Koki Solder Paste can solve your head-in-pillow defect problems!
October 19, 2009
Jasbir Bath and Koki had a few things to say about reducing your head-in-pillow defects.
Click here for the paper they presented at SMTAI 2009.
Christopher Associates August 2009 Newsetter
August 24, 2009
Industry Update
The economy seems to have been on hold for the summer, but signs of improvement for the Fall are starting to show. Summer is the time for retooling and new model production. The new automobile models hit the floor in October most years, while orders for Christmas are being placed now. While 2009 will certainly be slow, perhaps we are seeing signs of optimism. Orders for electronics manufacturing equipment at Christopher are improving, with notable sales in solder paste inspection, AOI, and robotic soldering. Hopefully other suppliers are seeing a similar upturn. We need all boats to rise.
The EMS sector has stabilized somewhat. The bleeding has slowed to a seep at those companies where the losses were severe, and a few manufacturers are reporting growth. In automotive, we have seen some of the non Big 3 manufacturers showing signs of life. EMS manufacturers serving the Japanese/U.S. manufacturing base are in some cases working 24/7 again. Increased demand in hand held is another sign of life, as is the demand from smaller manufacturers in a wide range of industries. Christopher has been able to gain market share through its diverse portfolio of products. By maintaining a core engineering team with skills centered on applications and field engineering support, we are well poised to take advantage of economic growth. Our materials businesses are growing rapidly, and with some of the best names in the industry, will fuel growth further.
Koh Young Technology Solder Paste Inspection/AOI
Recent articles throughout the press have focused on Koh Young's new 3D AOI technology. Surface Mount Technology Magazine's cover story in August focuses on the advantages of 3D AOI, while Circuits Assembly and Global SMT magazines have also recognized this game changing technology. Systems have been installed at several of the world's leading electronics manufacturers.
In solder paste inspection, the Aspire 2 is entering widespread use globally with many of the world's leading EMS and high technology manufacturers. Recently, one of the top 5 EMS manufacturers in North America took delivery of an additional raft of systems, while one of Asia's largest EMS manufacturers selected the Koh Young technology for their latest North American factory. AIM Solder has also ordered the KY-3020T bench top system for their applications & development lab, making the KY-3020T the clear leader with the supply base. Accuracy, ease of use, and reliability are even more critical when developing next generation products and processes.
Machvision PCB Inspection
One of Asia's largest printed circuit manufacturers recently took delivery of 6 Machvision Hole AOI Express systems for HDI interconnect inspection. These systems inspect and precisely measure laser drilled/micro drilled circuit boards to ensure dimensional accuracy, clearance, and positional accuracy. The sister system, the
Hole AOI Plus, will inspected non-through hole formed microvias as well.
The Hole Doctor HD-2000 has become an industry standard for high volume inspection of drilled printed circuit boards. It can be used after drilling, plating or at final inspection at the pcb manufacturer, or for incoming inspection in PCB assembly operations. ROI on the system can sometimes be measured in weeks rather than months.
InterSolar North America
Intersolar North America represented Christopher Associates first venture into the photovoltaic manufacturing industry. Co-sponsored by SEMI and held in conjunction with Semicon West, the show attracted record crowds with over 40% additional floor space
.
Christopher has assembled a portfolio of world class suppliers of both materials and equipment, with the advantage that our technical and sales teams are already expert in most of the technologies involved. Photovoltaic applies technology from printed circuit manufacturing, semiconductor, and even materials and equipment technology
originally developed for hybrid and PCB assembly in which in many case Christopher engineers have over 20 years experience. Response at the show was excellent, with over 150 companies visiting the booth. Interest was strong across the product range from both existing and new customers, and a number of orders have been placed and equipment sales pending resulted from our participation.
