Ithaca Epic 950, Integration Manual

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Programming for the Epic 950 Epic 950 OEM Integration Manual
Page 70
Rev G
95-05245
Flash Memory and Firmware Download Port
The Epic 950 is equipped with a download port with enhanced features, referred to as
imPort
TM
. The printer firmware may be updated through this port. Graphics and
coupons may also be added to the printer and updated as needed.
The flash memory contains firmware and non-firmware information. The intent is that
the firmware can be verifiable and fixed, and that the non-firmware information can be
adjusted as required. The non-firmware information contains variable coupon layout and
graphic information. This allows coupon images to change without affecting the
controlled ticket formats.
Flash memory can be altered only through the imPort
TM
. This flash memory cannot be
updated or altered in any way through the game communication interface.
Firmware Memory Features
The firmware memory has the following features:
1. It is in a verifiable format
2. It is verified when the printer is initially powered on or reset for any reason.
3. The firmware is verified in the background and scanned about every 60 seconds.
NOTE: The scan period depends on printer activity. If the firmware appears to
have been altered, the pri nter will fault and stop.
4. Can only be accessed via an authenticated download link.
5. Verification tool supplied to run on a PC that provides CRC checking.
The non-firmware memory features will be addressed below.
Proprietary format
The format of the firmware is TransAct propriet ary. This format can only be understood
by the Epic 950 printer. It is compressed and encoded in such a way that any
modification to it will be detected and cause a printer fault.
Verified when run
The firmware is verified at initial power up or after any reset. Any tampering or
corruption of the firmware will be detected and the firmware application will not run. The
printer will show an error condition via the Fault LED indicator. The printer will be
disabled and will not be able to print or receive communications from the host system.