Digilent's joint test action group (JTAG)-HS2 programming cables are high-speed programming solutions for Xilinx FPGAs. Free Digilent software (Adept) allows custom applications to exchange data with Xilinx FPGA. The HS2 attaches to target boards using Digilent's 6-pin programming header or Xilinx's 2 x 7, 2 mm connector and the included adaptor.

The PC powers the JTAG-HS2 through the USB port and will recognize it as a Digilent programming cable when connected to a PC, even if the cable is not attached to the target board. The HS2 has a separate V_DD pin to supply the JTAG signal buffers. The high-speed, 24 mA, three-state buffers allow target boards to drive the HS2 with signal voltages from 1.8 V to 5 V and bus speeds of up to 30 MBit/sec. To function properly, the HS2's V_DD pin must be tied to the same voltage supply that drives the JTAG port on the FPGA.

The JTAG bus can be shared with other devices as systems hold JTAG signals at high-impedance, except when actively driven during programming. The HS2 comes with a Type-A to Micro-USB cable. The system board connector should hold the small and light HS2 firmly in place.