My Role as a Technology Solutions Director
Kelly Dack Interviews Peter Tranitz From IPC
Peter Tranitz, senior director of technology solutions at IPC, shares insights into his role as the design initiative lead. He details his advocacy work, industry support, and the responsibilities of the design initiative committee. The conversation also covers the revamping of standards, the IPC Design Competition, and the implementation of design rules in software tools.
The Driving World of e-Mobility
Jordan Mandel Interviews Brian O'Leary From Indium Corporation
In the competitive EV market, technology plays a crucial role facing the challenges of infrastructure. As Brian O'Leary explains, Indium's e-Mobility product suite includes proven solder and thermal management products for high reliability.
Innovative Products and Software from KYZEN
Nolan Johnson Interviews Thomas Forsythe From KYZEN
Editor Nolan Johnson talks with Tom Forsythe, VP of KYZEN, about the company's latest products, including a water-based cleaning chemistry and custom software for monitoring and documenting cleaning processes. Tom addresses KYZEN's commitment to continuous improvement and the development of safer, greener products.
Looking Back, Looking Forward With IEC
Marcy LaRont Interviews Brando Stone and Bruno Ferri From IEC
Industry veteran Bruno Ferri highlights his quarter-century tenure in the industry—with IEC since its founding—with boundless enthusiasm. Young professional and future face of IEC Brando Stone reveals the company's plans going forward.
Innovative Lamination Technology
Emily Lamport Interviews Kevin Barrett and Victor Lazaro From Insulectro | InduBond Technologies
Kevin Barrett of Insulectro and Victor Lazaro of Indubond discuss their companies' partnership, focusing on Indubond's innovative lamination technology that uses induction heating. They discuss the advantages of this technology over traditional methods, its benefits to customers, and the crucial role of automation in manufacturing.
Transitioning into Automation With DIS
Barry Matties Interviews Jesse Ziomek From DIS Inc.
Publisher Barry Matties and DIS Sales Director Jesse Ziomek discuss the company's shift toward automation, tackling issues such as limited floor space and integration costs while showcasing the advantages their SAM automation system has to offer. Also discussed are workforce challenges and return on investment considerations. As Jesse states, "DIS's goal is to offer solutions for smaller shops," and underscores the user-friendly, no-integration-costs aspect of their system.
Quantifying Environmental Impact of PCB Manufacturing
Nolan Johnson Interviews Dr. Maarten Cauwe From imec
Maarten Cauwe, Ph.D., an R&D team leader at imec, received top honors for his paper, “A Parametric Approach to Quantifyiing the Environmental Impact of PCB Manufacturing.” The paper discusses his research on measuring the environmental impact of PCB manufacturing. His co-authors are Geert Willems, Ph.D., imec, and Eddy Geerinckx, ACB.
Outlining Rehm's Innovations and Global Presence
Marcy LaRont Interviews Michael Hanke From Rehm Thermal Systems
Michael Hanke, the chief sales officer for Rehm Thermal Systems, shares insights on the North American market, new machinery, and software development. He also discusses Rehm's turnkey solutions, process flexibility, global presence, and the dedicated team of 700 employees working on global solutions.
Operational Excellence and Smart Factory Initiatives
Nolan Johnson Interviews Joel Scutchfield From Koh Young
Operational excellence and operational efficiency are defined in this interview with Koh Young General Manager Joel Scutchfield. He touches on automation, AI, and collaboration as solutions to resource limitations. Koh Young's data-driven approach uses AI for process adjustments, data analytics, and supply chain enhancements. The discussion underscores the shift toward smart factory initiatives and the future of manufacturing, with a focus on reshoring, nearshoring, and technology utilization.
Magnalytix's Services and Trends in the Electronics Industry
Nolan Johnson Interviews Mike Bixenman From Magnalytix
Mike Bixenman, president of Magnalytix, explains Magnalytix's services, including third-party validation, test boards, electrical testing, and comprehensive reports. He also discusses emerging trends such as power electronics and reliability. Standards and design improvements also form part of this conversation.
A Premier Solution Provider for the PCB Industry
Nolan Johnson Interviews Ralph Jacobo From all4-PCB Inc.
In the PCB industry, all4-PCB, is a top-tier equipment supplier and process solution provider. Ralph Jacobo highlights the active market and the demand for high-quality equipment, discusses their existing customers, investment in advanced substrates, and smaller board shops.
Progress Update and Future Vision of Arch Systems
Nolan Johnson Interviews Tim Burke From Arch Systems
Recently, Arch Systems announced a significant collaborative partnership with Aegis, which reflects Arch Systems' shifting focus from merely collecting data to providing actionable insights. As Arch Systems CTO Tim Burke says, the company has introduced the ArchFX Action Manager tool to enhance data context. Their customer vision includes non-disruptive deployment, integration with existing factory logic systems, and enhancing current tools for smarter actions.
