Cobar Offering Bar Solder, SN100C Alloys in U.S.

(March 4, 2008) LONDONDERRY, N.H. — Cobar Solder Products, now part of the Balver Zinn Group, added bar solder and other solder products, including SN100C alloys, to its product offering of solder pastes, fluxes, and cored wire solders to U.S. electronics manufacturers. The additional products suit wave, selective, tinning, and similar applications.

ECD Appoints Asia Management

(March 3, 2008) MILWAUKIE, Ore. — ECD added E.H. Lim to handle sales and channel management in Asia. Lim was previously sales director for Vitronics-Soltec, responsible for its South Asia/Pacific sales region.

Myny Named Marketing Director of Koh Young

(February 29, 2008) SEOUL, South Korea — André Myny was appointed global marketing director of Koh Young Technology Inc. Myny has more than 10 years experience in the global circuit board assembly market.

Kyzen to Exhibit at ElectroTech 2008

(February 29, 2008) NASHVILLE — Kyzen Corporation will showcase AQUANOX A4625B and AQUANOX A4651US in representative Esman's booth D-120 at the ElectroTech Exhibition, February 28 to March 2, 2008 in Istanbul, Turkey.

January Book-to-Bill Below 1.00

(February 29, 2008) BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — IPC — Association Connecting Electronics announced the January book-to-bill ratio for flexible and rigid PCBs fell below parity, ticking down to 0.97. The lower book-to-bill is typical of January, according to IPC, and should not be considered a downward trend.

Siemens E&A Appoints Americas Electronics VP

(February 29, 2008) NORCROSS, Ga. — Siemens Energy & Automation Inc. appointed Leonard D. Garrison II (Butch) as VP and GM, Electronics Assembly Systems Division (EA), effective immediately. Garrison was named acting VP in December 2007.

SMTA Opens Hutchins Grant Applications

(February 29, 2008) MINNEAPOLIS — The SMTA will accept applications for the $5000 Charles Hutchins Educational Grant through April 14, 2008. The grant is awarded annually to a graduate-level student pursuing a degree and working on thesis research in electronic assembly, electronics packaging, or a related field. Applicants must hold a student membership in the SMTA.

Scanfil to Boost EMS Business, Changes Strategy

The goal is to increase the contract manufacturing business with the company arrangement and by investing the retained earnings in areas of new business.

Electrolube Expands in U.S.

(February 28, 2008) NOVATO, Calif. — Electrolube, a division of HK Wentworth Ltd., opened corporate offices in Calif. and an operations center in Chicago as part of its Americas expansion plan. The company will build distribution, sales and marketing, and technical support from these U.S. bases.

RGT to Take Controlling Stake in Canadian EMS Provider Adeptron

"RGT provides the combination of a growth oriented strategic EMS industry player and a strong financial backer. RGT is committed to supporting Adeptron's vision of vertical integration and growth through M&A activity along with strong organic business development efforts."

SMTA's 1^st President Passes

(February 27, 2008) MINNEAPOLIS — Norb Socolowski, first president of the SMTA and industry icon, passed away on February 14, 2008. He was 85. Norb is survived by wife Jean, who asks that any donations made in his memory be sent to the SMTA's Hutchins Educational Grant.

ZESTRON America Exhibiting at Houston SMTA

(February 27, 2008) MANASSAS, Va. — ZESTRON America will participate in the Houston SMTA Vendor Show and Technical Program, March 7 in Houston, Texas.

Henkel Nabs Prime Source Awards

(February 27, 2008) IRVINE, Calif. — The electronics and industrial groups of Henkel have been awarded "Prime Source Awards" from electronics distributor EIS (Atlanta, Ga.) The award ceremony included Jim Sharp, electronics group southeastern territory manager, Henkel; Ken Helfers, industrial group distribution account executive; and Bob Thomas, president and CEO, EIS.

Sono-Tek Assigned MediSonic Patent

(February 27, 2008) MILTON, N.Y. — Sono-Tek Corporation received a patent for MediSonic, a system of depositing thin organic films on complicated substrates, by the USPTO.

Winland Reforms Manufacturing and Operations to Support Growth Objectives

The restructuring is intended to support more aggressive EMS growth objectives and also better align the company to its 2008 and 2009 initiatives.

SMTA Discusses Counterfeit Components

(February 26, 2008) BOSTON — The SMTA Boston Chapter will host a technical presentation on fraudulent and counterfeit components March 4 in Boxborough, Mass. Don Trenholm will lead the talk.

Nihon Presents on Lead-free at APEX

(February 26, 2008) OSAKA, Japan — Nihon Superior Co. Ltd. is contributing a paper, "Properties that are Important in a Lead-free Solder," to the technical conference at IPC Printed Circuit Expo/APEX/Designers Summit, April 1–3, 2008, in Las Vegas.

EI Recognizes Patenting Achievements

(February 26, 2008) ENDICOTT, N.Y. — Endicott Interconnect Technologies, Inc. (EI) honored 32 employees for patent applications filed, 23 employees for U.S. patents issued, and 16 employees for supplying trade secrets in 2007 at a February 8, 2008, ceremony in Binghamton, N.Y. EI employees contributed a total of 29 U.S. patent application filings, 18 U.S. patents issuances, and five trade secrets in 2007.

Interview: David Bergman Discusses IPC's Agreement with Tsinghua University

The IPC has announced a new initiative with Tsinghua University in Beijing to develop a skill development program for electronics assembly.

Kyzen Exhibits at SMTA Dallas

(February 25, 2008) NASHVILLE — Kyzen Corporation will showcase AQUANOX A4625 at the upcoming Dallas SMTA Vendor Show, March 5, 2008, in Dallas, Texas.

IPC, Tsinghua University Partner

(February 25, 2008) BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — IPC — Association Connecting Electronics Industries will undertake an initiative with Tsinghua University (Beijing) for a skill development program for electronics assembly. The program is slated to reach about 5,000 students in 500 vocational schools each year.

PDR Launches Flexible BGA/SMT Rework System

(February 25, 2008) WEST SUSSEX, U.K. — PDR released its professional hand-held rework system, the PDR IR-SolderLight Professional, targeting flexibility for SMT/BGA rework. The system is tip/nozzle free, gas free, sensitive to controls, clean, and is said to produce high-quality BGA rework without complications.

Enthone Plating Lab Opens

(February 22, 2008) WEST HAVEN, Conn. — Enthone Inc., a business of Cookson Electronics, opened its advanced plating applications laboratory at the West Haven facility, inviting local government officials to celebrate with employees and customers. Enthone began construction on the facility in July 2007.

FCT Develops Lead-free No-clean Paste

(February 22, 2008) GREELEY, Colo. — FCT Solder, a division of FCT Assembly, developed the NL900 no-clean lead-free solder paste for use in SAC and SN100C alloy systems. FCT is an authorized licensee of Nihon Superior Co. Ltd.'s SN100C product line. The paste offers repeatability and consistency, according to the company.

AAT Intros Low-standoff Cleaning Technology

(February 22, 2008) BURNET, Texas — Austin American Technology (AAT) released a calculated cleaning technology, Progressive Energy Dynamics (PED), targeting low-standoff components with spacing down to 1 mil in lead-free assembly environments. The approach incorporates a system of nozzles, manifolds, and pump technology.

Article: "Adhesives for Increased Reliability in Medical Devices"

This article discusses the significant differences between the critical physical properties of flip-chip underfill versus board-level underfill, and how these properties affect the reliability of the underfilled device.

Zestron Promotes Parthasarathy

(February 21, 2008) MANASSAS, Va. — Zestron promoted Ravi Parthasarathy, M.S.Ch.E., to senior process engineer, responsible for key account management in North America.

Ascentech Provides Henkel's SIR Testing

(February 21, 2008) CHESTER, Conn. — Ascentech LLC, North American distributor for GEN3 Systems Ltd. products, provided Henkel Corporation's Electronics Technology Center (Irvine, Calif.) with laboratory equipment for surface insulation resistance (SIR) and solderability testing, including the MUST III solderability tester and AUTO-SIR surface insulation resistance testing systems.

OEM Partnership Enhances MES

(February 21, 2008) BROMONT, Canada — Cogiscan Inc. and Kratzer Automation AG (Germany) entered into a OEM reselling agreement and partnership to integrate Cogiscan RFID tracking and traceability technology into Kratzer's EMS-focused products, including the intraFACTORY manufacturing execution system (MES).

Nam Tai to Sell JIC Shares

Nam Tai Electronics, Inc. has announced that it is engaged in negotiations to sell its entire interest in its Hong Kong listed subsidiary, J.I.C Technology Company Limited, to an independent third party.

Users Unsure on Converged Technologies

(February 20, 2008) SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — In-Stat reports that conventional wisdom within the portable device industry is that consumers have a preference to use converged devices, meaning single devices that combine the functionality of previously separate devices. The research firm has found that wholesale adoption of a device that combines multiple devices is unrealistic, noting that a survey of U.S. businesspeople shows that users tend to remain loyal to older technology.

Sanmina-SCI to Sell PC Business to Foxconn and Lenovo

Sanmina-SCI Corporation today announced it has signed a definitive agreement with Foxteq and Lenovo for the sale of certain assets of its personal computing business.

electronica 2008 Takes Broad View

(February 19, 2008) MUNICH, Germany — electronica 2008, November 11–14, 2008, in Munich, will present a range of electronics — from semiconductors and nanotechnology to automotive safety and EMS, following the motto, "Get the whole picture." The show includes four special focus areas and 15 specific sectors.

Sanmina Sells PC Business to Foxconn

(February 19, 2008) SAN JOSE, Calif. — Sanmina-SCI Corporation signed a definitive agreement with Foxteq Holdings Inc., a member of the Foxconn Technology Group, to sell certain assets of its personal computing business, along with associated logistics services in Hungary, Mexico, and the U.S. Beyond this sale to fellow EMS provider Foxconn, Sanmina also plans to transition a Mexico-based personal computing operation to PC-maker Lenovo Group.

SMTA Dallas Combines Conference and Vendor Days

(February 19, 2008) DALLAS — The SMTA Dallas Vendor Days and Technical Conference, March 5, 2008, at the Richardson Civic Center outside Dallas, promises a full exhibit hall along with several key technical presentations covering advanced packaging, counterfeit components, and related topics.

iNEMI to Present Progress and Plans at IPC Expo/Apex

iNEMI will review results from three projects and hold an open meeting of a fourth at IPC Printed Circuits Expo, APEX & the Designers Summit (March 29 -- April 3; Las Vegas, Nevada).

AOI System Inspects Multilayer Substrates

(February 15, 2008) MUNICH, Germany — EPP delivered several model STRATUS II AOI systems for inspection of electroplated gold, silver, and platinum. The AOI system's main application is inspection of screen-printed multilayers of ceramic thick film or LTCC substrates or LTCC foils.

