurability of the BPM310 with scalable socket density has been a game changer for our customers. The small footprint, amazing productivity, and ease of use set it apart in the industry.”

The BPM310 leverages much of the socket adapter and algorithm development currently available on BPM’s 9th Generation systems. And like 9th Gen automated programmers, the BPM310 continues to offer ease of operation and fast setup with award-winning BPWin process control software and patented WhisperTeach™. WhisperTeach™ automatically teaches the critical Z-height of each pick/place location with 15-micron accuracy. Accurate automated teaching is vital for small packages due to fundamental human limitations. In addition, WhisperTeach™ saves an average of 83% of the time required for the job setup compared to traditional methods while increasing quality and yield

BPM manufactures 10th Generation systems in their ISO 9001:2015 certified plant located in Houston, Texas, and their products carry the CE Mark. BPM continues to offer 9th Generation programmers for manual and automated programming. If you are attending APEX 2024, please visit booth 2720 and we will be happy to discuss your programming requirements and demonstrate our BPM310 Automated Programming System. For more information on the BPM310, go to bpmmicro.com/BPM310.

Set Appointment for One-on-One Demo |

Navigating the Regulatory Landscape of IoT Security: Considerations for Device Programming Professionals

In the age of interconnected devices, the significance of cybersecurity within the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem has never been more paramount. As these devices permeate every aspect of our lives—from healthcare to automotive, home automation to industrial control systems—their security implications scale correspondingly. The exponential growth of IoT devices has brought forth not only convenience and efficiency but also a myriad of security challenges, making it crucial for stakeholders to prioritize robust security measures to protect sensitive data and maintain device integrity.

The regulatory landscape for IoT security is rapidly evolving, with jurisdictions around the world establishing frameworks to safeguard these technologies. The European Union’s Cybersecurity Act and the United States’ IoT Cybersecurity Improvement Act of 2020 exemplify legislative efforts aimed at setting a baseline for cybersecurity practices. These regulations not only mandate security standards but also encourage manufacturers and developers to adopt security-by-design principles, ensuring that devices are secure from the outset.

In the EU, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) that became effective on May 25, 2018, focuses on data privacy, which impacts IoT devices that collect personal data. The EU Cybersecurity Act, effective June 27, 2019, strengthens the EU’s cybersecurity framework by establishing a certification framework for ICT products, services, and processes, including IoT devices. Furthermore, the EU introduced the NIS Directive 2, requiring EU countries to pass laws by October 2024 to enhance national cybersecurity. The Cyber Resilience Act, proposed in 2022 and expected to be formally approved in 2024, introduces specific obligations for products with digital elements, aiming to embed cybersecurity throughout their lifecycle​​.

The Cyber Resilience Act is particularly noteworthy as it represents the first EU-wide legislation to impose cybersecurity rules on IoT manufacturers and developers. This legislation requires IoT device makers to inform authorities and consumers about attacks and mandates quick fixes to problems. Moreover, it establishes significant penalties for non-compliance, up to €15 million or 2.5% of the previous year’s global turnover, and gives the EU powers to recall and ban non-compliant products​​. The Act emphasizes the importance of security by design, mandating that IoT products meet “essential” cybersecurity requirements before they can go to market. Manufacturers will need to start incorporating security at the design stage to ensure that devices are compliant with the upcoming regulations​​.

In the US, the landscape is more fragmented, with no comprehensive federal law specifically targeting IoT security. However, the IoT Cybersecurity Improvement Act of 2020, signed into law on December 4, 2020, represents a significant step toward regulating IoT security at the federal level. This law mandates the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to develop and manage IoT cybersecurity standards for federal government devices​​. Additionally, California has taken a proactive stance with its own IoT cybersecurity law, SB-327, effective January 1, 2020, which requires manufacturers of connected devices to equip them with reasonable security features​​.

These regulatory efforts in the EU and US illustrate a growing recognition of the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect the increasing number of connected devices. The emphasis on security by design and the requirement for manufacturers to be more transparent about the cybersecurity of their devices are critical steps towards ensuring that IoT devices are secure from their inception and throughout their lifecycle.

BPM Microsystems emerges as a leader in this challenging environment, with its pioneering role in device programming emphasizing its commitment to security and innovation. Specializing in the development of programming technologies for microcontrollers, flash memories, and other components, BPM Microsystems understands the criticality of secure device programming in the IoT ecosystem. Its solutions are designed to cater to the pressing need for secure programming practices, ensuring that devices are safeguarded against unauthorized access and tampering from the manufacturing stage.

