We have been experiencing some shorting of surface mounted tantalum
capacitors (CWR09) which is showing up at functional test following a
completely automated SMT process.

A profile of the reflow process indicates that temperatures are within
manufactures recommendations for these parts.  However, there are subsequent
operations which could be applying excessive heat to these parts. We are
considering hand soldering these devices just prior to final test in an
attempt to reduce frequency of failures.

We have already established that the supplied capacitors not faulty.

Some concern has been voiced that hand soldering is not the recommended
method of mounting these parts.  Is anyone out there aware of concerns
related to the reliability of hand soldering SMT tantalum capacitors?

Any other recommendations?

Kim O'Haver
813 972-6574

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