Reliability Matters

Mike Konrad
  • 4.8 (8)
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED SEMIMONTHLY
Reliability Matters

Reliability Matters is a podcast on the subject of reliability of circuit assemblies. Reliability "best practices" and success stories are discussed. This podcast features interviews with experts in the electronic assembly industry. All electronic production segments which effect product reliability are on the table. This includes contamination, coating, cleanliness assessment, inspection, building for harsh environments, reflow, printing, failure analysis, board fabrication, and much more. Your Host: Mike Konrad began his career in the electronic assembly equipment industry in 1985. Mike founded Aqueous Technologies in 1992 in response to the Montreal Protocol and the resulting international treaty banning most popular cleaning/defluxing solvents. Mike is an internationally known speaker on the subject of increasing reliability through contamination removal and cleanliness quantification techniques and procedures. Mike was awarded “Distinguish Speaker Status” with SMTA in 2018 and received the “Rich Freiberger Best of Conference Award” in 2019. Mike is a member of the SMTA Global Board of Directors where he is Vice President of Communications. Mike is also Vice President of Technical Programs for the Los Angeles / Orange County SMTA Chapter. Visit the Reliability Matters Podcast Website: https://www.reliabilitymatterspodcast.com

  1. Episode 152: High-Reliability Solder Paste Selection Best Practices

    SEP 24

    Episode 152: High-Reliability Solder Paste Selection Best Practices

    As the demand for more durable and dependable electronics continues to rise across industries, the choice of soldering materials, such as solder paste, plays a pivotal role in determining the reliability of these devices. We'll discuss how selecting the right solder paste can influence performance and longevity, and we'll hear from an industry expert about the latest advancements and best practices in soldering material technology.  I guest today is Ebad Rehman, Regional Product Manager at MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions. He has a Master's degree in Technology from Illinois State University and has led multiple technical and strategic projects for MacDermid Alpha, including new product development and technology development projects, using lean and agile methodologies. He’s also planned and developed processes for the Power Electronics group and the Aftermarket Enhancement group to drive efficiencies and effectiveness.  Whether you're a seasoned engineer or someone new to the electronic assembly industry, this episode will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions that enhance the reliability of your electronic assemblies. Join us as we explore the critical intersection of materials science and electronics reliability. Ebad Rehman's Contact Info: ebad.rehman@macdermidalpha.com https://www.macdermidalpha.com

    48 min
  2. Episode 151: Optical Inspection System Best Practices

    SEP 10

    Episode 151: Optical Inspection System Best Practices

    Two episodes ago, episode 149, we talked all about automated optical inspection. Today we're exploring the impact of less automated inspection Technology, that being optical microscopes. From commercial, class 1 electronics to high reliability class 3 electronics, the intricate electronic devices we rely on daily are assembled with astonishing precision. This precision wouldn't be possible without the aid of advanced optical microscopes. These remarkable instruments allow technicians and engineers to inspect, analyze, and ensure the quality of electronic components down to the minutest detail. In this episode, we'll uncover how optical microscopes have impacted electronic assembly, enhancing productivity, ensuring reliability, and driving innovation.  One of the unique benefits microscopes provide, particularly in hand soldering applications, is the ability to view and solder the assembly under high magnification through the microscope. Obviously, this is not something any AOI system can perform. But microscopes are not limited to soldering applications. One of the most critical applications of optical microscopes in the electronic assembly industry is the inspection of circuit assemblies for quality assurance. Circuit assemblies are the heart of many products, comprising numerous, highly miniaturized components and connections that must be flawlessly integrated. Even the smallest defect, such as a microscopic crack or an improperly soldered joint, can lead to significant malfunctions or failures. Optical microscopes enable detailed inspection of these assemblies, allowing quality control professionals to identify and rectify issues that would be invisible to the naked eye.  By providing high-resolution images and magnification, these microscopes help in detecting defects, ensuring correct alignment and polarity of components, and verifying the integrity of solder joints. This meticulous inspection process is crucial for maintaining the reliability and performance of electronic devices, ultimately ensuring customer satisfaction and, in many cases, safety. We'll hear from two industry experts who will share insights on the latest technological advancements and how these tools are indispensable in maintaining the high standards of modern electronics. Nili Walp is Marketing Manager at Vision Engineering, a manufacturer of microscopes design for various industries, including the Electronics assembly industry, where she has worked for over eight years. Nili earned a bachelors in communications from Boston University. Richard Nagel is Vice President of sales and marketing at Vision Engineering where he has worked for over 21 years. Richard and Nili will share insights on the latest technological advancements and how these tools are indispensable in maintaining the high standards of modern electronics.  Vision Engineering Contact Information: https://www.visioneng.us info@visioneng.us

