In a non-volatile memory system, the programming time period allocated for the program pulse is adjusted as a function of the voltage level of the pump pulse required so that the total number of pump pulses required to program the charge storage element to the required threshold voltage is reduced. The articulating vacuum hose includes a vacuum hose assembly and an articulating arm. The braking system is located on one of a number of railcars dispersed throughout the train. A plunger has a traveling valve that is located for reciprocation within the one barrel. The component comprises an integrated circuit, a housing body, a wiring device overlapping the integrated circuit and the housing body, and one or more external contact devices in communication with the wiring device.