NEEDHAM, MA, – Microwave Development Labs (MDL), a world leader in microwave components and the largest independent producer of waveguide subassemblies in the microwave industry, will be celebrating its 75th  year in business at the 2023 IEEE International Microwave Symposium (IMS2023) exhibition in the San Diego Convention Center (San Diego, CA) on June 13-15, 2023.

Visitors to the show floor are invited to stop by Booth #2635 to share in the groundbreaking development of components from one of the microwave industry’s most successful firms.

The Company that Introduced the Riblet Coupler

Established in 1948 in Needham Heights, MA, MDL is a leading supplier of components and assemblies for RF, microwave, and millimeter-wave applications requiring low-loss transmission of electromagnetic (EM) energy. MDL has built an experienced, expert staff of design engineers capable of working closely with each customer’s specific electrical and mechanical specifications to meet the most demanding custom requirements.

The company’s rich history includes pioneering the Riblet coupler in 1948 for use at microwave frequencies, before that portion of the frequency spectrum was widely used for transmission of electromagnetic (EM) waves. From that innovative first year, the company has never stopped enhancing microwave coupling solutions, leading to such achievements as the thin wall monopulse comparator for the Lunar Excursion Module in the 1960’s and waveguide feed and monopulse networks for F-14 and F-15 fighter aircraft in the 1970’s.

Internally milled waveguide technology from MDL developed during the 1980’s helped reduce the size and weight of high-performance waveguide components for radar systems in F-18 fighter and B-1 bomber aircraft, long before new product development for military and aerospace customers required adherence to reduced size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP-C) trends.

Statement from Gordon Riblet

Reaching its 75th  year in business, company president Gordon P. Riblet said: “We’ve made our share of parts at frequencies through 50 GHz and now we are looking to higher frequencies for such applications as 5G/6G, military & aerospace”. Riblet noted that the company has always been a leader in performance, producing high-performance components with low loss, excellent VSWR, and high power-handling capabilities, adding:

“For the first 75 years, we applied the latest test and software tools to quickly develop customers’ specialized requirements, no matter how challenging. For the next 75 years, we hope to continue to be a leader in performance and technology, helping to pave the way for system-level advances in military/aerospace, 5G/6G, and satellite communications (satcom) applications.”

ISO Certifications

MDL recently received ISO (International Organization for Standardization) 9001:2015 and Aerospace Standard 9100D certifications. The ITAR-registered company is committed to tight control of the quality management system standards and processes used in the design, fabrication, and testing of their precision waveguide components and waveguide assemblies. All products are 100% functional performance verified per the ISO 9001:2015 and AS 9100D quality management standards.

MADISON, AL – STI Electronics, Inc., a full service organization providing training services, training materials, analytical/failure analysis, prototyping, and contract PCB assembly, is pleased to announce the addition of Norma Low to its esteemed team as the Quality Manager. Low brings with her an impressive 16 years of experience in quality management, making her a valuable asset to the STI Team.

As a seasoned professional, Ms. Low has demonstrated exceptional expertise in quality management. Her extensive background includes certifications as a Lead Auditor, Internal Quality Auditor, Instructor, and Certified Trainer. With her wealth of knowledge and skills, Low is well- equipped to uphold and enhance the quality standards at STI Electronics.

“At STI Electronics, our commitment to delivering high-quality products and services to our customers is paramount,” said David Raby, President/CEO of STI Electronics. “We are thrilled to welcome Norma as our new Quality Manager as her vast experience and expertise will further strengthen our quality management processes and ensure that our customers receive the utmost satisfaction.”

In her role as Quality Manager, Low will play a crucial role in overseeing and implementing effective quality control measures across STI Electronics’ range of services. By closely monitoring and continuously improving quality management systems, she will ensure that STI Electronics consistently delivers superior products and services that meet or exceed customer expectations.

“I am honored to join the esteemed team at STI Electronics as the Quality Manager,” said Norma Low. “Quality is the foundation of any successful organization, and I am committed to upholding and enhancing the exceptional quality standards that STI Electronics is renowned for. I look forward to working closely with the team and leveraging my experience to drive continuous improvement and deliver the highest level of customer satisfaction.”

Ms. Low’s appointment as Quality Manager at STI Electronics reinforces the company’s dedication to maintaining the highest quality standards throughout their operations. With her leadership and expertise, STI Electronics is well-positioned to further strengthen its position as a trusted provider of training services, analytical/failure analysis, prototyping, and contract PCB assembly.