Dissolvable Spacers Maintain Component Locations

(February 15, 2008) MANCHESTER, Conn. — Multi-Seals Inc. introduced Wash-Away dissolvable spacers, designed to provide consistent spacing between PCBs and components. The organic polymer spacers locate PCB components during soldering operations.

Jim Raby to Deliver Keynote at Atlanta SMTA Expo

Jim Raby, renowned 50-year industry veteran, and founder, technical director and program manager at STI Electronics, will present the morning keynote, "An Industry Perspective: Past, Present and Future," at the 12th Annual Atlanta SMTA Expo.

Nihon Reviews Lead-free Wave at Flex Conference

(February 14, 2008) OSAKA, Japan — Nihon Superior USA, a subsidiary of Nihon Superior Co. Ltd., showcased its SN100C products with FCT Assembly, a U.S.-based SN100C global partner, at the IPC's "International Conference on Flexible Circuits" in Phoenix, Ariz.

Triton Electronik Completes the Acquisition of Positron Technologies

Through a $12 million investment Quebec Manufacturing Fund, Triton Electronik has successfully completed the acquisition of competitor Positron Technologies.

PPM Exclusive Supplier for QUAD Systems

(February 13, 2008) FREMONT, N.H. — Tyco Electronics Corporation has named Precision Placement Machines Inc. (PPM) as its exclusive supplier and manufacturer of replacement parts for its QUAD product line. The QUAD machines are used to assemble circuit boards.

Optimal Focuses on Mexico

(February 13, 2008) AUSTIN, Texas — Optimal Electronics Corporation partnered with Test_ing, Tecnologia, Control y Automatizacion Industrial of Chihuhua City, Mexico, for sales and support in Mexico. Test_ing represents and supports Optimal Electronics' Optel MES software suite. Under the agreement, Optimal Electronics will work with the company to extend its MES software suite to communicate with automated test-and-inspection equipment.

WIN Highlights Automation

(February 12, 2008) ISTANBUL — The World of Industry (WIN) Electrotech exhibition will take place February 28 through March 2 in Istanbul. WIN Electrotech 2008 is a tradeshow centered on high-growth automation, electro-technology, and hydraulic and pneumatic sectors. Exhibitors will highlight equipment and consumables via regional distributors.

IPTE Releases Universal Scanner/AOI

(February 12, 2008) GENK, Belgium — The universal scanner system, EasyView, was introduced by IPTE to supplement its machine portfolio, offering a flexible in-line solution for barcode scans, component checks, and solder joint inspection. It uses an ADOMO camera system.

Inside Plexus: A 'Quality' Visit

An exclusive video interview with Plexus PCB Commodity Manager Steve Williams reveals how strong quality systems are critical components for the success of North American electronics industry manufacturers.

PROMATION Upgrades Manual Workstation

(February 11, 2008) PLEASANT PRAIRIE, Wis. — PROMATION released its latest version of the company's 1M in-line work station. The WT-100-2C XL is a 1000-mm-long workstation that can handle PCBs up to 18" × 18". The station has dual 500-mm drives, each with independent variable-speed control, front work surface, overhead lighting, and a rear parts bin panel.

Aegis Expands Headquarters

(February 8, 2008) HORSHAM, Pa. — Aegis Software Corp. opened a new global headquarters in Horsham, outside Philadelphia. The new offices will meet Aegis' growing workforce demands and provide a training environment for the company's expanding customer base.

Blue Thunder Offers ESD Products

(February 8, 2008) EAST WINDSOR, Conn. — Blue Thunder Technologies Inc., produced a line of ESD products for cleanroom and electronics assembly facilities. The offering includes worker attire, flooring, wipes and swaps, and other products.

Flextronics to Acquire the FRIWO Mobile Power Business Unit of CEAG

FMP develops, produces and markets power supply and charging devices for mobile applications in the telecommunications sector.

KIC Marks 30 Years

(February 7, 2008) SAN DIEGO — KIC celebrated its 30^th year of business in the electronics industry. Founded in 1977 by Casey Kazmierowicz, KIC entered the electronics industry with a continuous monitoring system for conveyorized furnaces for microcomputers.

Thales Nederland Selects Valor

(February 7, 2008) YAVNE, Israel — Military electronics manufacturer Thales Nederland, a member of the international Thales Group, expanded its use of Valor Computerized Systems, Ltd., process control tools, selecting the Process Engineering Solution.

PROMATION Bolsters Wave, Buffer Lines

(February 7, 2008) PLEASANT PRAIRIE, Wis. — PROMATION added features to its assembly tools, enhancing the OUC-500 wave conveyor with fan banks and the SCBL-99 buffer station with upgraded software. The additions suit better process control and lead-free line management.

John Noble Wins Live EDGE

(February 6, 2008) CHICAGO — Newark and parent company Premier Farnell plc announced the winner of the 2007 Live EDGE Electronic Design for the Global Environment Challenge as John Noble from Malaysia. Noble designed a product called MyFan, a ceiling fan that combines an electronically commutated motor and controller with aerodynamically efficient blade design that reduces fan input power by up to 66% from traditional ceiling fans.

Metris Acquires X-Tek

(February 5, 2008) LEUVEN, Belgium — Metris completed its stock-based acquisition of X-Tek Group, begun in 2007, with 100% stock purchase. The company notes that X-Tek's microfocus and computerized tomography (CT) X-ray system lines fit its technology portfolio.

Grieve Releases 650°F Soldering Oven

(February 5, 2008) ROUND LAKE, Ill. — The Grieve Corporation released No. 851, a 650°F electrically heated belt conveyor oven for soldering. The oven includes two 4-ft. insulated heat zones with independent recirculated airflow and temperature controls, a 12-ft. cooling zone with tube-axial fans moving air through it, and a variable speed conveyor that operates between 1.3 and 15.3 inch/min.

Inovar Adds Flying Prober

(February 5, 2008) LOGAN, Utah — Inovar Inc. expanded its EMS service capabilities by purchasing a SPEA 4040 Multimode flying probe test system. The 4040 Multimode enables probe contact on the bottom side of PCBs and does not require fixturing.

Plexus Chooses AXI System

(February 5, 2008) SANTA CLARA, Calif. — Agilent Technologies Inc. supplied EMS provider Plexus with a 3D automatic X-ray inspection (AXI) system. Plexus added the Medalist ×6000 to its test-and-inspection equipment, using the system to detect defects and screen new products.

Sunburst EMS Announces Strategic Acquisition of New England Wire Assemblies

"The acquisition of New England Wire Assemblies broadens our service portfolio with extensive cable assembly expertise and tooling. It enhances our product integration capabilities and allows both Sunburst and NEWire to leverage our complementary customer bases."

OK International Reduces Prices in Europe

(February 4, 2008) GARDEN GROVE, Calif.— OK International announced that prices in Europe for its soldering and rework equipment and tools were headed downwards by as much as 20%. This is based on market demands in an increasingly global market for electronics assembly equipment.

Celestica Announces Fourth Quarter and 2007 Financial Results

"We are pleased with the strong results our company delivered in the fourth quarter. Since implementing our turnaround plans 12 months ago, we have undergone a major transformation which has resulted in our best ever and industry leading inventory turns, strong margin recovery and an improving trend in returns on invested capital.

SMTA Chapter Officers Gather for Training

(February 1, 2008) MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — The Surface Mount Technology Association (SMTA) will hold its annual Chapter Officer Forum on February 22 - 24 at the Sheraton Bloomington Hotel. The gathering begins with a facility tour hosted by the Upper Midwest SMTA Chapter and follows up with a tour of the SMTA Headquarters.

Nepcon 2008 UK Cancelled

Reed Exhibitions have announced the cancellation of Nepcon 2008 in the UK.

Oxford Instruments Debuts Trace Analyzer

(January 31, 2008) OXON, U.K. — Oxford Instruments Analytical Limited, a subsidiary of Oxford Instruments plc, released the X-Strata980 X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer. The tool uses a high-power X-ray tube and large LN2 detector to measure small areas on complex samples. Empirical and fundamental parameter calibration options enable set data analysis or element identification.

ASTM Seeks Award Nominees

(January 31, 2008) WEST CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa. — Standards developing organization ASTM International is seeking nominations for the William T. Cavanaugh memorial award, an annual recognition of an individual with eminence and broad contributions to the field of national and international voluntary standards.

Flextronics Announces Third Quarter Results

Net sales increase 67% to record $9.1 billion. Adjusted net income increases 84% to $250 million. Adjusted EPS increases 30% to $0.30

IPC Releases Long-Term Business Report

(January 30, 2008) BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — IPC — Association Connecting Electronics Industries put out "Geographic Strategies for Global Expansion in the Electronic Interconnect Industry: Where to Invest for Long-term Business Growth," commissioned on behalf of its Executive Market and Technology Forum members. The report is a comprehensive resource for companies making long-range plans for global and local expansion.

IPC Issues Wage and Salary Reports for PCB and EMS Industries

IPC announces the release of two biennial studies - 2006-2007 IPC Wage Rate and Salary Report for the PCB Industry and 2006-2007 IPC Wage Rate and Salary Report for the EMS industry.

IEC Reports Strong First Quarter Results

"Continuing our look forward, we do not see at this time any slowdown in our orders. Our backlog has actually grown modestly during the quarter and, overall, we do not seem to be encountering recession sentiment in our markets as suggested by the securities markets and the media."

December Book-to-Bill Stays Positive

(January 29, 2008) BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — IPC — Association Connecting Electronics Industries released the December 2007 book-to-bill ratios for rigid and flex PCB production in North America. The book-to-bill slipped in rigid and flex segments, hitting 1.01 for combined markets.

EFD Releases PicoDot Jet Dispense

(January 29, 2008) EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. — EFD Inc., a subsidiary of Nordson Corporation, debuted the next-generation PicoDot jetting dispense system, targeting high precision for a range of fluid viscosities. The dispense system suits miniaturized assemblies and 3D or uneven substrates for adhesive, coating, and other fluid applications.

Flextronics Completes Acquisition of Avail

Flextronics today announced that it has completed the previously announced acquisition of Avail Medical Products Inc., a privately-held, market leader in manufacturing disposable medical devices.

Zestron Asia/Pacific Expands

(January 28, 2008) MANASSAS, Va. — ZESTRON Asia/Pacific relocated to a larger facility, in the Zun Xuan Industrial Park of Shanghai, China. The location features the company's largest Asia/Pacific Application Technology Center.

Vitronics Soltec Upgrades XPM2 Reflow

(January 28, 2008) STRATHAM, N.H. — Vitronics Soltec introduced an enhanced XPM2 reflow platform, XPM2+, featuring upgraded conveyor, cooling, electrical controls, software, and user interface, as well as a leaner external body.

Professional Development at APEX

(January 28, 2008) BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — IPC — Association Connecting Electronics Industries will promote reliability in lead-free, high-density interconnects (HDIs), design for reliability (DfR), and other topics for more than 60 professional development courses March 30–31 and April 3 at IPC Printed Circuits Expo/APEX/Designers Summit in Las Vegas. Courses are half- and full-day classes with expert speakers.

