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I have continuity problems with 32 pin parts in the SM84UP socket module. Devices with other pin counts work fine. What's the problem?Thirty-two pin PLCC devices are actually thinner than other PLCC sizes. Therefore they require more insertion pressure. The plate in the top lid of the SM84UP has a round extension on the other side for this purpose. Simply pull off the plate and turn it over when programming 32 pin devices.
How do I know which socket module to use to program my device?BPDos: Info/SocketModule will display the list of socket modules that can be used to program the device selected. If a socket module is not listed, it is likely that the socket you have is not qualified for programming your device. <Alt M> will display Info/Socket from anywhere in the software.
BPWin: When selecting the device to program, click on Info SocketModule to view the list.
If you are still unable to find socket module information, contact Customer Service for assistance.

How is the diagnostic self-test started?Pressing the <Alt> <D> keys while the software is running is the quickest way to start the hardware diagnostic test. Selecting BP Microsystems Diagnostics in the Select menu is another way. Follow the instructions that appear on the screen.

After pressing the hot-key, F2, for Chip Information, the socket module needed to program the device is not shown. So, which one do I need?If the Chip Information box does not indicate the correct socket module to use, call Customer Service for assistance.
How many insertions can be expected from a socket module?This is specified by the socket manufacturer and varies depending on the manufacturer and socket type. The most common specification rates at 10,000 insertions.
My PC won't communicate with the programmer. What's wrong?There are several possibilities. If your PC is running Win95/98, restart your PC in DOS mode and see if you can communicate with the programmer. If you can, you may have a Windows utility that is interrupting communication with the parallel port. Consult your IT department if you suspect this.
If your PC operating system is NT-based (Win2000, WinNT, WinXP) you must use BPWin. BPDos does not have NT drivers.
If you know that the parallel port is working correctly with a printer or other peripheral, try changing PC BIOS setting for LPT1. BP Microsystems recommends EPP mode, but if your PC does not communicate in EPP mode, try other options that you have available. Contact Customer Service for further assistance.

My programmer works well on a desktop but it won't communicate with the BP software on my laptop. Why?Some laptops may have an external cache that can interfere with the proper operation of the BP software. Disable it if you encounter this. Another solution could lie in the laptop's CMOS setup. Check the parallel port setting. Follow the procedure above for PC communication.

Is there a way to calibrate our programmers and do you offer a calibration document that is acceptable for ISO and other internal audit procedures?


How do I get an RMA for my failing equipment?
Programmers must be shipped to the manufacturing and repair facility for calibration. The cost for calibration is US $75 per programming site. A calibration certificate is included that is valid for one year. You can check to determine if the programmer is properly calibrated during the diagnostic self-test. Follow the instructions on the screen to verify the programmer's calibration. You will need a digital voltmeter and an oscilloscope.

Click HERE for an RMA request.