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IPC-CFX, 2.0: How to Use the QPL Effectively

In part one of this series, we discussed the new features in CFX Version 2.0 and their implications for improved inter-machine communication. But what about bringing this new functionality to the shop floor? The IPC-CFX-2591 QPL is a powerful technical resource for manufacturers seeking CFX-enabled equipment. The Qualified Product List (QPL) helps streamline equipment selection by listing models verified for CFX compliance through a robust third-party virtual qualification process.

EU Defence Electronics Ecosystem Highlighted in Brussels

In this interview, Alison James, senior director of Global Electronics Association—Europe (formerly IPC), discusses the European Defence & Security Summit in Brussels, June 9–13, as well as the first IPC–ASD Europe Defense Electronics Summit, June 10th, which brought together 70 leaders from across the electronics manufacturing supply chain. ASD is the Aerospace, Security and Defence Industries Association of Europe, and co-hosted both the larger and smaller events.

Rehm Open House Celebrates 10 Years In Mexico

This week, Rehm Thermal Systems marks its 10th year in Guadalajara, Mexico, with a celebration that includes a demonstration area in its new building, and a recognition of the technology. Despite some challenges with economic situations between the U.S. and China, Rehm is moving forward and finding success.

I-Connect007 Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week

While news outside our industry keeps our attention occupied, the big news inside the industry is the rechristening of IPC as the Global Electronics Association. My must-reads begins with Marcy LaRont’s exclusive and informative interview with Dr. John Mitchell, president and CEO of the Global Electronics Association. For designers, have we finally reached the point in time where autorouters will fulfill their potential?

IPC Rebrands as Global Electronics Association: Interview With Dr. John W. Mitchell

Today, following a major announcement, IPC is embracing the rapid advancement of technology with a bold decision to change its name to the Global Electronics Association. This name more accurately reflects the full breadth of its work and the modern realities of electronics manufacturing. In this exclusive interview, Global Electronics Association President and CEO Dr. John W. Mitchell shares the story behind the rebrand: Why now, what it means for the industry, and how it aligns with the organization’s mission.

I-Connect007 Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week

It’s been a busy week in this industry, and we have news and articles from the PCB design, fabrication and assembly communities. Some of this news is out of this world. We may be losing the high ground—the really high ground. Columnist Jesse Vaughan explains how the U.S. seems to be falling behind in space, and how this could affect our ability to defend ourselves in the future. We have an update on the U.S.-China tariff talks, which seem to be moving forward, though sometimes at a snail’s pace.

New IPC VP Joe Schneider Building Stronger Focus on U.S., Canada

IPC has hired Joe Schneider as a vice president to strengthen its regional focus and address the specific needs in the U.S. and Canada. Joe brings a rich background in OEM and contract manufacturing, including with industry giants like Siemens and Abbott Laboratories. In this interview, he shares his vision for the region, which emphasizes workforce development and supply chain challenges.

Day 2: More Cutting-edge Insights at the EIPC Summer Conference

The European Institute for the PCB Community (EIPC) summer conference took place this year in Edinburgh, Scotland, June 3-4. This is the third of three articles on the conference. The other two cover Day 1’s sessions and the opening keynote speech. Below is a recap of the second day’s sessions.

Day 1: Cutting Edge Insights at the EIPC Summer Conference

The European Institute for the PCB Community (EIPC) Summer Conference took place this year in Edinburgh, Scotland, June 3-4. This is the second of three articles on the conference. The other two cover the keynote speeches and Day 2 of the technical conference. Below is a recap of the first day’s sessions.

SolderKing’s Successful Approach to Modern Soldering Needs

Chris Ward, co-founder of the family-owned SolderKing, discusses his company's rapid growth and recent recognition with the King’s Award for Enterprise. Chris shares how SolderKing has achieved these award-winning levels of service in such a short timeframe. Their secret? Being flexible in a changing market, technical prowess, and strong customer support.