Master Bond Debuts Harsh-environment Adhesive

(January 28, 2008) HACKENSACK, N.J. — Master Bond released the EP11SIC silver-filled one-component conductive adhesive. It suits applications requiring electrical connections for sensitive components in severe operating conditions, resisting mechanical and thermal stresses.

TechSearch Lauds Embedded Components

(January 25, 2008) AUSTIN, Texas — TechSearch International released "Embedded Active Components and Integrated Passive: Technologies and Markets," a report detailing the technologies, processes, and infrastructure for embedded components. TechSearch expects embedded components to see double-digit growth across market segments in coming years.

IPC Calls for Midwest 2008 Papers

(January 24, 2008) BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — IPC — Association Connecting Electronics Industries issued a call for participation for the IPC Midwest Conference & Exhibition, September 23–28, 2008, in Schaumburg, Ill. Researchers, academics, technical experts, and industry leaders are invited to submit an abstract for the technical conference on any aspect of electronics manufacturing.

Sanmina-SCI Announces Earnings for Q1: Outlook Improving

"Our second quarter has historically been seasonally down, but we are cautiously optimistic about our outlook based on what we currently have in the pipeline from new and existing customers. We expect to continue to strengthen our results, improve profitability and generate free cash flow throughout fiscal 2008," continued Sola.

SOMACIS Opening Advanced PCB Plant

(January 23, 2008) MANFREDONIA, Italy — SOMACIS pcb industries will start production of a next-generation of PCBs at two R&D facilities in Italy, Castelfidardo and Manfredonia. The Manfredonia plant is under construction and will begin producing the high-technology PCBs in the first half of the year.

Zetex Unveils Current Monitor

(January 22, 2008) HAUPPAUGE, N.Y. — Zetex Semiconductors released the ZXCT1080 current monitor, boasting an extended common-mode-sensing voltage range of 3 to 60 V. The component reduces errors in translating actual measured current into input sense current required, as well as overall power consumption. An automotive AEC-Q100-qualified version also is in development.

IPC Issues Reports, Recommendations

(January 22, 2008) BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — IPC — Association Connecting Electronics Industries commissioned a report on miniaturization and electronics manufacturing, conducted by Prismark Partners (Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y.). The association also weighed in on the European Commission's review of RoHS, suggesting that the EU consider technical, environmental, and resource impacts of additional RoHS action.

ProtoDesign Chooses DEK Horizon 03i

(January 21, 2008) UTICA, Mich. and FLEMINGTON, N.J. — ProtoDesign, Inc., a design and electronics services firm targeting medical, industrial, security and public service sectors, partnered with DEK to use the Horizon 03i platform. ProtoDesign will implement the printing system on its automated production line, and expects to double throughput over the coming year.

The Morey Corp. Adds Management

(January 18, 2008) WOODRIDGE, Ill. — Matt W. Williams joined The Morey Corporation's sales and marketing team as business development manager, focused on the commercial telematics market. He will concentrate on wireless, GPS, vehicle data-bus technologies, and other telematics hardware nearing full-scale commercial adoption.

Sunburst Appoints Western Rep

(January 18, 2008) WEST BRIDGEWATER, Mass. — Silver Mountain Design will represent Sunburst EMS's line of manufacturing and design services in the western U.S. Silver Mountain operates offices in Nev., Ariz., N.M., and southern Calif.

Rockwell Intros Linear Stages

(January 18, 2008) MILWAUKEE — Rockwell Automation released the Allen-Bradley MP-Series line of integrated linear stages for OEMs and machine builders, targeting a range of load-carrying applications. The products are designed to be off-the-shelf replacements for proprietary designs, reportedly reducing time and costs of design, programming, and commissioning.

EI Develops High-complexity PCB

(January 17, 2008) ENDICOTT, N.Y. — Endicott Interconnect Technologies Inc. (EI) created a large, high-complexity PCB controller board that functions as the intelligence of a powerful and advanced optical packet switch. The PCB was fabricated for IBM Zurich Research Lab, and required deep blind vias joined with a proprietary EI process technology.

IPC Designers Summit Focuses on Learning

(January 17, 2008) BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — IPC — Association Connecting Electronics Industries will present its 2008 Designers Summit, in conjunction with APEX, March 31 through April 3 in Las Vegas. The program includes workshops and exams for certifications, Designers Day, technical presentations, and networking.

iNEMI Begins 2009 Roadmap

(January 17, 2008) HERNDON, Va. — The International Electronics Manufacturing Initiative (iNEMI) is requesting input from industry experts to develop its 2009 Roadmap. Hewlett-Packard (HP) will host the North American kick-off meeting February 20–21, 2008, at its Cupertino, Calif., facility. The meeting is open to any interested in participating in iNEMI's next roadmap.

RoHS-compliant Shielding Released

(January 15, 2008) TAMPA, Fla. — Leader Tech used a new design and manufacturing process to create its Slot-Lok circuit board shielding (CBS) product. Slot-Lok joins the company's Flex-Tech product line, and is said to reduce standard design-to-delivery lead times.

Unicorn Investment Bank Buys Victron

"Victron combines strong execution capabilities with highly flexible operations, resulting in a unique and highly competitive business model."

IPC Issues Annual PCB Studies

(January 14, 2008) BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — IPC — Association Connecting Electronics Industries released three annual PCB studies: "2006–2007 Industry Analysis and Forecast for Flexible Circuits in North America," "2006–2007 Industry Analysis and Forecast for Rigid PCBs and Laminates in North America," and "Technology Trends for Printed Circuit Boards for the Year 2006." Growth in the PCB industry worldwide over the next two years is expected to be modest but steady.

KIC Upgrades Automatic Thermal Profiler

(January 14, 2008) SAN DIEGO — KIC's KIC Vision thermal profiling system is upgraded to include additional automatic capabilities. The Vision product is designed to replace manual periodic reflow profiling with automatic measurement of product profiles. The upgrades target increased automation, documentation, and traceability.

Kitron in Cooperation with Dignitana

The cooperation means that Kitron ASA's Swedish subsidiary Kitron AB shall develop a new complete product including hardware, software, mechanics and industrial design according to Dignitana's specifications.

White Paper: 7 Things You Must Know in Selecting an EMS Partner for Military/Government

Mr. Evangelista reviews the key principles that ensure successful military electronics outsourcing.

EMS in Central and Eastern Europe

With the dollar weaker than it has been in years, is there any reason to consider Central and Eastern Europe for outsourced electronics manufacturing?

Mentor Begins 20^th PCB Technology Awards

(January 11, 2008) WILSONVILLE, Ore. — Mentor Graphics Corporation opened its 20^th annual Technology Leadership Awards competition, calling for entries in six categories for complex PCB designs. The awards recognize engineers and designers that use Mentor products to address design challenges and produce leading products.

Advisory Board Update: Hwang Joins U.S. Export Council

(January 11, 2008) WASHINGTON — The U.S. Secretary of Commerce appointed Jennie Hwang, Ph.D., SMT Editorial Advisory Board member, to a four-year term with the U.S. Department of Commerce's District Export Council.

Foxconn 2007 Revenues Grew 42.5% Year-on-Year

Foxconn Electronics said its revenues grew 42.5% on year to reach a new high of NT$1.237 trillion (US$38 billion) in 2007.

APEX Hosts iRobot Founder

(January 10, 2008) BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — Rodney Brooks, Ph.D., director of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's (MIT's) computer science and artificial intelligence laboratory, founder of iRobot, and leader in robotics and artificial intelligence, will present the opening keynote of IPC Printed Circuits Expo/APEX/Designers Summit, April 1 in Las Vegas.

Ring in the New Rules

Environmental mandates continue to challenge the design and electronics supply chain as the industry moves into 2008.

Asymtek, YESTech Partner for Medical Apps

(January 8, 2008) CARLSBAD, Calif. — Asymtek and YESTech, both Nordson companies, co-developed a dispensing process that uses automatic optical inspection (AOI) technology to verify precision, accuracy, and reliability. The dispensing process targets medical-device manufacturers requiring traceability and validation.

2006 PCB Production Outpaced 2000

(January 8, 2008) BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — IPC — Association Connecting Electronics Industries issued its "World PCB Production and Laminate Market Report for the Year 2006," showing that the world PCB market expanded in 2006, for the third year in a row, to $47.6 billion.

Aqueous Names Accelonix as Distributor

(January 7, 2008) RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. — Aqueous Technologies Corporation appointed Accelonix, a member of the Accelonix Group, as its distributor in France and the North African countries Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco.

Indium's Ning-Cheng Lee Presents Globally

(January 7, 2008) CLINTON, N.Y. — Ning-Cheng Lee, Ph.D., VP of technology at Indium Corporation, will present diverse workshops in Thailand, Malaysia, and India throughout January 2008. Topics range from environmental impacts to high reliability, and center around lead-free soldering.

Cimnet Upgrades PCB-specific Software

(January 7, 2008) INDIANAPOLIS — Cimnet Systems, a Consona business unit, released new versions of three PCB-specific engineering and business software products: Paradigm v.3.5, iQuote v.3.2, and Engenix v.2.2.

CMK Sells JV Stake to Sumitomo Bakelite

(January 4, 2008) TOKYO — CMK Corp. sold its 49% interest in Malaysian PCB materials manufacturer SNC Industrial Laminates Sdn Bhd to Sumitomo Bakelite Co., reports The Nikkei Business Daily.

Lab Management Provider Opens

(January 3, 2008) AUBURN, Mass. — Labman One, LLC began business as a contract service company dedicated to improving the efficiency and productivity of high-tech laboratories. It aims to assist in laboratory management for small companies in advanced technology fields, managing debug and repair services, and reportedly adding to productivity and efficiency.

Taiyo Promotes Hole-plugging Ink

(January 2, 2008) CARSON CITY, Nev. — Taiyo America will allow customers to try its THP-100DX1 hole-plugging ink, on up to 12 PCB panels, at Applied Circuit Services (Exeter, N.H.) or HDI Via Fill Services (Santa Ana, Calif.). The hole fill is said to resist attack in over-plate applications, providing a planar copper surface without dishdowns from desmear.

Aqueous Releases Trident E-Learning Topic

(January 2, 2008) RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. — Aqueous Technologies Corp. announced the "Trident Automatic Defluxing and Cleanliness Testing System" E-Learning presentation, available on the company's Website. The presentation introduces control, cleaning, test, drying, and configuration technologies for the Aqueous Trident system.

Video: Productronica Marketing Roundtable

This roundtable with EMSNow Editor Phil Stoten, I-Connect007 Editor Steve Gold and Protean Marketing's Rich Heimsch examines differences between international and local exhibitions from a marketing perspective.

Elcoteq Reorganizing in 2008

(December 26, 2007) ESPOO, Finland; RICHARDSON, Texas; and HONG KONG — Elcoteq SE will streamline and simplify its organization, effective January 1, 2008. The reorganization is part of the EMS provider's action plan announced in October 2007. The resulting structure should improve the company's ability to respond to customer needs, clarify responsibilities, speed up decision making, and improve Elcoteq's cost structure.