Orient Photovoltaic Laminators
20 years ago Christopher Associates was instrumental in the development of vacuum lamination systems for electronics manufacturing. We have come full circle in introducing the world's most successful vacuum laminator supplier for photovoltaic module manufacturing. With over 300 manual and over 400 automatic systems installed throughout the world, Orient are the largest supplier you may not have heard of. They were the first manufacturer in China and are technology leaders with a 70% market share. The TDCT Series semi automatic laminators are the most price competitive systems on the market, and meet global quality standards. Parts are stocked in California
with engineering support throughout North America. The TDCZ series automatic systems represent the most efficient and cost effective high production technology on the market today. Systems start at $65,000.
Tonsan Photovoltaic Sealants & Potting Compounds
Tonsan is China's largest and most successful manufacturer of sealants and potting compounds for photovoltaic module manufacturing. Their state of the art facility in Beijing is staffed by over 80 scientists and engineers specializing in sealants, adhesives, and related product applications and development working in world class
laboratories with state of the art equipment. Tonsan sealants and potting compounds have a 70% market share, with key technical advantages including 25+ year resistance to uv light, superior mechanical strength, and low odor. While available worldwide, they have only recently entered the North American market and are already making inroads.
GSMC Photovoltaic Metallization Pastes
GSMC is a technology leader in photovoltaic metallization pastes. With an excellent portfolio of front and back side pastes, GSMC is also able to formulate to meet specific user requirements. This willingness to work with our customers has helped make GSMC one of Asia's leading suppliers to the top photovoltaic manufacturing base.
Marantz AOI Systems
Despite unparalleled competition and extremely aggressive terms, Marantz is continuing to do well in North America. Several recent sales to small and mid sized manufacturers throughout North America were the results of superior performance, full color capability, and very low false alarm rates in head to head testing against several competitors.
Japan UNIX Robotic Soldering Systems & Mixers
Japan Unix introduced the world's first ultrasonic, fluxless soldering system at Intersolar North America last month. This system, which is available in hand held or robotic systems, solders glass and other previously impervious materials quickly and efficiently even in very high production applications. It is also available
as an option on the Christopher XE-1000 photovoltaic tabbing system. Japan Unix mixers have also seen a spike in sales. These systems are in widespread use in the cosmetics, dental, and electronics industries where homogeneity and precision are paramount. Thousands of units are in use by many of the leading names in medical
and other applications.
Substrate Support Systems
The VacuNest technology is one of the best substrate support systems in the world, combining complete flexibility with soft substrate contact to eliminate substrate damage. Installation takes minutes on any system, and the technology translates across industries where flat or contoured products can be stabilized and processed rapidly.
Stencil/Screen Wipes
R2R are global leaders in the screen/stencil printing wipe industries. Their unique composition ensues that even Class 100 cleanliness standards are maintained while ensuring excellent print quality every time.
Upcoming Events
SMTA International
PCB Assembly
Town & Country Convention Center - San Diego, CA - October 4-8
Solar Power International
Photovoltaic
Anaheim, CA - October 27-29
Christopher to introduce photovoltaic manufacturing solutions at Intersolar.
July 06, 2009
Christopher Associates (Santa Ana, CA) today announced that they will exhibit a wide range of manufacturing and test solutions at Booth 8053 in the for the photovoltaic manufacturing industry at Intersolar North America, to be held in San Francisco, CA from July 14-16.
The products to be exhibited include Tonsan sealants & potting compounds; GSMC photovoltaic metallization pastes; Top junction boxes and assembly tools; Japan Unix soldering technology; Orient lamination systems, and EVA film. Christopher Associates will also introduce the XE-1000 robotic bus soldering system.
Christopher Associates brings 30 years of experience in supporting the most demanding production environments in both materials and manufacturing technology. For further information, please contact:
Martin Gershenson
Director of Business Development
Christopher Associates Inc.
3617 W. MacArthur Blvd.
Santa Ana, CA 92704
Tel: 714-979-7500
E mail: martin.gershenson@christopherweb.com
Christopher Associates to Distribute Orient Photovoltaic Encapsulation Laminator
June 11, 2009
Christopher Associates today announced they have been granted exclusive distribution rights for North America by Orient Science & Technology Co. Ltd. (Qinhuangdao, China) for their complete line of vacuum lamination and encapsulation systems for photovoltaic module manufacturing.
