Thermo Electron’s NITON Analyzers business unit has released a new version of software for its NITON XLt 797 portable XRF (x-ray fluorescence) analyzer. Version 4.4, enables users to establish thresholds for rapid screening of solder bars, circuit boards and their components, then displays pass or fail symbols for each regulated element.
 
Whether manufacturers are segregating Pb and Pb-free stock, performing due diligence testing to verify supplier certifications or controlling solder chemistry as part of process quality control, the analyzer and software allows companies to employ non-technical personnel for these critical tasks. Easy-to-use data entry includes a virtual keyboard and integrated barcode scanner.
 
Capable of storing more than 3000 legally defensible measurements for later download. All readings are encrypted to prevent accidental or intentional tampering with the analytical result, yet may be easily incorporated into database or spreadsheet packages for reference to the company’s manufacturing and/or quality control systems.
 

Microscan’s miniature mega pixel imager Quadrus MINI high-resolution imager offers true auto-focus for industrial product identification. It will be introduced at ATExpo, September 27 – 29, in Booth 5729.
 
In the past, to achieve adjustable focus in changing applications, the imager’s hardware had to be physically calibrated for each new symbol distance. When using the MINI, all the operator needs to do is plug it in.
 
“The MINI imager performs much like an off the shelf digital camera,” said Microscan president Dennis Kaill. “You point it at the object of interest, in this case the symbol, and push the EZ button. It automatically focuses on the symbol and sets the exposure time, gain and illumination intensity. ” 
 
Designed for demanding, high performance applications in electronics manufacturing, it reads both linear bar codes and 2-D codes such as Data Matrix directly marked on boards and components. Ultra compact size (1.8”  x  2.10” x 1”, weight less than 2 ounces) and high resolution optics provide a wide scan window.
 
Featuring a mega pixel sensor with an extra wide field of view and proprietary algorithms, reads long bar codes omni-directionally and high density 2-D symbols. Has auto-focus, EZ button setup and green flash good read indicator.  Customizable data output and Windows’ based interface allows integration into existing platforms with minimal programming.
 
Microscan, microscan.com

STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN – At Productronica booth A5:337, MYDATA automation will unveil the MY500 stencil-free printer.
 
The machine uses Jet Printing Technology to shoot volumes of solder paste at 500 dots/sec. (1.8 million dots/h).
 
Because it needs no stencils, operators can change the print program in a matter of seconds and can control the volume of solder paste deposits for each pad.
 
Other benefits to stencil-free production include:
• No waiting for stencils to arrive from manufacturers
• No stencil production costs
• No hazardous solvents to clean stencils
• Instant control over paste volumes on pads
• Flexible programming possibilities
• Reduction of errors associated with screen printers
• Lower consumption of solder paste.
 

ASHBURN, VA – Zestron America will showcase its latest lead-free cleaning process solutions at booth 5609 during ATExpo from Sept. 27-29 in Rosemont, IL. The company will also feature its recent advances in PCB, stencil/misprint and maintenance cleaning applications. 
 
The applications technology and sales team will be available to answer precision cleaning questions.
 
As part of the SMTA International technical session series, Zestron’s application technology manager, Umut Tosun, will discuss “Effective Flux Removal Under Stringent Environmental Limitations.” The presentation will take place on Sept. 27 at 1:30 in Room 5 during SMT2: Post Assembly Cleaning of the Circuit Board-New Concerns, Requirements and Developments.
 
Zestron America, zestronusa.com