NPL defect of the month
8 June 2011
News
Featured from the NPLs defect database (http://defectsdatabase.npl.co.uk) this month is the issue of delamination on the surface of a board assembly.
The accompanying microsection image shows a plated through-hole with through-hole pin after soldering in a tin/lead process. Prior to sectioning, the board showed evidence of minor delamination and measling around the pad area on the subsurface of the board. The board was being produced in medium volume for a consumer product.
During pin insertion, mechanical strain or damage may be caused. The soldering temperature or the time to solder may have been excessive, causing expansion of the board. The photo is not very clear but based on the examination and comparison of the relative dimensions, the plating in the hole is thin and probably less than 20 μm. There is evidence of delamination/separation of the glass bundles at the hole/copper interface. Close examination of the microsection will be required along with the rest of the board for root cause analysis. There are a number of possible causes; along with board examination, all the process details would be required, or an audit of the assembly/soldering operation.
Visit www.dataweek.co.za/video for a video discussion on the terminology used to describe various restrictions on materials used in the manufacture of electronic products.
Further reading:
Components distribution slowdown Q1 2025
News
European components distribution (DMASS) experienced a continued slowdown in the first quarter 2025.
Read more...
Semiconductor sales increase 17% YoY
News
The Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) recently announced global semiconductor sales were $54,9 billion during the month of February 2025, an increase of 17,1% compared to the February 2024 total.
Read more...
Silicon Labs – Q1 results
News
Silicon Labs, a leading innovator in low-power wireless, recently reported financial results for the first quarter, which ended April 5, 2025.
Read more...
Strengthening industry through strategic partnerships at KITE 2025
Specialised Exhibitions
News
The KwaZulu-Natal Industrial Technology Exhibition is not just an exhibition, it is a powerhouse of industry collaboration where visitors and exhibitors gain access to authoritative insights, technical expertise, and high-impact networking opportunities.
Read more...
Solar Youth Project calls on industry to step up
News
With the second cohort completed training and the first cohort returning for their final module, host companies are urgently needed to turn the training into a long-term opportunity.
Read more...
Conlog powers SA’s future with national smart meter rollout
News
Conlog recently secured the RT29-2024 contract from National Treasury, which is seen to be a major milestone towards modernising SA’s utility infrastructure.
Read more...
Zuchongzhi-3 sets new benchmark
News
This latest superconducting quantum computing prototype features 105 qubits and 182 couplers to operate at a speed 10¹5 times faster than the most powerful supercomputer currently available.
Read more...
Automatic device attestation certificate for Panasonic
News
DigiCert recently announced it has partnered with Panasonic Industry Europe to integrate DigiCert Device Trust Manager with Panasonic’s PAN-MaX intelligent manufacturing service for seamless Matter certification of interoperable smart home devices.
Read more...
From the editor's desk: Are we really being ripped off?
Technews Publishing
News
To the surprise of many customers, installing solar panels does not always eliminate their utility bill – and in some cases, the power utility may impose additional charges on solar-powered homes.
Read more...
Winner of the Advanced Electronics Challenge
Avnet Silica
News
Avnet Silica has named Hydronauten winner of the Advanced Electronics Challenge for breakthrough AI-driven vibration damping technology.
Read more...