Orient, China’s first and largest manufacturers of laminators for photovoltaic applications, was founded in 2000 and has over 500 installations worldwide. Development agreements with major Chinese universities have resulted in over 30 Chinese patents held by the company. The company has received numerous awards including the China Renewable Energy Award.
Christopher Associates is a leading engineering services and distribution company with over 30 years experience in supporting high technology manufacturing equipment throughout North America and the Caribbean. Christopher Associates will formally introduce the Orient family of semi and fully automatic laminators at Booth #8053 at Intersolar North America, to be held at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, CA from July 14-16.
For further information please visit www.christopherweb.com or contact:
Martin Gershenson
Director of Business Development
Christopher Associates Inc.
3617 W. MacArthur Blvd.
Santa Ana, CA 92704
Tel: 714-979-7500
E mail: martin.gershenson@christopherweb.com
Christopher Introduces GSMC Photovoltaic Metallization Pastes to North America
May 08, 2009
Christopher Associates Inc., a leading technology provider to the electronics and photovoltaic manufacturing industries today announced the introduction of the Gigastorage range of photovoltaic metallization pastes. Giga Solar Materials Corporation (Hsinchu, Taiwan, R.O.C.) has developed a complete range of the most efficient and reliable solar paste materials for photovoltaic applications in either crystalline silicon or thin film manufacturing processes for both front and back side metallization. The company has invested in a state of the art R & D Center and manufacturing plant to develop and produce the most advanced materials in an ISO 9001/ISO 14000 compliant environment, which has led to a rapid increase in the use of GSMC solar paste materials by solar cell manufacturers.
Photovoltaic manufacturers worldwide are demanding more efficient and cost effective solutions that address issues including thinner substrates, new materials, and new processes. This expansion of Christopher Associates product line fits well with the company’s core competency in materials science and manufacturing process solutions. Support and infrastructure will be provided through Christopher’s international distribution and engineering team.
Matthew Holzmann, president of Christopher Associates stated The technology of photovoltaic manufacturing is moving rapidly. Gigastorage has developed leading edge technology that will reduce the cost per watt and improve manufacturing yields. We are very pleased to partner with them and offer these solutions to the industry”.
For further information, please visit www.christopherweb.com or contact:
Martin Gershenson
Director of Business Development
Christopher Associates Inc.
3617 W. MacArthur Blvd.
Santa Ana, CA 92704
Tel: 714-979-7500
email:
martin.gershenson@christopherweb.com
Koki Tin-lead and Lead-free Solder Pastes Reduce Head-in-Pillow defects
May 01, 2009
Koki is recognized as a global leader in solder paste research and development. Many of the largest OEMs and EMS manufacturers in the world are using their solder paste materials. A key reason is that they have been developed specifically to address the issues that are faced in electronics manufacturing. As a key supplier for soldering materials, Koki has a staff of over 20 materials scientists and engineers developing new soldering materials based on customer requirements and needs.
Over the last few years, there has been an increase in the rate of Head-in-Pillow component soldering defects which interrupts the joining of the BGA/CSP component solder spheres with the molten solder paste during reflow. There are many reasons for this issue such as warpage issues of the component or board, ball co-planarity issues for BGA/CSP components and non-wetting of the component based on contamination or oxidation of the component coating. This issue is occuring across a broad segment of industries including consumer, telecom and military. The issue has been found to occur not only on lead-free soldered assemblies where the increased soldering temperatures may give rise to increased component/board warpage but also on tin-lead soldered assemblies.
Based on customer needs, Koki specifically investigated and developed tin-lead and lead-free solder pastes to reduce the Head-in-Pillow component soldering defect. They developed test methods to analyze the head in pillow defect not only on BGA component test vehicles but also more fundamental studies to assess solder ball interactions with the developed materials versus control solder pastes.
