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72 The PCB Magazine • November 2016 cal rigging company's facility. This is especially beneficial if multiple systems are expected to ar- rive at different times. This will minimize the production interruptions typically associated with systems being repositioned on the produc- tion floor. Such off-site staging is also useful if you do not have an interim storage facility that meets the system storage environmental re- quirements. For instance, laser systems can be- come damaged as the result of being exposed to conditions such as high humidity and extreme temperatures or—even worse—being stored outdoors in pouring rain! Once the system has arrived at your facil- ity—and before moving the uncrated system into position on the production floor—it is wise, and often required as part of the supplier contract, to perform a thorough post-shipment inspection of both the crate and system before taking ownership, noting any damage and com- paring the system's condition with the pre-ship- ment inspection. Since poor handling of the equipment can also result in less-visible system damage to the sensitive optics, the laser, and other precision components, many equipment manufacturers will apply shock and tilt sensors to the shipping crates or the equipment itself in order to document the proper handling of the equipment in transit. If anything looks out of order—whether it be a tripped sensor or obvi- ous physical damage—make sure to get photo- graphic evidence and alert your supplier as soon as possible in order to sort out a recovery plan. Final system uncrating and unpacking should be done in the presence of your suppli- er's service team. In addition to inspecting the system for damage after uncrating, you should verify the presence and condition of the sealed environmental barrier bag that was used to pre- vent the contamination of the system's optics during shipment. After system uncrating, inspection, and subsequent move to the system's ultimate op- erating location, system installation/commis- sioning will typically be performed by your supplier's field service team. This will consist of placing and leveling the system and connecting it to the services that have been prepared for the system's arrival. Electrical power, compressed air and vacuum services should have already been made accessible at the system's ultimate location and those services should be consistent with the system's site requirements. System and Site Verification Testing After the system has been connected to the required facility services, your supplier will typ- ically perform a thorough set of compliance, safety and diagnostic tests designed to verify that both the installation site and the system itself meet the agreed-upon requirements. Site requirement compliance: These tests will ensure that the installation site complies with the system's requirements as discussed in the previous installment of this series. These verify that environmental factors meet specifications such as temperature and humidity. They will also ensure the availability and quality of services such as vacuum, com- pressed air, etc. Safety: At a minimum, safety tests will ensure that the system's laser beam is safely confined to the pro- STEPPING UP TO LASER PROCESSING FOR FLEX, PART 4: INSTALLATION, TRAINING AND INITIAL OPERATION Figure 1: Poor handling during shipment can result in severe equipment damage.