I currently have 2 in system programming (also acting as bootloaders) designs done up in 8051 assembly but would like to recode them in C. I'm unsure how one goes about doing this based upon the runtime constraints placed on the user when using C.
"I think that there is still a tremendous need for "bootloaders" even with the plethora of ISP chips out there. ... To say that this is a misapplication of the 8051 is to do the chip (and especially the IAP / ISP derivatives of it) a disservice as this only help the end user of the products designed with them." That's for sure! Example: An ankle-worn RF transceiver that is hermetically sealed for water resistance (showering, swimming, etc.). Programming by cabled connection kind of compromises that seal whereas using the RF channel does not.
Dan, Good example... also nice is not having to enter the house of a mobster to attach wires to update the code on his house-arrest device. :)
"... house-arrest device" Good (and correct) guess!