The Koki flux formulations developed in the anti-pillow solder pastes have higher heat resistance which do not lose their flux activation properties as quickly and quicker wetting which helps to reduce the head-in-pillow defect.
"I visited the Koki Japan facility recently where the global solder paste R & D work is carried out. I was very impressed with the experience and dedication of the researchers and the types of testing equipment used in the development of these materials,” said Jasbir Bath, Consulting engineer for Christopher Associates/Koki Solder. “Although solder paste cannot completely eliminate the head in pillow component soldering defect, it is one part of the solution to help to remove it."
Below is a list of Koki solder paste materials to choose from which are being currently being used in the industry:
Lead-free Halogen-free pastes: S3X48-M410-A (Type 3) and S3X70-M410-A (Type 5)
• Excellent Solderability and print quality
• <900 ppm Bromine
• <900 ppm Chlorine
• 01005 process compatible
Lead-free pastes: S3X48-M406-3 (Type 3) and S3X48-M406-5 (Type 3)
• Good quality of solder joints with outstanding continual printing performance
Lead-free paste: S3X48-M420 (Type 3) Low-voiding solder paste
• Specially formulated flux chemistry ensures extremely low voiding with CSPs and broad contact area components, e.g. QFNs/MLFs
• Ensures outstanding continual printability with 0.4mm/16mil pitch component applications and long stencil idle time.
Tin-lead paste SE48-M956-2 (Type 3)
• Ensures outstanding continual printability for 0.5mm/20mil and 0.4mm/16mil component pitch applications
For more information about Koki tin-lead and lead-free solder pastes, contact Martin Gershenson or Jasbir Bath at Christopher Associates by phone at (1) 714 979 7500, or by e-mail at martin@christopherweb.com or jasbir@christopherweb.com or visit the Christopher website at www.christopherweb.com or the Koki Solder website at http://www.ko-ki.co.jp
Marantz Announces Powerful AOI Networking and Process Control Software
April 29, 2009
Marantz Business Electronics has announced the launch of a powerful new four-dimensional AOI process control system at SMT Nuremberg, May 5-7. The Catch System can network multiple Marantz AOI machines into a completely closed-loop process monitoring and quality control system uniquely optimized for each user's workflow and internal organization.
The Marantz Catch System offers the special advantage of utilizing an especially competitive open source SQL database capable of managing huge data quantity, multiple users and numerous machines. In addition to the SQL based network control center module, the Catch System comprises three additional modules which each manage a particular component of the workflow and connect to the physical and administrative layout of the factory.
CS Repair provides a completely paperless system of defect classification and repair, working from three process operational variations and including full bar code control with multi-panel bar coding. CS Watch enables the user to observe their process from either a remote location or a factory display, providing real time process control with alarms for critical parameters. The fourth module, CS Analyzer, delivers SPC Track and Trace and end of batch performance analysis. Spot causes of defects on the same PCB are derived by collecting data from sequential inspections, offering optimal traceability.
We're much more than hardware providers, explained Marantz Business Electronics General Manager, Henk Biemans. We are genuine process enablers and the Catch system significantly highlights how much we know about productively utilizing AOI to measurably improve the manufacturing and financial performance of our customers. We pioneered 24-bit defect detection, and our newest our range of AOI technologies continues to move forward and deliver both premium performance and amazing value for today's high mix manufacturers. And our newest European distribution partner - SmartRep is also an experienced process specialist who understands the evolving needs of manufacturers and can deliver in-depth process support and technical expertise.
Koki announces approval by major telecommunications manufacturer
April 16, 2009
Koki announces approval by major telecommunications manufacturer of Head In Pillow solder pasteKoki Company Ltd. (Tokyo, Japan) today announced approval by a major Japanese manufacturer of telecommunications infrastructure of the S3X-48-M406 Series solder paste, developed specifically to address head in pillow defects.
S3X48-M406 solder paste offers excellent printability on very fine pitch (0.4Mmm/16 mil) and CSP devices with long stencil idle time. Melting & wetting is excellent, and specially formulated flux chemistry ensures very low voiding.
