JF, Technetters, we're in the process of setting up a new machine (selected with the help of TechNet input). First step is to develop a mathematical model for coating thickness as a function of machine parameters. After than we plan on using microscope slides, as suggested by one of the operators, for process control monitoring. The thickness gage will be a micrometer. We're going to develop a relationship between wet and dry film thickness, but the wet film gage we have only resolves to 25 microns. In the development of the model, we're also looking to find machine settings that will minimize thickness variation across the board. Contact me on- or off-line in a couple of weeks if you want to know how we're coming along. May have results early next week. Regarding the question of whether the aluminum plates were coated at the same time as your material, I would ask, if your company has doubts that the samples are authentic, why are you doing business with that supplier? Lou Hart -----Original Message----- From: Bissonnette, Jean-Francois [SMTP:[log in to unmask]] Sent: Thursday, March 14, 2002 5:03 PM To: [log in to unmask] Subject: Re: [TN] Coating thickness We thought of that and it seems one very logical thing to do. The only problem is that the boards are coated at our supplier's plant. And you know how QA persons are... how can we prove that the aluminum part was coated at the same time then the batch etc... We have to monitor our supplier and got solid evidences. Thank you all! If any other idea has not been through yet don't hesitate... I'm all ears... or all EYES! JF --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Technet Mail List provided as a free service by IPC using LISTSERV 1.8d To unsubscribe, send a message to [log in to unmask] with following text in the BODY (NOT the subject field): SIGNOFF Technet To temporarily halt delivery of Technet send e-mail to [log in to unmask]: SET Technet NOMAIL To receive ONE mailing per day of all the posts: send e-mail to [log in to unmask]: SET Technet Digest Search previous postings at: www.ipc.org > On-Line Resources & Databases > E-mail Archives Please visit IPC web site http://www.ipc.org/html/forum.htm for additional information, or contact Keach Sasamori at [log in to unmask] or 847-509-9700 ext.5315 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------