Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1212069
96 I-CONNECT007 I REAL TIME WITH... IPC APEX EXPO 2020 SHOW & TELL MAGAZINE by Dan Feinberg FEIN-LINE ASSOCIATES History It has been about 23 years since the first IPC show (called IPC EXPO) combined with a global meeting and was held in Boston, and just 20 years since the first APEX was held. It did not take long before it became apparent that if the two modest shows combined into one event, it would bring greater value to IPC members and the industry. Ever since then, IPC APEX EXPO has grown, both in the number of exhibitors and attendees. It has also expanded greatly, covering so much more than just the latest printer, laminator, drill, or wave solder machine. It's not that those are unimportant, because they are, but if your com- pany is looking for new or increased capacity, IPC APEX EXPO is the place to be. In addition, it is, and always has been, the best place to be to renew relationships and catch up with col- leagues and friends, as well as meet new people. Overview and Keynote Let's fast forward to 2020, and we are one- fifth of the way through the 21 st century. This year's IPC APEX EXPO has evolved into a "micro CES," focusing on high-tech device manufacturing. The show included a plethora of the latest PCB fabrication, inspection, and assembly equipment. It also included discus- sions and standards meetings regarding the latest smart factory evolution, some great interviews by the I-Connect007 team, and an amazing keynote presentation. The Evolution of IPC APEX EXPO