One of the issues presented in the application was the development of test procedure specific to head in pillow defects, which occur underneath BGA and CSP components and are a significant cause of field failures. In cooperation with their customer, Koki developed a suite of tests that helped define performance and process issues. Based upon this, the product was optimized and successfully implemented in high volume production.
For further information, including test protocols and performance data, please contact Christopher Associates Inc. or visit www.christopherweb.com.
Contact:
Martin Gershenson
Director of Business Development
Christopher Associates Inc.
3617 W. MacArthur Blvd.
Santa Ana, CA 92704
714-979-7500
E mail:
martin.gershenson@christopherweb.com
IPC APEX 2009 Show Report
April 15, 2009
IPC APEX 2009 Show Report - Smaller, Serious, Blockbuster New AOI Technology Intro
Mike Martel, US Tech Web Editor
IPC APEX 2009 kicked off its exhibition on Tuesday at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, same venue as last year. The show is a lot smaller than in years past, but no less energetic and serious; folks expected it to be slow, but I heard little whining; what it is, it is, and the survivors from the fallout of the amazing shrinking electronics assembly industry are learning to cope, make do, and ultimately even prosper.
At close of day Tuesday, attendees (excluding exhibitors) numbered a little under 2500. Some exhibitors dropped out prior to the show, resulting in booth/exhibitor attendance about 88% of expectations, according to IPC’s Anna Garrido, Director of Marketing and Communications.
Still, the reduced numbers simply meant that attendees were more serious; there were substantiated reports of sales made on the show floor. Many customer or attendee meetings with exhibitors were pre-scheduled; folks coming out knew what they wanted to see, and whom they were scheduled to see.
As one would expect in a tight or recessive economy, there weren’t many new products to see – many companies have gutted their developmental staffs and put innovation on hold. Also, in a mature industry, there are normally few remarkable technological advances anyway –they show up few and far between.
Unless, of course, you drop a bunker-buster on the show like Koh Young Technology has done with their new 3D AOI system, a new class of machine so new that it doesn’t have a name yet, and boasting technology so off the charts as to literally make everything else out there close to obsolete. One wonders, why haven’t these folks gotten the message that you’re not expected to introduce revolutionary stuff like this while everyone else is hanging their heads?
Whereas virtually all other AOI systems employ black-and-white 2D imaging to detect defects, this new system uses a radical approach incorporating eight image-sensors, dual 2D and 3D imaging to do what most AOI systems cannot do – sense height of objects in the Z-axis. It effectively prevents what are known as ‘escapes’ and cuts down dramatically on false calls, able to sense tombstoned components, lifted pads, leads, and components, upside-down components, and so forth. The inner workings of the system are a radical departure from what’s currently being offered out there. This will be one to watch.
Christopher Associates receives significant SPI order
March 20, 2009
Christopher Associates (www.christopherweb.com) today announced a significant order for the Koh Young Technology Aspire 2 solder paste inspection system from a major EMS manufacturer on the West Coast. Aspire 2, to be officially introduced at the IPX/APEX exhibition in Las Vegas later this month, is the fastest and most accurate solder paste inspection system in the industry. The system ordered will be used to inspect substrates containing 01005 components at speeds up to 75 cm2/second.
"The market for advanced technology is still strong" said Martin Gershenson, Director of Business development for Christopher Associates. "Our customers are beginning to see greater visibility and capital expenditures are increasing again" he noted. Christopher Associates (Booth 2125) and Koh Young technology (Booth 2525) will both be exhibiting a complete range of engineering solutions geared towards advanced manufacturing technology, yield improvement and line efficiency.
For further information, please contact:
Martin GershensonBusiness Development Manager
Christopher Associates Inc.
