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Section 5 Application Examples for Systems with
Embedded CF
When a flash card is used for an embedded application, the application can be implemented most
easily by using the True-IDE specifications. If the use of PC cards for various purposes is
envisaged, it is probably better to use a PC card controller chip employed in notebook PCs, etc., or
to use an MPU with a PCMCIA interface (such as the SH3, SH7708, or SH7709 in Hitachi’s
SuperH microcomputer series) as the CPU. This is because, while the level of general applicability
is high with the PC-ATA specifications, a large number of conditions have to be satisfied,
resulting in a proportionate increase in the size of both hardware and software. Thus it is
extremely difficult to implement peripheral circuitry using TTL devices, etc.
If the True-IDE specifications are used, on the other hand, an interface circuit can be implemented
very easily, as shown in figure 5.1, Block Diagram, on the next page. The down side is that it is
not possible to use a variety of PC cards. This configuration only provides for the use of a flash
card in the same way as a hard disk drive.
5.1
True-IDE Interface Block Circuit
5.1.1
Outline
Use of this circuit presupposes the following conditions. This circuit should not be used unless
these conditions are accepted.
This circuit is subject to the conditions listed in section 5.1.2, Notes, and is only a reference
example.
Hitachi, Ltd., accepts no responsibility for any problems arising out of the use of this circuit.
No engineering services have been implemented with regard to the contents of this circuit.
This circuit may be freely used by anybody.
5.1.2
Notes
(1) Hitachi PCMCIA PC-ATA specification card: Use an HB286***AT or later model.
(2) (1) or Hitachi CompactFlash: Use an HB286***C*.
(3) Use the True-IDE specifications.
(4) The third party below provides support for driver software. Inquiries should be directed to the
address shown.
AI Corporation, Production Department
IIjima Bldg. 6F, Nishi-Gotanda 2-25-2, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo
Tel: (03) 3493-7981
Fax: (03) 3493-7993