Master Bond Debuts Anti-Static Latex Coating

(December 26, 2007) HACKENSACK, N.J. — Master Bond Inc. released LTX-117G, a lower cost, electrically conductive, water-based adhesive, sealant, and coating. It is a one-part, UV-stable latex adhesive that incorporates non-metallic graphite filler to add conductivity.

Puritan Releases ESD-safe Swabs

(December 24, 2007) GUILFORD, Maine — Puritan Medical Products LLC created a line of ESD-safe swabs with primary applications in microelectronics induustry. The ESD Safe Swabs protect electronic circuitry and devices from the negative effects of ESD. An ESD event can cause an immediate product failure, or cause a product to fail later, affecting product lifespan as well as customer safety and satisfaction.

CTS Corporation Achieves AS9100 Certification for Aerospace Manufacturing at its Singapore Facility

AS9100 is the international quality management standard for designers and manufacturers of equipment for aerospace applications.

Jabil Net Income Increases 50 Percent

Net revenue for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 increased 4.5 percent to $3.4 billion compared to $3.2 billion for the same period of fiscal 2007.

Optimal Uses Calavista for Software Development

(December 20, 2007) AUSTIN, Texas — Optimal Electronics Corporation partnered with Calavista Software, a software development resources and tools company, to expand and improve the Optel manufacturing execution system (MES) suite.

Nihon Aids World Solar Challenge

(December 20, 2007) OSAKA, JAPAN — Nihon Superior Co. Ltd. sponsored the UltraCommuter vehicle in the Panasonic World Solar Challenge eco-car race, held this October. UltraCommuter was jointly developed by Nihon Superior, the University of Waikato (New Zealand), and HybridAuto.

SMTA Supports SMART Group Seminars at Nepcon UK

SMTA will bring a wealth of expertise and technical content to Nepcon, as they work with the SMART Group to create topical and relevant presentations tackling today's manufacturing challenges.

Zuken, LogicSwap Launch Design Migration Tool

(December 19, 2007) MUNICH, Germany and WESTFORD, Mass. — LogicSwap, migration software provider for Zuken's CADSTAR, launched a migration toolset for schematics, libraries, and PCB designs moving to CADSTAR from Cadence Allegro and Orcad, Mentor Graphics PADS PCB designer, and Altium Protel and P-CAD.

Valor, Digitaltest Partner

(December 19, 2007) YAVNE, Israel — Valor Computerized Systems Ltd. and Germany-based Digitaltest GmbH partnered to integrate their respective design-for-test and process engineering products for improved new product introduction (NPI), assembly, and test. Digitaltest's C-LINK will work with Valor's vPlan software on a common data model.

2008 IC Market Drivers Report

(December 18, 2007) PHOENIX — Electronics system shipments worldwide grew about 5% in 2007, hitting $1.21 trillion. The market is driven by demand for mobile communications devices, consumer products, notebook PCs, wireless, and automotive electronics, according to IC Insights' 2008 edition of its "IC Market Drivers" report. IC Insights finds that IC sales grew 5% to $220.3 billion this year.

Focal Spot Releases Verifier H X-ray Inspection

(December 18, 2007) SAN DIEGO — FocalSpot Inc. launched two configurations of the Verifier H series horizontal-beam X-ray inspection system. The FSX-H75 and H90 are designed to assess industrial, automotive, and medical electronics.

China Week in Review

Unimicron November Sales Reach NT$4B; GCE to Boost Notebook PCB Shipment in 2008; Vertex to Inject Hong Kong Investment; Hannstar Board Targets 40% of the Global Notebook PCB market

November 2007 Book-to-Bill Remains Positive

(December 17, 2007) BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — IPC — Association Connecting Electronics Industries announced today the November findings from its monthly North American Printed Circuit Board (PCB) Statistical Program. The book-to-bill ratio for rigid and flex PCB production continued its positive trend, hitting 1.06.

Europe's Electronics Manufacturing Sector Grew 6.4% in 3Q

The electronics manufacturing industry in Europe registered a 6.4 percent growth in revenues for the third quarter, as compared to the previous quarter, according to ZVEI.

Iomega to Acquire EMS Provider ExcelStor Group

ExcelStor markets its products primarily to OEMs as an electronics manufacturing services provider and also sells its own ExcelStor-branded products through distributors throughout the world.

APEX 2008 Preview: Technical Sessions

(December 12, 2007) LAS VEGAS — IPC — Association Connecting Electronics Industries released highlights for its IPC Printed Circuits Expo/APEX/Designers Summit, April 1–3, 2008, in Las Vegas. The show includes a conference, free forums, standards development meetings, professional development courses, and exhibit floor.

Henkel Intros Quick-dry Toluene-free Conformal Coating

(December 12, 2007) IRVINE, Calif. — Henkel Corporation launched the next generation of its Hysol conformal coating material, a toluene-free, one-component, solvent-based acrylic conformal coating, PC62.

Sparton Corporation Announces the Award of a Record Level of New Business

Electronic Design and Manufacturing Service (EMS) provider Sparton Corporation (NYSE:SPA) has announced that the Company has secured a record number of new business opportunities for the Company

Palomar Partners with Vision for PWB and SMT

(December 11, 2007) CARLSBAD, Calif. — Palomar Technologies partnered with Vision Manufacturing, Inc. (VMI — Vista, Calif.), to add printed wiring board (PWB) and SMT services to its Palomar Microelectronics process development, prototyping, and low-volume assembly services.

NanoMarkets Sees Disposable Electronics at $26.2B by 2015

(December 11, 2007) GLEN ALLEN, Va. — NanoMarkets LLC expects the disposable electronics market — paper substrates, printed RFID tags, organic embedded devices — to grow to a $26.2 billion market by 2015. The analyst firm published its projections broken out by applications and device type, as well as corporate profiles of market leaders, in "Disposable Electronics: The First Wave for Printed and Organic Electronics."

PartnerTech Initiates Profitability Plan

An action program is being adopted to adjust costs to lower sales and to streamline operations. The measures are expected to steadily boost earnings during 2008.

Video: Interview With Meadville Group CTO Chris Katzko

Katzko describes the Meadville Group's technological prowess that now covers the full spectrum of PCB technology from CSP substrates to high performance backplanes.

Assembléon Opens German Office

(December 10, 2007) EINDHOVEN, the Netherlands — Assembléon established a direct sales and service presence in Germany, offering its full range of electronics equipment and technical support to German customers.

Frost & Sullivan Reports on SMD Placement

(December 10, 2007) PALO ALTO, Calif. — Frost & Sullivan released an analysis of pick-and-place, "Emerging Trends in SMD Placement," highlighting accuracy and modularity as key to next-generation pick-and-place systems. The report is part of the "Surface Mount Technology Technical Insights Growth Partnership" program.

BPM Reduces NAND Programming for STMicro

(December 10, 2007) HOUSTON — BPM Microsystems reduced programming time for STMicroelectronics' NAND flash large-page family, in densities from 1 to 8 Gbit. BPM produced faster programming times on the Flashstream memory programmer.

SMTA Medical Electronics Symposium Announced

The SMTA is also offering two ATE tutorials during the symposium, which will be held January 29-31, 2008 at the Anaheim Convention Center.

Quadris-3 Pick-and-place System Launches

(December 7, 2007) BINGHAMTON, N.Y. — Universal Instruments expanded the Quadris platform with Quadris-3, which uses a quad-gantry layout and is said to achieve high throughput and place a range of components. The system is based on Universal's Quadris-S, enabling compatible operation on SMT lines.

SMTA Requests Abstracts

(December 7, 2007) ORLANDO, Fla. and SHANGHAI, China — The SMTA is requesting abstracts for technical papers and presentations at its 2008 tradeshows, including SMTA International (SMTAI) in Orlando and three SMTA China shows in Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Tianjin.

Nihon Licenses SN100C Globally

(December 6, 2007) BALVE, Germany and MONTREAL — The Balver Zinn Group and AIM each acquired global licenses for the SN100C lead-free alloy developed by Nihon Superior Co. Ltd. Both licenses cover solder paste and wire.

Collaboration Leads to Solder Tester

(December 6, 2007) CHESTER, Conn. — Ascentech LLC will distribute the ShareGen SPA 1000 solder paste analyzer in North America. The product was created through a global alliance of Gen3 Systems (U.K.) and Sharemate Technology (Taiwan) for test and production equipment development.

Additive to Limit Tin Whiskers

(December 6, 2007) OSAKA, Japan — C. Uyemura & Co., an Osaka-based supplier of metal plating chemicals, has developed an additive that reportedly prevents formation of tin whiskers on circuit boards and other electronic components, according to the Nikkei Business Daily.

VIDEO: Sanmina-SCI and the European EMS Market

Sanmina-SCI's Dick Heinrich updates viewers on his company's European perspective--particularly what end markets are most important in Europe and how the falling U.S. dollar is impacting business.

VIDEO: An Interview with DEK's Michael Brianda

Philip Stoten talks with Michael Brianda, DEK's Sales & Marketing Director, about his views on the European market and in particular, Productronica's place on the global stage.

Tantalum Capacitors for Embedded Apps

(December 4, 2007) MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — AVX Corporation developed a range of tantalum capacitors targeting embedded control systems used in electronic control units (ECUs) for industrial, telecommunication, and other applications.

ASSET Acquires ITT

(December 4, 2007) RICHARDSON, Texas — ASSET InterTech Inc. acquired International Test Technologies (ITT), based in County Donegal, Ireland. ITT supplies processor-emulation test technology to electronics manufacturers. The company's core test applications will merge well with ASSET's boundary scan systems for test, in-system programming (ISP), design-for-test (DfT), and advanced embedded instrumentation applications, according to representatives.

Plastic Logic Adds FAS Extrusion Coating

(December 4, 2007) AUSTIN, Texas — Plastic electronics assembler Plastic Logic Limited ordered an FAS Advantage IV extrusion coater line through NexTech Solutions. The automated coating line will be integrated for manufacturing flexible organic active-matrix displays.

Astronics AES Implements Omnify PLM

(December 4, 2007) ANDOVER, Mass. — Astronics AES streamlined product development and improved production using Omnify product life-cycle management (PLM) software. Astronics produces more than 100 electronic products for commercial, military, and aerospace platforms.

VIDEO: The Multinational High Wire Act: Sell Globally, Think Locally

An interview with Indium Europe Managing Director Brian Craig looks at how a multinational company releases products globally but must be sensitive to customer needs regionally. Craig also gives his thoughts on Europe's 2008 market outlook and distinctive marketing strategies his company is employing to reach engineers.

PCB Industry Steady in October

(December 3, 2007) BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — IPC — Association Connecting Electronics Industries October book-to-bill findings reveal that shipments and orders were generally slightly depressed throughout the month, in flexible and rigid PCB sectors. However, the book-to-bill ratio remained at 1.08.

