Mike:
- Rework of TSOP/QFP/PLCC down to and below 0.020 mil. pitch is a non-problem
with the right tools and procedures.  Check out IPC-7711, Rework of
Electronic Assemblies for procedures and (generic) lists of tools applicable
to the rework/repair of SMT.  Note, the IPC recently launched a Rework/Repair
Training/Certification Program that teaches those skills, and others, to both
Instructors and Operators (our company wrote the training program for the
IPC).  You might look around in your part of the country and see if anyone
will be offering that training soon.  If you don't find a training source,
check our web site (www.electronicstrainingadv.com) for information on class
schedules.   Another good place to check is Circuit Repair Corp. at
http://www.circuitnet.com.  They have a lot of good procedures (available
free on-line I think) and you can no doubt get an indication of the
tools/techniques necessary for such rework (Circuit Repair Corp. was a major
contributor to the IPC Rework/Repair Standards).
- Hope the above helps some and is not overly commercial.  Regards, Jim
Moffitt, Technical Director, Electronics Training Advantage

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