IPC's Push for Sustainability in Electronics
Marcy LaRont Interviews Kelly Scanlon From IPC
Editor Marcy LaRont speaks with Dr. Kelly Scanlon, lead sustainability strategist for IPC, during IPC APEX EXPO 2024. They explore the organization's heightened emphasis on sustainability, the creation of a Sustainability for Electronics Leadership Council by IPC, their sustainability strategy, and their part in standards and education. Kelly also underscores the significance of industry participation and invites experts to contribute to sustainability initiatives.
Schmoll's Strategic Market Realignment
Marcy LaRont Interviews Kurt Palmer and Thomas Kunz From Schmoll America
Thomas Kunz of Schmoll Maschinen GmbH, maker of equipment designed to improve registration and alignment, sits with Kurt Palmer of newly formed Schmoll America to discuss the strategic changes and developments at Schmoll and their amicable departure from Burkle NA. Designed and implemented to better support customers in the growing North American market, these strategic changes serve to fill a support gap and establish a balanced worldwide presence.
Summit Interconnect: Ready for Challenges of Today and Tomorrow
Gabriel Zepeda Interviews John Vaughan From Summit Interconnect
Guest Editor Gabriel Zepeda and John Vaughan, VP of strategic markets for Summit Interconnect, highlight the challenges in the PCB sector, such as the dwindling number of fabricators and the trend towards miniaturization. As John points out, Summit was a founding member of the Printed Circuit Board Association of America, which has grown to 50 member and aims to educate legislators, while funding opportunities support chip operations.
Adhesive Materials and Equipment Update
Kelly Dack Interviews Virginia Hogan From Dymax Corporation
Virginia Hogan, global business development manager at Dymax, discusses adhesive materials, dispensing and curing equipment, a new, high-reliability conformal coating, and various materials and dispensing methods.
Precision Tools and Problem-solving With Perfect Point
Dan Beaulieu Interviews Alex Girardot From Perfect Point
In an interview with Guest Editor Dan Beaulieu, Alex Girardot, a field applications engineer with Perfect Point, shares his experiences with precision tooling. Alex also discusses a challenging project involving thick boards and small diameter holes in which Carbonite tools with a hybrid design were used. They also discuss the trend towards smaller hole sizes.
Understanding Objective Evidence in Manufacturing Processes
Nolan Johnson Interviews Graham Naisbitt From GEN3
Graham Naisbitt explains the importance of objective evidence in manufacturing processes, debunking the common misconception that the ROSE test is a cleanliness test. He also discusses the introduction of Rev J, a requirement for measuring ionic contamination on circuit assemblies, and the challenges in accurately measuring contamination. Alternative methods like ion chromatography and the need for updating standards like the ROSE test are mentioned.
Circuit Board Testing Strategies and the Impact of AI
Marcy LaRont Interviews Bert Horner From The Test Connection
Editor Marcy LaRont and President of The Test Connection, Bert Horner, discuss the importance of strategic planning and design-for-test (DFT) and touch on some of the common mistakes that occur when DFT is not adequately considered early on. The discussion outlines an overarching industry need for a culture shift towards increasingly higher levels of integration and collaboration. Bert mentions that AI now has an influence on testing, as everywhere else, and announces his forthcoming book which will be available soon.
GP Ventures: Services, Deals, and Industry Expertise
Dan Beaulieu Interviews Tom Kastner From GP Ventures
In an interview with Tom Kaster, president and founder of GP Ventures, we learn about the company's services, recent deals, and the process of selling a small board shop. Key topics include company size considerations, appraisal services, and the differences between asset and stock purchases. The discussion wraps up with insights on confidential discussions and free estimates of value.
Factory Insights: A Customizable Data Collection Solution
Nolan Johnson Interviews Julie Cliche-Dubois From Cogiscan
Editor Nolan Johnson and Julie Cliche-Dubois, product manager for Cogiscan, focus on Factory Insights, a new product that emphasizes customization. With years of experience in data collection from various machines and factories, the Factory Insights product offers dashboards and KPI customization, striking a balance between out-of-the-box solutions and customization, ultimately bringing contextualization to machine data.
Ventec Discusses New Pro-bond Family of Advanced Products
Marcy LaRont Interviews Chris Hanson From Ventec
Chris Hanson, Ventec's Global Head of IMS Technology, outlines the launch of four pro-bond formulas that deliver an outstanding combination of low dissipation factor (Df) with a dielectric constant (Dk) range to maximize the design window for critical PCB parameters. As Chris points out, Pro-bond is designed for low-loss, high-speed applications, while thermal-bond dissipates heat from a component through the board to a heat sink.