CADParts Partners for EMS

(December 3, 2007) MORGANVILLE and NEPTUNE, N.J. — CADParts & Consulting LLC formed a strategic alliance with EMS provider EdmondMarks Technologies for long-term, quality products for customers. The companies report that the partnership will help streamline R&D investments from their customers.

Vulcan Adds Real-time X-ray Inspection

(December 3, 2007) HUDSON, N.H. — Vulcan Flex Circuit Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Vulcan Electric Company, acquired an XRI-1 real-time X-ray inspection unit for its flex and flex-rigid production facility.

Novatec Debuts Benchtop Shape-memory Tooling

(December 3, 2007) MONTAUBAN, France — Novatec released a tabletop configuration of its VacuNest shape-memory tooling, designed to fixture any type of final assembly devices and enclosures quickly and flexibly.

Foxconn Plans to Make Shenzhen Its Global Headquarters

Foxconn is making Shenzhen its global planning headquarters and a center for global manufacturing.

Henderson: PC Growth Rebounds

(November 30, 2007) LOS ALTOS — Personal computers (PCs) are on pace to hit 264 million unit shipments in 2007, according to the Henderson Forecast Summary from Henderson Ventures. Low-cost shipments to emerging economies and growing acceptance of Microsoft's Vista operating system (OS) are propelling growth. The introduction of WiMax also is helping push consumers to invest in new units.

Nihon Opens in San Diego

(November 29, 2007) SAN DIEGO, Calif. — Nihon Superior Co. Ltd., based in Osaka, Japan, opened a Nihon Superior USA, LLC office in San Diego to manage solder products distribution throughout the Americas. Nihon licenses its SN100C lead-free alloy through AIM Solder and FCT Assembly in North America.

SMTA International 2007 Best Papers Announced

To reward exceptional achievement, $1,000 awards and plaques are given for the Best of Conference Paper, Best of Proceedings Paper, and the Best International Paper.

Lockheed, Sanmina Team for Army Contract

(November 27, 2007) OWEGO, N.Y. — Lockheed Martin and Sanmina-SCI signed a teaming agreement, allowing them to collaborate in a bid for the U.S. Army's next-generation digital intercommunications system contract. The job is worth $3.5 billion over about five years. The companies plan to offer an enhanced tactical vehicle version of Sanmina's TOCNET intercommunication system.

Toray to Sell Flex Exposure System in West

(November 27, 2007) TOKYO — Toray Engineering Co., Ltd., will open sales opportunities of its double-sided, close-proximity exposure system, TE2538W, to flex substrate manufacturers in the U.S. and Europe.

Electronic Manufacturing Capacity Undergoes Global Rebalancing

iSuppli Corp. is tracking a new series of evolutionary and strategic steps for electronics contract manufacturers that focuses on other factors beyond labor cost when it comes to selecting a location for production.

AQT Reps Kyocera PCB Machining in Midwest

(November 26, 2007) IRVINE, Calif. — Assured Quality Technologies (AQT) will represent Kyocera Tycom Corporation's (KTC's) PCB drilling and cutting tools with sales and technical services.

VJ Electronix Enhances Engineering

(November 26, 2007) LITTLETON, Mass. — VJ Electronix hired Stephen Bowler as its engineering manager for X-ray inspection technology and rework systems.

TFI Releases December Forum Agenda

(November 26, 2007) ALAMEDA, Calif. — Technology Forecasters Inc. will hold its Quarterly Forum in San Jose, Calif., December 5–6, 2007. The event includes presentations on Eastern/Central Europe's EMS climate, green electronics, DfX as a growth tool, and other topics.

Outsourcing Advice for Medical OEMs

(November 26, 2007) CRANSTON, R.I. — EMS provider Federal Electronics released a white paper for medical OEMs looking to outsource to EMS providers. Author Ed Evangelista, VP of Federal Electronics, believes EMS providers versed in the regulatory environment of medical electronics can bring OEMs higher profits, more flexibility, and faster time-to-market.

AOI Line Highlights Upgradeability

(November 26, 2007) EINDHOVEN, the Netherlands — Marantz Business Electronics premiered its iSpector 350 AOI system at Productronica this November in Munich, Germany, part of its upgradeable AOI platform. The AOI line can go from benchtop to in-line inspection, with various lighting configurations.

Post-show Numbers: Productronica Expands International Draw

(November 26, 2007) MUNICH, Germany — Despite transportation strikes and snow storms, attendance at the 2007 Productronica conference hovered around 40,000, with visitors and exhibitors hailing from outside Germany both on the rise.

OK International Debuts Tweezers

(November 26, 2007) GARDEN GROVE, Calif. — OK International released MX-PTZ precision tweezer tooling for its Metcal MX-500 soldering and rework system. The tweezers are designed to eliminate thermal overshoot, PCB stress, and package damage during manual rework. They are reportedly lightweight and ergonomically designed.

Step-by-Step - Step 10: Rework & Repair

Modern PCBs, with higher component density and shrinking component and trace/space dimensions, can be successfully modified, reworked, and repaired even while being processed in today’s lead-free and mixed-alloy rework-and-repair environments.

VIDEO: An Interview with Henkel's Pat Trippel

Henkel Technologies President Pat Trippel offers his view of the European EMS consumables market. He also discusses his company's latest offerings at Productronica.

Vista Partners Updates Coverage on TXP Corporation

"TXP reported an excellent third quarter with revenues up 61% year over year. We expect continued growth as the retrofit and prototype businesses continue to expand and add customers."

Productronica Show Wrap Up - Is Productronica Losing Its Luster?

Productronica has always been the premier exhibition for the PCB and Assembly industries. Is it losing its luster as the industry migrates to China?

Messe Muenchen's Klaus Dittrich Discusses Productronica 2007 and China 2008

Messe Muenchen CEO Klaus Dittrich declares Productronica 2007 a success based on exhibitor feedback. He also looks forward to 2008, where his China exhibition will rank as the third largest electronics exhibition in the world.

VirTex Adds VP, Manufacturing Operation

(November 19, 2007) AUSTIN, Texas — VirTex Assembly Inc. created the position of VP, manufacturing operations, to develop and enhance manufacturing efficiency and implement lean manufacturing practices. Cathy Armstrong Chamseddine will take up the position.

IPC Looks for APEX Presenters

(November 19, 2007) BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — IPC — Association Connecting Electronics Industries is calling for researchers, academics, technical experts, and others in the industry to submit abstracts for poster papers for IPC Printed Circuits Expo, APEX and the Designers Summit, March 30–April 3, 2008, in Las Vegas.

Smartphones Eroding Laptop and Cell Markets

(November 19, 2007) SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. and EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — Smartphones are on pace to grow at a more than 30% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the next five years, according to research firm In-Stat. Computing companies from Google to Apple likely will succeed in making the leap from PC-based products to smartphone integration, add analysts at iSuppli.

Fume Extraction for Benchtop Soldering

(November 19, 2007) APEX, N.C. — Cooper Hand Tools introduced the Weller volume fume extraction system WFE2ES with 99.5% filtration efficiency. It targets solder baths, micro soldering, and other applications where workers can be exposed to fumes and pollutants from assembly processes.

IMS Supplies Non-magnetic SMDs

(November 19, 2007) PORTSMOUTH, R.I. — Targeting medical and MRI equipment and related industries, International Manufacturing Services (IMS) developed a group of non-magnetic resistors, RF dividers, and other components. The surface mountable devices feature nickel-free terminations and suit leaded or lead-free soldering.

Assembléon Expands to Austria, Switzerland

(November 19, 2007) EINDHOVEN, the Netherlands — Assembléon established direct sales and service representation in Austria and Switzerland for its electronics manufacturing equipment.

NEE Expands to U.S., Europe

(November 19, 2007) PHOENIX, Ariz. — New Era Electronics, Ltd. (NEE), along with business consultant EastBridge Partners LLC, established NEE International Ltd. as a microwave PCB sales and support force outside of Asia. The business unit will be based in Phoenix, and cater primarily to microwave PCB customers in the U.S. and Europe.

European Market Overview - The Stabilizing Market, Prospects for Eastern Europe and the Weak Dollar

Atotech Vice President Dr. Martin Kurpjoweit offers his view of the European PCB electronics market, including his assessment of Eastern Europe and what the falling dollar means to European suppliers.

Another Look into the European Electronics Industry

Reporting for Real Time with Productronica, Philip Stoten talks with Michael Brianda, DEK's Sales & Marketing Director, about his views on the European market and in particular, Productronica's place on the global stage.

Kyzen Premiers AQUANOX A4651US

(November 14, 2007) NASHVILLE — Kyzen Corporation introduced AQUANOX A4651US low-pH ultrasonic immersion cleaner at Productronica 2007 in Munich, Germany. The solution reportedly offers consistent cleaning with modern flux chemistries and with minimal bath monitoring.

Digitaltest Debuts CAD-less Design System

(November 14, 2007) STUTENSEE, Germany — Digitaltest GmbH released Digitizer, a system that reverse engineers PCBs to obtain computer-aided design (CAD) data when vital design information is lost or corrupted.

Industry Forecast: Partly Sunny or Partly Cloudy, Depending on Your Perspective

As usual, the two day executive meeting was packed with inspirational talks about innovative ways to become and stay competitive. It also looked into the current and future market conditions of the industry.

CTS Announces Realignment of Operations and Workforce Reduction

The realignment is intended to create synergies by further enhancing CTS' shared services model to include manufacturing support functions at its locations that serve more than one business.

MYDATA Licenses Asymtek's Jetting

(November 12, 2007) STOCKHOLM, Sweden and CARLSBAD, Calif. — MYDATA Automation AB signed a license agreement with Nordson Corporation involving patents for jetting processes developed by Asymtek, a Nordson subsidiary. MYDATA will incorporate Asymtek's jetting in their jet printer products for SMT applications.

Zestron Adds National Sales Manager

(November 9, 2007) MANASSAS, Va. — ZESTRON America appointed Mike McCutchen as national sales manager, responsible for growing ZESTRON's domestic product and service business while expanding the current customer base.

UMC Green-lit for China

(November 9, 2007) TAIPEI, Taiwan — The Ministry of Economic Affairs' Investment Commission has approved UMC's first official application to invest in mainland China: a $20M deal with a PCB manufacturer held by affiliate Unimicron Technology Corp.

TTSG Installs Ansoft PCB Design Suite

(November 9, 2007) PENANG, Malaysia — Test Tooling Solutions Group (TTSG), a global manufacturer of automated test equipment (ATE) for the semiconductor industry, adopted Ansoft Corporation's PCB design suite. The tooling provider will use Ansoft products on design flows that link process-accurate models of board-level structures to advanced circuit and system simulations.

DDi Enters Broader Licensing With Stablcor

(November 9, 2007) COSTA MESA and ANAHEIM, Calif. — Stablcor Incorporated signed a licensing agreement with PCB manufacturer DDi Corp., enabling DDi to ship to users without end-product royalties. The licensing policy is geared to bring STABLCOR materials from specialty use to incorporation as a general build-up material in PCBs.

