Lee-
     
     See ANSI/IPC-SM-786, "Recommended Procedures for Handling of Moisture 
     Sensitive Integrated Circuit Packages". This is especially relevant 
     for handling/storage of Plastic Encapsulated Microcircuits (PEMs).
     
     We just received our copy from IPC earlier today.
     
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______________________________ Forward Header __________________________________
Subject: Storage of SMT components
Author:  [log in to unmask] at _internet
Date:    9/13/95 3:33 PM


     
The problem we are facing is that a customer is having us hold SMT 
devices for next years production.  We have some materials in storage 
for 6 months already and by the time the material is in use, some may be 
over one year.  In the past one customer who held material, for 15 
months and then found it was unsolderable, scrapped over $100,000 worth.
     
Has the IPC issued any guidelines for storage times?  Are there 
recommneded techniques such as vapor bags with dessicants or storage in 
inert gas environments, etc that are practical?
     
Any comments on this topic would be greatly appreciated.
     
Leo Reynolds
Electronic Systems, Inc.
P.O. Box 5013
Sioux Falls, SD  57117
     
Ph 605-338-6868
Fax 605-338-5061