Episoder
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Today we're turning our attention to a cornerstone of modern electronics manufacturing: pick and place technology.
Joining me is Tim Kang, CEO of Hanwha Semitech Americas. With nearly two decades of experience in the electronics manufacturing space—starting as a mechanical engineer and now leading one of the top pick and place equipment providers—Tim brings a wealth of insight into what it takes to build reliable assemblies.
In this episode, we’re covering best practices for selecting the most appropriate pick and place machine, how to get the most out of your equipment, and the common mistakes that can compromise productivity and long-term reliability.
Whether you’re a process engineer, a line operator, or anyone involved in electronics manufacturing, this conversation is packed with practical advice you can use right away.
Hanwha's Website:
https://www.hanwha-pm.com/en/product/smt/index.asp -
Today we're exploring a concept that has deep roots in process safety and infrastructure management, but also has meaningful applications in electronics manufacturing: Damage Mechanism Reviews, or DMRs.
My guest today is Dheeraj Narang, a corrosion and reliability engineering specialist, process safety activist, and digital innovation researcher with an impressive track record across the energy sector.
Dheeraj has spent his career developing and implementing asset integrity programs for more than nine global energy companies across the U.S., India, and the Middle East.
He’s also a visionary advocate for using advanced technologies, industry best practices, and safety standards to uplift regions and workers where such systems are still under development.
Whether it's through his service on global conference committees or his contributions to cutting-edge digital initiatives, Dheeraj is on a mission to blend technology, safety, and human rights into a unified vision of operational excellence.
In this episode, we’ll discuss:
What Damage Mechanism Reviews are and why they matter.
How DMRs tie into reliability programs like FMECA.
How DMR thinking could benefit industries outside of oil and gas—including electronics manufacturing
and how emerging technologies like AI and machine learning can amplify the impact of these reviews.
Whether you're in energy, electronics, or any industry where reliability and safety are paramount, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.
Dheeraj's Contact Info:
[email protected]
References:
Narang, D. Dual Benefits of Damage Mechanism Reviews. 2024 AiCHE Spring Meeting and 20th Global Congress on Process Safety, New Orleans, LA, March 25-27, 2024.
Narang, D. Application of FMECA Methodology in Reliability Assessment of Complex Assets in Process Plant Industries. Reliability, Maintenance & Managing Risk Conference (RMMR) by American Society of Quality (ASQ), Pittsburgh-PA, July 25-26, 2024.
Narang, D. Feature Selection Methodology for Developing a Supervised Machine Learning Model for Risk Based Inspection Study on Process Plant Assets. 79th Instrumentation and Automation Symposium, Mary Kay O’Connor Safety & Risk Conference, College Station-TX, October 22-24, 2024.
Narang, D. Application of Machine Learning Concepts in Inspection Data Management System at Process Plant Facilities. 27th Process Safety International Symposium, Mary Kay O’Connor Safety & Risk Conference, College Station-TX, October 22-24, 2024. -
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On this episode of the Reliability Matters podcast, I left my usual studio for the IPC APEX Expo in Anaheim California.
I interviewed two subject matter experts on topics related to electronic assembly.
My guests are:
Gerald Gardner, Global Product Manager at Weller, a manufacturer of hand soldering equipment fume extraction systems, and precision tools.
Mike Young – CEO OF SASinno Americas, a manufacturer of wave and selective soldering equipment.
More information on my guest's companies is available here:
SASinno Americas
https://www.sasinnoamericas.com
Weller
https://www.weller-tools.com/us/en -
On this episode of the Reliability Matters podcast, I left my usual studio for the IPC APEX Expo in Anaheim California.
I interviewed three subject matter experts on various topics related to electronic assembly. My guests are:
Greg Beck, Director of Sales at Absolute EMS, a contract manufacturer.
Brian Watson, Co-Founder OF HyRel Technologies, a global provider of quick turn semiconductor modification solutions.
Keith Sweatman, Technical Advisor at Nihon Superior, a manufacturer of soldering materials.
More information on my guest's company is available here:
Absolute EMS
https://www.absolute-ems.com
HyRel Technologies
https://hyrel.tech
Nihon Superior
https://en.nihonsuperior.co.jp -
Today, we’re diving deep into the world of electronics manufacturing from a unique vantage point—that of the press.
