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Summit Interconnect’s Leadership in the ‘Silicon Prairie’

Summit Interconnect is one of the two largest PCB fabricators in the United States. I visited with Deepak Makwana, general manager of Summit’s Chicago plant, Business Development Manager Tom Veitch, and Vice President of Technology Gerry Partida at their Schaumberg, Illinois (Summit Chicago) facility to learn more about the evolution of PCB manufacturing in the Midwest.

Understanding Agentic AI

For those of us who design, build, and use computers, AI is our most frequent topic of conversation. Next to that is agentic AI, a form of artificial intelligence designed to function autonomously. But how is it different from traditional and generative AI? Simply said, agentic AI can execute complex tasks autonomously with little or no human intervention.

Real Time with... productronica 2025: Energy Security and Nuclear Fusion Innovations

Pete Starkey meets with Alun Morgan to discuss significant upcoming EIPC events, including a conference at a nuclear fusion reactor site in France and a summer conference in Lithuania. He emphasizes the importance of energy security and advancements in nuclear fusion technology, particularly the role of AI in reactor design. Additionally, Alun highlights a new PCB plant in Lithuania, marking a major investment in the region.

Real Time with... productronica 2025: Polar on Understanding Material Libraries in Design

Pete Starkey and Martyn Gaudion discuss the rapid updates in material libraries and the critical need for designers to grasp material properties. They highlight the role of suppliers and the importance of communication between designers and fabricators. Martyn focuses on the educational aspect of their services, aiming to connect design and manufacturing. The conversation underscores the significance of material knowledge in enhancing the design process through collaboration.

Real Time with... productronica 2025: Exploring MGI Group's Innovations in Digital Printing

Pete Starkey introduces Alexis Guilbert from Altix and Frédéric Soulier from MGI Group at the Altix booth. MGI, established in 1992, focuses on graphic arts and digital printing technology. Their collaboration with Altix boosts capabilities in printed circuit board imaging and inkjet technology. MGI Group's recent acquisition of Altix enhances their market position, promising sustainability and improved production rates. This partnership fosters advanced solutions for customers.

Real Time with... productronica 2025: Advancements in Inkjet Technology with Electra Polymers

Ashley Steers of Electra Polymers discusses the advancements in inkjet technology and its increasing market acceptance. Investments in production capabilities and the commitment to traditional solder mask inks are also touched on. The conversation addresses sustainability challenges and compliance issues, while emphasizing the importance of new technologies and personnel in maintaining market share.

Mehul Davé: A World Full of Opportunities and Possibilities

In this interview, entrepreneur, technologist, and global visionary I-Connect007 columnist Mehul Davé reflects on a lifetime of innovation. From founding companies and mentoring teams to shaping global supply chains, Mehul discusses leadership, culture, and optimism for a thriving PCB future—reminding us that “chips don’t float,” and opportunity is everywhere.

Real Time with... productronica 2025: Inside Schmoll—Success, Innovation, and Future Plans

In this interview, Stephan Kunz, CEO of Schmoll Maschinen, discusses his company's recent successes and awards, emphasizing the value of face-to-face interactions and sharing positive customer feedback. This year, Schmoll received an innovation award, taking second place for the Pico CO2 laser Combi machine in the PCB/EMS cluster. Additionally, they were honored for their 50-year uninterrupted presence at the show. Schmoll has plans for a new European factory to accommodate growing demand.

Jesse Vaughan: A Basketball and PCB Industry ‘Fanatic’

A third-generation PCB technologist and lifelong basketball enthusiast, Jesse Vaughan shares how family legacy, grit, and a love of innovation shaped his path from the court to the cleanroom. In this interview, the Beyond the Board columnist reflects on risk-taking, resilience, and the boundless future he envisions for the U.S. PCB industry

Don Ball: It’s Never Felt Like ‘Work’

For the November issue of PCB007 Magazine, I was sent a list of questions that would highlight my personality and career. If you’ve read my previous columns, you know I am not reluctant to talk about myself, so here it goes. In my freshman year, inspired by the 1960 Olympics in Rome, I decided to try out for the track team. Of course, I wanted to attain glory as a sprinter, but this turned out to be a less-than-optimal pursuit, and I gradually moved up in distance to become a miler.

Real Time with... productronica 2025: The Versatility of Electroplating Technology With GreenSource

Gustavo Ramos from GreenSource Engineering shares insights on an innovative electroplating module. This system features high current density and adaptable chemistry, making it suitable for a range of applications. The focus is on developing a flexible process that can handle various product mixes and technologies, enhancing efficiency and versatility in electroplating.

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

Yesterday was the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday. The traditional meal is, of course, roast turkey with “all the trimmings.” Although not everyone observes that menu, most do, and it was reported that 42 million turkeys were consumed on that day. With an average weight of 16 pounds per turkey, we cooked up 672 million pounds! With approximately 342 million people in the U.S, that pencils out to just under two pounds of drumstick and white meat per person. That, my friends, is a whole lot of leftovers.

