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SIMCHECK / SIMCHECK PLUS Adapter Data Sheet

DIMMCHECK 168P

DIMMCHECK 168P

The optional DIMMCHECK 168P enables the SIMCHECK PLUS Memory Tester to test standard DRAM 168-pin DIMM (84x2 pin Dual-Inline-Memory-Module) modules with basic configurations of 64, 72, and 80 bits. This adapter is recommend for the casual users who needs low cost adapter for low test volume. For higher test volume please refer to the DIMMCHECK 168P PRO.

We offer three flavors of DIMMCHECK 168P, each having a different type of socket with voltage and type keys:

Based on JEDEC standard 21-C, the x72 DIMM can be wired as PARITY or ECC (Error Correction Code) types. The x80 DIMM comes ECC type only. The DIMM module has an internal architecture similar to the 72-pin SIMM module, but to achieve a wider bus, the number of -CASx control lines has been doubled from four (-CAS0,1,2,3) to eight (-CAS0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7). Also, two Write Enable control lines (-WE0 and -WE2) and two Output Enable (-OE0 and -OE2) have been added. This arrangement allows for one-bank (e.g. 1Mx72, 4Mx64, 16Mx80) or two-bank (e.g. 2Mx64, 8Mx72) embodiments. Special A0 and B0 address lines (for the first multiplexed address line) have been implemented within the DIMM 168 pin standard for optimized bank interleaving operation.

The DIMMCHECK 168P is conveniently installed in the 40-BIT PORT expansion slot, and is automatically recognized by SIMCHECK. All memory cells are fully tested. The test procedure is similar to the 40-BIT PORT test.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The DIMMCHECK 168P cannot support the new Synchronous DRAM DIMMs. Please refer to the Sync DIMMCHECK 168.

OPERATION

This tester connects to SIMCHECK via the 40-BIT PORT (see Section 7.8). Plug the adapter into the 40-BIT EXPANSION PORT of the 40-BIT PORT only when SIMCHECK is turned OFF.

CAUTION: Failure to turn SIMCHECK OFF when connecting or disconnecting the DIMMCHECK 168P to the 40-BIT PORT may result in damage to the two PAL chips of the DIMMCHECK 168P!

HANDLING THE 168-PIN DIMM: The 168-pin DIMM is a delicate device which warrants great care in handling. The edge connector portion (which is inserted into DIMMCHECK's socket) has two key notches which are keying the device for the right socket. The first key is placed between contacts 10 and 11 (or between contacts 94 and 95 when viewed from the back of the module) and it determines if the unit is a standard buffered or unbuffered DRAM or Synchronous DRAM. DIMMCHECK 168P supports the standard DRAM but NOT the Synchronous DRAM. The second key is placed between contact 40 and 41 (contact 124 to 125 in the back) and is keyed for the voltage.

INSERTION: Please examine the DIMMCHECK 168P's socket and note the two keys which prohibit the insertion of wrong type DIMMs. The socket has two ejectors that need to be opened prior to insertion. Carefully insert the DIMM into the socket, pushing it evenly along its top. When the DIMM is properly inserted, the ejectors will snap onto the semi-circular notches on each sides of the modules.

REMOVAL: The DIMM is easily released from the socket by pulling both ejectors sideways.

NOTE: DIMM insertion and removal should be done only when SIMCHECK is in STANDBY mode.

Turn SIMCHECK ON once the DIMMCHECK 168P is installed in the 40-BIT PORT and insert the first DIMM module. THERE IS NO NEED TO SETUP SIMCHECK, as it automatically recognizes this tester. After the first DIMM has been tested and SIMCHECK returns to the STANDBY mode, the presence of the DIMMCHECK 168P is recognized.

The DIMMCHECK 168P test procedure is similar to the 40-BIT PORT module test.

Required EPROM Version: 2.38 or above.

NOTE: THIS ADAPTER IS COMPATIBLE WITH BOTH SIMCHECK PLUS AND SIMCHECK II.


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