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Products

The Nikon ECLIPSE LV series includes the ECLIPSE LV150, LV150A (with automated nosepiece) and the ECLIPSE LV100D (episcopic/diascopic illumination) microscopes. Said to address the need for precise microscopy measuring solutions to keep up with higher performance demands in the semiconductor and medical device markets, the rapid development of new materials and the inspection requirements of components with widely varying dimensions.

The modular design allows versatility and flexibility that enables it to cover a variety of applications, from development and quality control to manufacturing inspection. Reportedly provide superb performance when inspecting semiconductors, flat panel displays, packages, electronics substrates, materials, medical devices and other samples. Can accommodate sample heights from 47 to 82mm by inserting a column riser between the main body and arm of the microscope. This feature is useful for viewing the surface of precision molds, optical materials and other thick samples.

Accepts industry-supplied stages handle samples up to 116.5 mm, for observation of fiber ends and other tools. Features a range of industrial stages and accessories, all are durable with a new triple plate design.

A variety of observation methods are available, including: first order compensator, UV polarizing and epi-fluorescence -- in addition to brightfield, darkfield, DIC and simple polarizing. Have a high- intensity, low-power consumption white halogen light source, and an adjustable high intensity mercury fiber light source.

Nikon Instruments Inc., www.nikonusa.com

MYLabel keeps track of each individual reel, stick or tray used in an SMT production line. Vital production data, such as tape pitch, orientation, batch code and quantity, are stored in a central database and used for feeder loading and complete traceability. New features include easy data extraction from the supplier’s barcode label and barcode-activated functions for ergonomics.

When registering part deliveries, the software will recognize the component supplier’s barcode label, regardless of format and coding standard, and extract the part number, quantity and batch ID. Attribute parameters, such as tape pitch and orientation, are then extracted from the part database, and a new entry is created. The risk of mislabeled parts is eliminated, since no manual data entry is involved in the registration and labeling process.

Features sound signals that alert the operator about error conditions, and barcode-activated instructions for common tasks, like Print and Discard.

Integrates with other factory software using ODBC/SQL.

MYDATA automation

W. L. Gore & Assoc. has released the GORE 100 Series Connectors, the newest addition to the GORE Blindmate/Push-on Connector family. The connectors are a high-density blindmate, microwave interconnect system offering performance through 100 GHz.

An extension of the SMP and SMPM connector families, the connectors were developed for increased packaging density, low mass and increased performance at higher frequencies. Blindmate interfaces said to be robust, durable and lightweight. A socket-to-socket bullet weighs less than 0.02 g. The connectors accommodate radial and axial misalignment with negligible VSWR change.

“The 100 Series Connector is 35% smaller than the current SMPM connectors,” said Paul Czikora, microwave connector technologist. “They offer increased electrical performance and reduced mechanical footprint, enabling designers to create thinner, lighter, smaller and more cost-effective TR modules, printed circuit boards and power dividers.”

W. L. Gore & Assoc. Inc., gore.com