Takeaways from the Keynotes at the Edinburgh EIPC Summer Conference

It was seasonably wet and windy in Edinburgh, Scotland, June 3-4, where delegates from 17 countries convened for the 2025 EIPC Summer Conference to enjoy a superlative program of 18 technical presentations over two days, plus an excursion to a whisky distillery. EIPC President Alun Morgan welcomed everyone to the Delta Hotel, reminding us that in its previous iteration, it was the Royal Scot, traditionally the annual venue of the Institute of Circuit Technology Northern Symposium.

I-Connect007 Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week

Today is Friday the 13th, and in much of Western folklore, this is a day when bad luck is lurking. But while Friday the 13th may top Western superstition charts, the global calendar is sprinkled with its own unlucky legends. In Spain and Greece, the bad juju lands on Tuesday the 13th—a day linked to Mars, the god of war, and naturally, chaos. In Italy, it’s Friday the 17th that is feared, thanks to the Roman numeral XVII, which can be rearranged to spell VIXI—Latin for “I have lived” (a poetic way of saying you’re dead).

Bridging the Knowledge Gap in Test: A Conversation with Bert Horner

Bert Horner is a seasoned industry veteran and co-creator of The Test Connection, Inc. (TTCI), a test and inspection company spanning over 45 years. In this candid conversation, Bert reflects on the challenges our industry faces with the retirement of career professionals and the subsequent loss of critical tribal knowledge. As he unveils The Training Connection’s innovative training initiatives, Bert emphasizes the importance of evolving educational programs that align with industry needs, particularly in design for test (DFT), and sheds light on strategies being implemented to foster the next generation of engineers.

Rethinking How Operators Interface With the Line

Jurgen Schmerler, CEO of WaveOn, reveals how AI and large language models are revolutionizing electronics manufacturing. By integrating AI with machinery, operators can access real-time, multimodal information for troubleshooting and maintenance, significantly reducing training time and enhancing efficiency. He discusses the industry's challenges, the customizable knowledge bases, and the future of proactive maintenance and process control.

Breaking Silos with Intelligence: Connectivity of Component-level Data Across the SMT Line

As the complexity and demands of electronics manufacturing continue to rise, the smart factory is no longer a distant vision; it has become a necessity. While machine connectivity and line-level data integration have gained traction in recent years, one of the most overlooked opportunities lies in the component itself. Specifically, in the data captured just milliseconds before a component is placed onto the PCB, which often goes unexamined and is permanently lost once reflow begins.

I-Connect007 Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week

Maybe you’ve noticed that I’ve been taking to social media lately to about my five must-reads of the week. It’s just another way we’re sharing our curated content with you. I pay special attention to what’s happening in our industry, and I can help you know what’s most important to read about each week. Follow me (and I-Connect007) on LinkedIn to see these and other updates.

Tariffs: Hope for the Best, Plan for the Worst

Paul Krugman received the Nobel Prize for Economics in 2008 for his work in economic geography and identifying international trade patterns. In April, he told the Goldman Sachs Exchanges podcast1, “The secret sauce of the Trump tariffs is that they are extremely uncertain. Nobody knows what they will be. Nobody knows what comes next. Now, if you’re a business trying to make plans, would you want to invest under those conditions?”

Catching Up With AMI EMS President Greg Boyd: Our People Make the Difference

I’ve had the privilege to work with countless companies in the electronics manufacturing space, but few have impressed me as deeply as Alternative Manufacturing Inc. (AMI). Based in Winthrop, Maine, AMI is a 100% employee-owned company that embodies the very best of what American manufacturing can be. AMI sets itself apart by its unwavering commitment to quality, transparency, and partnership.

Top Tech in Taiwan: IPC's Blueprint to Advance Smart Manufacturing

Renowned as a global hub of innovation and a cornerstone of the electronics industry, Taiwan is leading advancements in technology and manufacturing. A decade ago, IPC established an office in Taiwan, embedding itself deeply in this innovative ecosystem. Now with nearly 200 member companies in the region, IPC remains dedicated to driving standardization, education, and technological progress in Taiwan’s electronics manufacturing sector.

IPC Releases Latest Standards and Revisions Updates

Each quarter, IPC releases a list of standards that are new or have been updated. To view a complete list of newly published standards and standards revisions, translations, proposed standards for ballot, final drafts for industry review, working drafts, and project approvals, visit ipc.org/status. These are the latest releases for Q1 2025.

