Technical Library | 2023-09-16 06:04:19.0
Off-line selective wave soldering machines are the best way to solder complex PCBs. They allow you to solder only the components that need to be soldered, saving time and material.
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 | 2020-06-02 15:16:51.0
A commercial systems manufacturer working on a major defense program contacted the Helpline for urgent assistance with an issue of failed parts during reliability testing. They were attempting to incorporate commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) computer-related hardware into a battlefield system and were experiencing reliability issues. It was noted that the parts were labeled by the vendor as "compliant to military (or MIL) standards" but not clearly identified as tin-lead or lead-free. ACI Technologies has supported a number of customers with lead-free issues and we assisted the customer in developing a short term and long-term solution to their problem.
Technical Library | 2020-07-01 19:45:04.0
A company approached ACI Technologies (ACI) for assistance with a new product that was about to undergo its initial proof-of-concept prototype build. This product was an item that was being furnished to the Department of Defense for a program designed to increase the technical capabilities of computer equipment issued to the war fighter. The requirements for this item specified the use of tin-lead solder during assembly of production units. One of the main responsibilities for ACI during this project was to assist the client in mitigating the risk introduced using commercial off-the-shelf materials that may be lead-free.
Technical Library | 2019-05-23 10:38:07.0
Solvent and co-solvent cleaning involves the use of engineered solvents in a vapor phase system. The solvents classically used were Class 1 Ozone Depleting Substances, but new types of solvents have been developed that are less environmentally harmful. In some cases, isopropyl alcohol is used with a co-solvent. In these types of cleaning systems, a cloud of boiling vapor solvent is maintained between a boil sump and a cooling coil. When the items to be cleaned are immersed in the vapor cloud, the solvent condenses on the assemblies and acts to dissolve the residues. These processes usually involve a final rinse step outside of the vapor cloud to ensure that all dissolved residues are washed off the assemblies (Figure 1).
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 | 2019-05-24 09:27:33.0
Decapsulation, or de-cap, is a failure analysis technique which involves the removal of material packaging from an integrated circuit (IC). After de-cap, visual inspection by optical microscopy of the internal circuitry may reveal areas where damage is most likely to have occurred. In addition, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS) can identify the composition of any anomalies present after de-cap under higher magnification. The removal process of package material can be done either mechanically or chemically depending on the design of the integrated circuit. With ceramic packaging, de-cap is usually done mechanically by chiseling off the top with a fine razor and small hammer. For plastic packaging, de-cap requires chemical etching by strong acids. In this Tech Tips article, de-cap by chemical etching will be outlined step by step.
Technical Library | 2019-05-29 10:38:59.0
Decapsulation, or de-cap, is a failure analysis technique which involves the removal of material packaging from an integrated circuit (IC). After de-cap, visual inspection by optical microscopy of the internal circuitry may reveal areas where damage is most likely to have occurred. In addition, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDS) can identify the composition of any anomalies present after de-cap under higher magnification. The removal process of package material can be done either mechanically or chemically depending on the design of the integrated circuit. With ceramic packaging, de-cap is usually done mechanically by chiseling off the top with a fine razor and small hammer. For plastic packaging, de-cap requires chemical etching by strong acids. In this Tech Tips article, de-cap by chemical etching will be outlined step by step.
Technical Library | 2019-06-04 10:19:46.0
Interconnection technology relies very heavily on the ability of the conductors on a printed wiring assembly to maintain reliable signal integrity. Harsh environmental factors can precipitate a loss of conductivity due to oxidation and corrosion. Connections are typically soldered or inserted using pressure fitted connectors to obtain enough surface contact to meet the electrical conductivity requirements. In pressure contacts, surface integrity is especially critical where the abrasive effects of retraction and insertion can wear off the metallic finish from the contact area. This can expose the underlying copper or nickel and lead to increased resistance at the contact points. These types of conductors are frequently found in card edge connectors where the terminations are plated with a layer of nickel and gold (frequently referred to as gold fingers). A hard gold is typically used containing very small amounts of nickel and cobalt to increase the wear resistance.
Technical Library | 2023-11-20 09:56:38.0
Understanding The Crucial Role Of Dust Collectors In PCB Depaneling Machines Precision is paramount in PCB manufacturing, but it must go hand in hand with cleanliness. The intrusion of dust and debris can wreak havoc on delicate electronics. This article explores the pivotal role of dust collectors, their operation, and their necessity for various PCB depaneling machines. The Dust Collector's Crucial Function Dust collectors, also known as dust extractors, play an indispensable role in PCB manufacturing. When a PCB depaneling machine or a Laser PCB Depaneling machine is in operation, it generates a significant amount of dust. The dust collector promptly engages its vacuum motor to suction fine particles off the PCB, directing them to a collector equipped with a filtration system. Which Models Of PCB Depanelers Require Dust Collector? Several PCB depaneling machines necessitate dust collectors to ensure precision and cleanliness, including: I.C.T-5700 Offline Depaneling Machine, high precision, easy manual operation, dual platform, high efficiency. I.C.T-IR350 In-line depaneling machine, high precision, rapid operation, suitable for integration into the SMT production line for Industry 4.0 and AI automated production. I.C.T-LCO350 Laser cutting ensures cutting accuracy of 0.002, ideal for precise cutting requirements. I.C.T-100A Desktop PCB depaneling machine with compact size and high precision, suitable for smaller-scale operations. The Science Behind PCB Dust Collectors To prevent charged dust particles from adhering to PCBs, PCB depaneling machines are equipped with ionizing guns. These devices emit ions that neutralize static charges, making dust particles less likely to stick to freshly cut PCBs. The Vacuum Effect: Suctioning Away Dust During PCB depaneling, a cloud of dust is produced. The dust collector utilizes a robust suction system, often powered by vacuum motors, to draw dust away from the work area. Collected dust is transported to a designated collection point within the dust collector. A Difference In Design: I.C.T-5700 Vs. I.C.T-IR350 The placement of the dust collection apparatus distinguishes PCB depaneling machines. I.C.T-5700 has a bottom-mounted system capturing falling dust, while I.C.T-IR350 features a top-mounted system preventing dust settling on the work surface. This strategic difference ensures efficient removal of dust and debris, guaranteeing a clean and precise manufacturing process. Check: If you want to learn about the comparison of I.C.T-5700 and I.C.T-IR350. The Importance Of Filter Replacement The efficiency of a dust collector relies on its filter, necessitating periodic replacement every 1-3 years, depending on usage frequency. Regular filter maintenance ensures optimal performance. Dust Collectors: Keep Your PCB Manufacturing Clean And Precise Precision in PCB manufacturing is not solely about cutting-edge machinery but also about cleanliness. If you seek a dust collector for your PCB depaneling machine, contact us today to explore your options. Ensure your operations maintain cleanliness, efficiency, and meet the high standards of modern PCB manufacturing. Don't let dust compromise your precision – let's keep it clean together!
