Glenbrook Technologies X-Ray: Anyone using this??

JD- I have used a few of GlenBrook's machines.. Jewel Box 70, Jewel Box 90, and RTX-113. Currently we have the RTX -113 on our shop floor as we speak. I like the machine but wished I would have went for for the angle viewing option or even the BGA software. It is easy to use and accomodates large boards. Does does a good job for most of our boards. Only one case did we have a problem - as that boards had HUGE ground planes and heat sink. But Glenbrook did help as I was able to send the boards to them for x-ray. I have not needed service on my current machine (1.5 years old). From A safety point We purchased the Meter just as a precaution and have had no radiation issues (nor did I expect any) For us the price was right (less than $45K)and has worked well. Ours is used for process prove out and Rework. I need to many other machines in my shop not to be economical Enjoy, Cal CTDI.com cdriscoll@ctdi.com

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We have had an RTX-113 since 1997. I echo Cal's comments with respect to experiences with the unit and the desire for the angle viewing. Don't know if the angle viewing is available on the RTX-113. You should look at a unit with that option before making a final decision. It allows you to verify degree of wetting of the balls to lands and proper collapse of the balls.

Our machine was refitted with a new tube and power supply in 2002 because the image was starting to get weak. That was the first time the machine required any work after five years of use. At that time I had Glenbrook install the zoom camera option. That has helped with image quality when viewing fine pitch BGAs and BGAs with integral heatsinks. You may want to investigate that. Plan on buying a radiation meter to make periodic checks.

Bob

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The Angle view (or Variable Angle Viewing) gives you another perspective on joint inspection. Glenbrook has two great illistrations on the varible angle viewing literature (.pdf file): Here are a few examples: 1) Looking straight down on the ball..it should be cymetrical all the way around...to varify this you use the angle view to see. 2)We have vias used for heat sinking...and want to make sure the via is filled with solder. These vias are under gull wing components and we need to make sure they fill.. So looking straight down all looks OK, Like looking straight down on top of a soda can(Looks like a circle), Being able to view from the side or angle now it look cylindrical instead of a circle.

Glenbrook has plenty of pics to support this.

enjoy Cal

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