Manufacturing Intelligence from the Factory Floor
Nolan Johnson Interviews Ranjan Chatterjee From PDF Solutions
Nolan Johnson and Ranjan Chatterjee, Vice President of Smart Factory Business Units at PDF Solutions, discuss the background of Cimetrix and PDF Solutions. They explore the analytics tools provided by PDF Solutions, the merging of semiconductor and electronics manufacturing, and data handling in these industries. They also discuss different product lines, standards, packaging technologies, data usage, and integration with ERP systems.
Advancements in Laser Depaneling
Nolan Johnson Interviews Jake Benz From LPKF
Jake Benz, sales manager for LPKF North America, discusses the company's advancements in laser depaneling. LPKF has introduced a green wavelength laser for processing rigid FR-4 circuit boards, bringing significant gains in processing speeds to market. The company transitioned from IR CO2 to UV wavelength due to heat and burning issues. The green wavelength, combined with LPKF's tensor technology, offers processing speeds similar to a mechanical router but with higher quality.
Pluritec's Expansion and Growth in the North American Market
Marcy LaRont Interviews Nicola Doria From Pluritec
Nicola Doria, president of Pluritec, discusses their strategic focus on the North American market, the company's investment in a new sales organization, service expansion, and a new process integration line. The conversation also covers market response and future installations. The interview concludes with a congratulatory note on Pluritec's new partnership with IEC.
Schmoll America on the Upswing
Marcy LaRont Interviews Kurt Palmer From Schmoll America
Marcy LaRont sits down with Kurt Palmer, the CEO of newly-founded Schmoll America, and discusses their recent amicable separation with Burkle North America as both double down on serving the North American region. Kurt discusses the establishment of offices in Chicago and North Carolina, their value added, local service model for customers, and shares his excitement for the challenges ahead and Schmoll America's continued growth.
Tools, Training, and Trends in Manufacturing Engineering
Kelly Dack Interviews Erik Bateham From Polar Instruments
Guest Editor Kelly Dack and Product Specialist Erik Bateham of Polar Instruments discuss Polar's latest technology, including their role in aiding manufacturing engineers. They highlight the advanced capabilities of Polar's tools and the critical role of signal integrity analysis, as well as the importance of accurate modeling in board manufacturing. Polar's unique training approach and demonstration contact details are also explored.
Going Vertical, Advanced Solutions for Printed Circuit Boards
Marcy LaRont Interviews Robert Ferguson From SCHMID Systems Inc.
Editor Marcy LaRont chats with Bob Ferguson, the president of SCHMID, about advanced solutions for PCBs and the equipment they are highlighting at this year's show, delving into vertical no-touch handling systems and the prospect of achieving sub 10-micron lines. Inspired by SCHMID's technology, Ferguson expresses excitement about where the industry is today.
Exploring the Future of Surface Finishes
Marcy LaRont Interviews Joe McGurran From MKS Atotech
Joe McGurran, Product Marketing Director for MKS Atotech, looks into the future of surface finishes, discussing less nickel, reduced thickness, technologies influencing HDI and UHDI, and the benefits of nickel-free surface finishes. He also touches on popular finishes like ENIG and palladium immersion gold and discusses the value proposition of making a change.
IPC Committee Work and Technological Initiatives in Factories
Nolan Johnson Interviews Tim Burke From Arch Systems
Nolan Johnson and Tim Burke, CTO at Arch Systems, discuss IPC committee work and its various initiatives. Tim highlights IPC standards development, the role of data and AI in factories, and key initiatives like digital twin, closed loop optimizations, and CFX coordination. Burke also touches on the shortage of labor in factories and the need for more experts in IPC committee work. In other words, if you've ever considered getting involved in these committees, now is the time!
DuPont's New Advanced Material Introduction
Marcy LaRont Interviews Greg Roettger and Michael Crutchfield From DuPont
Michael Crutchfield and Greg Roettger engage in a lively discussion about DuPont's new advanced material Pyralux® ML, being touted as groundbreaking material technology for advanced PCB substrate needs. They share their positive experiences at the show and discuss how this material is an answer to specific industry needs.
A Conversation with IPC's CEO: New Venue, Sustainability, and More
Barry Matties Interviews Dr. John W. Mitchell From IPC
Barry Matties hosts Dr. John W. Mitchell, CEO of IPC, on the final day of IPC APEX EXPO 2024. They discuss the new venue in Anaheim and broach a range of topics, from traffic and booth experiences to workforce development, sustainability, and the CHIPS Act. John also offers advice for newcomers as IPC looks forward to an even better show experience next year.
