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FEATURES

Data Transfer
IPC-2581 Consortium Update
The consortium is on track to extend the standard to enable build-intent collaboration between PCB manufacturers and design houses before layout begins.
by Hemant Shah

Component Placement
The Impact of Reel Splicing Kits on Setup and Changeover
Everything from resistors to BGAs to odd-form components is packaged in tape-and-reel. Splicing kits can dramatically improve reel setup and changeover efficiencies.
by Rob Sierra

Markets
Outsourcing at Home
OEMs are cutting time in new product development to maintain a competitive advantage. Aided by grants and better internal execution, some smaller EMS companies are taking advantage.
by John Sammut

ESD
Static Control Standards: An Annual Progress Report
From components to wrist straps, a look at more than 60 documents that make up ESD control programs.
by  The ESD Association

Supply Chain
An Onshore Wind
Changing economics is moving contract assembly to North America. Here’s why.
by Robert Sergio Simon

European RoHS Enforcement Explained
An Onshore Wind
A UK-based expert on implementation and enforcement details the latest round of changes, and what we can expect in the future.
by Mike Buetow

FIRST PERSON

• Caveat Lector
  All hail the Hall.
  Mike Buetow

• Talking Heads
  Éolane: Brick by brick.
  Mike Buetow

MONEY MATTERS

• ROI
  Competence matters.
  Peter Bigelow

• Focus on Business
  Building a better life..
  Susan Mucha

TECH TALK

• On the Forefront
  New life in Japan?
  E. Jan Vargerman

• Screen Printing
  Stencil tolerance.
  Clive Ashmore

• Defects Database
  Sticky situation.
  Dr. Chris Hunt

• Selective Soldering
  Warming up.
  Chris Denney

• Solar Technologies
  The next PV boom.
  Tom Falcon

• Test & Inspection
  A check on boundary.
  Jun Balangue

• Technical Abstracts
  In Case You Missed It.