A testament to BPM Microsystems’ dedication to cybersecurity is BPM.NCRYPT, a feature that underscores the company’s comprehensive approach to encryption and secure programming. BPM.NCRYPT provides an extra layer of security by ensuring that data remains encrypted throughout the programming process, minimizing the risk of interception or tampering. This feature is integral to BPM Microsystems’ efforts to meet and exceed the security requirements in device programming, offering manufacturers a reliable solution for securing their devices.

The BPWin software further amplifies BPM Microsystems’ commitment to security through its support for encryption. For years, BPWin has facilitated secure programming processes, enabling manufacturers to program devices with the assurance that their data is protected. This software is pivotal in enhancing the security of device programming operations, underscoring BPM Microsystems’ role in addressing the evolving cyber threats facing the IoT landscape.

BPM Microsystems’ adoption of the security-by-design principle is emblematic of its proactive approach to cybersecurity. By integrating security features early in the device development cycle, the company ensures that its products are not only compliant with current standards but also equipped to mitigate future risks effectively. This principle is fundamental to developing secure, reliable IoT devices that can withstand the complexities of the modern cyber environment. By adhering to these guidelines, BPM Microsystems not only reinforces its position as a thought leader in secure device programming but also contributes to the overall safety and reliability of IoT technologies.

Looking ahead, the challenges in IoT security are set to grow in complexity and scale. However, BPM Microsystems is well-positioned to address these challenges through continuous innovation and adherence to best practices in cybersecurity. The company’s commitment to developing secure programming solutions is vital to the future of IoT security, ensuring that devices remain protected against an ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats.

In conclusion, the imperative for secure device programming in safeguarding IoT devices cannot be overstated. As regulations within the IoT landscape continue to expand, the role of industry leaders like BPM Microsystems in navigating the complexities of IoT security becomes increasingly critical. Through its pioneering solutions and commitment to cybersecurity, BPM Microsystems exemplifies the importance of a proactive and comprehensive approach to securing IoT devices. Stakeholders across the IoT spectrum would do well to recognize the value of partnering with companies that prioritize security, ensuring a safer and more secure future for IoT technologies.

Revolutionizing Aerospace and Defense Support with BPM Microsystems’ Universal Programming Solutions

Introduction

BPM Microsystems distinguishes itself in the aerospace and defense industries not just as a provider of programming solutions but as a partner in innovation and technological progression. The company’s mission focuses on empowering the world’s aerospace and defense leaders with advanced, universal programming technologies. These solutions are designed to enhance operational efficiency, reliability, and security, ensuring that the forefront of global defense and aerospace remains equipped with the most sophisticated technology.

Unmatched Technological Excellence

The hallmark of BPM Microsystems is its relentless pursuit of innovation, offering products that support the broadest range of programmable semiconductors. From highly complex Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) and Microcontrollers, to high-density flash memory, BPM Microsystems provides a versatile platform that caters to all programming needs. This flexibility is crucial in aerospace and defense, where diverse and rapidly evolving technologies dictate the pace of progress.

Strategic Alliances Shaping the Future

The efficacy of BPM Microsystems in the global aerospace and defense sectors is magnified through its strategic partnerships with industry leaders. These collaborations are pivotal, showcasing BPM Microsystems’ ability to deliver top-tier solutions that significantly enhance the capabilities of its partners. Success stories from around the world serve as a testament to the company’s instrumental role in advancing defense and aerospace technologies, making a safer and more secure future a tangible reality.

Visionary Leadership and Innovation

BPM Microsystems doesn’t just respond to industry trends; it anticipates and shapes them. The company’s proactive innovation roadmap ensures that its aerospace and defense partners always have access to the most advanced programming solutions. This foresight is critical in maintaining a technological edge in a sector where advancements can significantly influence strategic outcomes.

Commitment to Reliability and Quality

Central to BPM Microsystems’ offerings is its proven product life cycle, especially critical for aerospace and military applications where longevity and dependability are non-negotiable. The company’s products are designed with a deep understanding of the rigorous demands of these sectors, ensuring that each solution not only meets but exceeds the highest standards of quality and reliability.

A Comprehensive Suite of Programming Solutions

BPM Microsystems has been committed to supporting global aerospace and defense industries for over 30 years. This dedication is evident in every aspect of the company’s products, operations, and support services. By emphasizing its comprehensive suite of programming solutions and its unparalleled ability to meet the complex demands of its clients, BPM Microsystems reaffirms its status as an indispensable ally to the world’s leading aerospace and defense companies.

