Narrowing the choices of the best flux vehicle.

A high-power LED (light-emitting diode) is defined as an LED package that operates at 1W of power or higher. LEDs are semiconductor-based diodes that emit light when a forward voltage is applied. This permits a small form factor to produce a lot of light while maintaining fantastic efficiency, permitting a single LED to pump out hundreds, or even thousands, of lumens. The high-power LED market thrives on the widening application base of LEDs, specifically in the automotive industry, due to an increasing number of government initiatives that promote energy conservation and efficiency. Other factors that contribute to their use include small size; long life and continuous usage; less power consumption and low voltage; and an increasing number of high-brightness applications.

Deep dives on defect resolution, one at a time.

Most medium-to-high volume electronics manufacturing services (EMS) providers design their new product introduction (NPI) process to identify issues in printed circuit board (PCB) layout, overall product design or process flow that create defect opportunities. Unfortunately, a key challenge in the EMS industry is convincing customers to adopt those recommendations. Additionally, some design or process issues escape NPI or pilot production, not becoming evident until a product is running at full volume. SigmaTron International’s team in its Acuña, Mexico, facility is working to change those dynamics one customer at a time.

A one-size-fits-all approach leaves no room for life’s uncertainties.

Certainty has its devotees.

It is a truth universally acknowledged that some prefer deference to authority, as opposed to independently determining a course of action, making responsible decisions on their own and accepting the consequences. It’s so much easier when others call the shots; all one must do is acquire marching orders and execute accordingly. No muss, no fuss. One sleeps through the night unburdened by what-ifs. The shot-callers are the only ones who are sleep-deprived.

Improper management of client info can result in financial or legal repercussions.

Prior to establishing any business relationship, most companies require signed nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) for all parties involved with the manufacture of their products. But an NDA is not a license to share everything about a customer’s product. OEMs, EMS companies and PCB manufacturers have an obligation to protect their customers’ intellectual property (IP).

I can’t tell you the number of times I have received an email from a customer requesting a PCB quote that has attached to it not only the Gerber file(s) for the board, but also the assembly drawing, the bill of material and the schematic drawing for the entire product.