For more information, visit https://stiusa.com 

MADISON, AL – STI Electronics, Inc., a full-service organization providing training services, training materials, analytical/failure analysis, prototyping, and contract PCB assembly, is proud to announce the 10-year anniversary of Sue Mardis, a valued member of their team. The milestone was celebrated with a cake shared among Mardis' colleagues, and she was presented with a certificate of appreciation, a monetary bonus, and additional paid time off by David Raby, President/CEO of STI Electronics.

In her role as an SMT Assembly Technician, Mardis has consistently showcased her expertise and dedication in manual soldering and assembly functions at STI Electronics. She plays a crucial role as a key team member, providing invaluable hand assembly support for both prototype and production printed circuit boards. Mardis' contributions are a testament to STI's commitment to delivering high-quality products.

"Sue Mardis has been a tremendous asset to STI Electronics for the past 10 years, and we are proud to celebrate this significant milestone with her," said David Raby, President/CEO of STI Electronics. "Her dedication, skills, and commitment to excellence have made a lasting impact on our organization. We congratulate Sue on this achievement and extend our sincere appreciation for her exceptional teamwork and contributions."

For more information about STI Electronics and their comprehensive range of services, visit their website at www.stiusa.com 

HONG KONG – The Fourth Industrial Revolution, also known as Industry 4.0, has been a driving force for change across numerous industries globally. As an Electronic Manufacturing Services (EMS) provider, Ryder Industries has been at the forefront of this trend, applying cutting-edge technologies and strategies to improve our production capabilities. In this article, we will explore the growing importance of automation and Industry 4.0 in the EMS sector and discuss how Ryder Industries is embracing these trends to deliver exceptional value to our customers.

The Global Trend Towards Industry 4.0 and Automation in EMS

The EMS industry has seen a global shift towards automation, with companies seeking to optimize their production lines to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality. Key elements of Industry 4.0, such as the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), artificial intelligence, robotics, and data analytics, have been transforming the EMS landscape.

These technologies have enabled EMS providers to develop smart factories that integrate machines, processes, and systems, creating an environment where data is continuously collected, analyzed, and acted upon. This data-driven approach allows for more informed decision-making, resulting in streamlined processes and enhanced performance.

Ryder Industries: Pioneering Automation and Industry 4.0 in EMS

As an industry leader, Ryder Industries has been actively investing in Industry 4.0 and automation technologies to stay ahead of the curve. Our commitment to innovation is evident in our facilities, which feature advanced manufacturing equipment and sophisticated production processes. Here are some important ways in which we are using these technologies to enhance our operations:

Smart Manufacturing

• We have implemented a robust and integrated manufacturing system that incorporates Industry 4.0 technologies, such as IIoT and advanced data analytics. Industry 4.0 technology, such as extensive process instrumentation feeding our powerful Manufacturing Execution System (“MES”). This monitors and controls our processes in real time, improving quality, optimising efficiency, and reducing down time.

Robotics and Automation

• Ryder Industries has introduced various robotic and automated systems into its production lines, ranging from automated material handling systems to advanced soldering and inspection robots. These technologies not only enhance our production speed and accuracy, but also minimize the likelihood of human error, ensuring the highest quality of products for our customers.

Continuous improvement and advanced manufacturing

“How can we improve?” is a constant concern at all levels, from detail to strategy. This is why Quality is such a great marker. It is also the driver for the adoption of innovative technology. Such as our new Unattended Plastic Injection Facility, part of Ryder’s Advanced Manufacturing Hub, in which new methods and machines are trialled, honed, and put into closely observed use. New materials, new components and new processes are the focus of this team, always with an eye to improving quality and cost.

Workforce Development

Ryder Industries recognizes that our team is crucial to our success. We invest in continuous training and upskilling programs to ensure that our employees are well-equipped to manage and operate the sophisticated technologies that power our Industry 4.0-driven production lines.

The adoption of Industry 4.0 and automation technologies is essential for EMS providers to remain competitive in today's rapidly evolving marketplace. At Ryder Industries, we are committed to staying at the forefront of these trends, continuously investing in cutting-edge technologies and strategies that enable us to deliver exceptional value to our customers. By embracing the principles of Industry 4.0 and automation, we are well-positioned to meet the challenges of the future and continue to be a reliable partner for our clients in the electronics manufacturing sector.