IPC Launches New Wire Harness Design Course Led by Defense Industry Expert

IPC is expanding its educational offerings with a new online course designed to provide foundational knowledge in wire harness and cable design. The course, Introduction to Wire Harness Design I, is led by a seasoned mechanical engineer and subject matter expert in military cable systems working at FNSS Defense Systems in Turkey.

I-Connect007 Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week

I don’t have a scorecard, but I do have a weekly wrap-up of must-reads that I think deserve another “bite of the apple,” so to speak. IPC’s Rich Cappetto shares his perspective on everything from tariffs to the CHIPS Act. Columnist Josh Casper discusses the use of AI in 3D AOI systems and the immediate benefits that AI can bring about. Columnist Anaya Vardya explains how technologies like AI can improve our customer service, as well as our manufacturing processes.

Living His Dream: IPC EAO Course Leads Thejas K to Role as Quality Engineer

It’s not often that a child wants to follow in the footsteps of their parents’ career. But Thejas K, a 22-year-old from Mysuru, India, whose mother Padmavathi was an EMS operator for nearly 20 years, is now an associate engineer in the quality department at Cyient DLM where PCB assemblies are manufactured for aerospace and defense.

LSI ADL Technology Leverages IPC Membership for Growth, Training, and Industry Leadership

Whether attending the EMS Leadership Summit at IPC APEX EXPO, or subscribing to workforce training, LSI ADL Technology has noted several positive changes directly related to its IPC membership. “Collaboration, brainstorming, and sharing best practices have been the most important aspects of our partnership with IPC,” says Jonathan Verity, assistant general manager at LSI ADL Technology.

Insights Into a Differentiating Trade/Investment Global Strategy for Electronics

To better understand the U.S. administration’s actions on global trade policies earlier this spring, Barry Matties and Nolan Johnson met with Richard Cappetto, IPC’s senior director of North American government relations, who highlighted both the challenges and opportunities available to U.S. companies in the recent trade activity. This could include increased domestic manufacturing and supply chain diversification.

U.S. Holiday: Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a U.S. federal holiday dedicated to remembering and grieving for military personnel who died serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Held on the last Monday of May, it also marks the unofficial start of summer.

I-Connect007 Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week

In the electronics manufacturing industry, the global PCB market is estimated to reach $86.5 billion by 2029, a 5.9% annual growth, per IPC’s Global Market Forecast, and the global new cycle is still being dominated by U.S. news. This week, we are talking about the status of the CHIPS Act and what the new tax and incentives bill does and does not include. We also take a minute for some marketing wisdom to shed light in a challenging and noisy market environment.

Advancements in High-reliability Alloys for Automotive and High-performance Applications

At IPC APEX EXPO, MacDermid Alpha Electronic Solutions showcased its latest innovations in SMT assembly materials designed to meet the growing demands for reliability and sustainability in automotive and high-performance applications. In this interview, Ebad Rehman, business product manager, discusses the evolution of high-reliability alloys, spotlighting ALPHA Innolot, a proven solution developed in response to the automotive industry’s increasing expectations for durability and performance under harsh operating conditions.

Training AI Together—Without Sharing Private Data

Artificial intelligence models work better with more data. While individual EMS companies can certainly create plenty of data over time, the broader the data set, the more insightful the AI results can be. Ben Rachinger, a research assistant at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, received the NextGen Best Paper at IPC APEX EXPO 2025. His research asks: What if a model could be created that allowed industry-wide data in the model, while still protecting proprietary information?

Recognizing IPC Scholarships, Awards, and Opportunities

There was no better way to end our year in 2024 than by recognizing hard-working and driven students and educators for their involvement and interests in the electronics manufacturing industry. Through the IPC Scholarship and Awards program, we can help students invest in their future and reward their hardworking and dedicated accomplishments. 

