Hi Tom,
thank you for clarification.
In my previous post, I wanted point on fact that BDM cable could be connected wrongly also on Multilink side. Problem will be probably in something else.
So, you cannot connect to MCU randomly (1 from 10 attempts), or you cannot connect to MCU anymore (after 10 writes into MCU)?
In second case, it looks like potential issue with internal ESD diode. All pins (include BKGD pin) are protected against ESD charge by ESD diodes to power supply rail. ESD charge (or high voltage spike) could damage this diode and cause permanent short to VCC. This could be simply tested by temporary connecting resistor (1-5kOhm) between BKGD and GND pin. When it will work as voltage divider, MCU should be OK, and you could look root cause on programmer side.
Could you please place here (or send me) your schematic? USB BDM Multilink should have connected open collector at BKGD pin, therefore it should be independent on target power supply voltage range.
In first case, I would like to rather search issue in BDM interface.
Please check whether both LEDs on Multilink glow when you connect it into target board.
Idea: We know about some communication issues with particular versions of USB BDM Multilink revisions C. According PEmicro: ”We removed a few protection diodes in the new revision that we believe was causing communication issues. This should be component T3, T5, and T6.”
Please check your version of USB BDM Multilink and look whether PCB is assembled by T3, T5, and T6 components…
Idea: Since you use the same environment for years, it is possible that ribbon cable could be already secretly broken. Unfortunately durability of this part of hardware isn’t the best…
Could you please check wire connection of your ribbon cable?
Idea: Problem could be caused by USB connection or drivers. Do you use any USB hub between PC and Multilink? If yes, please try connecting Multilink directly into PC and try unplugging unnecessary USB peripherals. You can also try installing latest version of Multilink drivers:
P&E Hardware Interface Drivers, Version 11 (Win XP/Vista/7/8)
http://www.pemicro.com/downloads/download_file.cfm?download_id=301
P&E Hardware Interface Drivers Version 9 (Windows 98/ME)
http://www.pemicro.com/downloads/download_file.cfm?download_id=53
Idea: I already meet with issues during programming because of noise generated by currents which flows between GND potentials. Is it possible somehow improving grounding in your case (between PC GND and target board GND)?
I hope it helps you.
Have a great day,
RadekS
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