Little bumps appearing where the staple went in for the 1/2" manufactured hardwood floor
Well, it turns out, the answer is I'm an idiot. I misread the guidelines and used the wrong gauge of staples.

As the result, I got this textbook description from the manufacturer:


  IMPORTANT: Be sure not to over-drive the fastener past the nail slot, this can lead to a condition known as a
      telegraphing fastener. A telegraphing fastener is the visible effect of excessive pressure being placed on the
      wood fibers which causes the appearance of a bump to occur just above the fasteners. This condition becomes
      most apparent when natural or artificial light reflects across the surface of the floor causing the bump to
      become visible to the eye. This condition can sometimes be difficult to see, so make sure to thoroughly
      examine the first few rows of flooring to make certain telegraphing does not exist. Johnson Premium Hardwood
      does not warrant against this condition since telegraphing fasteners are not manufacturing related. If you
      should encounter this condition immediately stop the installation and contact Johnson’s Technical Department
      and or the manufacturer of the nailer for technical advice. It is essential that the flooring installer make sure that
      the nailer/stapler is properly adjusted for the particular floor that is being installed i.e. the fastener(s) MUST
      enter the nail slot at the correct angle and height, do not over-drive the fastener(s) so as not to cause damage
      to the board e.g. telegraphing fasteners, broken or split tongues, peaking, squeaking, or crackling noises to
      occur. 


I'm redoing it -- 3 day - $600 lesson learned. Read more carefully....