Insights Into the Technical Conference at IPC APEX EXPO
Kelly Dack Interviews Stanton Rak, Ph.D. From SF Rak Company
Stan Rak shares details about the technical conference portion of IPC APEX EXPO. The conference will cover advanced packaging and automotive EV electronics, among other topics. Stan discusses the peer review process for papers and the diverse attendee representation at this conference. He also highlights the global participation and provides information on abstract submission for potential participants.
Digitization and Regular Updates of the iNEMI Industry Roadmap
Nolan Johnson Interviews Ranjan Chatterjee From iNEMI
Ranjan Chatterjee is a board member at iNEMI. In this conversation with Editor Nolan Johnson, Chatterjee discusses thr digitization of, and regular updates to, the industry roadmap. The roadmap is a collaborative effort on technologies and standards which is intended to guide CEOs and CTOs in their long range planning. Ranjan discusses the board's role in shaping the roadmap and the vision for more frequent updates.
ASMPT and Technica's Successful Partnership and Future Plans
Nolan Johnson Interviews Frank Medina and Jeff Timms From Technica U.S.A | ASMPT
Nolan Johnson speaks with Frank Medina and Jeff Timms about the fruitful collaboration between ASMPT and Technica and the upcoming launch of a machine with enhanced capabilities. They also discuss partnerships with semiconductor firms, customer demo plans, and the significance of the demo center. The conversation highlights the potential in North America.
Custom PCB Solutions With Adura
Dan Beaulieu Interviews Sumit Tomar From Adura
Columnist Dan Beaulieu and Sumit Tomar, CEO of Adura, discuss the company's comprehensive manufacturing of custom PCBs. The company excels in thermal PCB technology for enhanced conductivity. As Sumit explains, they also plan to venture into power management, leveraging their U.S.-based manufacturing capabilities.
The Latest Advancements in Dry Storage
Marcy LaRont Interviews Jordan Mandel From Super Dry Totech
Editor Marcy LaRont and Super Dry Totech's Jordan Mandel discuss the latest developments in dry storage solutions, the J standard, and the ongoing challenge of moisture management while highlighting the industry's shift toward smart solutions and the importance of seeking expert help for moisture mitigation.
Exploring Electronic Card Testing and AI Integration with SPEA
Kelly Dack Interviews Luca Fanelli and Andrea Furnari From SPEA
Luca Fanelli, President of SPEA, gives an insight into the company and its business units. The challenges in testing electronic cards and his company's solutions are discussed. SPEA has a global reach and focus on the US market are emphasized. The use of AI in testing, particularly in optical inspection and test program execution, is examined.
Sustainability in the Industry
Henry Crandall Interviews Chris Nash From Indium Corporation
Guest Editor Henry Crandall and Chris Nash of Indium Corporation discuss the company's 90th anniversary and its focus on sustainability. They focus on the benefits of sustainable materials, their compatibility, and value propositions. The conversation also highlights how Durafuse LT technology's role in reducing reflow temperatures is leading to significant cost and energy savings. Nash also touches on downstream sustainability efforts such as using recycled materials for packaging.
Progress and Opportunities in Industrial Workforce Development
Marcy LaRont Interviews Cory Blaylock and Victoria Hawkins From IPC
IPC's Cory Blaylock and Victoria Hawkins discuss the exciting progress in workforce issues, with IPC celebrating the approval of their national program standards. The Department of Labor has broadened its list of occupations, notably approving the PCB design engineer role. There are funding opportunities for apprenticeship programs, particularly for underrepresented populations. IPC also offers supportive services for employer companies and workforce development initiatives.
Innovation and Collaboration at EPTAC
Kelly Dack Interviews Leo Lambert From EPTAC
Guest Editor Kelly Dack and EPTAC Vice President Leo Lambert discuss the partnership between EPTAC and Blackfox, their program alignment, and future expansion plans. Leo introduces Burak Gokmen as the new "leader of the pack." The focus then shifts to Nano Dimensions' 3D printed circuit boards, emphasizing the need for proper documentation and training.
The Evolution of Industry Roadmapping With iNEMI
Nolan Johnson Interviews Dr. Francis Mullany From iNEMI
Dr. Francis Mullany, director of roadmapping for iNEMI, speaks with Editor Nolan Johnson about the crucial role of roadmapping in pinpointing technology requirements in the industry. This process involves experts collaborating to document needs, challenges, and potential solutions. The latest iNEMI industry roadmap, now available online, is a collaborative effort involving stakeholders such as universities and government agencies in a new dynamic format that's appreciated for its accessibility and ease of updates.
