Hudson, NH -- Machine Capability Analysis (MCA) testing helps pick-and-place equipment manufacturers and users comply with the new IPC-9850 performance standard, according to Michael Sivigny, general Manager of CeTaQ Americas.

MCA testing is a third party, objective evaluation methodology in which special vision algorithms, accurate glass plates and components are utilized for independent measurement of Cp and Cpk indices on production equipment. All brands and models of SMT printers, dispensers, placement and semiconductor machines are easily validated with the methodology. The software that operates the equipment provides statistical specification-based results on machine quality performance.

The IPC-9850 document standardizes the parameters, measurement procedures and methodologies used for the specification, evaluation and continuing verification of assembly equipment characterization parameters. The ANSI-approved standard also establishes the procedures to characterize and document machine placement capability of surface mount assembly equipment while maintaining a placement-accuracy-to-placement-speed relationship.

According to Sivigny, “CeTaQ machine capability analysis lets the user know if a machine is performing to manufacturer’s performance specifications, a key element in IPC-9850 compliance. If the machine isn’t performing to specifications, the user or manufacturer can use the information generated by the evaluation to correct offsets and bring the machine to its best possible performance condition.”

ARLINGTON, VA -– The monthly order index compiled by the Electronic Components, Assemblies & Materials Association (ECA) was flat in June, perhaps signaling a traditional summer lull.

"We typically get a steadying period in the summer," said Bob Willis, ECA president. "Last year, July was flat after 11 consecutive months of order growth; this year June is flat after months of ups and downs."

Unlike 2004, which started off with a spurt of growth that receded in the second half of the year, Willis thinks the pattern this year leans to modest but sustainable growth over the second half.

The ECA represents manufacturers and producers of passive and active electronic components, component arrays and assemblies, and materials and support services. It is a sector of the Electronic Industries Alliance.

Fort Worth, TX – Allied Electronics (alliedelec.com), a subsidiary of Electrocomponents plc, has signed a distribution partnership agreement with Quantum Semiconductor International (qsalaser.com) for the company’s laser diodes.

QSI is a supplier of laser diodes in the power tool and barcode scanner market. The agreement gives Allied customers access to laser diodes designed for industrial, medical and academic applications. QSI laser diodes are used in applications such as leveling, alignment, distance measuring and range finding equipment. The initial stocking package will include both P-Type and N-Type in 635, 650, 670, 780, and 850 nm wavelength devices.

“Allied is excited to offer our customers the QSI America product line,” said Lee Davidson, president of Allied Electronics.  “Customers buying QSI from Allied will get a range of devices in stock and in the quantities our customers need.”

SAN JOSE -- Venture Outsource Group has reported a sharp rise in the number of employment searches it is conducting for EMS, ODM and technology OEM client companies.

The firm helps companies find candidates to fill internal postings for a variety of managerial and executive-level positions across the globe. In 2005, the firm has helped client companies fill nine positions. The company is on track to engage in more than twice the number of client search assignments it executed in 2004.

This is not necessarily a sign that the electronics outsourcing industry is improving as a whole, but may instead reflect the increasing role VOG is playing with company hiring activities in industry.