Root-cause Analysis and Problem-solving
November 1, 2024 | Happy Holden, I-Connect007Estimated reading time: Less than a minute

An essential skill for any process engineer in printed circuit fabrication is the ability to conduct root-cause analysis (RCA) and problem-solving. These are related to TQC and Six Sigma applications and are essential for customer support and continued profitability. All engineers will encounter these methods sooner or later, but it will likely be sooner if you are in product or process engineering in manufacturing.
I started my career in IC fabrication at Hewlett-Packard after serving in the Army and completing my graduate studies. In 1970, I was asked to help the PCB fabrication team members with some of their technical problems. I had two tools that most engineers in the PCB plant didn’t have at that time: engineering statistics, including design of experiments (DOE), and experience with problem-solving (TQC).
To read this entire article, which appeared in the October 2024 issue of PCB007 Magazine, click here.
Testimonial
"The I-Connect007 team is outstanding—kind, responsive, and a true marketing partner. Their design team created fresh, eye-catching ads, and their editorial support polished our content to let our brand shine. Thank you all! "
Sweeney Ng - CEE PCBSuggested Items
UHDI Fundamentals: UHDI Technology and Industry 4.0
09/03/2025 | Anaya Vardya, American Standard CircuitsUltra high density interconnect (UHDI) technology is rapidly transforming how smart systems are designed and deployed in the context of Industry 4.0. With its capacity to support highly miniaturized, high-performance, and densely packed electronics, UHDI is a critical enabler of the smart, connected, and automated industrial future. Here, I’ll explore the synergy between UHDI and Industry 4.0 technologies, highlighting applications, benefits, and future directions.
Partnerships Drive Innovation for a Brighter Manufacturing Future
08/26/2025 | Barry Matties, I-Connect007When Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories (SEL) opened its greenfield facility in 2023, it did so with careful attention to choosing its suppliers. In this discussion, Collin Peters, electronics business director for North America at MKS’ Atotech, and Justin Kennedy, manager of engineering at SEL, explore their unique partnership that includes collaborative efforts to develop innovative solutions like the Uniplate® PLBCu6 line.
August 2025 PCB Magazine: Inventing the Future With SEL
08/18/2025 | I-Connect007 Editorial TeamTwo years after launching its state-of-the-art PCB facility, Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories shares lessons in vision, execution, and innovation, plus insights from industry icons and technology leaders shaping the future of PCB fabrication. The August 2025 issue of PCB007 Magazine takes you inside the facility to hear from its founder, Dr. Ed Schweitzer, its manufacturing team leaders, and several of the supplier vendors that make this a cutting-edge fabrication plant.
Global PCB Connections: Understanding the General Fabrication Process—A Designer’s Hidden Advantage
08/14/2025 | Markus Voeltz -- Column: Global PCB ConnectionsDesigners don’t need to become fabricators, but understanding the basics of PCB fabrication can save you time, money, and frustration. The more you understand what’s happening on the shop floor, the better you’ll be able to prevent downstream issues. As you move into more advanced designs like HDI, flex circuits, stacked vias, and embedded components, this foundational knowledge becomes even more critical. Remember: the fabricator is your partner.
Advint and Sayron Bring Advanced Rectifier Solutions to High-Reliability PCB Manufacturers
08/01/2025 | Advint IncorporatedAdvint Incorporated has partnered with Sayron, a leading global rectifier manufacturer, to supply cutting-edge IGBT-based DC rectifiers to high-performance PCB manufacturers across North America and beyond. Sayron’s precision-engineered rectifiers align with the stringent requirements of advanced PCB processes.