Product Review: ATExpo

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Following is a highlight of products to be featured at the 2006 Assembly Technology Expo, co-located with SMTA International in Rosemont, Ill., September 26 28. Check out SMT's September issue for more products, and look for more previews on our Website, leading up to the show.

Conformal Coating SystemThe Prism conformal coating system is said to apply precise spray coatings without overspraying. Using proprietary ultrasonic technology, the spray head atomizes the coating material. The technology comprises an ultrasonic transducer, which converts electrical to mechanical energy at the spray head's operating frequency; an ultrasonic generator; and an independent fluid applicator, which incorporates a liquid applicator and an air detector. The fluid applicator delivers liquid to the atomizing tip and directs airflow to form various narrow or wide spray patterns. Software controls a metering valve, regulating the flow to the spray head and eliminating variations in viscosity. Ultrasonic Systems, Inc., Haverhill, Mass., www.ultraspray.com. Visit Ultrasonic at Booth #5709.

Device ProgrammersThe 1410, 1610, 1710, and 2710 manual device programmers feature USB 2.0 standard bus to support communication speed, and ISP-PRO socket modules for in-circuit programming. The programmers connect to the board using a cable interface. After in-circuit programming, operators can verify functionality with the device. If board problems are detected, the programmer can adjust parameters. BPM Microsystems, Houston, Texas, www.bpmmicro.com. Visit BPM Microsystems at Booth #5300.

Lead-free Bar SolderThe low-silver, tin/copper/nickel alloy Ultrapure K100LD is a lead-free bar solder that relies on a primarily tin/copper formula with metallic dopants for grain structure and copper dissolution rate control. The alloy is said to reduce the need for pot maintenance, maintain consistency, and leave shiny and smooth solder joints. Thru-hole fill, fillet formation, and anti-drossing are also said to improve. Kester, Des Plaines, Ill., www.kester.com. Visit Kester at Booth #5236.

Digital X-ray SystemWith a 2 megapixel imaging system and optional computerized tomography (CT) capability, the XiDAT XD7600NT digital X-ray inspection system performs analytical analysis with digitally-refined image capture. The machine generates feature recognition to within 250 nm. Oblique angle views reach 70°, in any position over any point in the 16 × 18" inspection area. Dage Precision Industries, Fremont, Calif., www.dageinc.com. Visit Dage at Booth #5606.

AOI SystemWith a single programming paradigm said to lower false call rates, the Flex Ultra automated optical inspection (AOI) system can operate post-placement, pre- and post-reflow, and post-wave. The machine also measures offset on any size component. Proprietary statistical appearance modeling (SAM) technology interacts with the digital cameras and a simple user-interface to inspect boards at a high throughput rate, according to the company. The platform is available in 200-, 300-, and 450-mm configurations. CyberOptics featured their products at Nepcon South China as well in 2006; to learn more click here. CyberOptics Corporation, Minneapolis, Minn., www.cyberoptics.com. Visit CyberOptics at Booth #5939.