Yes, SSD does work.  Look in any computer catalog that shows the 
small square CPU upgrade boards for computers- that is done with 
one version of SSD. Also many laptops using 10 mil pitch TAB CPUs 
are using another version of SSD. A military cable house is using 
yet another version of SSD.  There will be a comprehensive write 
up on the technology in the April issue of SMT magazine. In 
addition, there were workshops on the technology at both IPC Expo 
and Nepcon West. Low activation level sticky fluxes are  
available, which can be cleaned off or left on the completed PWA- 
your choice. The SSD process is now used in Europe, North America 
and Japan. The process does offer a cost effective alternative 
when the overall cost of both the board fabrication plus assembly 
is considered.  The costing process needs to take into account 
the added cost of SSD at fabrication, with reduced cost at 
assembly.  The reduced cost results from elimination of solder 
paste printing at assembly, downtime for stencil changes, test 
prints, stencil cleaning, solder paste testing, inspection, 
defect repair, etc.  The industry really needs an agreed on 
standardized cost analysis method to enable logical comparisons 
of various processes-- perhaps this could be a new IPC activity.
 
--Bill Kenyon
Global Centre for Process Change, Inc.
302-652-4272/-5701 Tel/Fax

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