SimmScope semiautomated printed circuit board inspection tool has a 4-color, 4-quadrant lighting system. UV light source permits inspection of conformal coatings. Reportedly enhances speed and accuracy of manual first article and production inspection. Serves as a photo station that captures high-res magnified images (up to 14,800 dpi) of individual components or areas of interest on the board, including connectors, tall through-hole components, screws, and other hardware. An image of the complete board can be stored. Includes automated motions, background masking, and graphical and data report generator. Four system sizes are available for PCBs up to 18 x 30".
RS Simmons Co., www.rssimmons.com
VHX-700F multipurpose microscope includes depth composition and 3D display. Incorporates observation, measurement, and image recording capabilities; reportedly offers all imaging techniques found in traditional inspection equipment. Has a 0.1x – 5,000x magnification range; provides bright field, dark field, and transmitted illumination. Additional attachments offer polarized, diffused, and DIC imaging methods. A multi-angle stand is paired with a rotating stage to allow 360° views. Detaches for handheld imaging of larger parts.
Keyence Corp. of America, http://www1.keyence.com/PRVHX7
GSR1290 standalone router can handle panels up to 910 x 610mm. Depanels tabbed or scored assemblies by manually interchanging the Z-axis cutting assembly; cutting mechanism can be changed from spindle to a saw. Includes three rigid, compact linear axis' driven by AC servo motors. Pre-loaded linear guides reportedly have a mechanical repeatability of ± 0.01mm. Has cut speeds up to 100mm and second and positional speeds up to 1000mm.
Getech Automation Pte Ltd., www.getecha.com
Benchmark 4.0 software is for the Momentum series, Accela and MPM125 printer platforms. Is supported by a more powerful computer and a wide-screen monitor; is a Windows 7 OS system that incorporates an open software architecture: OpenApps. OpenApps provides two-way communication between the printer and, for example, the user’s own in-house manufacturing execution system. Can develop the system on one’s own, use a 3rd party developer, or Speedline can provide resources to assist in development.
Speedline Technologies, www.speedlinetech.com
PCB Library Expert version 2013 software takes component data and automatically creates footprints and 3D models based on predefined settings. Now includes a Footprint Designer module, allowing users to create footprints for non-standard components with asymmetrical, arbitrary-style leads. Reportedly enables users to create footprints for 9 of 10 components used in a typical project. IPC now distributes the tool, along with library documentation consisting of 5,000 components. Outputs to formats readable by Allegro, OrCAD PCB, OrCAD Layout, CADint, Altium, DesignSpark, Expedition, PADS Layout, Cadstar, CR-5000, Pantheon, Pulsonix, P-CAD, Ultiboard, Target 3001!, Eagle, DipTrace and Board Station, with 3D STEP and SoloPCB in development. Library Expert Lite is free and outputs to the CAD formats mentioned above.
PCB Libraries, www.PCBLibraries.com
MB600S aqueous-based sodium silicate coating is said to provide electromagnetic interference/radio frequency interference (EMI/RFI) shielding. Is effective as aluminum reference with a range of 95-105 dB, from 100 MHz to 2 GHz, per IEEE 299, 2006 methods. Above 2 GHz, shielding effectiveness decreases to 80 dB and slightly below. Above 4 GHz, effectiveness is 60-70 dB. Is relatively non-toxic and easy to handle. Can be brushed or sprayed on. Cures at room temperature in 24 to 48 hr. or in 1 to 2 hr. at 80°C. Service temperature range 0° to 700°F.
Master Bond, masterbond.com/tds/mb600s