    58 min
  3. Episode 150: The Truth Behind Statistics

    AUG 27

    Episode 150: The Truth Behind Statistics

    Statistics, at its core, is the science of making sense of data. From predicting trends and making informed decisions to ensuring quality control and optimizing processes, the applications of statistics are vast and varied. In the electronic assembly industry, where precision and reliability are paramount, statistical techniques become indispensable tools for engineers, manufacturers, and quality assurance professionals alike. Join us as we unravel the complex yet captivating connections between statistics and the truth. We'll delve into real-world case studies, and uncover the statistical principles that ensure the decisions we make every day are based on facts, accurate data, and accurate statistics.  In today's episode, we're also going to tackle some common myths associated with statistics and shed light on how misinterpretation of data can lead to false conclusions. Many people think of statistics as infallible, a definitive answer to every question posed by data. However, this couldn't be further from the truth. Statistics is a powerful tool, but its effectiveness hinges on proper application and interpretation. We'll discuss myths such as "Correlation equals causation," where the mere relationship between two variables is often mistaken for one causing the other. We'll also address the misconception that a larger sample size always guarantees accurate results, and how ignoring the context or the source of data can lead to misleading outcomes. Moreover, we'll explore real-world examples where statistical missteps have led to costly errors and how these pitfalls can be avoided through rigorous analysis and critical thinking. By understanding these common misconceptions and learning how to approach data critically, you'll be better equipped to harness the true power of statistics. My guest today, is Aaron Brown. Aaron teaches statistics at New York University and at the University of California at San Diego, and he writes regular columns for Bloomberg and Wilmott. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, he was a key participant in developing modern financial risk management and one of the original developers of Value-at-Risk. He also helped develop the rules that eventually became known as Basel II. Aaron holds an M.B.A. in Finance and Statistics from the University of Chicago and an BS in Applied Mathematics from Harvard.

    1h 0m
  4. Episode 149: AOI and X-Ray Best Practices

    AUG 6

    Episode 149: AOI and X-Ray Best Practices

    In today's episode, we're exploring automated optical inspection (AOI) and x-ray inspection technology within the electronic assembly industry. Joining us are two experts who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Joel Scutchfield is the General Manager of SMT and Semicon Business Operations & Director of Sales at Koh Young, manufacturers of automated inspection and precise measurement systems with its headquarters in Seoul South Korea and R&D centers around the world. Joel has been with Koh Young for just under 10 years. Jesper Lykke is the CEO at Viscom, a manufacturer of inspection technologies, in particular for automatic optical inspection (AOI) and X-ray inspection, with headquarters in Hanover, Germany and offices worldwide. Jesper has been with Viscom for 14 years. Both Joel and Jesper are widely considered to be subject matter experts on inspection technology. In this episode, we'll delve into the principles and applications of AOI and x-ray inspection, discussing how these technologies are revolutionizing the electronic assembly industry. We'll explore the latest trends, challenges, best practices, and future directions, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of how these inspection methods are critical to maintaining high standards in electronics manufacturing. Whether you're an industry professional, a tech enthusiast, or just curious about the intricacies of electronic assembly, this episode promises to offer valuable insights and expert perspectives on the inspection technologies that are driving both innovation and quality in the field. So, sit back, relax, and join us for an enlightening conversation about inspection Technology.  Guest contact information: Joel Scutchfield Koh Young joel.scutchfield@kohyoung.com Jesper Lykke Viscom jesper.lykke@viscomusa.com

