We have been having trouble programming new 16F877, 16F628A & 18F2420 devices using Quasar Micropro 26B2. Currently getting around 10-20% failure rate. Programmer says either ROM error (877 & 2420) or EEPROM error (especially with 628A). Have tried different programmers, different PC & different ICSP lead. Fit new PIC and all is well.

We use surface mount devices and programme with an in circuit facility. We also buy all our devices from reputable suppliers in production packaging. We have even resorted to programming them before loading onto the board to save reworking. Workshop is a fully static safe environment.

Anyone else been having trouble? or can you make some suggestions to stop failures.
Tim.

PS have noticed a supply shortage of some PIC's. Is Microchip having batch problems?