The Chemical Connection: Troubleshooting PCB Process Problems
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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.
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