Complex Integrated Systems in Manufacturing
Nolan Johnson Interviews Matt Kelly and Grace O'Malley From IPC | iNEMI
Grace O'Malley, and Matt Kelly discuss the intricacies of complex integrated systems (CIS) in manufacturing. The collaboration between IPC and iNEMI, the importance of standards, training, and quality metrics are also highlighted. They conclude with future plans for webinars and ongoing work to tackle CIS challenges.
Industry Growth, Challenges, and Technological Advancements
Nolan Johnson Interviews Shawn DuBravac, Ph.D. From IPC
Editor Nolan Johnson and Shawn DuBravac, IPC chief economist, dive into key industry topics such as growth, challenges, and technological advancements. They discuss shifts in the global competitive landscape, downstream demand, customization, and how AI is enhancing human skills. The industry outlook appears promising for both the short and long term.
Direct Imaging Equipment and Quad-wave DLP Light Engine Technology
Kelly Dack Interviews Brendan Hogan From MivaTek
Guest Editor Kelly Dack and MivaTek's Brendan Hogan delve into the company's innovative technologies, including direct imaging equipment and quad-wave DLP light engine technology. They highlight the benefits of direct imaging, compensation, and DART technology. The conversation also touches on strategies for enhancing registration and feature size, their global market presence, and their focus on EV battery fabrication.
An Introduction to Mastering IPC Certifications With Blackfox
Nolan Johnson Interviews Darin Pesola From Blackfox
Darin Pesola, master instructor for IPC certifications, and sales manager at Blackfox, discusses the development of training materials for their training centers and online courses. Darin also emphasizes the challenging training course for IPC's space addendum standards, which involves meticulous tasks and takes a week to complete. Upon finishing, students can demonstrate their acquired skills and move into the workforce.
Unveiling the New Chief Strategist of Advanced Packaging at IPC
Nolan Johnson Interviews Devan Iyer, Ph.D. From IPC
Devan Iyer, IPC's new Chief strategist of Advanced Packaging, shares his industry experience and the objectives of his role; and emphasizes the necessity for solid standards and guidelines for new packaging technologies and design methodologies. He also highlights the significance of diverse package technologies across different markets. Devan is looking forward to collaborating with IPC and industry members to connect emerging package technologies with PCB/EMS systems.
IPC Government Relations Holds Lawmakers Accountable
Nolan Johnson Interviews Richard Cappetto From IPC
The IPC Government Relations team is constantly educating Congress and the executive branch about the importance of a robust domestic electronics manufacturing industry. As Richard Cappetto explains, the GR team is focused on proactive strategies, workforce policies, and sustainability, as well as the significance of apprenticeship programs, President Biden's executive order, and employer incentives. Also discussed is the PCB Act, its investment program, tax incentive, and DoD's understanding of supply chain risk. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the need for funding in FY 2025 and a call for industry support.
Advanced Technologies with BlueRing Stencils
Kelly Dack Interviews Greg Smith From Blue Ring Stencils
Guest Editor Kelly Dack and Greg Smith, manager of stencil technology with BlueRing Stencils, discuss the company's capabilities and services. They explore the use of nano coatings for thin stencils and determining the area ratio. Greg emphasizes the role of stencil artwork in controlling solder deposition and the need for collaboration between designers and stencil companies. They also focus on thinner stencils and step stenciling techniques for achieving proper solder deposition.
Electrification of Automobiles: Challenges and Solutions
Marcy LaRont Interviews Grace O'Malley From iNEMI
Grace O'Malley, VP of technical operations for iNEMI, shines a light on the electrification of automobiles, the need for industry alignment, standardization, and collaboration to tackle challenges. She mentions issues from a recent workshop, changing use cycles, longer vehicle lifespan, and the role of OEMs and the supply chain. Grace also highlights the importance of collaboration and appreciates the opportunity to work with industry leaders.
MYCRONIC's Evolution and New Solutions
Henry Crandall Interviews Kevin Clue From MYCRONIC
Henry Crandall interviews Kevin Clue, the vice president of global sales for MYCRONIC's High Flex division. They discuss the company's evolution, emphasizing its strong customer relationships and its role as a versatile, turnkey solution provider. Kevin unveils new solutions launched at IPC APEX EXPO, including an AI-integrated inspection system and the A40 pick-and-place platform. The conversation also touches on the increased use of AI and deep learning.
The Importance of Interconnect in Circuitry
Marcy LaRont Interviews John Kochilla From MKS Atotech
Editor Marcy LaRont and John Kochilla, Vice President of the Americas for MKS Atotech, discuss optimizing interconnect, providing a better, more integrated solution or "total package" for manufacturers. Finally, John touches on the importance of core competencies while sharing customer success stories.
Plasmatreat: Innovative Surface Preparation Solutions
Nolan Johnson Interviews Hardev Grewal From Plasmatreat USA Inc.