My guest today is someone who has spent decades at the forefront of reporting on the electronics manufacturing industry. Mike Buetow, editor-in-chief of Circuits Assembly magazine, has covered everything from the latest technological advancements to the biggest challenges facing manufacturers today.
If there’s a major trend shaping the industry, you can bet Mike has written about it, analyzed it, and spoken with the experts behind it. Mike is also the host of his own podcast, PCB chat, available at pcbchat.com. I am so proud to say Mike also syndicates this show at pcbchat.com.
In this episode, we’ll explore the evolving landscape of electronics manufacturing, from supply chain disruptions and AI-driven automation to the future of ultra-high-density interconnects and the real impact of reshoring efforts.
We’ll also get an inside look at what it takes to cover this ever-changing industry—how stories are chosen, what topics are making waves, and what challenges lie ahead.
Printed Circuit Engineering Association (PCEA)
https://pcea.net
Circuits Assembly Magazine:
https://circuitsassembly.com/ca/ -
This episode is a little different in two ways. First, I didn’t record it in my studio. I recorded it at the SMTA Pan Pacific strategic Electronics symposium, affectionately known as PanPac, in beautiful Maui Hawaii.
Each year, I record a Reliability Matters podcast at PanPac. Normally, the format of the show is I ask questions, and my guests provide answers. On this episode however, I decided to let my guest do all of the talking.
The theme of this episode is Electronics: Down Memory Lane and a Vision for the Future.
My three guests on this episode will share their view of the history of electronics from three different perspectives. My guests are Dr. Ron Lasky from Dartmouth College, Dr John Evans, and Dr. Tom Duval, both from Auburn University. They’ll share their perspectives on the history of the electronics industry in presentation format. -
Today, we’re putting the spotlight on a critical component in surface mount technology, the stencil.
These precision-engineered tools are the unsung heroes of electronic assembly, playing a pivotal role in ensuring accurate solder paste deposition and, ultimately, the reliability of your circuit assemblies.
It's been long said that reliability begins at the solder print, and the print begins with the stencil.
Joining us today is Elias Malfavon Jr, President of Metal Etch Services, Inc. a stencil manufacturer operating in San Marcos California. Metal edge services was founded 20 years ago in 2005.
We’ll explore the fascinating journey of stencil production, from design and material selection to the advanced laser cutting technologies that ensure microscopic precision.
We’ll also discuss the latest innovations in stencil technology, their impact on modern assembly processes, and how the industry is evolving to meet the challenges of ultra-high-density interconnects and miniaturization.
So, sit back, relax, and let’s uncover the critical role of SMT stencils in today’s electronics manufacturing landscape.
Elias Malfavon Jr's Contact Info:
[email protected]
Metal Etch Services, Inc.
https://metaletchservices.com
The D-Code Podcast
https://www.youtube.com/@The-D-Code -
Today, we're tackling a topic that has become increasingly vital in recent years: supply chain management.
With global supply chains recently under immense pressure from disruptions, shortages, and growing complexity, the need for smarter, more efficient solutions has never been greater.
And what better way to explore this than by discussing the cutting-edge role of AI-powered supply chain management software.
My guest today is Sebastian Schaal, the founder and CEO of Luminovo, a company at the forefront of transforming how supply chains are managed in the electronics industry. Sebastian Schaal is the founder of Luminovo, a leading software provider revolutionizing the electronics supply chain.
He holds two masters degrees—one in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the Technical University of Munich and another from Stanford University, where he was a Fulbright scholar focusing on Management and Computer Science.
Before founding Luminovo, Sebastian gained diverse industry experience, working on AI algorithms for signal processing and computer vision at Intel and robotics companies NavVis and Magazino.
Additionally, he served as a consultant at McKinsey, advising on data strategy.
Sebastian and his team are leveraging artificial intelligence to streamline processes, enhance collaboration, and future-proof supply chain operations.
In this episode, we'll explore how AI is reshaping supply chain management, the unique challenges facing the electronics industry, and what companies can do to stay ahead in an ever-changing global landscape.
This conversation is packed with insights you won't want to miss. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to learn about the innovations that are revolutionizing supply chains worldwide.