IPC-CFX, 2.0: Expanding the Digital Backbone of Electronics Manufacturing

Since its initial release in March 2019, IPC Connected Factory Exchange (CFX), the global standard for plug-and-play, machine-to-machine, and machine-to-system communication serving as the backbone for digital manufacturing, has seen continuous enhancement through multiple version updates. In 2024, the standard matured as adoption spread, with a global committee of EMS, OEM, machine vendors, and software solution providers twice releasing version updates to build on the standard's base framework and enhance its usability in industry. 

Driving to the Future: A Pivotal Role in Standards for IPC China Automotive Electronics Committee

In 2024, China’s automotive industry reached new heights. According to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM), the annual production of passenger vehicles surpassed 31 million units, marking a 4% year-over-year growth. Meanwhile, the production of new energy vehicles exceeded 12 million units, a remarkable 36.4% increase. Behind these impressive numbers lies a collective effort fueled by technological innovation, industrial upgrades, and the dedication of countless industry professionals.

Future-proofing Electronics: ChemFORWARD Works Toward Collaboration for Safer Chemistry

The electronics industry is facing a critical juncture. As consumer demand for sustainable products rises and regulatory pressures intensify, companies must prioritize the safety of their products and processes. This means not only complying with evolving chemical restrictions but also proactively seeking safer alternatives.

Revolutionizing Inspection With Delvitech

Roberto Gatti, CEO of Delvitech, shares insights into its Horus machine, a revolutionary innovation in AI-driven inspection technology. This unique system leverages five patented optical heads and custom cameras to perform high-speed, precise inspections. With capabilities that extend beyond traditional limitations, the Horus machine seeks to transform inspection in electronics and microelectronics, as well as the food and pharmaceutical industries, showcasing the versatility and power of its AI-native technology.

I-Connect007 Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week

My picks for the week include—as a complement to the trade agreement news—SEMI's public support of a bill including new tax credit eligibility for semiconductor manufacturers. This provision feels quite similar to the current PCB investment bill that's been introduced to the current Congress; here’s hoping Congress takes a more holistic approach to electronics manufacturing. 

Breaking Down Barriers: The Connectivity of Machines in SMT Production Lines

As the world increasingly moves toward erecting trade barriers, we find ourselves in a paradox. Across the globe, the rise in tariffs and protectionist policies is creating a more fragmented global economy, with nations seeking to insulate themselves from external economic pressures. However, within the confines of the SMT production line, the trend is moving in precisely the opposite direction—toward greater connectivity, integration, and collaboration. Rather than isolating one machine from another, SMT production lines are increasingly interconnected, with data being shared across various stages of the process to improve quality, efficiency, and defect detection.

Innovative Technology Advancements in Test: HATS² Technology and Its Impact on Reliability Testing

Ensuring the reliability of printed circuit boards (PCBs) has become increasingly difficult and critical, yet the development of advanced testing methodologies is essential to meeting industry demands and addressing persistent challenges. One significant innovation is the High Acceleration Thermal Shock (HATS²) test system, which transforms how reliability testing is conducted. After 40 years in the testing business at Microtek, Bob Neves is beginning a new journey with his company, Reliability Assessment Solutions Inc. (RAS).

Delta Builds First IPC-CFX Demonstration Line in Asia-Pacific

As a key standard in the global electronics manufacturing industry, IPC-CFX has been implemented in various regions worldwide, providing the foundation for digital factory solutions. In the Asia-Pacific region, IPC actively promotes this standard, helping enterprises enhance efficiency and competitiveness through digital transformation.

EWPTE 2025: Wire Processing Innovation Driving Technical Dialogue

From cutting-edge automation to advanced testing and harness assembly solutions, the 2025 Electrical Wire Processing Technology Expo (EWPTE) delivered a packed exhibit floor, robust technical programming, and valuable peer-to-peer connections.

I-Connect007 Technical Library: Your Ultimate Free Knowledge Resource

I-Connect007’s technical library was created in 2016 with the launch of its first title, "The Printed Circuit Buyer’s Guide to AS9100 Certification." Created to satisfy a need for readily available, free technical resources, the library has become a powerful knowledge hub for the printed circuit board and electronics manufacturing supply chain.