In this interview, Editor Nolan Johnson speaks with Hardev Grewal, CEO and president of Plasmatreat, a developer of atmospheric plasma solutions. Plasmatreat uses clean compressed air and electricity to create plasma, offering environmentally friendly methods for surface preparation. Their technology measures plasma density for process optimization and can remove organic micro-contamination. Nolan and Hardev also discuss REDOX-Tool, a new technology for removing metal oxides.
AI Implementation at Omron
Nolan Johnson Interviews Nick Fieldhouse From Omron
Editor Nolan Johnson and Omron Product Manager Nick Fieldhouse discuss the company's focus on AI implementation to enhance customer experience and results. They address programming challenges and how AI can help customers achieve better outcomes with less experience. Omron's AI is compatible with existing systems, facilitating easy upgrades.
The HDP User Group's Role in the Electronics Industry
Marcy LaRont Interviews Bev Christian From HDP User Group
Bev Christian, a project facilitator from the HDP User Group, outlines the consortium's focus on new materials and reliability in the electronics industry, and their collaboration on non-proprietary projects. Key areas of interest include corrosion, PFAS, and lead-free solders. Bev also highlights the value of collaboration and mentions partnerships with other consortia. The HDP User Group welcomes interested individuals to get involved via their website.
Automation in North American PCB Shops
Marcy LaRont Interviews Eduardo Benmayor From Benmayor Group
Benmayor Group has entered the North American market's automation landscape with their Technosystem division. In this interview, Eduardo Benmayor highlights this underinvestment and current efforts to catch up and address challenges related to strategic planning. Eduardo shares Technosystem's automation journey, from simple equipment to robotic arms, stressing the importance of machine communication and data analysis. He also offers advice on implementing automation in older facilities.
Dedication to Innovation and Reliability
Dan Beaulieu Interviews Garrett Harding From MicroCraft
Garrett Harding of MicroCraft outlines the company's history, product lines, and his personal journey. The discussion revolves around the adoption and benefits of inkjet printing, MicroCraft's ink solutions, and test equipment. Garrett also addresses the challenges in persuading OEMs and the current adoption rate, underscoring MicroCraft's dedication to innovation and reliability.
Alltemated Focuses on Services and Customer Relationships
Nolan Johnson Interviews Rachael Temple From Alltemated
Rachael Temple, director of marketing and sales at Alltemated, discusses the company's offerings such as outsourcing, value added services, and quick turnaround times. Rachael emphasizes the significance of fostering relationships and trust with clients, sharing a real world example where Alltemated helped a component distributor with custom tooling, and then wraps up with a look at future growth and collaborations.
Exploring Silicone Solutions with R&D Director of CHT
Nolan Johnson Interviews Gerry Ellis From CHT
In this interview, Gerry Ellis discusses the product range offered by his company. He explains the challenges in creating base formulations, the drive to make products more user-friendly, and the various application techniques involved. Ellis also highlights the key market segments and the significance of providing efficient solutions to customers.
Attracting Young Talent to the Electronics Manufacturing Industry
Henry Crandall Interviews Doug Gotelli and Mitchell Benson From Insulectro
Insulectro's Doug Gotelli and Mitchell Benson explore the challenges of drawing young talent into the electronics manufacturing industry. They underscore the significance of manufacturing and the urgency of tackling the workforce shortage. They also discuss internship programs, the industry's resilience amid the pandemic, and the rewarding experiences of working in this sector.
Exploring IPC's PCB Design Courses with Kris Moyer
Kelly Dack Interviews Kris Moyer From IPC
Guest Editor Kelly Dack and IPC instructor Kris Moyer discuss IPC's PCB design training and education offerings. They delve into course topics such as design fundamentals, mil/aero, rigid-flex, RF design, and advanced design concepts. They also highlight material selection for high-speed design, thermal management, and dissipation techniques. The interview wraps up with details about how to access these courses online.
Industrial Quality Solutions
Nolan Johnson Interviews Herminso Gomez From ZEISS Group
While discussing his company's range of microscopy options, Herminso highlights the advantages of X-ray technology for aerospace, medical, and consumer electronics sectors. In addition, Zeiss has recently integrated machine learning to enhance data reconstruction, boosting quality and reducing scanning time.
CFX Machine Communication Standards Update
Marcy LaRont Interviews Dr. Thomas Marktscheffel From ASMPT
Marcy LaRont sits down for an interview with Thomas Marktscheffel, director of product management for ASMPT and co-chair for IPC-2591 CFX standard. They discuss the history of ASMPT, Thomas's responsibilities, and the advantages of the CFX standard for machine communication and integration. They also touch on the role of AI in CFX, its adoption and development, and the IPC-HERMES-9852 standard for efficient machine-to-machine communication.
