Cory and Lise Steeby wrote:
>
> We are evaluating a fully gold plated (30uin) connector for a new product.
> I have heard that soldering a gold plated connector to a PCB can cause a
> brittle solder joint because of the intermetallic bonds made between the
> gold and solder.  The assembly is through-hole and wave soldered.  Gold
> plating is required of the contact portion of the connector because of
> environment and signal levels.  I am trying to weigh the gold contact pro
> against the gold solder joint con.
>
> Can anyone verify this or point me to evidence that this is not a problem?
>
> Thank You
>
> Cory Steeby
> [log in to unmask]
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Cory, Yes it can be a problem when there is undisolved gold layer on the
lead. There joint can develop a brittle layer of gold-tin intermetallic.
If you have enough time over the wave so that all gold is mixed and
distributed in the PTH joint (which is likely to happen with 30 u
inch)then there is no reliability issue.

However, if the gold thickness varies widely, you have to run xsections
of the sample PTH joint to see if any undissolved gold is left or not.

Call if you have questions 512-255-6820 after 6:00 pm

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