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We go back to basics this month with a recount of a little history, and look forward to addressing the many challenges that high density, high frequency, adhesion, SI, and corrosion concerns for harsh environments bring to the fore. We compare and contrast surface finishes by type and application, take a hard look at the many iterations of gold plating, and address palladium as a surface finish.
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Welcome to the Newest I-Connect007 Columnist Prashant Patel
January 6, 2025 | I-Connect007 Editorial TeamEstimated reading time: 1 minute

The American PCB industry is on the brink of transformation, and at the forefront of this evolution is Prashant Patel, the visionary founder and president of Alpha Circuit. In his groundbreaking new column, Facing the Future, Patel invites readers to journey with him into the future—one year, five years, and even three decades ahead. This isn’t just another industry column; it’s a blueprint for what’s to come in North America’s PCB sector.
Having recently invested over $25 million into a state-of-the-art PCB technology center, Patel brings unmatched expertise and optimism to the table. His vision goes beyond the here and now by embracing cutting-edge technologies, sustainable manufacturing practices, and the critical strategies required to keep North America at the forefront of the global PCB industry.
Facing the Future explores what could be, rather than merely what is. From bold predictions about the role of artificial intelligence and robotics in PCB manufacturing to insights on the evolving demands of advanced electronics, this column promises to be a thought-provoking guide for professionals eager to stay ahead of the curve.
Prepare for a glimpse into tomorrow shaped by Patel’s insights, innovation, and the unwavering belief that the American PCB industry’s best days are still to come. Join us in this exciting new series as we chart the future of printed circuit boards and the industries they empower.
Prashant Patel's new column will debut on Tuesday, Jan. 7.
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