The Millimeter Wave Project
Nolan Johnson Interviews Urmi Ray From iNEMI
Urmi Ray, the project lead for the millimeter wave project at iNEMI brings our attention to a recent report by iNEMI, outlining the project's objectives, and the necessity for traceable standard reference materials. Also discussed is the project report's handoff to NIST, the timeline and funding for standard development, and its influence on product design and development.
A Global Presence in PCB Manufacturing
Dan Beaulieu Interviews Robert DiGiovanni From STARTEAM Global Ltd.
Robert DiGiovanni, VP of sales for the Americas at STARTEAM Global, discusses the company's global presence in PCB manufacturing. As he explains, the firm operates facilities across Europe, Asia, and North America, specializing in serving contract manufacturers in the automotive and medical industries. They emphasize quality and meeting OEM standards, focusing on offshore supply and non-Chinese factories in the North American market. The company has grown through acquisitions and rebranding to offer multiple products.
Modernizing a PCB Facility
Marcy LaRont Interviews Aidan Salvi From Amitron
Aidan Salvi, Chief Transformation Officer for Amitron, discusses modernizing their printed circuit board facility including equipment selection, installation, process redefinition, staff upskilling, university engagement, and customer relationship building. Emphasizing that this is a significant endeavor not to be undertaken lightly, he highlights the importance of focus, software technology use, and a step-by-step approach to modernization, and recommends caution when assessing whether to approach factory modernization as one big project or take a more measured approach to modernize in segments.
Insight into Summit Interconnect's Success
Nolan Johnson Interviews Shane Whiteside From Summit Interconnect
Shane Whiteside, CEO of Summit Interconnect, discusses the company's recent recognition as one of the best PCB fabricators in the industry by receiving IPC's Peter Sarmanian award. Whiteside touches on the impact of changes in the marketplace, such as the Defense Production Act and presidential determination, on their growth. Whiteside also shares the company's focus on mechanical and data automation to enhance manufacturing processes and anticipates more automation and evolution in the industry.
Sigma Engineering's Recycling and Regeneration Systems for PCB Etching
Evan Howard Interviews Kristoffer Bjorklund From Sigma Engineering
Evan Howard of Schmoll America interviews Kristoffer Bjorklund, Sigma Engineering's supply chain manager. We learn about Sigma's recycling and regeneration systems for PCB industry etching and the benefits and challenges of implementing these systems in existing factories. The discussion emphasizes the use of an oxidation reactor system and the space efficiency of Sigma's solutions. Trade fairs, roadblocks, and the profitability of their system are also covered.
IPC's Workforce Training and Onboarding Solutions
Kelly Allen Interviews Carlos Plaza From IPC
IPC's Kelly Allen and Carlos Plaza chat about the organization's workforce training courses. They discuss the importance of efficient onboarding, the challenges and opportunities in integrating new hires, and IPC's solutions for a smoother onboarding process. They also touch on expert involvement in IPC education and introduce new courses on component identification and standards.
Laser-based Micro Machining Systems
Kelly Dack Interviews Casey Krueger From MKS Instruments
Casey Krueger, director of product marketing for MKS, introduces their laser-based micro machining systems, particularly the CO2 drilling system for the HDI market. They discuss CO2-formed vias, the benefits of AOD technology, hypersonics, and enhanced optical transmission. The discussion also covers accuracy and the application of water-cooled galvos. Casey offers insights into the advancements and enhancements in their second-generation GEODE CO2 drilling system.
Insight into STARTEAM Global
Dan Beaulieu Interviews Martin Schneider From STARTEAM Global
In this interview, Martin Schneider, CTO of STARTEAM Global, shares his long career journey that lends him valuable industry experience. He discusses his role as CTO, the company's initiatives in North America, the company's journey and its expansion into Thailand, as well as the advantages of attending IPC APEX EXPO. He expresses his gratitude and admiration for the industry.
An Introduction to IPC's Validation Services
Marcy LaRont Interviews Randy Cherry From IPC
Randy Cherry, director of IPC's Validation Services (VS) Program, sits down with Editor Marcy LaRont to discuss the program's global success and expansion, touching on the IPC-1791 Trusted Supplier and Cybersecurity List, the QPL/QML programs, and a newly introduced standard being developed in the automotive space. Randy also shares his upcoming travel plans to Australia and expresses his hope that the VS program will see much global growth in the coming months.