I-Connect007 Closes for Thanksgiving Day

I-Connect007 recognizes Thanksgiving Day and its office will be closed Nov. 27–28, 2025. The Thanksgiving holidays, as celebrated across North America, trace their roots to early harvest celebrations, expressions of gratitude, and moments of national significance. In Canada, Thanksgiving is often linked to explorer Martin Frobisher’s 1578 Arctic expedition, where he held a ceremony giving thanks for a safe passage—decades before the Pilgrims arrived in North America.

productronica 2025: Showcasing the Future of Electronics Manufacturing for 50 Years

Last week’s productronica 2025 at Messe München in Munich marked a significant milestone for the European electronics manufacturing industry. The biennial show celebrated its 50th anniversary, highlighting five decades of technological transformation as the largest global trade fair for electronics manufacturing. Co-located with Semicon Europa, productronica attracted an attendance of over 47,000 visitors, featuring more than 1,600 exhibitors from over 50 countries.

Schmoll's Kurt Palmer: Building on a Strong Foundation in PCB Fabrication

From growing up surrounded by laminates to leading one of the industry’s premier equipment suppliers, Driving Innovation columnist Kurt Palmer’s career has come full circle. In this feature, he shares lessons learned from building a family business, his passion for customer commitment, and why adaptability, optimism, and strong relationships remain the keys to thriving in an ever-evolving PCB landscape.

Happy Holden: Rockstar Engineer With a Passion to Inspire the Next Generation

Happy Holden’s vast knowledge, passion for the industry, and commitment to sharing knowledge with the next generation are unmatched and inspiring. Happy’s dedication to teaching and making information available to the engineering community can be found in many places, including universities, trade events, books, and webinars. When he’s not busy preparing for his next keynote or lesson, you will likely find Happy working on a book project or writing his next Tech Talk column for I-Connect007.

Simon Khesin: A PCB Journey of Familiar and Unfamiliar Paths

In Driving Innovation, Simon Khesin shares his extraordinary path from Moscow engineer to global account manager at Schmoll Maschinen. His story spans risk, reinvention, and resilience—from designing drilling machines to starting over in Germany—and celebrates the freedom to create and the power of staying adaptable in a changing world.

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

Were you one of the lucky ones who made it to Europe’s largest electronics trade show this week? By all accounts, this massive event was buzzing with new technologies, packed booths, and plenty of tired feet by the end of each day. So, if you’re heading home from productronica (or, like me, just enjoying the end of a busy week), now’s the perfect time to unwind a bit. Settle into that airplane seat (or office chair), grab a snack, and catch up on some great reads from I-Connect007.

Voices of the Industry Features Elephantech’s Satoshi Konagai on the Future of Sustainable PCB Manufacturing

I-Connect007 is pleased to announce the release of the latest episode in its acclaimed podcast series, Voices of the Industry. In this episode, host Marcy LaRont speaks with Satoshi Konagai, Executive Officer and Head of Marketing of Elephantech, about the company’s groundbreaking additive manufacturing technology that’s reshaping the printed circuit board (PCB) industry.

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

I read an interesting article this week about a breakthrough on building microprocessors to run on microwaves rather than traditional digital circuitry. It cites an academic study that begins, “The development of high-bandwidth applications, including multi-gigabit communication and radar imaging, demands faster processing. However, in the microwave regime, where frequencies exceed clock rates, sampling and computation become challenging. Here we report an integrated microwave neural network for broadband computation and communication.”

The Impact of the AI Boom on PCB and Raw Materials Supply Chains

The PCB industry is entering a period of unprecedented structural change, driven by the demands of artificial intelligence and advanced computing. What was once a cyclical market has become a capacity race. It’s one that rewards foresight, collaboration, and strategic supply partnerships. Understanding these dynamics is essential for maintaining stability and growth across all market segments. This report, created by Ventec International Group, provides a clear view of how AI-driven demand is reshaping the PCB materials landscape and what actions are required to secure long-term supply.

Real Time with... productronica 2025: Looking Ahead to productronica, and a Stronger European Electronics Ecosystem

Next week at productronica, the Global Electronics Association Europe will be hosting a full program each day of the show at their booth in Hall A1. Philippe Leonard, head of the Association’s European office, recently shared what’s happening for our industry in Europe, details of the Hand Soldering World Championship at the show, a preview of a new Cable & Wire Harness competition kicking off in 2026, and information about the impressive lineup of speakers at the Electronics Industry Forum at the Association’s booth.

Advanced Electronics Packaging Digest: Third Issue Arrives November 17

The third issue of Advanced Electronics Packaging Digest launches Monday, November 17. This issue continues AEPD’s mission to deliver forward-looking analysis and insider perspectives on the technologies reshaping advanced electronics packaging. Among the highlights is a review of IMPACT 2025, where discussions on component-to-system-level integration took center stage as experts explored the challenges and breakthroughs driving advanced packaging technologies.

Real Time with... productronica 2025: Pluritec Previews X-ray, Drilling and Wet Processing Automation

Nolan Johnson catches up with Maurizio Bonati for a sneak peek at Pluritec's productronica program, and also an update on business in general. Listen to the conversation now and stay tuned for more exclusive coverage of productronica 2025 after the big event next week on realtimewith.com and featured in upcoming I-Connect007 Newsletters.

Becoming Grant-ready in the Private Sector

Companies in the electronics industry are expected to innovate faster, modernize operations, deliver resilient supply chains, and compete on a global stage. It’s a high bar to meet for manufacturers facing tightening margins, talent shortages, and evolving economic and policy conditions, but opportunities remain for those prepared to take action.
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