I-Connect007 Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week

Trade show season is wrapping up as we head into summer. Where has the time gone? I hope you all get the chance to take a vacation this year, because I know you’ve earned one. Speaking of which, when was my last vacay? If I can’t remember, it’s probably time for one. It’s been a busy week in electronics, with fallout from the back-and-forth on tariffs taking up most of the oxygen in the room. We have quite an assortment of articles and columns for you in this installment of Must-Reads. See you next time.

Hunting for Clues: Feng Xue Solving Circuit Board 'Crimes' With AOI Standard

When residents in sleepy English villages needed a top-tier detective to solve a murder, they called on Belgian super-sleuth Hercule Poirot, author Agatha Christie’s fictional detective famous for using his “little grey cells” to solve crimes. In the same way, IPC standards development committees, when creating a standard to detect defects in circuit boards using Automated Optical Inspection (AOI), call on IPC A-Team, Hercule.

Navigating Global Manufacturing in an Era of Uncertainty

The EMS industry faces unprecedented challenges as global trade tensions rise and tariff announcements create market uncertainty. In an overview of IPC Europe’s podcast, MADE IN EUROPE, industry experts from GPV and Zollner examine how these developments impact our businesses and customers, and what strategies will prevail in this new landscape.

From Execution to Intelligence: A Data-driven Approach to Modern Manufacturing

In this discussion, Augusto Vilarinho, an MES expert at Critical Manufacturing, explores the essential functions of MES in tracking and tracing shop floor activities where AI and machine learning capabilities are purposely built into the MES through it's embedded data platform, capturing all machine data, integrating and connecting with different systems, ERPs, physical equipment, and people. 

Meet Thiago Guimaraes, IPC's New Director of Industry Intelligence

The fast pace of innovation in the electronics manufacturing industry means business owners must continuously adapt their processes and capabilities to meet changing customer demands and market trends. To that end, IPC has hired Thiago Guimaraes as the new director of Industry Intelligence. In this interview, Thiago shares key goals and objectives that could revolutionize the industry as he helps stakeholders navigate industry trends and challenges.

I-Connect007 Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week

In our industry, this week’s must-read features include CEE’s Tom Yang and his perspective on having a global business amidst tariff talk and other challenges. Joe Fjelstadt talks to the “Flexperts,” Nick Koop of TTM and Mark Finstead of Flexible Circuit Technologies. Nolan Johnson interviews the McGucken Group about the importance of empathic leadership in BANI times. NCAB’s Ryan Miller writes about reliability and compliance for building PCBs for medical applications, and surprise, more news from Siemens.

IPC Excellence in Education Award: Zenaida Valianu

Zenaida Valianu is the training manager at IPC who brings more than 25 years of expertise in standards and training development to her role. She has revolutionized IPC certification training programs by significantly enhancing their content with comprehensive curricula and engaging materials. She has also been instrumental in developing essential workforce training courses and contributing to various other initiatives.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Improving the Electronics Industry With Advanced Packaging

Devan Iyer, the Chief Strategist for Advanced Packaging at IPC, shares insights from his recent presentation at the EMS Leadership Summit. The discussion covers the importance of understanding market segments in IoT, power electronics, and high-performance computing. EMS companies are encouraged to specialize, invest wisely, and collaborate to meet customer needs.

Empathetic Leadership for Incomprehensible Times

Audrey McGuckin and Catherine Sherman of the McGuckin Group delivered a keynote at the EMS Leadership Summit at IPC APEX EXPO 2025, emphasizing psychological safety and people-centric leadership in the EMS industry. Through personal stories, they fostered an open environment, where attendees learned about empathetic management practices. They introduced the popular BANI (Brittle, Anxious, Non-linear, Incomprehensible) model, underscoring the need for transparency and empathy in today’s complex business landscape. 