IEC Announces Strong Results for Fiscal 2007

For the fiscal year IEC had net income of $875,000 or $.10 per share on sales of $40.9 million as compared with net income of $215,000 or $0.03 per share on revenue of $22.6 million for fiscal 2006.

Distributor News

(November 8, 2007) Calif., Texas, Minn., U.K. — KIC named Propelec S.A. as its distributor in Spain; Enfis selected Digi-Key as its global distributor; and Mouser will expand its Crystek product distribution.

Titan Takes First Step in Planned Acquisition of Nexus Nano Electronics

Nexus Nano Electronics is a manufacturer of custom circuit board assemblies for aerospace, defense and other industries.

Nextreme Names Director, Manufacturing

(November 7, 2007) RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — Nextreme appointed Stephen Brooks as director of manufacturing, citing prior experience with ramping technologies from introduction to volume manufacturing.

Heller Adds Asia Sales Manager

(November 7, 2007) FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — Heller Industries appointed Wojtek Antoniak as regional sales manager in southeast Asia, based in Singapore.

SMTR Adds Legacy Services

(November 7, 2007) WAKE FOREST, N.C. — SMT Resource Group LLC (SMTR) introduced a service program to support legacy SMT equipment and lines, typically 5 to 10 years old. The service includes line moves, in-factory training, and emergency and preventative maintenance.

Titan Acquiring Nexus Nano

(November 6, 2007) AMESBURY, Mass. and FREMONT, Calif. — Titan Global Holdings, through subsidiary Titan Electronics Group, will acquire the assets of Nexus Nano Electronics Inc. in an equity-based transaction valued at just over $11 million. Titan anticipates that the custom PCB manufacturer will increase market share in defense, aerospace, and related electronics segments by 2008.

Mouser to Distribute ROHM Electronics

(November 6, 2007) MANSFIELD, Texas — Mouser Electronics, Inc., will distribute ICs and other components from ROHM Electronics USA to its engineering-based customers.

Dage Promotes Sealed X-ray for High-volume

(November 6, 2007) AYLESBURY, U.K. — Dage Precision Industries released an X-ray inspection system, XiDAT XD7500NT, with a sealed X-ray tube to minimize maintenance requirements in busy production environments. The machine includes submicron resolution and digital imaging as well.

Kimball Reports 1Q'FY2008 Results

Kimball today reported sales of $333.9 million and income from continuing operations of $6.6 million, or $0.17 per Class B diluted share, for the first quarter of fiscal year 2008.

MYDATA Updates Jet Printer

(November 5, 2007) STOCKHOLM, Sweden — MYDATA automation AB released the second generation of its jet printing system MY500, with complete off-line setup and programming and increased PCB design flexibility. The system will debut at Productronica, November 13–16 in Munich, Germany.

SMTA Board of Directors Election Results Announced

Congratulations to Bill Barthel, Plexus and Dr. Laura Turbini, Research in Motion, who were re-elected to three-year terms. Bill will serve as SMTA's VP of Technical Programs and Laura will continue to serve on the association's Planning Committee.

Europlacer Appoints General Sales Manager

(November 2, 2007) DORSET, U.K. — Blakell Europlacer will make Andy Jones its U.K. general sales manager on January 2, 2008. Jones has served in senior roles at Quad, Europlacer, and Mydata.

SMTA Elects Board

(November 2, 2007) MINNEAPOLIS — SMTA named its board of directors and planning committee, as elected by the association's members. Two people joined the board, Joe Belmonte and Marie Cole, from BOSE and IBM, respectively.

Vision System for PCB Machining

(November 2, 2007) MILFORD, N.H. — Datron Dynamics Inc. released the Datron IVS integrated vision system for high-speed machining applications. The product mounts to a machining system's Z axis to locate fiducials and compensate for irregularities, reportedly enhancing parts uniformity and minimizing waste.

Manncorp Intros Small-footprint Reflow

(November 2, 2007) SAN DIEGO, Calif. and WILLOW GROVE, Pa. — Manncorp released a lead-free reflow oven, CR5000F, that boasts 20–30% smaller footprint than comparable machines and ±1°C accuracy in its five upper and lower zones.

Cogiscan Develops Reel-based Traceability

(November 2, 2007) BROMONT, ON, Canada — Cogiscan Inc. and partners Fuji, Juki, and Siemens introduced the first version of their RFID Smart Reel Detection system, which uses RFID technology on component reels to improve traceability and eliminate manual barcode scanning. Cogiscan and its partners will highlight the tooling at Productronica, November 13–16 in Munich, Germany, Booth A5.249.

BPM Debuts Lead-free Programming Sockets

(November 2, 2007) HOUSTON, Texas — BPM Microsystems released high-performance lead-free BGA sockets, designed for 0.8-mm-pitch BGAs with up to 169 pins.

Cobar Europe Adds Rep, Management

(November 2, 2007) BREDA, Holland — Cobar Europe BV, part of the Balver Zinn Group, named Gerjan Diepstraten, Ing., as process support manager, and appointed PEM Technology as its representative in South Africa.

IPC Names Heller President to Board

(November 2, 2007) BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — IPC — Association Connecting Electronics Industries appointed Marc Peo, president, Heller Industries, to its Board of Directors, following the resignation and retirement of Pierre de Villeméjane of Speedline. Peo will serve out Villeméjane's unexpired term, through April 2009.

Burn-in QFN Socket for Fine Pitch

(November 1, 2007) VANCOUVER, Wash. — Antares Advanced Test Technologies released the 880 series of clamshell burn-in sockets that accommodate standard QFN packages down to 0.35-mm pitch. The finer-pitch socket comprises a beryllium/copper alloy contact with gold contact plating, compression mount, and a cantilever contact.

Plexus Announces Q4 Revenue of $426 Million and EPS of $0.53

Sets Fiscal 2008 Revenue Growth Target of 15% to 18%; Initiates Q1 Revenue Guidance of $440 - $460 Million

TTM Technologies, Inc. Reports Third Quarter 2007 Results

Third quarter net sales of $163.1 million improved over second quarter 2007 net sales of $162.0 million, primarily due to increasing demand for TTM's high-tech manufacturing services.

Bookings Rise in September, Book-to-Bill Hits 1.08

(October 31, 2007) BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — Shipments in September fell 7.1% from last year, and orders booked jumped 15.2% for rigid and flex PCBs, according to IPC's monthly statistical report. September's book-to-bill ratio climbed to 1.08, maintaining a steady positive streak that began early in 2007.

Verdant Names Occam Development Partners

(October 31, 2007) SAN JOSE, Calif. — At the Occam Process Developers Meeting in October, Verdant Electronics established principle agreements with three partners for developing the Occam solderless interconnect technology.

Europlacer Adds Hexi Reflow

(October 31, 2007) DORSET, U.K. — Blakell Europlacer added Hexi reflow ovens to its distribution business, offering reportedly cost-effective and quality reflow options for customers.

DEK Dual Lane Ups Throughput

(October 31, 2007) WEYMOUTH, U.K. — DEK launched its Dual Lane handling solution, which is said to double throughput by replacing single-lane lines. Dual Lane will debut at Productronica, November 13–16 in Munich, Germany, Hall A4 Booth 205.

Sanmina-SCI Reports $1.1 Billion Fourth Quarter Loss

Fourth quarter GAAP earnings were primarily impacted by a non-cash impairment charge for goodwill of $1.1 billion. As a result of this charge, the Company reported a net loss of $1.1 billion in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007.

Sony Rolls Out AOI System

(October 30, 2007) LAKE FOREST, Calif. — Sony Manufacturing Systems America Inc. (SMSA) released the SI-V200 automatic optical inspection (AOI) system for high-speed, accurate, and flexible inspection post-print and pre- and post-reflow. The machine is capable of inspecting 01005s and boasts an increased field of view (FOV).

Nam Tai Q3'07 Sales Up by 77.9% Year-on-Year

The Group saw better sales for this quarter than other quarters of the year because customers ramped up orders in this quarter before Christmas and New Year holidays.

Handset Market Tapering

(October 29, 2007) LOS ALTOS, Calif. — The global mobile phone market is coming up against a "fundamental roadblock" over the next few years, as the supply of new subscribers globally tapers off. Handset production will reflect this leveling off of the market, according to the Henderson Forecast Summary.

Newark Names Live Edge Judges

(October 29, 2007) CHICAGO — Newark and parent company Premier Farnell plc released the panel of judges selected for the companies' Live Edge — Electronic Design for the Global Environment competition, which challenges designers to incorporate electronic components into a product that benefits the environment. Judges include university, government, and business representatives.

GE Completes phoenix X-ray Buy

(October 29, 2007) BILLERICA, Mass. — GE Inspection Technologies received the required regulatory approvals to merger phoenix X-ray into its non-destructive test business, for undisclosed fiscal terms. The acquisition will broaden GE's 3D, computerized tomography (CT), and micro- and nanotechnology inspection capabilities across industries, said Caroline Reda, president and CEO, GE Inspection Technologies.

Ascentech Adds Gen3's Dispensers

(October 29, 2007) CHESTER, Conn. — Ascentech LLC picked up Gen3 Systems Ltd.'s automatic dispensing systems, adding to its distribution card for Gen3 in North America. Ascentech will carry the benchtop and in-line versions of Gen3's ShareGen G3.

Celestica Announces Third Quarter 2007 Financial Results

"Our third quarter results reflect the significant progress we are making with respect to the turnaround plans we put in place at the beginning of this year," said Craig Muhlhauser.

National Electronics Week Launches

(October 26, 2007) LONDON — Covering design through production and distribution of components, the National Electronics Week (NEW) tradeshow will debut June 17–19, 2008, in London.

Benchmark Electronics' 3Q Earnings Drop

"We are clearly disappointed with our revenue performance for the third quarter," said Cary T. Fu, the Company's Chief Executive Officer. "However, as our fourth quarter guidance reflects, we continue to believe that Benchmark is well positioned for the future based on our operating focus and execution, new program bookings and continued strong cash flows from operations."

MYDATA Names Broman President

(October 25, 2007) STOCKHOLM, Sweden — Bengt Broman, previously president of Teracom and of LGP-Allgon, assumed the responsibility of president of MYDATA Automation. Broman has been a member of the MYDATA board for two years, and joined the company early in 2007.

Manncorp Adds Soldering/Rework Products

(October 24, 2007) SAN DIEGO, Calif. and WILLOW GROVE, Pa. — Manncorp released six soldering/desoldering products on a "Specialty Soldering Equipment" section of its Website, adding the series for low- to mid-volume assemblers.

Flextronics' Income Up 25%; Company Reports Record Results

Mike McNamara, chief executive officer of Flextronics, stated, "We continue to maintain a strong financial position with over $1 billion in cash, no short term debt maturities, and a record low debt to capital leverage ratio of 19%."

