Most OEMs and contract manufacturers have relied on distributors to provide programming services. While this approach has been effective, the turn around times offered by the distribution channel can easily run from 1 to 3 weeks. This is simply not acceptable for some manufacturing operations especially when they are in a line down situation.

To control this problem some manufacturing facilities have attempted to integrate programming right into the production line. This can be accomplished with either in-circuit programmable devices or specialized programming and handling fixtures. Today it is simply not economical to do so. The capital expense involved in acquiring and maintaining programmers, adapters, and device handlers to be integrated into the production line is very high. However, the costs associated with setup time and cost of quality issues would be far higher. Even this advanced technology has its drawbacks. While the ability to program a device while in circuit is very attractive indeed, the bottleneck that results on the production line is a huge drawback. In most cases the programmable IC has to be treated like any other off-the-shelf component in order to be cost effective.

Formed in 1992 as a California corporation, NP Programming Services founders Mr. Nguyen and Ms.Pham realized that there was a need for a value added service targeted at addressing the need for device programming specializing in quick turn around times for NP's customers. From humble yet typical Silicon Valley roots, they began with a couple of device programmers and few second-hand handlers. Retrofitting a garage complete with ESD controls, they focused on the overflow needs of electronics distributors in Silicon Valley. NP quickly became the 3rd party vendor of choice for many of them.

NP consistently offers turn around times of 48 hours or less. With its dedicated staff, NP has the ability to modify shift assignments to ensure expedite requests can be met. Another innovation is that NP was the first Silicon Valley programming company to offer 27 x 7 customer service to address manufacturer's needs when their issues arise. Each of NP's staff is fully trained on each process, and most have been with the company for many years. Each NP team member takes pride in the motto, "It's either on time or it's FREE!" It takes a high quality process to be able to make that commitment.

NP's latest 4,000 square foot facility is outfitted with state of the art device programmers and handlers, and a highly skilled production staff. This combination allows NP to adopt new programmable devices into the workflow with minimal disruption. Coupled with ISO-9002 certification and a comprehensive ESD control program meeting JEDEC and EIA specifications, customers can be rest assured that their programmable devices processed in an NP facility will be correct and delivered on time.

NP's success has also allowed expansion outside of the USA. NP Programming Services has sister companies in Guadalajara, Mexico and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam. These facilities, while independent from the USA operations, closely follow the model originally conceived back in 1992 providing customers with level of service unmatched in the industry.