Luminovo
https://luminovo.com
Chapters:
00:00:00 The Role of AI in Revolutionizing Supply Chain Management
00:02:30 Innovation in Supply Chain Management: Origins and Vision
00:04:56 The Unsung Heroes of the Electronics Supply Chain
00:07:25 The Impact of Supply Chain Challenges on Business Growth
00:10:06 Challenges in Electronics Supply Chain Management
00:12:28 Navigating the Complexities of Supply Chain Management
00:14:51 AI and Machine Learning in Modern Supply Chain Management
00:17:31 Enhancing Supply Chain Resilience with Digitalization and Collaboration
00:20:03 Enhancing Collaboration with Digital Tools
00:22:26 Automating Processes for Efficiency and Cost Optimization
00:24:55 Choosing the Right Supply Chain Software: Industry-Agnostic Vs. Specific Vendors
00:27:24 Advantages of Vertical Solutions in the Electronics Industry
00:30:06 Challenges in Semiconductor Manufacturing and Supply Chain
00:32:35 Evolution of AI: From Engines to Intelligent Agents
00:34:57 Transforming Manufacturing with Cloud and AI
00:37:26 Overcoming Resistance to Digital Transformation in Supply Chains
00:40:03 Overcoming Fragmented Data in Supply Chains
00:42:36 Implementing New Systems and Avoiding Pitfalls
00:45:08 Key Questions for Supplier Data Integration
00:47:32 Common Mistakes in Selecting Supply Chain Management Systems
00:50:04 Enhancing Supply Chain Integration and Automation
00:52:23 Building a Global Supply Chain Network
00:57:19 Conclusion and Upcoming Podcast Schedule -
Today we’re diving into a critical yet sometimes overlooked component that powers so many of the devices we rely on: batteries. Batteries are the heartbeat of countless electronic products, from medical devices and electric vehicles to consumer gadgets and industrial systems.
Choosing the right battery is not a one-size-fits-all decision. It requires a keen understanding of the application, performance needs, and environmental demands. The right selection can make the difference between a product that excels in reliability and one that, quite literally, fails to deliver. But there’s more to batteries than just selecting the right chemistry or capacity. Safety is paramount. Poor battery selection, design, or management can lead to performance issues, overheating, or catastrophic failures. As we’ve all seen in headlines, battery malfunctions can result in recalls, damage to brand reputation, or, worse, safety hazards for users.
To shed light on this vital topic, we’re joined by an expert in the field of battery technology. Alex Norman is a Battery Management System Designer at Pro Technologies, a well-established and trusted custom battery pack manufacturer, providing engineering capabilities from concept through production. Their leading edge manufacturing facility and headquarters is based in Pilot Mountain, North Carolina.
Alex has deep experience in Printed Circuit Board Design, Product Development, Battery Management Systems and more. Alex is also a content creator, focusing mostly on electronics, battery, and BMS content available on his LinkedIn page and YouTube channel.
Today, we’re going to explore how to choose the right battery for your assembly, best practices for integration, and how to mitigate potential safety risks.
So, if you care about keeping your products powered, reliable, and safe, don’t bolt just yet – this podcast on batteries is positively charged with insights! Stick around and top off your battery knowledge!
Alex's Contact Info:
Alex Norman
[email protected]
ProTechnologies, Inc.
http://protechnologies.com
Alex's YouTube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@eetengineer
Chapters:
00:00:00 Choosing the Right Battery for Electronic Assemblies
00:02:44 Exploring Battery Technology and Safety Concerns
00:05:21 Starting a YouTube Channel: Journey and Growth
00:07:55 Performance and Safety: Alkaline vs. Lithium-Based Batteries
00:10:28 The Future of Sodium-Ion Batteries vs. Lithium-Ion
00:13:12 Causes of Samsung Phone Battery Fires
00:16:01 Advancements in Solid State Battery Technology
00:18:44 Dangers of Swollen Lithium Batteries and Battery Safety
00:21:19 Battery Charging Myths and Optimization Techniques
00:24:04 Importance of Battery Management Systems (BMS)
00:26:51 Primary vs. Secondary Batteries Explained
00:29:28 Comparing Performance: Alkaline vs Rechargeable Batteries
00:32:11 Impact of Temperature on Battery Performance
00:34:51 Optimizing Battery Performance in Extreme Cold
00:37:28 Lead Acid vs. Lithium Iron Phosphate: Battery Safety and Advancements
00:39:56 Optimizing Battery Performance in Electric Cars
00:42:36 Advanced Lithium Iron Phosphate Cells
00:45:24 Battery Regulations Impact and Safety Standards
00:48:05 Battery Safety and Standards in Consumer Electronics
00:50:49 Quality and Safety in Consumer Vs. Industrial Battery Cells
00:53:25 The Importance of Proper Battery Recycling
00:56:05 Lithium Iron Phosphate vs. Nickel Metal Hydride Batteries
00:59:51 Humor and Technology: Creating Engaging Content
01:01:10 Get Involved with Reliability Matters Podcast -
On this episode, we’ll dive into the world of electronics testing with an expert within the electronics testing industry, Robert Boguski, President and Owner of Datest.
