Hello Everyone,

I wish to present you with an issue that has troubled me for quite a while.

We have been ordering more and more PCBs with ENIG finish and are generally pleased - it's flat, it solders nicely and the products seem to be O.K.

However, on the other hand - we are very well aware of problems associated with ENIG, i.e - the "black pad" phenomena - solder joints cracking, components actually "popping off" and other "goodies".

I am looking for good means to evaluate my ENIG finished boards, before I waste a considerate amount of money while trying to assemble them. Luckily for us, our manufacturer seems to understand our dilemma and is very willing to cooperate with us on performing any in-process or final test that we specify.

So, here's the catch: what do I specify ?

Assume that you could ask for anything (within reason, of course) - what tests would you ask your manufacturer to perform to assure you that he will give you high quality ENIG finish, good solderability, durable, long life solder joints, etc.?

Thank you in advance,

Yehuda E. Weisz

+(972)-3-6342045

+(972)-53-556897