Hi Vincent! Our experience has been to use xray equipment/analysis to setup
our process, refine the reflow profile and then watch the process perform
above our expectations! One of the pleasant surprises with BGA components
is the self centering aspects of the soldering process which really does
happen as described in the industry literature. After your initial process
setup/conformation is complete, you should have very high yields. We
evaluated several xray systems and choose a mid priced Glenbrook system
(there are other good systems out there too: Fein Focus, CR Technology,
Nicolet, HP, Kevex, Veeco, etc.).  Area array component technologies will
cause a "culture" change - because you can no longer visually inspect the
solder joints, you will need to rely on process control and electrical test
to assess solder joint quality (which is something the electronics industry
needs to accomplish as a whole anyway). I suggest you investigate leasing a
piece of xray equipment to gain some knowledge of just how much xray
inspection will be necessary within your soldering process instead of
making the equipment investment. Good Luck.

Dave Hillman
Rockwell Collins
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Vincent BADA <[log in to unmask]> on 08/12/99 08:37:15 AM

Please respond to "TechNet E-Mail Forum." <[log in to unmask]>; Please respond
      to Vincent BADA <[log in to unmask]>

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cc:
Subject:  [TN] Automated X-ray Inspection




Hi all,

Our production is high-mix low volume with double-sided boards with a wide
range of component types.

We bought a flying probe tester recently and we are know thinking of
replacing
the visual inspection by something automatic.

With the coming of BGA components, we know we will need X-ray inspection.
We are hesitating between a "manual" machine and automated X-ray inspection
which would be used for the whole board.

Has anyone made the step to an automated X-ray inspection ?
Has anyone bought this type of equipment in Europe ?
What do you think about the results ?
Is the solder defect coverage OK ?
How long does it takes to setup the machine for a new production ?

Thanks,

Vincent Bada
Process Engineer
Alcatel Etca
Belgium

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