Rogers Appoints VP of Sales

(October 23, 2007) ROGERS, Conn. — Rogers Corporation promoted Jeffrey M. Grudzien to VP of sales, responsible for managing the materials supplier's global sales team. He will report to Robert Wachob, president and CEO, Rogers.

Universal, Valor Partner for Software Integration

(October 23, 2007) BINGHAMTON, N.Y. and YAVNE, Israel — Universal Instruments Corporation (UIC) and Valor Computerized Systems Ltd. collaborated to develop Dimensions Data Prep Studio, a new product introduction (NPI) and assembly software control package for UIC equipment users. The software integrates UIC's Dimensions Programming and Optimization (DPO) tooling with Valor's vPlan production planning product.

Acquisition Bolsters Intertek's RoHS Offering

(October 23, 2007) KANATA, ON, Canada and HOUSTON — Intertek Group plc quality and safety service provider added Ageus Solutions to its restricted substances consulting services group. Ageus boasts global environmental compliance consulting, technology services, and product stewardship to the electronics and related industries. Financial terms of the purchase were not disclosed.

Henkel Expands Ellsworth's Lines

(October 22, 2007) IRVINE, Calif. — Henkel Corporation expanded its relationship with materials distributor Ellsworth Adhesives, adding Hysol and Multicore brands to the Loctite products Ellsworth represents.

Mouser Adds CMD

(October 22, 2007) MANSFIELD, Texas — Mouser Electronics Inc. will distribute California Micro Devices' (CMD's) components globally for mobile devices, digital consumer electronics, and PC manufacturers.

Equipment Suppliers Expand Eastern Europe Distribution

(October 22, 2007) GALWAY, Ireland — QUIPTECH capital equipment distributor added YESTech and expanded its partnership with Smart Sonic to bring both companies into Eastern Europe. QUIPTECH will represent YESTech's AOI and X-ray inspection systems for in- and off-line operation, and Smart Sonic's ultrasonic stencil cleaners and chemistries.

E&C Takes on Printed Circuit Materials

(October 22, 2007) BILLERICA, Mass. — Emerson & Cuming added polymer thick films, conductive inks, and coatings to its circuit assembly materials portfolio, taking over the product lines and future development from sister company Acheson Electronic Materials, both part of National Starch and Chemical Company's electronic materials division.

Two Italian Manufacturing Operations of NSN to be Transferred to Jabil

Nokia Siemens Networks Italy has signed a contract for the transfer of the manufacturing functions of its Cassina de' Pecchi and Marcianise facilities to Jabil Circuit Italy.

Suppliers Ready for Mexitrónica

(October 19, 2007) GUADALAJARA, Mexico — As Mexico reemerges as a lower-labor-cost region close to home for U.S. companies outsourcing electronics assembly, Mexitrónica, October 23–25 in Guadalajara, promises to attract international EMS providers and OEMs investigating available equipment and consumables, and checking out opportunities in the local industry.

iNEMI Opens Shanghai Office

(October 19, 2007) HERNDON, Va. The International Electronics Manufacturing Initiative (iNEMI) opened a representative office in Pudong, Shanghai, China, naming Haley Fu, Ph.D., manager of operations in the region. The Shanghai office is iNEMI's first outside of North America; it was approved by the board of directors in 2006.

PFSA Appoints Technica as Sales Rep

(October 19, 2007) BUFFALO GROVE, Ill. — Panasonic Factory Solutions Company of America (PFSA) named Techica USA as sales representative to the western U.S., expanding the companies' sales and distribution partnership.

Raytheon Honors Celestica With Prestigious Three Star Supplier Excellence Award

Raytheon's Supplier Excellence Program rewards suppliers that consistently demonstrate commitment and accountability for performance excellence. Celestica Aerospace Technologies Corporation was rated "Exceptional" based on Raytheon Missile Systems' Supplier Rating System.

Inovaxe Staff Join SMTA's MSD Council

(October 18, 2007) SARASOTA, Fla. — Forrest Briggs, director of technical services, and Carl Schneider, principal software engineer of Inovaxe Corp., joined the SMTA Council on MSD. The MSD Council concentrates on advancing the practice of moisture control for sensitive devices.

IPC Names VP, Standards and Technology

(October 18, 2007) BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — IPC — Association Connecting Electronics Industries appointed David Torp as vice president of standards and technology. David Bergman, former VP of standards, technology, and international relations, will focus solely on IPC's global initiatives as IPC's VP, international relations.

AT&S Specifies Enthone Dry Film Resist

(October 18, 2007) LANGENFELD, Germany — AT&S Austria Technologie & Systemtechnik AG selected the PHOTEC H-9825 dry film resist, manufactured by Hitachi Chemical and custom slit and distributed by Enthone, for volume PCB manufacturing at its Hinterberg, Austria, facility. The PCB maker will continue implementing the dry film resist at its Asia-Pacific facilities in 2008.

NEPCON Manufacturing Enters Romania

(October 17, 2007) YAVNE, Israel — NEPCON Manufacturing Technologies, an EMS provider to electronics, electro-optics, and defense OEMs, invested $1 million in an electronics packaging and assembly facility, NEPROM TECHNOLOGY, in Alexandria, Romania. The site will head NEPCON's European manufacturing, and is a joint venture with Romania-based Electortel.

Japan's OEMs Look to Outsource

(October 17, 2007) EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — Japanese OEMs, though still reluctant to use CMs for electronics, LCD, and related assembly, are being forced to focus more on product design and marketing to maintain leadership in certain markets, according to iSuppli. EMS providers and ODMs could benefit from Japan's major OEMs divesting manufacturing operations to attain cost and time-to-market efficiencies, said Adam Pick, principal analyst for EMS and ODM, iSuppli.

Valor Bolsters R&D, Distribution

(October 16, 2007) YAVNE, Israel — Valor Computerized Systems Ltd. appointed as VP of R&D Meir Zelzer, formerly of SAP. The company also named GATEline AB as its distribution representative to the Nordic region.

Henkel Names Technical Manager

(October 16, 2007) IRVINE, Calif. — Henkel Corporation promoted Renzhe Zhao, Ph.D., to technical manager of applications engineering, responsible for defining and supervising product development in stacked-die, underfill, and small molded package applications at the company's Calif. Technical Center. He will also oversee materials development in die-attach liquids, solder spheres, and tacky fluxes.

Dow Debuts Encapsulants for HB-LEDs

(October 16, 2007) MIDLAND, Mich. — Dow Corning Corp. introduced a range of silicone encapsulants for high-brightness LEDs (HB-LEDs), featuring low moisture absorption, improved heat dissipation, and high transparency with a refractive index of 1.53. The three formulas target various hardness and viscosity needs.

VIDEO: Made in America, Sold in Asia

Aqueous Technologies' Mike Konrad talks about how his company will continue manufacturing its products in the U.S. even though Asian sales are fueling its growth.

Enthone Licenses Catalytic Inks

(October 15, 2007) WEST HAVEN, Conn. — Enthone Inc., a business of Cookson Electronics, acquired exclusive global licensing rights to a line of catalytic inks for plating plastics from TECSEN SA (Brussels, Belgium). Enthone will manufacture, market, and sell the inks for use in inductive phone cards, flexible PCBs, RFIDs, and other application sectors, primarily under the EnTRACE brand.

Inovaxe Intros MSD-specific Storage

(October 15, 2007) SARASOTA, Fla. — Inovaxe Corp. debuted the INOCART-MSD handling solution for component traceability and moisture-sensitive device management. The tooling includes a tracking and timing software program that monitors MSDs in the factory and alerts users to components in danger of moisture-related problems.

SCS Curing System Combines Heat Sources

(October 15, 2007) INDIANAPOLIS — Specialty Coating Systems (SCS) introduced the SCS Precision IRT cure system, which uses convection and long-wave infrared (IR) heat sources. The system reportedly cures a variety of coatings and adhesives efficiently, in less time and with lower costs than other models.

Foxconn Revenues Hit New High in September

Foxconn Electronics's September revenues reached NT$115.16 billion (US$3.53 billion), up 14.7% sequentially and up 29.7% on year.

Integrated Test Opens Taiwan Office

(October 12, 2007) DALLAS — PCB and test-interface hardware manufacturer for ATE sectors Integrated Test Corporation expanded its Asia presence with a sales and applications office in Taiwan.

Indium Adds Sales in Eastern N.A.

(October 12, 2007) CLINTON, N.Y. — Indium Corporation named Simcona Electronics Corporation to distribute solder bar, flux-coated wire, and wave solder fluxes on the eastern coast of North America.

Panasonic Batteries Specified RoHS-compliant

(October 12, 2007) ELGIN, Ill. — Panasonic OEM Battery Group (Matsushita Battery Industrial —MBI) reports that it has voluntarily committed to eliminate RoHS-prohibited substances (lead, cadmium, mercury, hexavalent chromium, polybrominated biphenyls, and polybrominated diphenyl ethers) from its OEM batteries.

Cookson Expands India R&D Center

(October 12, 2007) BANGALORE, India — Cookson Electronics added personnel and equipment to its India Research Center, moving to a 32,000-sq.ft. facility in Bangalore this month. The company, which originally opened its India R&D on the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) campus, will continue its strategic partnership with the school.

EMS Provider Delivers True Value-Add to their OEM Customers through a Streamlined Communication and Collaboration Process

"Communication with our OEM customers is vital to our success as an EMS provider."

Cobar Adds R&D Scientist

(October 11, 2007) BREDA, the Netherlands — Cobar Europe BV, a business of Balver Zinn, appointed Di Wu, Ph.D., as R&D scientist. Wu holds degrees in chemistry, chemicals, and materials and interface chemistry.

SCS Acquires Japanese Coatings JV

(October 11, 2007) INDIANAPOLIS — Specialty Coating Systems, Inc. (SCS) acquired full ownership of its joint venture (JV) Parylene Japan K.K. (PJKK), established with Three Bond Co. Ltd. in 1990. The former JV will continue to provide Parylene conformal coating services and technologies in Japan under president Eddie Narita, and will operate as Parylene Japan, Inc.

SMTAI Show Highlights

(October 10, 2007) ORLANDO, Fla — SMTA International, October 7–11 in Orlando, enjoys its first year with an SMTA exhibition, selling out booth space. The show offers new products, the Lead-free Symposium, live chat rooms at the exhibits, and a roster of technical speakers, tutorials, and certification instructors. Following are highlights from the show floor from Indium, Austin American, ACE, Asymtek, Cooper Hand Tools, Henkel, EFD, Kyzen, Seica, PROMATION, and other exhibitors.

OEM Contract Manufacturing to Grow $11 Billion by 2011

The next few years are expected to be lucrative ones for OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) and contract manufacturer companies processing raw materials for medical device companies--especially in niche areas and among OEMs that offer flexibility to move with market changes.

The Gold Record: TPCA Show 2007 Review

I-Connect007 Editor Steve Gold offers his impressions of last week's TPCA Show in Taipei--where substrate manufacture and assembly took center stage.