Robert brings 44 years of experience in the design, fabrication, assembly, and testing of printed circuit boards (PCBs) and electronic systems. Under his leadership, Datest has become a premier provider of advanced, integrated PCBA testing and inspection services, serving both contract manufacturers and original equipment manufacturers since its founding in 1984.
Robert's extensive background includes active participation in industry associations such as APICS, SMTA, and IPC, reflecting his commitment to advancing the field. He is also a columnist for Circuits Assembly Magazine, where he shares his insights on industry trends and challenges.
In this episode, we'll explore Robert's journey in the electronics manufacturing industry, the evolution of testing technologies, and his perspectives on the future of electronics testing.
Join us as we gain valuable insights from a leader whose career has been dedicated to excellence in electronic testing and manufacturing.
Robert's Info:
Robert Boguski
[email protected]
Datest
http://www.datest.com -
Today, we’re exploring a transformative topic: AI-based inspection technologies.
Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing how we detect, analyze, and address defects in the electronics assembly process, combining precision with unparalleled speed to unlock new possibilities for efficiency and reliability.
Our guest today is a leading innovator in this field. Priyansha Bagaria is the founder and CEO of Loopr AI, a company at the forefront of AI-powered solutions for manufacturing inspection.
Priyansha holds an MBA in International business and Global management, a bachelors of engineering degree in computer Science, and she held a fellowship in data science at Cornell University.
Her academic background, coupled with her entrepreneurial spirit, has positioned her as a trailblazer in applying AI to manufacturing processes.
In this episode, we’ll explore the advancements Loopr AI is spearheading, how AI inspection technologies are reshaping traditional methods, and the tangible benefits AI offers to manufacturers striving for excellence.
Loopr AI Website:
https://www.loopr.ai -
Today, we’re diving into one of the most transformative innovations of our time: electric vehicles and the vast infrastructure needed to support their growth.
Joining us is Brian O’Leary, Global Head of of e-Mobility & Infrastructure at Indium Corporation, a leading expert with deep insights into the electronic assembly industry and its critical role in the EV revolution.
As electric vehicles continue to redefine the future of transportation, the reliability and scalability of the infrastructure that powers them—particularly public EV charging stations—have become pivotal challenges.
The electronic assembly industry is at the heart of these systems, from the semiconductors enabling fast charging to the sensors ensuring safe and efficient operation. However, with nearly 26% of public EV charging stations estimated to be non-functional at any given time, reliability remains a significant hurdle.
This episode will explore the major reliability issues plaguing public EV charging stations, including power instability, component failures, and environmental challenges.
How innovations in electronics design and assembly can address these challenges, from improving thermal management to leveraging advanced materials like those developed by soldering materials manufacturers.
The exciting opportunities for the electronics industry to lead the charge in building a more resilient, reliable, and efficient EV infrastructure.
Brian O’Leary brings a wealth of knowledge on how advanced materials, smart assembly techniques, and innovative designs can solve these pressing issues and accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles.
Together, we’ll review the technical challenges, explore solutions, and look ahead to the bright future of electric mobility.
Brian O’Leary's Contact Info:
[email protected]
https://www.indium.com -
Today we’re celebrating the end of another incredible year.
This isn’t just any episode—it’s a time to reflect on the journey we’ve been on together, highlight some milestones, and share a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has made this podcast such a success. Can you believe it?
Reliability Matters has now released 159 episodes! It feels like just yesterday we started this podcast with the mission to explore how industry experts and their knowledge contribute to the reliability of electronics. And here we are—growing, learning, and making a real impact in our field.
But here’s what blows me away the most: over 85,000 downloads. That’s not just a number—it’s a testament to you, our amazing audience.
Whether you’re listening in your car or on your morning jog, or watching this on our YouTube channel, you’ve made this podcast part of your journey. And for that, I’m deeply grateful.
