Programmer fails repeatedly

[Altera_Forum]

hi 

 I'm a newcomer to Quartus/CPLD programming. I'm using a MAXII EPM240T100C5N CPLD on a basic development board. I usually start Quartus first, then connect power to the dev board then plug in the ByteBlaster cable.  I have trouble getting a VHDL programme to load 100% successfully, it often takes 10-15 attempts, usually failing at the 56% mark, but later also, even as late as 98%.  Following a method I saw on youtube, after opening the programmer, I first delete the pof file shown, click Auto Detect, then Add File and add the pof file from there. This brings up a second device, so I then delete the first file/device that came up when I clicked Auto Detect. I check the Configure box and press Start. Sometimes this works straight away, but maybe only once every 10 attempts. The other times I have to repeatedly press Start, or sometimes I'll Erase first then press Start, but it doesn't seem to make much difference.  Originally, I used to just open the programmer and use the pof file/device that was there, but I had the same or worse experience trying to get a 100% successful result. What am I doing wrong ?  regards

[Altera_Forum]

Did you take all the ESD precautions while handling your board?

[Altera_Forum]

Probably not, is that the reason ?

[Altera_Forum]

That could always be the reason for anything :) 

 If you have a second development board, try to program that one and see if you get any success

[Altera_Forum]

There should be absolutely no restrictions on what order you do any of the steps you mention. 

 If the board is failing to program, especially as this is an off the shelf development board, you need to examine the hardware - the board, the ByteBlaster and all the cables.  If you have access to any other programming hardware I suggest you try that. If not make sure all the connections are sound - no contamination in any of the cable connections.  Has this board ever programmed reliably? Is the power supply to the board delivering the right voltage? Is there another fault on the board that is causing it to draw too much current from your supply, thus lowering the supply voltage?  Regards, Alex