7.2.1 Hexmate Uses

Hexmate can be used for a variety of tasks relating to Intel HEX files. These include the following.

• Merging multiple Intel HEX files into one Intel HEX file.
• Calculating and storing variable-length hash values, such as CRC or SHA.
• Filling unused memory locations with known data sequences.
• Converting Hex files to other INHX formats (e.g., INHX32).
• Detecting specific or partial opcode sequences within a HEX file.
• Finding/replacing specific or partial opcode sequences.
• Providing a map of addresses used in a HEX file.
• Changing or standardizing the length of data records in a HEX file.
• Validating record checksums within Intel HEX files.

Typical applications for Hexmate might include:

• Merging a bootloader or debug module into a main application at build time.
• Creating a hash value that can be used to ensure programmed code has not become corrupted.
• Placing instructions at unused locations to handle the wayward execution of crashed programs.
• Storing serial numbers or strings such as time stamps at a fixed address.
• Storing initial values at a particular memory address (e.g., initialize EEPROM).
• Detecting the occurrence of a buggy or restricted instructions.
• Adjusting HEX files to meet the particular requirements of bootloaders or debug tools.