A nonvolatile memory device performs a program operation using an incremental pulse programming scheme in which a plurality of program loops alternate between a coarse-fine verify operation, and a fine verify operation according to a value of a program loop counter. In each layer, a sub-vector of the transmitted vector is estimated. The invention also provides a conjugation kit. A knee well is formed in the inner surface of the base adjacent the front end. During assembly, generally smooth portion 168 of the internal spline connector 160 engages and guides spline portion 174 of the external spline connector 162 to longitudinally and circumferentially align the spline portions 174 and 166.