Hypertech was started in 1985 by Mark Heffington. Technology drives what Hypertech does as a company and what they do differs from most other manufacturers of speed equipment in that they do not actually make hard parts. Rather, their main product is knowledge, the ability to tune automotive computers to produce better performance than they come from the factory with. Hypertech's highly skilled staff includes engineers and computer experts that are also automotive enthusiasts. Hypertech leads the industry in the technology of high-performance engine tuning of computer-controlled vehicles. Electronic engine controls have changed dramatically since they were first introduced in the early 1980s and Hypertech has embraced these changes and developed the tools to improve the capabilities of electronic controls. Originally automotive computers used replaceable PROMs or "chips" to tailor an electronic control module (ECM), for specific engine, powertrain and vehicle combinations. Hypertech designed the original Power Chips to reprogram these chips to improve performance capabilities of these vehicles. Eventually calibration chips were eliminated from electronic control units (ECU) and instead that information is stored in the unit's programmable memory. Hypertech engineered the Power Programmer to load the Power Tuning program directly into the ECU's programmable memory. These advanced ECUs control obvious engine functions such as air/fuel mixture, spark timing and maximum rpm, but in addition also control transmission shift points and firmness, limit top speed and display speedometer and odometer readings. The Power Programmer is not just a tuning chip; it is now a complete automotive computer programming tool. It allows automotive performance devotees to reprogram their vehicle's computer to perform correctly with aftermarket parts such as non-stock wheels, tires and rear end ratios. Hypertech still makes their renowned Power Chips for older vehicles, while constantly developing their Power Programmers to keep pace with the newest te0chnology. Automotive computer systems will continue to evolve and Hypertech will continue to keep up with the latest technology and design tuning products that remain at the forefront of what is possible.