Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Incorrect Device ID error message?
A: The selected algorithm is not recognizing the device in the programmer.
Check the device selected including package type, pin count, and data width.
Check the family module for proper orientation and full insertion into the connector.
Make sure the device is bottom aligned and/or the correct adapter is being used.  For a DIP package device the notch in the package is facing away from the lever.  If an adapter is used the notch or the dotre presenting pin 1 is aligned with the notch in the adapter.
In some cases an adapter that has more pins than the device may be used. In most cases the device is bottom aligned in the adapter with pin 1 facing the top left corner.
Q: My computer does not recognize my programmer why?
A: Improper hardware connection or software setting.
Check all the hardware connections and software settings in regard to the programmer.
Check the power connection supplied to the programmer.
Verify the parallel port cable is attached and is in working order.
Check the parallel port hardware. Although a printer may work on the port, this doesn’t mean the programmer will.
 Be sure there are no security keys, switch boxes, or dongles attached to the parallel port.
If you are using NT/2000/XP be sure the driver is running. The NT/2000/XP driver is automatically installed with the EMP for Windows software. The DOS software requires a driver to be downloaded from our website and installed in administrator mode, and run in full screen mode.
 When using the DOS version of EMP software on Windows 95 or 98, reboot windows and press F8 during boot-up. This will take you to the " Safe Mode" menu where you can then select "Safe Mode Command Prompt Only" then run the DOS version of EMP from there.
Install the latest software on a different computer then try the programmer on that PC.
Q: Can unsupported devices be programmed with currently supported device algorithms?
A: NEI does not guarantee that selecting a current device to program a unsupported but similar device willwork.
If the device you are using is very similar or identical to another device that NEI currently supports you can submit a device request. Support with the a current algorithm may be possible.
Q: Does the DOS software work on NT/2000/XP? 
A: The DOS software is not guaranteed to work with NT/2000/XP. Communication problems may arise when using DOS parallel port applications within the Windows environment. 
Download and install the windows NT/2000/XP driver update from the software downloads page.
 The DOS software must be run in full screen mode, this can be achieved be pressing ALT-Enter when the EMP startup screen appears.
 Try an older system with a DOS based operating system (WIN 3.1/95/98/ME) and a processor below 800 MHz.
Upgrade to a Windows based programmer. 
Q: Will the DOS software work on laptops?
A: The DOS software may have conflicts with the parallel port due to the power management settings. (Most laptops control power output to the parallel port.) 
 Set the power management settings to desktop mode.
Q: Why is the parallel port loosing communication with the DOS software?
A: Processors above 800 MHz can cause the parallel port to loose synchronization with the device.
Change the parallel port timing. The port timing can be changed in the software by pressing Control-P while in the main menu screen.  This will prompt you to enter the “in“ and “out” delay times.  Set the delay times to the slowest speed (longest delay) of 255.  To increment the delay press F1.  To decrement the delay press F2.  To scroll through the different delay times use the up/down arrows.  Once the correct port times are input press enter to save the settings.
Q: Will there be a Windows software version for the PB10, SA10/20, and EMP10/20?
A: Unfortunately not.
The PB10, SA10/20, EMP10/20/30 are all discontinued products.  NEI will not be creating new software for the discontinued products or adding devices to discontinued products.  All of the current products are windows based.
Q: Where can I find documentation for the EMP10/20?
A: Information can be found for the EMP10/20 in the DOS software. 
Press F-10 to open the help file that contains information on how to connect hardware to the programmer and basic functions of the programmer.  A DOS manual is also available for download under the documentation heading on the website.  To find a list of supported devices for the EMP-10/20 browse the device list in the software. 
Q: What kind of power supply does the EMP series programmer require?
A: A wall transformer 12V AC or 15V DC.
 EMP-10, EMP-11, EMP-21 use a 1 Amp transformer
 EMP-20, EMP-30, EMP-31, EMP-300 use a 3 Amp transformer
Q: Does the EMP series require calibration?
A: No calibration is required.
Q: Why does the device checksum keep changing?
A: This may happen when using the DOS software.
 Increase the parallel port timing. The port timing can be changed in the software by pressing Control-P while in the main menu screen.  This will prompt you to enter the “in“ and “out” delay times.  Set the delay times to the slowest speed (longest delay) of 255.  To increment the delay press F1.  To decrement the delay press F2.  Toscroll through the different delay times use the up/down arrows.  Once the correct port times are input press enter to save the settings. 
Q: What does the error "Device Algorithm Failed to Initialize" mean?
A: The typical reason for this error is the software could not find the specified algorithm, or the software could not establish solid communication.
 Reseat the parallel cable and power cord. Making sure the cable is a standard cable and the power being supplied meets requirements.
 Make sure the programmer is in working order, can it program other chips.
 Edit the Default.ems file found in the Sessions folder and add the line LastProgrammer.PortOption=1 (This reconfigures the options of the parallel port)