As soon as I saw the image in google images of HEX code and "Mac Pro 5,1" ... I literally KNEW tsialex was going to be the primary assistant on this. Seriously, prolific and EXCELLENT info.
Personally, I have a blackcat I think ... (a few programmers) ... and as a reminder, the CH341x are not only cheap, but, I finally learned that you can use the program ...
FlashROM
brew install flashrom
and then, any good hex editor. GEEZ!!! I've been using a damned PC!! FOR 8 GODDAMNED YEARS in a capacity I didn't have to! lol. I mean, I still need it for Data Recovery jobs, but seriously? I'd rather use DOS than Windows.
Also, there's a terminal app for the TL866a, TL866II+ ... etc., called MiniPro
again,
brew install minipro
and you can R-W direct to the SPI without having to use a PC ...
Other than that, I'm sure a VM will let you run all the other middleware apps like AsProgrammer, etc.
I'd been trying to use drivers for the CH341 for YEARS and FINALLY realized theres a CLI app.