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FEATURES

STENCIL CLEANING
Reducing Stencil Wipe Frequency
Do nanocoatings really extend stencil underwipe intervals? As part of a stencil study, two nanocoated fine-grain stencils were evaluated using a complex test vehicle. The investigators expected a tenfold extension of wipe intervals would show a definite decline in print quality. The results were amazing – and unexpected.
by Chrys Shea and Ray Whittier

REFLOW PROFILING
The Basics of Thermal Profiling for Sensitive Components
Today’s boards are designed with a broad mix of large and small parts, which complicates development of the right thermal profile. Finding a temperature setting that’s acceptable to both larger and smaller packages, while juggling tradeoffs and special considerations, is a balancing act. Here’s how to navigate it.
by Simon Ilustre

PARTNERSHIPS
A Systems-Level Approach to Product Development
Are OEMs missing out on technology improvements because of disconnects with their primary suppliers? And if so, could a change in the structure between the two groups serve to expedite the rate of new technology development and implementation?
by Matt Perry and Zhiwei Cai

FIRST PERSON

• CAVEAT LECTOR
  All in one.
  Mike Buetow

MONEY MATTERS

• ROI
  New attitudes.
  Peter Bigelow

• FOCUS ON BUSINESS
  Freshen up.
  Susan Mucha

TECH TALK

• SCREEN PRINTING
  Paste management.
  Clive Ashmore

• TEST AND INSPECTION
  Buy or rent?
  Yang Hua