For Immediate Release

Corelis introduces Support for the Jam™ Programming Language

Adding Jam support to Corelis’ ScanPlus boundary-scan testers provides users
with a vendor independent method of performing in-system programming of CPLDs.

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Cerritos, CA, July 1, 1999 -- Corelis Inc., introduced today support for the Jam™ programming language on its ScanPlus boundary-scan development, manufacturing, and field service test systems. All Altera Corporation’s MAX 7000 and MAX 9000 families of devices, that support JTAG in-system programmability feature, can be programmed using Jam programming files. Corelis announcement of the Jam programming language support, followed rigorous in-system-programming testing of Altera CPLDs in various configurations that include devices from multiple vendors.

The Corelis ScanPlus software (which includes a Jam Player) is a platform independent and can program on-board devices using various Corelis’ JTAG controllers such as the PC-1149.1/100F (for the ISA bus), PCI-1149.1 (for the PCI bus), PCMCIA-1149.1 (for the PCMCIA bus), and the Net-1149.1 (for LAN-based applications).

"The ScanPlus Jam programmer can now program CPLDs utilizing files that were "composed" by Altera's MAX+PLUS II software or other third party design tools". Said Steven Hartman, Marketing Manager for Corelis' ScanPlus product line. Steven Hartman added: "We are very impressed with Altera’s commitment to supporting third parties, such as Corelis, in introducing JTAG in-system programming solutions that utilize the Jam programming language."

Brad Ishihara, Components Application Manager for Altera said, "Corelis brings a wealth of experience to the JTAG in-system programming and boundary-scan test tools market. Adding Jam programming support and integrating it with the ScanPlus boundary-scan test system, extends the use of Jam in-system programming to production and field service."

The product ships with a comprehensive user’s guide with tutorials, which can quickly train a new user in less than several hours.

How does the Jam Language Work?

The Jam programming and test language is a vendor-and-platform-independent interpreted language for programming devices via the IEEE standard 1149.1 TAP controller, commonly known as JTAG. The Jam language allows the specification of both the programming data and the programming algorithm in a single file. Once created, a Jam file contains all the information required to program a specific design into a targeted device.

There are two software components in the Jam programming solution: the Jam Composer and the Jam Player. The Jam Composer writes the Jam file required to program a specific design into a specific device. The Jam Player interprets the Jam file and programs the target device. These elements create a universal language and toolset that addresses all PLDs and all programming methodologies.

About Corelis

Corelis Inc., is a world leading supplier of PC-based IEEE 1149.1 boundary-scan test systems. Corelis offers complete solutions for testing individual boards and complete systems using boundary-scan techniques. Systems are available for design and debugging, manufacturing test, and field service and support. A variety of system options are available including desktop solutions as well as portable solutions for use in the field with laptops.

Corelis also offers complete boundary-scan in-system programming tools for CPLDs and FLASH memories, including the Altera MAX 9000, MAX 9000A, MAX 7000, and MAX 7000A devices. Devices can be quickly and easily programmed using a Jam File (.jam), which can be automatically generated by the MAX+PLUS II software.

For more information on Corelis boundary-scan test and programming products and other tools and services, please visit the Corelis web site at www.corelis.com.

About Altera Corporation

Altera Corporation, The Programmable Solutions Company™, was founded in 1983 and is a leading supplier of programmable logic devices and associated logic development software tools. Programmable logic devices are semiconductor chips that can be programmed on-site, using software tools that run on personal computers or engineering workstations. User benefits include ease of use, lower risk, and fast time-to-market. Altera's CMOS-based programmable logic devices address high-speed, high-density and low-power applications in the telecommunications, data communications, computer peripheral, and industrial markets. Altera common stock is traded on the Nasdaq Stock Market under the symbol ALTR.

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