Frequently Asked Questions
and Answers:
First
Article
Q.
What is a First Article and why do I need one?
A. A First Article is the first device we have
processed to your specifications. We provide up to 10 devices to you
for your inspection, qualification, and approval. You will be provided
with paperwork for you to sign thus creating an Approved First Article.
The information contained on the First Article Approval form becomes
a record in our quality system, and this record is the control used
to process your devices.
Q.
We processed a First Article before, but did
not approve it. Do we need to process another First Article?
A. That depends. Have you made any changes
to the code, device, labeling/marking, your part number, revision,
or other information? Then the answer is yes. If not, then you may
either approve the First Article, or you may Waive Approval in order
to process a single order.
Q.
The First Article Request page or form has
many options, how do I know what information I need to provide?
A. The form is generic in nature because there
are so many devices and options that we do not have the ability
to have an intelligent form for a single device at this time. If
you are unsure contact NP for assistance.
Q.
Should I ZIP any files that I send to NP?
A. In most cases it is not necessary. With
a few exceptions a programming file is nothing more than an ASCII
text file. However, we have experienced problems where some of our
customer's email systems will attach a file as text to the message,
and not as a file attachment. In this case zipping the file and
attaching the zip file to your email message will prevent the file
from being changed in any way.
Q.
All I know is the Manufacturer and Part Number
of the device, is that enough information for NP?
A. No, but it is a start. Generally we can
quote you with only this information. However when it comes to processing
a First Article, we will need more information and we will work
with you to answer any questions we have.
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Q.
Why do you assign an AFA number to my code,
can't you use my internal part number?
A. We do use your internal part number. It
is part of the record for your First Article. However, we service
many customers and there could be a duplicate in a part number scheme
between two different customers. The AFA code is a unique number
permanently assigned to the record for your First Article. The AFA
code is used on all paperwork, programming files, and job setup
records. This number is never duplicated, or reused. If you change
your code, you will receive a new First Article number so that the
possibility of programming with the wrong file is eliminated.
Q.
Why is the default value for filling the programmer
RAM or buffer 0xFF?
A. Unless the device datasheet states otherwise,
the blank state of the device is all bits set to a logical high
or "1", and the byte value will be FF in hexadecimal.
Q.
How does NP prefer to receive the master device
code?
A. Electronically is best. We can use a "gold"
master device if the device can be read or duplicated. Any time
the device is handled there is a risk of static damage, even under
controlled conditions. While NP has a very comprehensive static
control program in place, we cannot assure the "gold"
master device does not receive static damage through improper packaging
or handling prior to receipt at NP.
Programming
Q. What is NP's
standard turn around time?
A. Usually 2-3 days after the order is accepted.
Q. Can
an order be expedited?
A. Yes, but the commitment to deliver will
be at the discretion of the Quality Assurance Manager or General
Manager and an additional charge may apply.
Q.
I want to place a large order, but only accept
deliveries in smaller increments. Will NP accept this order?
A. Possibly. In any case there will be an
additional charge for each delivery so that we can cover the cost
of the additional paperwork. In most cases it is not cost effective
to do this.
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Q.
I need to cancel an order that NP has already
accepted, will there be a charge?
A. That depends. If the customer wants to
cancel an order and have all inventory returned then a cancellation
charge plus the cost of any product already processed will apply.
However, if the cancellation is due to a code change and NP will
receive the revised code then there may not be a charge. Contact
NP for details.
Device
Sales
Q. Does NP sell
devices as a distributor or broker?
A. No, NP provides programming and tape and
reeling services only. We do not sell, stock, or broker devices.
Q.
Can NP provide procurement or turn-key services
so that my company does not have to purchase, stock, or ship the
unprogrammed inventory?
A. NP can offer this service. Please contact
a sales representative for details.
Tape and Reeling
Q. Can I have
components tape and reeled at less than full reel quantities?
A. Yes, but there will be a minimum charge
below a certain quantity to cover the fixed material costs.
Q.
Do the materials and methods used in NP's production process meet
industry specifications?
A. Yes, our process follows EIA-481-1-A and
EIA-481-2-A.
Q. We
have a device that we would like to have tape and reeled, but are
unsure of what carrier tape is available. Can NP help?
A. Absolutely. NP has relationships with many
of the carrier tape manufacturers, and we will be happy to work
with them to find a solution to meet your needs.
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Packaging
Q. Should we
leave the product in the original manufacturer's packaging?
A. Yes. Leaving the contents undisturbed prevents
unnecessary damage to the device. We will notify you if there is
a problem with the contents of the packaging.
Q. Is there a difference in the ESD bags used
for packaging?
A. Yes. There are several types, and all have
their proper use.
- Static Dissipative
or Antistatic - This type of bag is the very common pink polyester
bag that is translucent. It will only minimize the static generated
from the bag coming in contact with foreign materials including
the device contained in the bag. It will not prevent a static
charge from penetrating the bag, and causing damage to the device.
Most customers believe that submitting a sample in a pink polyester
antistatic bag is sufficient ESD protection. While it will offer
some protection, it will not offer complete ESD protection.
- Static Shielded
Barrier - This type of bag is the very common silver bag that
is somewhat translucent. This bag creates a Faraday Cage around
the product when the bag is closed to prevent a static charge
from penetrating the bag, and causing damage to the device.
- Moisture Barrier
- This type of bag is generally a white or silver opaque bag that
has the same properties as the shielded barrier bag with the added
protection of a moisture shield to prevent the absorption of moisture
from the environment into the device.
Q.
How do you treat moisture sensitive (dry-pack)
product?
A. Any product that we receive in dry-pack
packaging will be shipped out in dry-pack packaging. We have specifications
in place to address handling of these types of devices. We cannot
dry-pack product that we did not receive in moisture a moisture
barrier shielding bag with the proper amount of desiccant and humidity
indicator cards.
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Quality Management
System
Q. Does NP maintain
a quality management system?
A. Yes, our system meets the requirements of ISO-9002:1994.
Q.
Is your facility open to a quality audit by
our company?
A. Yes,
NP will be happy to cooperate
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