Visitors to Innov-X’s Booth 845 at the IPC Printed Circuits Expo-APEX & Designers Summit have learned how using x-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) can screen components, parts, cables and PCBs for compliance with the European Union’s RoHS* Directives. Three new hand-held analyzer models from Innov-X solve many technical challenges, from testing coated or plated parts, to evaluating non-homogeneous samples, and applications requiring broad capabilities.

For analyzing complex components, Innov-X has a hand-held analyzer that uses a laser to place a pinpoint test area down to 3 mm diameter. The image and sample target are displayed on the color PDA screen real-time.  You can switch from collimated pinpoint to full-field analysis with the touch of a button. Snapshot images of samples analyzed plus laser-targeted small-spot analysis are saved as part of your test records.

For analyzing coated or plated PCB’s or parts, Innov-X offers a hand-held analyzer that measures multilayer coating thickness and composition. This is ideal for performing “process” readings at a plating line, and for QC or lab analysis. A unique batch mode calculates the average thickness from a batch of small parts with one measurement. Its portability enables testing of large sample pieces, such as rolls of metal, at a factory or in the field. It can identify the substrate alloy as well as coating material.

For general RoHS screening tests, the Alpha Series™ of hand-held XRF analyzers provide fast, accurate results as Pass/Fail/Inconclusive. The “RoHS-STAR™” software simplifies screening, as described by IEC protocol, with its PASS/FAIL guidelines. It automatically senses and adjusts for the different types—alloy, plastic or mixed samples.  Mixed samples, consisting of both plastic and alloy, can be wires and/or finished circuit boards. It uses settings, algorithms and calibrations which are best suited to the specific sample. This guarantees the best analytical results without changing analysis mode for each sample. They test a wide variety of samples, and can be used by non-technical operators.

Why screening? Recent studies indicate that up to 50% of supplier Certifications stating products are RoHS compliant, but fail to pass testing.  Portable XRF in many cases provides a simple, fast, non-destructive screening method to confirm suppliers’ certifications and mitigate your risk.

Innov-X XRF analyzers are simple and effective screening devices that can be taken virtually anywhere. They have the ability to alert users to banned metals, using pass or fail criteria. They will document total Cr, Br, Pb, Hg, and Cd. In just seconds, prohibited materials may be identified and quantified.

Innov-X also offers the Hawk-I™ bench-top XRF unit with a small spot beam capability to 1mm. Its movable X-Y stage, laser beam focusing, and CCD camera enable testing of small parts and precise locations.

Simple Path to Compliance via Rental Program—
Innov-X is helping manufacturers and component suppliers achieve RoHS Compliance. “We have cut pricing virtually to our cost as a means of helping the U.S. manufacturers become compliant. This is our way to help the electronic component suppliers, OEM’s, and contract manufacturers mitigate the impact of RoHS.  It is a complex directive and we are helping suppliers and manufacturers reduce the impact on their operations. Our new XRF rental program and RoHS-Star™ software demonstrates our commitment to supporting this vital industry.” notes Don Sackett, President of Innov-X.

RoHS Impact—
Sackett further observes: “Many companies have not yet reported the financial impact of RoHS. Manufacturers, particularly those that are attempting to address compliance for the first time, tend to underestimate the true costs of noncompliance. The withdrawal of some Apple and Palm non-compliant products** from EU markets are examples of effects on the bottom line. Furthermore, as responsibilities of management, RoHS’ impact can fall under the reporting provisions of Sarbanes Oxley (SOX) Law.”

RoHS Due Diligence Approach—
European Union regulations for RoHS compliance can pose a challenge to most companies. Many observers of EU directives believe they will focus on “due diligence”, and this may be a key to mitigating impact or penalties.  “Due Diligence” is defined as a combination of obtaining and checking supplier certifications, and verifying certifications via a testing program. Using the Innov-X Systems XRF analyzer in a screening test program, prohibited materials can be identified in just seconds.

More information can be accessed at: http://www.innov-x-sys.com/interior//rohs/overview. 

Keywords : Innov-X, XRF analysis, XRF, XRF analyzers, RoHS screening

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