To start a programming session, the “enter programming mode” command is used. At this point, the target is held in reset and can be accessed for programming purposes using read and write memory functions, etc. Leaving programming mode is used to restore the target into normal operating mode. If the “function” is specified as “programming”, the target will be set into run mode at this point, and the physical deactivated. However, if the “function” is specified as “debugging” the target will be held in reset, if possible, so that code does not execute. The physical is not deactivated in this case.