Victrex Opens Second Polymer Plant

(October 9, 2007) THORNTON CLEVELEYS, U.K. — Victrex plc opened a polymer manufacturing plant, designed to use minimal energy and water, at its main production facility in Lancashire, U.K. The plant increased production capacity for Victrex PEEK polymers by about 50%, and establishes a second, stand-alone source for the products.

Medical Market Lucrative for OEMs, CMs

(October 9, 2007) ROCKVILLE, Md. — The materials processing area of contract manufacturing for device manufacture will grow from $13.9 billion globally to $25.41 billion by 2011, according to "OEM Contract Manufacturing in Medical Devices, Volume I: Materials Processing," released by Kalorama Information, a division of MarketResearch.com.

Printed Electronics Analysts Move to U.S.

(October 9, 2007) BOSTON — IDTechEx relocated its global headquarters to Boston, Mass., from Cambridge, U.K. The analyst firm also appointed Susann Reuter to its board of directors, charged with expanding activities in Europe's printed electronics and RFID industries.

Nam Tai to Restructure

(October 8, 2007) MACAO, China — Nam Tai Electronics, Inc., will seek to reorganize the group structure of its subsidiaries in an effort to realize several benefits similar to Nam Tai's proposed privatization of two subsidiaries in 2005. The proposed reorganization requires a series of transactions, involving capital shares and asset transfers, among Nam Tai, Nam Tai Electronic & Electrical Products Limited (NTEEP), J.I.C. Technology, Zastron Precision Tech, and various subsidiaries.

SMTA Congratulates 2007 Awards Winners

(October 8, 2007) MINNEAPOLIS — The SMTA named recipients of its Founder's Award and other recognitions during its annual meeting at SMTA International (SMTAI), October 7–11 in Orlando, Fla. The awards celebrate service to the SMTA and the industry in technical, corporate, leadership, and other roles.

VJ Electronix Upgrades Asia Base

(October 5, 2007) LITTLETON, Mass. — VJ Electronix, a VJ Technologies company, will enhance its spare parts, refurbishing, and customer demo center in Suzhou, China. Investments include expanded services, additional equipment, and relocating global sales manager Doug Robinson to the facility.

Unitemp Mini Reflow for R&D, NPI

(October 5, 2007) PFAFFENHOFEN, Germany — Unitemp released the RSS series of mini reflow soldering systems, with optional vacuum or gas atmospheres for R&D, prototyping, and small-series production. The machines feature controlled ramp and cool-down rates, and heat up to 450°C.

IPC Credits Members with Awards Series

(October 5, 2007) BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — IPC — Association Connecting Electronics Industries introduced the Founders Awards at its 50-year anniversary and first IPC Midwest Conference and Exhibition. Fifteen companies were recognized for continuous IPC membership for 40 or more years. IPC also announced recipients of the organization's Distinguished Committee Leadership, Special Recognition, and Committee Service awards.

Ironwood Debuts Fine-pitch BGA Socket

(October 5, 2007) BURNSVILLE, Minn. — Ironwood Electronics introduced a high-performance BGA ZIF socket for 0.4-mm-pitch BGAs. It is designed for a Shinko 12-mm form factor, and reportedly requires little board real estate.

Samsung Increases Throughput on Flexible Platform

(October 4, 2007) HORSHAM, Pa. — Dynatech Technology, Samsung's SMT Assembly Solutions distributor, will debut the SM411 and SM421 pick-and-place systems at Mexitrónica, October 23–25, 2007 in Guadalajara, Mexico. The placement systems are based on the company's SM400-series Smart platform.

OptoTherm Choses India Rep

(October 4, 2007) SEWICKLEY, Pa. — OptoTherm named DVS India Pvt. Ltd. as its sales representative for India. DVS India will distribute OptoTherm's EL line of thermal imaging test systems for PCB assembly and its Micro line for semiconductor test analysis.

Five Star Releases Silver-bearing Pastes

(October 4, 2007) CLEVELAND — Five Star Technologies introduced ElectroSperse silver-based conductive pastes for low-firing applications, as low as 380°C. The X-120, X-122, and X-126 are silver based, with uniform dispersion and low- to sub-micron particles.

Aqueous Names Eastern Europe Distributor

(October 4, 2007) RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. — Aqueous Technologies Corporation appointed ETek Europe Ltd. to distribute its cleaning products throughout the Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria.

KAL Celebrates 15 Years

(October 4, 2007) SHENZHEN, China — Kasion Automation Limited (KAL), founded in 1992, celebrated its 15-year anniversary in Shenzhen, China, coinciding with week-long "China National Day" festivities. More than 150 industry members were present, including all KAL employees from various offices in Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai, Nanjing, Shenzhen, Hong Kong headquarters, and subsidiary colleagues.

Advanced Innovations Wins UNICOR Contract

(October 3, 2007) HUNTSVILLE, Ala. and LIMERICK, Ireland — InfoPro Corporation, U.S. subsidiary of Advanced Innovations, won a $5,000,000 contract from UNICOR, Federal Prison Industries' trade group, to supply electronic components to UNICOR's electronics group.

BTU Adds Barcode Traceability

(October 3, 2007) NORTH BILLERICA, Mass. — BTU International Inc. added barcode support to its WinCon Windows-based control system for handheld and fixed scanners as well as automated systems.

TRUMPF Acquires AFM Canada

(October 3, 2007) FARMINGTON, Conn. — TRUMPF Inc. purchased 100% of Advanced Fabricating Machinery (AFM), a Canada-based fabricating and laser technology supplier. AFM was formed in 1997 as an equal joint venture (JV) between TRUMPF and Robert Watson.

Solder Products Roundtable - Adjusting to Life in the North American Market

Key solder suppliers talk about the transitions they've made over the last seven years adjusting to the changes in the North American Market.

Laser Direct Testing of IC Package Substrates

Laser Direct Testing technology (LDT technology) converts UV light into electricity enabling electrons to move in and out of the conductive traces of PCBs without any contact and therefore permitting the non-contact, "bed of nails-free" testing of complex substrates for Opens and Shorts.

Indium Promotes Thermal Manager

(October 2, 2007) CLINTON, N.Y. — Indium Corporation promoted Jordan Ross to market manager for thermal applications, managing global initiatives, new product launches, and regional and applications strategies.

Manncorp Intros Vertical-lift Printers

(October 2, 2007) SAN DIEGO, Calif. and WILLOW GROVE, Pa. — Manncorp released the 5500R and 4500R vertical-lift stencil printers for double-sided, fine-pitch, and high-mix processing. The 5500R offers 20" × 22" print area; the 4500R is 16" × 18".

XJTAG Supplies Test for Railway-control PCBs

(October 2, 2007) CAMBRIDGE, U.K. — Westinghouse Rail Systems (Chippenham, Wiltshire, U.K.) selected XJTAG's suite of boundary scan test and development tools for its prototype automatic train control PCBs. The PCBs are high-value, safety-critical, and populated with BGAs and other complex devices.

RoHS: One year later

The industry perception prior to July 2006 was a virtual overnight switch to lead-free. However, today many OEMs still have a "don't care, wait and see attitude" since they're either RoHS-exempt at this time or don't sell into Europe.

August Book-to-Bill Climbs to 1.06

(October 1, 2007) BANNOCKBURN, Ill. — The combined rigid and flex PCB industry book-to-bill for North America rose to 1.06 in August, according to IPC's North American PCB statistical program. While bookings and shipments are down from August 2006 in both segments by about 10%, production looks to be strong through the next quarter, said Denny McGuirk, IPC president.

Leica Integrates FusionOptics on Stereomicroscope

(October 1, 2007) BANNOCKBURN, Ill. and WETZLAR, Germany — Leica Microsystems introduced the M205 C stereomicroscope line featuring proprietary FusionOptics imaging. It suits microelectronics manufacturing, materials science applications, medical device manufacturing, and related industrial applications.

SMTAI 2008: Call for Abstracts

(October 1, 2007) EDINA, Minn. — The SMTA International (SMTAI) technical committee is accepting abstracts and short-course proposals for SMTAI 2008 through January 7, 2008. Topics solicited fall into emerging technologies, components, assembly, PCB technology, and business. SMTAI 2008 will take place August 17–21 in Orlando, Fla.

Misumi Sponsors Machine-build Seminar

(October 1, 2007) SCHAUMBURG, Ill. — Misumi USA, Inc., will sponsor the Configuration Technical Seminar, October 11 from 11 to 3 in Schaumburg. The seminar covers machine build techniques incorporating configurable components.

2007 International Printed Circuit & Electronics Assembly Fair to Be Held 5-7 December in Shenzhen

The Effective One-stop Platform Geared Up to Unveil Latest Innovations. By date of this release, more than 400 worldwide exhibitors have been confirmed participation to showcase the latest innovations and technologies.

KIC Names Rep in Eastern Europe

(September 28, 2007) SAN DIEGO — KIC appointed NEW COMP POLSKA Sp. z.o. o. as its distributor for thermal profiling systems and manufacturing product groups. The company supplies capital equipment and related products to the electronics industry in Poland; the Ukraine; and Kaliningrad, Russia.

Plexus Approved for Class-III Medical in Asia

(September 28, 2007) NEENAH, Wis. — Plexus Corp. received approval to manufacture class-III finished medical devices at one of its Penang, Malaysia facilities from the federal food and drug administration (FDA). The devices are for a tier-one medical OEM.

Kyzen Database Gathers Test Data

(September 28, 2007) NASHVILLE — The Know the Score! database went live in Kyzen's Applications and R&D Laboratories, collecting data points from Kyzen's cleaning tests globally and providing real-time access for product engineers.

Aegis Moves Euro Headquarters, Adds Director

(September 28, 2007) HIGH WYCOMBE, U.K. — Aegis Software (Europe) Ltd. appointed Daniel Walls as managing director for Europe. The company also moved its European headquarters to a facility near High Wycombe in Buckinghamshire, U.K. The headquarters includes a larger training facility and improved communications equipment.

EI Opens Shenzhen Manufacturing

(September 28, 2007) ENDICOTT, N.Y. and SHENZHEN, China — Endicott Interconnect Technologies (EI) began production of high-volume/lower-cost, fully assembled PCBs at its EI Shenzhen facility. The 40,000-sq.ft. production facility offers SMT assembly technologies, press fit, wave solder, selective pin thru-hole (PTH) solder, and hand assembly and soldering equipment.

TFI Predicts About 11% Moderate Growth for EMS/ODM

(September 28, 2007) ALAMEDA, Calif. — Technology Forecasters Inc. (TFI) projects the EMS market to grow 11.9% CAGR through 2011, and original design manufacturers (ODMs) to see 11.4% CAGR increases. Various strategies are emerging for EMS/ODM companies to capitalize on higher profit margins, though average selling prices (ASPs) in end markets continue to challenge profitability, said Matt Chanoff, economist and senior consultant with the forecasting firm.