IR Rework
A Novel IR Rework System
Lead-free raises the reworked board temperature – and increases risk of frying other parts. Dynamic temperature control and sensors help manage the heat.
Mark Cannon
Cover Story
Mixed Technology Gets Selective
Through-hole is still a fundamental processing step – most boards today mix SMT and PTH technology. Selective and fountain soldering can reduce skips and opens over traditional wave processes. Here's a primer.
Scott Buttars
Academic Research
Program for Calculation of Flip-Chip Standoff Height
A simple Visual Basic file easily calculates bump heights and predicts flip-chip standoff gaps.
Joshua Ampofo, Richard LaBennett, S. Akwaboa and Dr. F. Ferguson
Pb-Free Transition
Switching to Pb-Free: Wave Soldering
How to adjust conveyors, pots, preheaters and solder modules for Pb-free processes.
Markus Walter
AOI
Zero-Defect IC Inspection
What role does camera view play in catching potential defects? The advantages and disadvantages of inspections performed with orthogonal and inclined cameras.
Peter Krippner
Backend Processes
0.1 Cent RFID Chip Assembly?
While the world argues over the "nickel tag," the pursuit is on for technologies that would slash manufacturing costs.
Hugo Pristauz
Caveat Lector
When exporting becomes smelly.
Mike Buetow
Talking Heads
OK International's Mark Cowell.
Mike Buetow
Focus on Business
Project launch procedures.
Susan Mucha
Global Sourcing
Strategic procurement teams.
Don Payne
On the Forefront
How a fire may stop the margin burn.
E. Jan Vardaman
Screen Printing
Wafer bumping and BGA ball placement.
Clive Ashmore
Better Manufacturing
Meeting the test.
Peter Grundy
Soldering Tips
'No-flow' reflow encapsulants.
American Competitiveness Institute
Wave Soldering
Soldering non-plated through-holes.
Gerjan Diepstraten
Test and Inspection
The shotgun approach.
Stig Oresjo
Countdown to Pb-Free
Flux-component and flux-alloy interactions.
Dr. Ning-Cheng Lee
Process Doctor
Cleanliness is next to ... reliability.
Terry Munson
Equipment Advances
Samsung Techwin's SM Series
Industry News
Market Watch
Assembly Insider
Ad Index
Product Spotlight
Classifieds
On the cover: Selective soldering is gaining momentum for PTH processing. (Photo courtesy Juki Automation Systems)