BRUSSELS - HP is applying for an exemption from the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive on the grounds of reliability, according to a news report last week.

The exemption HP seeks is for fine-pitch components "with electrical terminations spaced with centers 0.65mm or less apart."

Tin whiskers, which are known to cause shorts, are behind HP's request, a company spokesman told Electronics Weekly.

HP is pushing for a composition that includes 15% lead mixed with tin.

Tin whiskers was also behind Sony's application for an exemption. Sony seeks inclusion of five to 10% lead in the electroplated tin coating that goes on flexible circuits that are used as plug-in connectors between PCBs.

• Prev
• Next