Many customers have intially started designs with one device technology (for example, A1020A) and then converted the design to a new device type (for example, RH1020). In some cases, the customer may choose to not update the files before switching device types.

While in some cases, attempts to program similar device types may work, this is NOT an acceptable method of programming Actel devices. Due to the changes and differences in separate revisions of devices, there may be differences in the programming steps, including programming voltage level and length of time allowed before the device "times out" and is reported as a programming failure.

In addition, there are AC timing difference between different device types and if proper simulation is not performed, the new device types may not meet the same AC characteristics as the original device type.

REQUIRED: Customers should always update the design files to the new device type, whenever a change is made, prior to programming any of the new device types. This will ensure that the device receives the proper programming steps and settings.

RECOMMENDED: It is recommended, but not required, that customers re-simulate their designs for the new device type, to ensure that all timing requirements are met.

Actel does not provide any warranty for devices that are programmed with an incorrect device type file. Programming failures that are found to have been programmed with the incorrect file types will be not accepted for replacement.

As always, all valid programming failures are accepted for replacement when proper programming procedures and files are used.