“What is your most common PCB problem?”
A survey conducted by Bob Willis had revealed finish solderability to be the predominant contender, and it was clear that the choice of solderable finish applied to surface mount boards could have a significant effect on the assembly yield and cost of the final circuit. A further survey question revealed the relative popularities of surface finish as: gold 43%, tin 24%, solder levelled 22%, copper OSP 8% and silver 3%.
SMTA Europe organised an informative and enlightening webinar this month entitled “Guide to PCB Solder Finishes—Process Defects Causes and Cures,” with soldering specialist Bob Willis as presenter.