Board Talk
Board Talk is presented by Phil Zarrow and Jim Hall of ITM Consulting.
Phil Zarrow
Phil Zarrow - With over 50 years of experience in PCB assembly, Phil is one of the leading experts in SMT process failure analysis. He has vast experience in SMT equipment, materials, and processes.
Jim Hall
Jim Hall - A Lean Six-Sigma Master Blackbelt, Jim has a wealth of knowledge in soldering, thermal technology, equipment, and process basics. He is a pioneer in the science of reflow.
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How Do You Remove Oxidation from PCBs?
How Do You Remove Oxidation from PCBs?
What is the best method for cleaning bare PCBs with small amounts of oxidation? I know that proper storage and handling may help. Jim Hall and Phil Zarrow, The Assembly Brothers, share their suggestions for this scenario.
Board Talk

Should We Measure Solder Paste Thickness?
Should We Measure Solder Paste Thickness?
On average, how many locations should we measure our PCBs to confirm our solder paste thickness? Our PCBs are approximately 10" by 10".
Board Talk

How Many Fiducials Per Stencil
How Many Fiducials Per Stencil
We have seen as many as 180 fiducials per stencil with a step and repeat. How many fiducials are recommended for a solder paste stencil? The Assembly Brothers, Phil Zarrow and Jim Hall, address this question and share their own experiences.
Board Talk

Why Should We Consider Smart Feeders?
Why Should We Consider Smart Feeders?
In selecting a new pick and place line, why should we consider smart feeders? How can we justify the added cost?
Board Talk

PCBA Cleaning with Sodium Bicarbonate
PCBA Cleaning with Sodium Bicarbonate
Is there an effect on PCBA long-term reliability when cleaned with a sodium bicarbonate scrub followed by DI water rinse? Jim Hall and Phil Zarrow, The Assembly Brothers, discuss this secnario and share their own experiences.
Board Talk

Cure for the Grape Effect
Cure for the Grape Effect
We are processing lead-free boards with large components. Our parts are showing the grape effect. What is the best solution for this?
Board Talk

Big Problems with HASL Finish
Big Problems with HASL Finish
We are able to lift a SOIC off a PCBA using tweezers and no heat. The pads are bare copper, the PCB was manufactured using tin lead HASL finish. The Assembly Brothers, Phil Zarrow and Jim Hall, share their own experiences.
Board Talk

Solder Paste Inspection - When and Why
Solder Paste Inspection - When and Why
Our facility is considering a 3D solder paste inspection system. Are these systems common and under what condition should we consider buying one?
Board Talk

Shelf Life Before Conformal Coating
Shelf Life Before Conformal Coating
Prior to conformal coating, how long can we keep assemblies in an open condition before they will be impacted by moisture absorption? Jim Hall and Phil Zarrow, The Assembly Brothers, discuss the impact that this will have on their process.
Board Talk

Will Typical No Clean Paste Pass an SIR Test?
Will Typical No Clean Paste Pass an SIR Test?
Will a typical no clean paste pass an SIR test? Is it really clean enough for a conformal coating and 20 years of service?
Board Talk