Date   : Thu, 15 Aug 1985 11:41:22 EDT
From   : David Towson (SECAD) <towson@AMSAA.ARPA>
Subject: Microprocessors Unlimited, an extraordinary company:

Fellow hardware hackers - I was interested in some recent postings concerning
Microprocessors Unlimited in Beggs, Oklahoma, (918) 267-4961.  Several readers
have reported very favorably concerning their dealings with this company, and
since I needed some parts, I decided to give them a try.  I telephoned my
order on Friday 9 August, and the parts arrived via UPS Blue on Tuesday the
13th.

     Just placing the order on the phone was a pleasant experience.  The lady
with whom I spoke explained carefully who made each chip, its rated speed, its
price, and what optional parts were available.  After I had made my selection,
she took the shipping and billing information, and then read-back ABSOLUTELY
EVERYTHING concerning the order to verify that she had the correct infor-
mation.  The company prefers to take a credit-card number for their own
protection, but to be paid by check when the merchandise is received.  Thus,
an invoice accompanies the package; and if prompt payment is made, no billing
is submitted to the credit-card company.

     The chips were packed in anti-static carriers, and the group of carriers
were then wrapped in aluminum foil.  A label cautioning the user about static
damage had been affixed to the foil package.  A stout shipping box with
adequate shock-absorbant packing was used.

     Along with the parts, there was a nine-page "newsletter" written by John
Gilchrist, who I presume is the proprietor.  Some of the interesting items:
1. Several portions dealing with static electricity damage to IC's , and how
   to prevent it.  (Microprocessors Unlimited shipping personnel work barefoot
   on a conductive floor mat!)
2. A discussion of the disadvantages of doing circuit development work using
   surplus IC's.
3. A statement that the author believes three Japanese companies - NEC, Hitachi
   and Fujitsu - make the best quality IC's.
4. A brief description of a Mitsubishi 64K DRAM having on-chip refresh.
5. A warning that to avoid damage, 2732A EPROMS must be programmed with 21
   volts rather than the 25 volts used for non-suffix 2732's.
6. Several items dealing with the company's business policies.

     So far, I have not tested any of the material I received.  If I discover
anything further of interest concerning this company, I will post another
message.


Dave
towson@amsaa.arpa