Abstract: A tool for programming non-volatile memory is embedded in the form of an object in a programmable controller module, and can be used to transfer a firmware program to a plurality of different modules connected by a common network. The tool can be placed in any type of module, and can be used to transfer a firmware program to any type of module, regardless whether the two module types are the same or different types. The firmware program is received in a first module from a user interface by way of a communication link, which may be relatively slow. The object is embedded in the first module and has a plurality of services and attributes which are adapted for transferring the firmware program to a plurality of target modules. The first module and the plurality of target modules are connected by way of the common network, which is preferably a high speed network.

Abstract: A memory circuit for storing words of data has two memory banks each formed by a plurality of memory devices connected in parallel. In a first mode, the memory circuit responds to an initial request for access and an address signal by reading data from a storage location in one of the memory banks. Subsequent requests for access to contiguous storage locations do not require an address signal, instead a control mechanism responds by generating an address to read data alternately from storage locations in the first and second memory banks. In a second mode, the memory circuit responds to every request for access to the memory circuit by enabling access to the first or second memory bank as indicated by an address which accompanied the request. The memory devices of a given bank are erased and programmed in parallel.