Technical Library | 2020-12-02 20:36:54.0
Industry 4.0 is a topic of much discussion within the electronics manufacturing industry. Manufacturers and vendors are trying to come to terms with what that means. In the most simplistic of terms, Industry 4.0 is a trend toward automation and data exchange within the manufacturing process. This basically requires connectivity and communication from machine to machine within the manufacturing line. The challenge is to collect data from each of the systems within the line and make that data available to the rest of the machines. Without test and inspection, there is no Industry 4.0. The whole purpose of test and inspection is to collect actionable data that may be used to reduce defects and maximize efficiency within the manufacturing line. The goal is to minimize scrap and get a really good handle on those process parameters that need to be put in place to manufacture products the right way the first time. For maximum efficiency, three inspection systems are required within the production line. These are solder paste inspection (SPI) post-solder deposition, automated optical inspection (AOI) post-placement, and AOI post-reflow. This requires a substantial investment; however, the combination of all three inspection machines is really the only true way to provide feedback for each stage of the manufacturing process.
Technical Library | 2019-06-20 07:45:19.0
One of the two basic risks of employing the commercially accepted, Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) compliant, lead-free (Pb-free) electronics is the threat to the electronics reliability from the growth of tin whiskers. The other basic risk deals with Pb-free solder joint reliability.
Technical Library | 2023-09-16 03:50:08.0
Learn everything you need to know about DIP assembly lines, from the basics to advanced topics. This guide covers the components of a DIP assembly line, the process of DIP assembly, and the benefits of using DIP assembly lines.
Technical Library | 2023-09-16 07:10:47.0
LED high speed pick and place machines are a complex and specialized piece of equipment. In this quick guide, we will cover the basics of how these machines work, as well as some of the factors to consider when choosing one.
Technical Library | 2023-09-16 03:40:41.0
Wave soldering machines are the most efficient way to solder PCBs. They are used to solder components to a PCB by passing the PCB through a wave of molten solder. This process is fast, accurate, and repeatable, making it ideal for mass production. In this article, we will discuss the basics of wave soldering machines, including their components, operation, and benefits. We will also provide a buying guide to help you choose the right wave soldering machine for your needs.
Technical Library | 2019-05-31 14:15:01.0
ACI Technologies (ACI) is working on a project where one of the challenges is removing a large quantity of heat from audio amplifier circuits. This challenge is further complicated in that the heat generating circuits are located in a rack mounted box that needs to be shielded from electro-magnetic interference (EMI). Mechanically, this means that there cannot be open passages into the rack mounted box. We will first review the basic types of cooling available as commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) systems for the electronics industry, then discuss the pros and cons of each for different applications, and finally reveal the criteria and solution for the ACI project.
Technical Library | 2019-05-21 17:34:08.0
Flip chip components have been gaining popularity in the electronics industry since their introduction in the 1960s. Advances in attach methods and adhesives, as well as the drive for smaller and faster electronic devices made the technology take off. The basic premise of the flip chip is that the chip (semiconductor device) is mounted flipped from the traditional position. The traditional method of mounting a die is to mount it on a lead frame with the circuit and bond pads face up. The bond pads then receive a bond wire which then connects to the proper lead on the lead frame. Flip chips are mounted face down onto a substrate using small bumps on the bond pads to make direct electrical connection to their respective pads on the substrate. Stay tuned for more information on attachment techniques next month. This article will focus on how to rework flip chips.
Technical Library | 2012-02-09 15:26:56.0
The Fundamentals of Signature Analysis Technical document discusses the basics of power-off analog signature analysis, how it relates to basic electronic devices and how it is used for circuit board troubleshooting.
Technical Library | 2007-03-13 14:29:57.0
This article tells about the basics of manufacturing printed circuit boards including the terminology and the steps to processing a PCB.
Technical Library | 2009-12-14 20:31:18.0
In this article, I will present a basic overview of soldering for those who are new to the world of soldering and for those who could use a refresher. I will discuss the definition of soldering, the basics of metallurgy, how to choose the proper alloy, the purpose of a flux, soldering temperatures, and typical heating sources for soldering operations.