3617 W. MacArthur Blvd.
Santa Ana, CA 92704
Tel: 714.979.7500
Fax: 714.557.6904
E Mail:
martin.gershenson@christopherweb.com
Christopher to Introduce New Technology at IPC/APEX
March 18, 2009
Christopher Associates to
Introduce Game Changing New Technology at IPC/APEX
(Santa Ana,
CA)
Christopher Associates Inc. (www.christopherweb.com) today
announced that they will be exhibiting a full range of new technologies at Booth
2125 at IPC/APEX, to be held from March 31- April 2 at the Mandalay BayConvention Center in Las Vegas, NV.
First among these is the brand new Aspire 2 solder
paste inspection system from Koh Young Technology. Aspire 2 in the
world’s most advanced SPI system, production proven to 01005 components at the
highest speeds in the industry. Christopher will also exhibit the KY-3020T
bench top SPI system, the industry standard for laboratory and high mix/low
volume applications. New free software upgrades for the over 180 Koh Young
systems now operating in North America will
also be available.
Marantz Electronics will be represented by the iSpector
ML 350 automatic optical inspection system, their new full color, RGB based
technology. Capable of inspecting for component and solder defects on panels up
to 22” x 26”, the iSpector ML 350 offers the same performance as much
more expensive systems at a very competitive price.
Japan Unix will introduce the model 414R robotic
soldering system for high density applications as well as the 414L3
laser soldering system. Included will also be the UniCyclone 113 paste
mixer/defoamer, Unicon 103Unicon 108XL
soldering system for solar module manufacturing. soldering irons, and
Christopher Associates will also be exhibiting the KDS-251
dross separation system, proven to recover up to 70-75% of all solder in virgin
form as well as the Taku-Robo selective soldering system from Kokitec.
Koki will be represented with their new line of lead free, halogen free solder
pastes and wire solder, including anti pillow defect solder pastes.
Also new to the Christopher product range will be the Vacunest
universal pcb support system. Developed to be used in solder paste printers,
pick & place machines, and other process systems, the Vacunest compensates
for pcb warpage and component movement and improves yields throughout the
process.
Christopher will also introduce R2R under stencil
wipes to the North American market at IPC/APEX. R2R, one of Asia’s leading suppliers, manufactures a complete range
of stencil cleaning products for the pcb assembly industry
“In these challenging times, we want to enhance our ability
to support our customer base.” said Matt Holzmann, president of Christopher.
“By having a great engineering team along with some of the best technology in
the industry, we will provide the most cost effective solutions for our
customers short and long term objectives”.
For further information, please visit www.christopherweb.com or contact:
Martin Gershenson
Business Development Manager
Christopher Associates Inc.
3617 W.
MacArthur Blvd.
Santa Ana,
CA 92704
Tel: 714-979-7500
Fax: 714 –
557-6904
E mail: martin.gershenson@christopherweb.com
Christopher Appointed Novatec VacuNest Distributor
March 06, 2009
Novatec, the development company for electronic assembly process solutions based in France, has appointed Christopher Associates as its partner to distribute VacuNest tooling solutions in the U.S. and Mexico.
VacuNest offers a reusable custom tooling support within printer, dispensing and pick and place platform machines. The patented tooling is ESD safe, maintenance-free and works independently of the machines operating system.
Set up takes seconds--conforming to any underside board/component profile to provide a rigid uniform support that will not damage component terminations or component bodies.
Martin Gershenson, Director of Business Development for Christopher Associates commented, "VacuNest tooling complements well our current product range
of process solutions as our technicians strive to support customers to improve their process yield and reduce ppm defect levels. Tooling is a process critical item and the VacuNest solution offers customers an immediate return on investment."
About Novatec EAP
Novatec
EAP is a research company that develops new technologies for the electronic assembly industry. Founded in 1995, Novatec has patented and licensed numerous renowned inventions, including the ProFlow and RheoPump enclosed print heads, VacuNest shape memory tooling, Varidot/PumpPrint adhesive imaging and direct sphere transfer process for ball grid array manufacturing. For more information, contact Peter Marshall.