Innovations in Thermal Warpage and Strain Metrology
Nolan Johnson Interviews Neil Hubble From Akrometrix
Editor Nolan Johnson talks with Neil Hubble, president of Akrometrix, about the company's leadership in thermal warpage, and strain metrology. Neil details how Akrometrix is committed to addressing customer challenges through technological evolution, innovative solutions, and a focus on data processing. A tabletop unit for thermal warpage testing is showcased at IPC APEX EXPO this year.
A Passion for Inkjet Solder Mask Technology
Dan Beaulieu Interviews Don Monn From Electra Polymers
Don Monn, national sales manager for Electra Polymers, discusses his transition to Electra and the benefits of inkjet solder mask technology. He emphasizes the significance of product passion and understanding customer issues. Don also outlines Electra's mission and expansion plans, and addresses the current state of the PCB market and the importance of education.
Saki America's Inspection Solutions and Market Expansion
Marcy LaRont Interviews Craig Brown From Saki America
Craig Brown, GM of Saki America, speaks with Editor Marcy LaRont about Saki's comprehensive inspection solutions, metrology, quality control, and software integration. He also touches on the company's recent X-ray machine award, the 3Di-LS3 machine, and their growing presence in the US and Mexico markets.
Aegis Software Partners With Arch Systems
Nolan Johnson Interviews Jason Spera From Aegis Software
Jason Spera, CEO of Aegis Software, discusses their collaboration with Arch Systems to develop the Aria X2 Bridge, a tool designed to boost continuous improvement. Spera delves into how Arch's AI enhances the work of human engineers, the harmonious relationship between Arch and Aegis, the integration process, and the customer experience. As Spera explains, the integration of Factory Logics and the Aria Bridge is simple, benefiting existing Factory Logics customers with pre-existing seed data.
Software Solutions for Circuit Board Challenges
Nolan Johnson Interviews William Webb From Aster Technologies
Nolan Johnson speaks with Will Webb from Aster Technologies about their software solutions for design teams, manufacturing, test engineers, and process engineers. Aster's software addresses the increasing complexities of circuit boards and the need for alternative testing methods, aiding also in removing unnecessary test points, providing recommendations, analyzing designs, creating test coverage reports, and measuring test coverage.
Exploring e-Mobility
Marcy LaRont Interviews Tracy Riggan From IPC
Tracy Riggan, senior director of business development at IPC, discusses her role and IPC's commitment to tackling emerging issues in the e-Mobility industry. IPC organizes special sessions on e-Mobility and power applications, and has formed partnerships to meet industry needs. Their technical program has been well-received, and they are actively participating in charging station initiatives.
Final Finishes and IC Substrate Manufacturing
Marcy LaRont Interviews Richard DePoto From Uyemura
Editor Marcy LaRont and Richard DePoto, Uyemura's business development manager, engage in a comprehensive discussion about the positive aspects of the show, the benefits of RAIG in final finishes, and the hurdles faced when upgrading your surface finish. Also discussed are the role of Uyemura's MEC pretreatment agents in IC substrate manufacturing and the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing.
The Success and Future of IPS's Vertical Technology
Marcy LaRont Interviews Mike Brask From Integrated Process Systems (IPS)
Mike Brask reports on his experience at the show, telling us about the buzz surrounding the vertical technology offerings at IPS, and its benefits. He highlights their customer-centric approach, future growth strategies, and the challenges in workforce management. The conversation also touches upon their recruitment strategies and expresses optimism for the industry's future.
Integrating Automation into the North American PCB Market
Dan Beaulieu Interviews Jason Perry and James Chien From Technica U.S.A | SAA
Dan Beaulieu introduces James Chien from SAA Symtek Automation Asia and Jason Perry from Technica USA, who are bringing automation to the North American PCB market. They discuss their expertise in automation, equipment sets, and growing opportunities. The focus is on integrating automation into existing shops, considering hardware, software, and flexibility. They also discuss the challenges of modernizing domestic shops and the potential of expanding automation to other markets.
IPC Focuses on Silicon to Systems
Nolan Johnson Interviews Matt Kelly From IPC
Matt Kelly, CTO of IPC, delves into the concept of Silicon to Systems, touching on IPC's initiatives in design, advanced packaging, and e-Mobility. He emphasizes to the significance of member engagement and the necessity of obtaining input and feedback with respect to these initiatives, while underscoring the massive task of changing the industry's culture and the expansion of the technical program at IPC APEX EXPO, with a focus on quality content.
A Unique Approach to Design for Manufacturability (DFM)
Kelly Dack Interviews Chad Orebaugh From Key Tronic Corp.
Chad Orebaugh from Keytronic Corporation, a leading electronics supplier, takes time to outline the company's operations, challenges, and their unique approach to design for manufacturability—DFM. Highlights of this conversation include the importance of industry standards and guidelines, while also emphasizing the need to innovate and manufacture beyond existing norms.