    1h 15m
  5. Special episode: Surface Mount Technology International - 2024

    JUL 30

    Special episode: Surface Mount Technology International - 2024

    Just like the famous line from the 1984 film, The Terminator, “I’ll be back”, SMTAI is back. Back to the Chicago area. We’re back in Rosemont, co-located with the Assembly Show, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, October 20-24. Between SMTAI and the Assembly Show, there will be thousands of engineers and industry professionals in attendance. The exhibit floor features hundreds of exhibitors showing off the latest technology. But the topic we're discussing today is the Technical conference and other planned events taking place at this year’s SMTAI. This year, there are 11 scheduled professional development courses, about 100 technical presentations across seven technical tracks. Joining me to discuss what’s in store for attendees is Jason Keeping, member of the SMTA Global Board of Directors where he is Vice President of technical programs for SMTA. Jeff Kennedy, past SMTA President and Director of the Manufacturing Excellence Track, and Robert Boguski, member of the SMTA Global Board of Directors where he is VP of membership and Director of the Test and Inspection track. For more information on SMTAI, click on the link below: https://www.smtai.org For more information on SMTA, click on the link below: https://smta.org/default.aspx

    41 min
  6. Episode 148: IPC Apex Special

    JUL 23

    Episode 148: IPC Apex Special

    Recorded live in Anaheim California during the IPC Apex Expo. This episode features three interviews including: • Kimberly Fagan from PVA • Taylor Wagan from CETEC ERP • Neil Hubble from Akrometrix

    31 min
  7. Episode 147: IPC Apex Special

    JUL 9

    Episode 147: IPC Apex Special

    Recorded live in Anaheim California during the IPC Apex Expo. This episode features four interviews including: • David Chiu from Test Research, Inc. • Michael Dolan from South-Tek • Dalton Dodge from Brooks Automation  • Michelle Ogihara from Seka Machinery, Inc.

    35 min
  8. Episode 146: IPC Apex Special (part 1 of 3)

    JUN 25

    Episode 146: IPC Apex Special (part 1 of 3)

    Recorded live in Anaheim California during the IPC Apex Expo. This episode features three interviews including: • Gus Mavrou from Seho • Mark Stansfield from Solderstar • Jesper Lykke from Viscom

    30 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.8
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Reliability Matters is a podcast on the subject of reliability of circuit assemblies. Reliability "best practices" and success stories are discussed. This podcast features interviews with experts in the electronic assembly industry. All electronic production segments which effect product reliability are on the table. This includes contamination, coating, cleanliness assessment, inspection, building for harsh environments, reflow, printing, failure analysis, board fabrication, and much more. Your Host: Mike Konrad began his career in the electronic assembly equipment industry in 1985. Mike founded Aqueous Technologies in 1992 in response to the Montreal Protocol and the resulting international treaty banning most popular cleaning/defluxing solvents. Mike is an internationally known speaker on the subject of increasing reliability through contamination removal and cleanliness quantification techniques and procedures. Mike was awarded “Distinguish Speaker Status” with SMTA in 2018 and received the “Rich Freiberger Best of Conference Award” in 2019. Mike is a member of the SMTA Global Board of Directors where he is Vice President of Communications. Mike is also Vice President of Technical Programs for the Los Angeles / Orange County SMTA Chapter. Visit the Reliability Matters Podcast Website: https://www.reliabilitymatterspodcast.com

Information

  • Creator
    Mike Konrad
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2024
  • Episodes
    157
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Mike Konrad
  • Show Website
    Reliability Matters

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