This year alone, we’ve covered some fascinating topics. From ultra-high-density interconnects to post-reflow inspection, from thermal profiling to cutting-edge coating materials—we’ve explored it all. Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of sitting down with some of the brightest minds in the electronics industry.
Each guest has brought their unique insights, helping us all better understand the intricate science and art behind building reliable electronics.
To my incredible guests—thank you. Your willingness to share your expertise, stories, and even a few laughs has been the lifeblood of this podcast. Every episode is a reflection of your generosity and brilliance.
I also want to give a shout-out to you—yes, you. Whether you’re a long-time listener or you just discovered us this year, you’re the reason I do this. The messages, the comments, the emails—it’s all so inspiring. When you tell me how a particular episode helped solve a problem, spark a new idea, or simply make your day better, it reminds me why Reliability Matters matters.
As we wrap up the year, I’m reminded of something I say often on this show: reliability isn’t just a goal; it’s a journey. It’s a series of choices, processes, and innovations that, together, ensure the technology we rely on lives up to its promise.
And this podcast? It’s a part of that journey. It’s a space where we can learn together, challenge assumptions, and stay ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving industry.
Mike Konrad's Contact Info:
[email protected]
https://www.reliabilitymatterspodcast.com -
Today, I’m excited to introduce the hosts of the D-Code podcast, a dynamic trio of young professionals making waves in the electronics manufacturing industry.
With experience rooted in contract manufacturing and stencil fabrication for electronic assemblies, they bring a fresh perspective to the table. Although they’re at the start of their podcasting journey, D-Code has already begun to attract attention, tackling industry insights with a unique lens that up-and-coming voices can uniquely offer.
My guests today are Daniel Stanphill, SMT Process Engineer at Aurora Boardworks, a contract assembler located in Aurora, Nebraska, Sean Kincaid, President of K & F Electronics, located in Fraser Michigan, also a contract manufacturer, and Elias Malfavon, President of Metal Etch Services, a SMT stencil fabricator located in San Marcos California.
I’ll ask them about their experiences, challenges, and how they’re setting out to decode the world of electronics manufacturing.
Contact Information:
The D-Code Podcast
https://www.youtube.com/@The-D-Code
Daniel Stanphill
Aurora Boardworks
[email protected]
https://auroraboardworks.com
Sean Kincaid
K & F Electronics
[email protected]
https://www.circuitboards.com
Elias Malfavon
Metal Etch Services
[email protected]
https://metaletchservices.com -
On today’s episode, we’ll be exploring the critical steps to avoid contamination on circuit assemblies during the rework process with our expert guest, Gayle Towell.
Gayle is the Content Marketing Specialist at AIM Solder, a leading global manufacturer of solder assembly materials for the electronics industry. She holds master's degrees in both mathematics and physics from the University of Oregon and has nearly two decades of experience in higher education, technical writing, and creative writing.
In her role at AIM Solder, Gayle is instrumental in producing technical and research-based materials, while also collaborating with industry partners on various projects. She has contributed articles to industry publications, such as the Printed Circuit Engineering Association Magazine, where she discusses topics like solder paste powder sizes and mixing methods.
Gayle has also participated in industry events, including the SMTA International conference, where she shared her expertise in sessions covering soldering technologies and solder paste advancements. Additionally, she has appeared on podcasts discussing the development of new solder products.
Her extensive background in technical communication and her role at AIM Solder highlight her significant contributions to the electronics manufacturing industry, and today she’ll be sharing her insights from a recent technical article "What's on Your Rework Bench."
In this discussion, we’ll review the rework station and the essential practices that can make or break circuit reliability. Gayle will walk us through the common pitfalls she’s seen—from the dangers of unapproved fluxes to mismatched cleaning solvents—and explain how these mistakes lead to long-term failures in the field.
She’ll also share practical advice on maintaining a contamination-free bench, the importance of selecting compatible chemistries, and why regular audits and operator education are key to preventing unintended residues and contaminants.
Gayle will help us prevent one problem, rework, while not creating another, contamination.
Gayle's Contact Information
Gayle Towell
[email protected]
https://www.aimsolder.com -
On today’s episode, we’re turning our focus to a pivotal innovation that has transformed design and manufacturing processes: flexible circuits.
Flexible circuits have emerged as a game-changer in the manufacturing and design of electronic assemblies. With their unique ability to bend, twist, and conform to complex shapes, they offer unparalleled advantages in applications where space is at a premium and reliability is paramount.