Conclusion

BPM Microsystems is at the forefront of supporting the aerospace and defense industries with sophisticated programming solutions that cater to a wide range of programmable semiconductors. By offering a versatile platform capable of handling everything from FPGAs and Microcontrollers to high-density flash memory, the company ensures its partners are always equipped with cutting-edge technology. Coupled with a proven product life cycle that meets the stringent requirements of military and aerospace applications, BPM Microsystems stands as the programming industry leader of innovation, quality, and reliability, driving the technological advancements that shape our world’s security and defense capabilities.

Adapters: Understanding Socket Modules, D-Cards, and Socket Cards

Adapters: Understanding Socket Modules, D-Cards, and Socket Cards

Socket

noun
sä-kət 
Definition of socket:  an opening or hollow that forms a holder for something
Source: Merriam-Webster

“Socket” can mean different things depending on the context. Even in just electronics, “sockets” can mean more than one thing.

When BPM uses the term “socket,” it is referring to the electro-mechanical interface between the BPM programmer and the programmable device.

BPM pioneered using socket adapters to increase the usefulness of their programmers. In the “old” days, you had to buy a programmer for each type of device needed (which might mean a new programmer for a different pin count). Socket Adapters are the mechanical “bridge” between the programmer’s programming site and the device to be programmed. A software algorithm is needed as well, which directs where the packets of data go. Most programmers sold in the last 15 years or so use adapters.

There are two main components on an adapter: A circuit board with connector pins that insert into the programmer’s site, and a socket receptacle. The circuit board, due to its structure, is unlikely to fail before millions of insertions. There are no “mechanical” parts, with the exception of the connectors. Not so with the receptacle. The receptacle is “closed” in its resting state. In order to open the receptacle to insert a device, pressure is applied to the top (either by hand, by a lever, or by a pressure plate in an automated system). Some large device sockets utilize a clam-shell top to close. Receptacles, due to their mechanical nature, are subject to failure after a certain number of insertions. For standard socket receptacles, you can expect anywhere from 5,000 to as many as 25,000 insertions. High insertion sockets (HIC) are rated for 250,000 insertions.

BPM does not limit the number of insertions on its sockets (many of our competitors do). We do give the operator a warning that a socket has reached its factory-expected life.

Most BPM sockets come with a receptacle base. Receptacle-base socket modules and socket cards include a receptacle interface between the printed circuit board and the socket. This allows you to replace only the individual consumable socket once it reaches its useful life. This has proven to extend the life of the socket module and socket card, producing higher yields and lowering programming cost per device.

3 Classes of Adapters

BPM designs and produces a variety of socket adapters, and offers three classes of socket adapters:

Socket Modules (Legacy Adapters)

  • 6th Gen programmers: FSM*, FASM*, FXSM*, FXASM*
  • 7th Gen model programmers: FSM*, FASM*, FXSM*, FXASM*, FX2SM*, FX4SM*, FXASM*, FX2ASM*, FX4ASM*

D-Cards (Daughter card replacement assembly)

  • LSM*, LASM*, LXSM*, LXASM*, LX2SM*, LX2ASM*, LX4SM*, LX4ASM*
  • 6th and 7th Gen programmer socket module daughter card replacement assembly
  • In limited cases, D-Cards are compatible with 9th Gen programmers, as specified within the BPWin support list

Socket Cards

  • FVE*, FVE2*, FVE4*, FVEG*
  • Socket Cards are used with Flashstream, 8th Gen, 9th Gen, and 10th Gen programmers, where listed in the support list
  • Socket cards are not used with Legacy 6 and 7th Gen programmers. See Socket Modules (above)
  • FVEG adapters are gang design, meaning there are multiple sockets on a single pc board.

Gang Adapters

  • FVXG adapters are gang adapters that are only compatible with 10th Generation programmers.
  • All sockets share the same pc board on a gang adapter
  • FVXG8 is a gang 8 adapter with 8 sockets per board.
  • FVXG6 is a gang 6 adapter with 6 sockets per board.
  • Similarly, BPM could design FVXG2 (two up), FVXG3 (three up), FVXG4 (four up), or FVXG5 (five up) adapters.
  • IMPORTANT: The pressure plates used for 10th Gen automated programmers are heavier gauge stainless steel than the pressure plates used for all other Generation programmers. The pressure required to open up to 8 sockets is double that required for 4-sockets per site automated programmers.

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