Trust in the Process: Zollner Elektronik Heavily Investing in a Future Filled With Electronics

Family goals and values—born by one man tinkering around in his garage in Bavaria near the Czech border—are the cornerstones of IPC member Zollner Elektronik AG, one of the 15 largest EMS companies in the world, and the largest in Germany. The company places heavy priority on its employees, products, and partnerships.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: The Role of AI in Advanced Packaging

In a follow-up to his keynote, Dr. Ahmad Bahai, discusses the critical intersection of advanced packaging, computing, and AI in semiconductor innovation with Nolan Johnson and Devan Iyer. He emphasizes the need for new approaches to handle the data economy and highlights AI's role in optimizing electronics manufacturing. The conversation covers challenges in power and thermal management, the impact of AI on EDA tools, and bio-inspired innovations. Predictions about future trends point towards increased efficiency in design and manufacturing.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Winner of the IPC Best Student Poster Award

Sebastian Carrillo, winner of the Best Student Technical Poster Award, shares insights on his research in nanotechnology and plasmonics. His work on a metal insulator nano array focuses on light-matter interactions at the nanoscale. With advancements in manufacturing, applications include sensing technologies and photovoltaic systems. Sebastian discusses his project involving simulations and optical experiments. His career goals are in research, and he encourages students to seize academic opportunities.

A Day in the Life of an Apprentice at Arc-Tronics

We're recognizing National Apprenticeship Week with this feature on Arc-Tronics, which launched its first-ever apprenticeship program in 2024 to emphasize the importance of workforce development and reflect its deep commitment to nurturing future talent. This program not only provides hands-on experience to apprentices but also ensures the company’s continued leadership in the industry.

Rising Star Award: Paavo Niskala, TactoTek

Paavo Niskala joined the IPC community in 2022 as part of the inaugural steering group for in-mold electronics. He led the development of standard IPC-8401, Guidelines for In-Mold Electronics, chairing the project from its inception to its publication in 2024. Currently, Paavo serves as vice chair of the D-84A Plastronics Accelerated Reliability Testing Task Group, contributing his expertise to advancing reliability standards in the field.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: TRI Innovation—Transforming Semiconductor Inspection with AI Technology

Nolan Johnson talks with David Chiu, USA Sales Manager for TRI Innovation. TRI uses advanced technology to tackle challenges in inspecting tiny components. Their AI programming reduces coding time by 75%, enhancing efficiency in inspections. Collaborating with Nvidia, TRI integrates GPU technology to improve product development and encourages customers to share data for better AI performance.

I-Connect007 Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week

I’m highlighting a discussion on the positive potential coming from the recent changes in global trade policy—from IPC’s Government Relations team, and from TTM CEO Tom Edman. In the realm of designers and purchasers realm, there’s news from Screaming Circuits and ASC/Sunstone Circuits to share. Finally, additive manufacturing and the release of CFX 2.0 highlight just some of the news coming to the shop floor as well.

SMTA Bridging the Skills Gap in Arizona

One area where SMTA really excels is through its local chapters. On April 16, 2025, I-Connect007's Marcy LaRont attended the Workforce Breakfast during the SMTA Arizona Expo & Tech Forum in Mesa, which featured more than 50 electronics professionals from the local area, including defense OEMs, and others who were attending for the first time. Blackfox and Hyrel Technologies sponsored the event. The keynote presentation featured Sean Denny, a professor at Estrella Mountain Community College, who emphasized a clear need for skilled hand soldering technicians.

Recognizing the IPC Committee Volunteer Awards in 2025

In 2023, IPC created two new awards to honor standards development committee volunteers: The Hillman-Lambert Award for Volunteer of the Year and the Kessler-Goldman Award for Committee Leader of the Year. The awards were named after Hall of Fame members whose service to standards development is well-known and who have demonstrated the skills and principles that the awardees should also have.

IPC Rising Star Award: Young-Ho Hwang, Guru E&E

Since 2022, IPC has made significant progress for its Korean members. Young-Ho Hwang has been instrumental in driving these developments. As a core advisory committee member and chair of the 610 RTG, he has played a key role in guiding IPC Korea’s strategic direction, championed the development and adoption of IPC standards across industries, and fostered strong collaborations with stakeholders.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: IPC's Growth and Future in India's Manufacturing Sector

Gaurab Majumdar, VP for IPC in SE Asia and India, highlights IPC's impressive growth in India, with certification numbers rising significantly. The Indian manufacturing sector is projected to reach a $300 billion market, alongside a $10 billion investment in semiconductors. IPC is addressing industry demands through standards development and a new workforce project aimed at training students for job placements.
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