From wearable technology and medical devices to aerospace systems and consumer electronics, the use of flexible circuits has expanded rapidly, bringing with it both opportunities and challenges.
In this episode, we’ll explore the evolution of flexible circuit technology, discussing its key benefits, such as lightweight construction, enhanced durability, and improved design freedom.
We’ll also touch on the manufacturing complexities, material considerations, and the critical role that process control plays in ensuring reliability and performance.
My guest today is Joseph Fjelstad. Joe is the founder of Verdant Electronics. Joseph Fjelstad has been active in electronics manufacturing since 1972 in various roles, including as a chemist, process engineer, and R&D manager. He holds nearly 190 U.S. Patents and numerous foreign ones.
He is an internationally recognized expert, inventor and lecturer in the field of electronics interconnection technology and a veteran of several startup companies, including: Beta Phase, ELF Technologies, MetaRAM, Silicon Pipe, and Tessera (now the public company, Xperi).
Some of Joe’s innovative devices and novel reliability improving IC packaging structural features are found in nearly every electronic device made today.
He is also an author, co-author or editor of several books on interconnection technology, including Flexible Circuit Technology 4th Edition, the most widely distributed reference book on the topic, Chip Scale Packaging for Modern Electronics, and Solderless Assembly For Electronics — The SAFE Approach.
In addition, Fjelstad has written hundreds of articles, columns and commentaries for various industry magazines and journals over the last five decades. And today, he’s the guest on my show.
Here is a list of Joe's books:
Flexible Circuit Technology 4th Edition
https://iconnect007.com/my-i-connect007/books/flex-circuit-technology
Chip Scale Packaging for Modern Electronics
https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/cw.2004.21730bae.001/full/html
Solderless Assembly for Electronics: The SAFE Approach
https://iconnect007.com/my-i-connect007/books/solderless-assembly-electronics-safe-approach#:~:text=SAFE%20technology%20(Solderless%20Assembly%20For,design%20efficacy%2C%20reliability%20and%20security.
Joe's Company:
Verdant Electronics
https://verdantelectronics.net
Chapters:
00:00:00 Importance of Flexible Circuits in Modern Electronics
00:02:42 Exploring the World of Flexible Circuits
00:05:30 Introduction to Flexible Circuits: A Historical Perspective
00:08:43 Entrepreneurship Mindset: Naivety and Innovation
00:11:08 The Value of Naivety in Engineering
00:13:43 Innovations in Bubble Printing Technology
00:16:47 Understanding Flex Circuits: Applications and Challenges
00:19:58 The Lifespan and Failure of Torsion Bars
00:22:21 Evolution of Soldier Technology: From Heads-Up Displays to Wearables
00:25:24 The Origins of the Integrated Circuit
00:28:13 Advances in Microelectronics: From Printed Transistors to Modern Tech
00:31:28 Challenges and Solutions in Flexible Circuit Design
00:34:00 Collaborative Design for Efficient Manufacturing
00:36:49 Advances in Flexible HDI and the Upcoming Ultra HDI Conference
00:39:46 Evolution of Flexible Circuits: From 1903 to Present
00:42:40 Innovating Flexible Circuits
00:45:13 Evolution of Toll Road Technology
00:48:08 The Future of Flexible and Stretchable Circuits
00:51:53 Introduction to Verdant Electronics
00:54:46 The Military's Stance on Lead-Free Technology
00:56:27 Innovating Solderless Technology
00:59:18 Insights on Persistence and Success in Entrepreneurship -
Today, I’m in Rosemont Illinois at SMTAI, Surface Mount Technology International. I’m in the Ultra-HDI Pavilion on the trade show floor. And what are we going to talk about here in the Ultra-HDI pavilion? Ultra high density interconnects, of course.
As the demand for smaller, faster, and more powerful devices grows, the need for innovative solutions in circuit design has never been greater. UHDI's represent a significant leap forward, allowing for more connections in a smaller space, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in electronic assemblies.
But what exactly are UHDI's? Essentially, they refer to circuit boards with incredibly fine pitch interconnects, enabling higher functionality and complexity in much smaller form factors.
This breakthrough is transforming industries like consumer electronics, aerospace, automotive, and medical devices, where space, weight, and performance are critical factors.
