Supplemental Information for EEV Spectrum Analyzer - Rigol DSA815 Reply #880:

Adding a Secure ‘FRAM Write Protect’ Switch to the Rigol

DSA815
DSA815 ‘FRAM Write Protect’ is Enabled (ON) with pins 7 and 8 of IC U1105 connected together, and
Disabled (OFF, normal) with Pins 7/8 open. FRAM Write Protect (FWP) is primarily and only used to
retain the Rigol Trial Option Times (for the purpose of retaining some additional evaluation time).

As installed here the FWP switch (a miniature toggle switch) is accessible via the right side rear panel
through the plastic case’s air ventilation slots above the AC power cord receptacle. The reason for the
limited (secure) access of the switch is to prevent unintentional FWP mode changes. You can toggle the
switch (Up for FWP ON Closed), down for FWP OFF Open) with a Dental Pick or a miniature screw driver
with a narrow diameter shaft, etc.

Caution! If FWP is accidently left OFF, you could easily lose all of your additional evaluation time.

As shown in the ‘FRAM Sw Img 001.jpg’ file the FWP switch is connected to DSA715 IC U1105 pins 7 and
8 with a two conductor cable. The cable is secured to the middle BNC connector’s base with two nylon
Tie Wraps as a strain relief for the connections to U1105.

Why use a Switch for selecting FRAM Write Protect ON/OFF, vs. simply soldering pins 7 and 8 of U1105
together? The reason for the FWP Switch is primarily because there are some 'User, etc. parameters
that are Stored in FRAM. If you just want to select one of these for your current task activity, then fine -
simply change it. Although, if you want it again on your next power cycle: You should use the below
Procedure for Making User Setting Changes that are Stored in FRAM. The FWP switch is applicable for
all versions of the DSA815 and as such is valid for units with Boot 00.02/3, and 00.01.04. And if you have
a Rigol 'Trial' Option installed it/they will be retained with FWP ON U1105 (pins 7 /8 connected).

Note: It is important to leave FWP ON to prevent loss of Trial Option Time. Otherwise FWP is not
needed, or even desirable to use.

User’s with a newer DSA815 (Boot 00.01.04) will have to experiment with a possible requirement for
having to turn the FRAM Write Protect OFF during a Firmware update.

* * * * * Procedure for Making User Setting Changes that are Stored in FRAM * * * * *

Saving User Setting Changes that are 'Stored in FRAM' Without Losing a significant Trial Time!

1. Turn OFF the DSA815. Disable FRAM Write Protect (FWP OFF).
2. Turn ON the DSA815, make your Change(s). Press front panel [Enter] button. Turn OFF the DSA815.
4. Enable FRAM Write Protect (FWP ON). Turn ON the DSA815. Verify changes have been retained.