Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1265351
JULY 2020 I SMT007 MAGAZINE 85 Thus, it's important to know exactly how clean each individual process is to better address and optimize that and reduce the levels of active residues. These types of tests are being seen on more prints for new products but not being applied to legacy products due to exist- ing contracts. If you are planning on qualifying new CMs, this is a great time to revisit some of those leg- acy products and update the cleanliness cri- teria as if it were a new product. Of course, this applies to all the acceptance criteria for all types of testing and not just cleanliness. If you have a product that has been in the field for a few years and there is a trend on the fail- ures, there should be a way to better screen for that in first article builds. While your com- pany is taking this unexpected opportunity to expand your supplier base, you might as well expand your acceptance criteria to help pro- duce a more reliable product. Now, go wash your hands. SMT007 Eric Camden is a lead investigator at Foresite Inc. To read past columns or contact Camden, click here. The Surface Mount Technology Association (SMTA) announced that its annual conference and exhibition, SMTA International, will proceed for 2020 as a completely virtual event starting September 28, 2020. The decision has been made in light of the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure the health and safety of all those who attend. After reviewing all possible scenarios through weekly meetings with the board, executive director, and venue management, it became clear that an in-person meeting would not be possible given the specific require- ments of the state of Illinois, as well as policies restricting travel at many participating companies. The new virtual format will allow attendees to eas- ily navigate within a simulated conference center envi- ronment. Attendees will have access to all keynotes, the exhibit hall, and virtual networking opportunities to inter- act and collaborate with other participants for a fully immersive experience. The exhibition is free to all attendees and will take place live September 28–30. During this time, attendees will be able to roam the virtual show floor, view company products, and demo videos, and privately chat with exhibitors. Attend- ees will have continued access to the exhibit hall until October 23, 2020, without the option for live chat. Attendees who register for the Techni- cal Conference will have exclusive access to over 100 technical presentations on- demand from September 28–October 23, 2020, as well as the ability to download all papers in the conference proceedings. The Women's Leadership Program will continue its annual gathering, hosting the Connection Reception on the evening of Wednesday, September 30. Further details about SMTA International conference and exhibition are available online at smta.org/smtai. SMTA International Conference and Expo Goes Virtual