Christopher Introduces Defoaming/Mixing System
February 18, 2009
(Santa Ana, CA) Christopher Associates today announced the availability of the Japan Unix UM-118 Centrifugal Mixer/Defoamer. This unit, which can be used for solder paste, cosmetics, semiconductor materials, solar pastes, epoxies, and other materials is programmable for duration, cycle profile and up to 1500RPM centrifugal speed as well as internal rotational speed. Mixing of materials and defoaming are accomplished with cycle times half those of conventional mixers. The UM-118 can be controlled from a personal computer with complete traceability of every program. For further information, please contact:
Martin Gershenson
Director of Business Development
Christopher Associates Inc.
3617 W. MacArthur Blvd.
Santa Ana, CA 92704
Tel: 714-979-7500
Fax: 714-557-6904
martin.gershenson@christopherweb.com
Electrolube Inventory Reduction Sale
January 20, 2009
Christopher Associates is announcing an inventory reduction sale on all Electrolube products.
While supplies last, all Electrolube products are priced at 75% off list price.
Sale will End Feb. 28, 2009. Sale pricing for products in stock only.
Electrolube, a division of the international H. K. Wentworth Limited,
is a leading manufacturer of electro-chemicals for electronics and
industrial manufacturing. Electrolube has an unsurpassed reputation for the manufacture and supply of specialist lubricants to the automotive, industrial and domestic switch manufacturing sector.
Please contact Lulu Franco at
lulu@christopherweb.com or (714) 979-7500 to place your order.
Richard Brooks Joins Christopher Associates Solar
February 02, 2009
(Santa Ana, CA) Christopher Associates today announced that Richard Brooks has joined the company in the position of Technical Sales Engineer for Texas and border regions of Mexico. Mr. Brooks, formerly of Indium Corporation, brings over 20 years of process and technology experience to the company . He will be responsible for technical sales of Christopher’s industry leading solar technology portfolio, which includes Tonsan sealants and potting compounds, GSE EVA and other encapsulant films, Hengda junction boxes and tooling, and Japan Unix soldering systems. He will also be a team leader involved in the company’s green technology initiative.
Mr. Brooks holds degrees in Chemistry and Chemical Engineering from the University of Florida; holds several patents and has received numerous engineering awards for work done while a principal engineer and program manager at Motorola Corporation. He is a six sigma black belt, and has extensive industry experience, including his past presidency of the Dallas Chapter of SMTA.
Christopher Associates continues to reaffirm its commitment to the industry even in difficult times by finding the best people and identifying and implementing common sense solutions in high technology applications. For further information please contact:
Matthew Holzmann
President
Christopher Associates Inc.
3617 W. MacArthur Blvd.
Santa Ana, CA 92704
Telephone: 714-979-7500
Fax: 714-557-6904
matt.holzmann@christopherweb.com
Koki Pastes for Tin-Lead and Lead-free Soldering
January 21, 2009
One of the issues currently facing the industry has been an increase in the head-in-pillow (BGA) soldering defect primarily related to warpage of the board or BGA/CSP components during reflow soldering. Typically this has occurred more often during lead-free soldering where higher soldering temperatures increase the warpage affect of the BGA/CSP component or board increasing the defect tendency. In 2007, Koki developed a lead-free solder paste Koki M406-3 Sn3Ag0.5Cu which helped to reduce this affect which is currently successfully used in locations around the world. Tin-lead soldering operations are not immune and in 2006 Koki developed the M956-2 Sn37Pb Anti- Head in Pillow paste to reduce the affect in tin-lead soldering applications. Both pastes were developed and evaluated using internally developed test methodologies specifically designed to assess and find solutions for this issue.
For further information contact:
Martin Gershenson
Christopher Associates Inc.
3617 W. MacArthur Blvd.
Suite 507
Santa Ana, CA 92704, USA.
Tel: (714) 979-7500
martin@christopherweb.com
Christopher Associates Appoints ASL Sales
February 10, 2009
Christopher Associates (Santa Ana, CA) has appointed ASL Sales (Lewisville, TX) as sales representative for Bare Board fabrication equipment in Texas.
