If your semiconductor firm works with surface mount technology, you understand the trials and tribulations of reworking and retesting. And, the move to a lead-free environment adds to the cautions. To improve yields and lower costs, it is important to employ the correct surface mount technology equipment and processes to ensure the reliability of soldered joints.

As a semiconductor manufacturer, you'll need the most up-to-date information on soldering and surface mount technology. Look to surface mount technology equipment manufacturers as well as consultants in the SMT industry. Together you can analyze your processes and equipment as well as the surface mount technology supplies your shop uses.

As you work to refine your SMT fabrication to improve yields and reduce your costs, keep these things in mind:

1. Gather information about SMT fabrication from trusted and experienced advisers.

2. Find the equipment that is right for your processes.

3. Buy surface mount technology equipment for your operation.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Contact companies and experts specializing in solutions for surface mount electronic fabrication

Although SMT for semiconductor fabrication has been around for a couple of decades, it is a field of continual change with materials, equipment and even techniques. To apply the latest information to your business, it is important to get your finger on the pulse of the industry by consulting the experts.

I recommend: An agency that specializes in solving problems in surface mount technology (SMT) for semiconductor fabrication is the Ray Prasad Consultancy Group. On its website, find articles and information on specific issues and classes offered on various topics in SMT. SMT Plus offers online and onsite courses in SMT fabrication. Consultants will work with your employees to troubleshoot problems and improve results.

Decide whether existing equipment or custom-made machinery is best for your shop

Existing equipment comes in several basic designs, tailored to typical work settings. In addition, many surface mount technology equipment suppliers will customize equipment to fit your specifications. Investigate the use of existing equipment designs before investing in custom-made pieces.

I recommend: Surface Mount Equipment Services has machinery and parts for every step of the SMT fabrications process. In addition, their technicians will evaluate your equipment, recommend upgrades and repair it. Surface Technology International designs, manufactures and tests surface mount technology equipment and materials. Their consultants make site visits to recommend refinements in processes.

Purchase surface mount technology equipment that improves yields and costs

The whole idea of SMT equipment is to make the process flow quickly, smoothly and less expensively. Buy an SMT fabrication system with those goals in mind. Be sure to set aside funds to train your employees on the equipment.

I recommend: K3 Equipment Company has a large inventory of new and refurbished SMT equipment, including soldering irons, conveyors and inspection systems. They have surface mount, cleaning, and other types of refurbished equipment in inventory. If you decide to outsource production, contact Surface Mount Solutions. They will manufacture low to medium volume batches to your specifications. If you decide to keep manufacturing in your operation, they have a variety of SMT equipment to fit most plants.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When buying used surface mount technology equipment, it is imperative to be aware of the warranty provisions. Make your performance expectations clear before signing a contract.