Mark,
                        You might want to check out the Q2001 OptiMark from
Markem at www.markem.com <http://www.markem.com> , it uses a laser to
deposit a film based ink onto the device you're marking. I had done some
initial investigation of the system in a previous life to replace bar code
labels on PCBAs. They can integrate it into any sort of handler, or custom
design to meet your requirements. Be prepared for sticker shock, it's not
cheap....

                Mike McMonagle
                Senior SMT Engineer
                Telxon Corporation
                www.telxon.com <http://www.telxon.com>


                                -----Original Message-----
                                From:   Mark Gilbert
[mailto:[log in to unmask]]
                                Sent:   Wednesday, October 04, 2000 7:28 AM
                                To:     [log in to unmask]
                                Subject:        [TN] Inline Laser Marking or
Ink Jet?

                                Dear Technetters...

                                I previously have had only PCB construction
experience and am now working
                                for a firm which manufactures electronic
components (oscillators, crystals,
                                filters).  Since I am new to this type of
manufacturing, I was hoping
                                someone could share some of their knowledge
in the area of part marking.
                                Please see if you can help with the
following questions:

                                1.)     Which do you prefer (laser or ink
marking and why)?  Recommendation
                                of a company?
                                2.)     Is anyone aware of a full-inline
marking system for use with metal
                                cased dips...8-pin and 14-pin, specifically
(with rails, sensors, possibly
                                tube compatible, etc.)?
                                3.)     If an inline system is not
available, are there any
                                systems/companies which cater to integrating
something like this?

                                Any input would be most appreciated.  Thank
you.

                                Regards,
                                Mark Gilbert, Product/Process Engineer
                                FOX Electronics
                                For Frequency Control Solutions. . . Fast:
                                1-888-GET2FOX, ext. 289
                                Fax: 941-693-1554

                                http://www.foxonline.com/
<http://www.foxonline.com/>


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