ASL Sales was started in June 2002 by Bonnie Morrow as a manufacturer’s representative company selling PCB fabrication equipment. Bonnie has over 30 years experience selling equipment and consumables to the printed circuit industry.
Christopher Associates has exclusive distribution rights in North America for C Sun Ovens, Laminators and Exposure Systems, Hi-Tech Large Area Exposure Tools, Machvision AOI Systems, First EIE Photo Plotters, and Shoda Techtron V-Scoring and Beveling Tools.
For information on any of these products, please contact:
Mike Moreau
Christopher Associates, Inc
3617 W MacArthur Blvd. Suite 507
Santa Ana, CA 92704
714-979-7500
mike@christopherweb.com
Christopher Associates Newsletter - January 2009
January 22, 2009
Japan Unix and Christopher Associates at the MD&M
January 09, 2009
SANTA ANA, CA – Japan Unix and Christopher Associates announced today that they
will be exhibiting automated soldering systems, high end soldering stations, and
defoaming mixers at the MD&M show in Anaheim, CA on February 10-12, 2009.
Japan Unix, the market leader in soldering systems, has over 30 years experience
providing top of the line soldering solutions for the PCB assembly market. Their robotic
systems offer ease of use, high quality solder joints, and repeatability that is unmatched in
the industry.
Christopher Associates, the North American distributor for Japan Unix, is celebrating their 31st year in supplying world class products and solutions for the electronics market. Based in Santa Ana, California with 3 offices in North America as well as Taiwan,
Christopher supplies sales and service for leading technology suppliers from all over the
world.
Martin Gershenson
Director of Business Development
Christopher Associates Inc.
3617 W. MacArthur Blvd.
Santa Ana, CA 92704
Tel: 714-979-7500
martin.gershenson@christopherweb.com
Christopher/Tonsan Solar Distribution Contract
December 17, 2008
Christopher Associates Inc., an engineering services and distribution
company serving high-tech industries, has signed an exclusive agreement
to distribute sealants, bonding agents and potting compounds for
photovoltaic and other solar applications manufactured by Tonsan, a
Chinese manufacturer of bonding, sealant and adhesive products.
Tonsan manufactures a full range of photovoltaic materials in a
manufacturing facility in Beijing, with multiple North American and
European certifications and approvals.
SOURCE: Christopher Associates
Matt Holzmann Interview on HDI
July 03, 2008
Click here to see Matt Holzmann's interview on HDI at TPCA Taiwan.
Christopher Associates Newsletter - October 2008
October 27, 2008
HD-2000 Conveyorized PCB Hole Inspection/Counter
August 15, 2008
The Hole Doctor PCB hole inspection system uses either drill files or a "golden" board to inspect printed circuit boards after drilling and plating, or in final inspection before shipment from the pcb manufacturer.
Download the PDF
JCPA 2008- Navigation for the next.
July 03, 2008
Christopher Associates Newsletter
June 28, 2008
With two trade shows and several industry conferences (all in the space of six weeks) now behind us, we believe we can better understand the current state of the North American printed circuit fabrication and assembly markets. IPC/APEX had only moderately improved attendance over last year, but the mood on the floor was much better. Customer visits to the Christopher Associates’ booth were up 50% compared to last year. Other suppliers reported strong results as well, but some on the bare board side were unhappy with the level of participation. Overall, interest was strong and exhibitors were satisfied. However, the number of those voicing complaints that there are simply too many shows in a relatively stable market seems to have increased.
Download the PDF
Annnuncing - Next Generation AOI Software
June 23, 2008
Inspection system specialist Marantz Business Electronics (MBE) and its exclusive U.S. Distributor, Christopher Associates, today announced the pre-release of new software for MBE’s acclaimed series of AOI equipment. “The new V400 suite offers numerous advances, not least of which is an impressive productivity-boosting reduction in programming time of 40%,” company officials said.
Download the PDF