In this episode, we’ll explore the advantages UHDI's bring to the table, from increased design flexibility and performance to better thermal management. We'll also discuss how UHDI's are set to impact the assembly process. With tighter tolerances and more intricate layouts, UHDI assemblies will require new approaches to assembly, inspection, and reliability testing.
To better explain UHDI technology, we’ve put together a panel of subject matter experts. Tara Dunn, Director of Training and Education at the Surface Mount Technology Association (SMTA), will moderate a panel discussion with other subject matter experts.
In addition to Tara, our other experts are Anaya Vardya CEO of American Standard Circuits, Chrys Shea from Shea Engineering Services, Michael Sivigny, owner and General Manager of CeTaQ Americas, Oren Manor, Op-Center Core Program Business Director at Siemens Digital Industries Software, and Anaya Vardya from American Standard Circuits.
Ultra-HDI is here! And if you haven’t seen it on your assembly line yet, it’s coming, so stay tuned as we unpack the future of Ultra High Density Interconnects and what it means for the next generation of technology. -
One of the most critical aspects of manufacturing high-reliability circuit assemblies is thermal profiling during the reflow process.
Whether you're designing, engineering, or troubleshooting circuit assemblies, understanding how temperatures during the reflow process influences the quality and performance of your assemblies is essential.
In this episode, we’ll break down what thermal profiling is, why it’s important, and how it affects everything from solder joint integrity to component placement.
We’ll also explore the challenges and solutions involved in getting your thermal profile just right, ensuring your circuit assemblies are built to last in a competitive and demanding industry.
Will review thermal profiling best practices, common mistakes, and the various capabilities of thermal profilers.
I guest today is Mark Waterman. Mark is the Electronics division manager at ECD, a manufacturer of thermal profiling equipment founded in 1964. Mark began his career at ECD in 2006.
I’ll ask Mark all about thermal profiling best practices right after this.
Mark Waterman's Contact Information:
Mark Waterman
[email protected]
https://ecd.com -
If you're part of the electronics landscape, you've likely encountered the role contract manufacturers play — and it's a critical one. These specialized partners bridge the gap between design innovation and full-scale production, bringing efficiency, expertise, and flexibility to the table.
As companies seek to meet growing demand for advanced electronic products, contract manufacturers are increasingly relied upon to provide cost-effective, high-quality assembly services. Whether it's managing supply chains, ensuring compliance with industry standards, or accelerating time to market, their contributions have become indispensable. In today's episode, we'll explore how contract manufacturing works, why it's so vital, and what trends are shaping the future of this essential industry.
My guest today is Adrian Leal. Adrian serves as the USA Business Development Manager for Teltonika EMS and is the President of the Houston SMTA Chapter. With over 30 years of experience in the manufacturing industry, he has worked extensively as both an end user and a service provider. Throughout his career, he has held diverse roles including process engineer, manufacturing engineer, quality engineer, field engineer, and sales engineer.
In 2003, Adrian became the first engineer from the oil and gas industry to earn the prestigious Process Engineer certification from the SMTA. From 2006 to 2015, he voluntarily took on the role of ESD Subject Matter Expert for SLB, where he developed an internal ESD program that remains in use today.
If you’re in Texas, you may know Adrian from his involvement in Cup of Joey networking events.
I’ll talk with Adrian about his transition from an OEM to a contract manufacturer and his recommendations on how to choose the most appropriate contract manufacturer for your needs.
Adrian’s contact information:
Adrian Leal
[email protected]
https://teltonika-iot-group.com -
As the demand for more durable and dependable electronics continues to rise across industries, the choice of soldering materials, such as solder paste, plays a pivotal role in determining the reliability of these devices. We'll discuss how selecting the right solder paste can influence performance and longevity, and we'll hear from an industry expert about the latest advancements and best practices in soldering material technology.
I guest today is Ebad Rehman, Regional Product Manager at MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions. He has a Master's degree in Technology from Illinois State University and has led multiple technical and strategic projects for MacDermid Alpha, including new product development and technology development projects, using lean and agile methodologies. He’s also planned and developed processes for the Power Electronics group and the Aftermarket Enhancement group to drive efficiencies and effectiveness.
Whether you're a seasoned engineer or someone new to the electronic assembly industry, this episode will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions that enhance the reliability of your electronic assemblies. Join us as we explore the critical intersection of materials science and electronics reliability.
Ebad Rehman's Contact Info:
[email protected]
https://www.macdermidalpha.com - Se mer
