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FEATURES

PROCUREMENT
What Goes in the PCB RFQ Checklist?
Want a quick response to the PCB assembly RFQ? Match the documentation that engineering has, plus the implementation that marketing envisions, plus the ramp time the boss has in mind.
by Robert Simon

DESIGN VALIDATION
Design for Reliability with Computer Modeling
The most comprehensive analysis can best be done virtually using computer modeling of the PCB in the intended environment, revealing weaknesses prior to fabrication.
by Dr. Randy Schueller and Cheryl Tulkoff

ROBOTICS
Product for Robotics Manufacturing
Robotics has received an increase of attention in the media thanks to overall advances in the technology. A look at the key areas of design for robotics manufacturing (DFRM), and recommendations for products transitioning from the design to production phase.
by Scott Mazur

AQUEOUS TECHNOLOGIES
Good Chemistry
Mike Konrad has gone from garage to penthouse cleaning up after other engineers.
by Chelsey Drysdale

SOLDER MATERIALS
Flux Impact on Void Reduction in Bottom Terminated Components
Excessive voiding inhibits heat transfer between the thermal pad on the QFN and the PWB pad. Can improved flux coatings on solder preforms reduce the defect?
by Seth Homer and Dr. Ronald C. Lasky

END-MARKETS
The Emerging Market for Intelligent Self-Service Kiosks
Originally electromechanical in design and largely electronic today, DIY machines will ring up big sales for some EMS/ODMs.
by Randall Sherman

FIRST PERSON

• CAVEAT LECTOR
  Broken eggs.
  Mike Buetow

MONEY MATTERS

• ROI
  The future in 3-D.
  Peter Bigelow

TECH TALK

• ON THE FOREFRONT
  Organic substrates.
  E. Jan Vardaman

• GETTING LEAN
  Lean DfM.
  Yousef Heidari

• SCREEN PRINTING
  Applying adhesives.
  Michael Martel

• TECH TIPS
  Flux standard in flux.
  Karl Seelig and Tim O’Neill

• TEST AND INSPECTION
  A failure of analysis?
  Robert Boguski