Ep. 80: Vias, Tenting, and Tiny Fireworks
In this episode, Chris and Melissa we are focused on the topic of tenting vias. Joined by our favorite PCB guru, Dave Wilcox, we dive into the thrilling question: is it "via" or "v-eye-a"? We discuss the technical details behind different types of vias, tenting methods, and the potential manufacturing challenges that arise from improper designs such as why covering one side of a via might just lead to a tiny PCB firework show. Make sure to look out for part 2 of this episode where we continue on to learn about plugging and filling vias.
Ep. 79: Navigating the Environmental Impact of Electronics w/ Component Sense Founder, Kenny McGee
In this episode, Chris and Melissa continue their conversation with Kenny McGee, founder of Component Sense. We explore the environmental impact of electronics manufacturing and discuss how companies like Component Sense work to redistribute unused parts, reducing waste in the industry. Kenny shares insights on sustainability challenges for small businesses, his personal passion for reducing waste, and the global issues around recycling and electronic component reuse.
Ep. 78: How Component Sense helps components fulfill their destiny w/ Kenny McGee
In this episode Chris and Melissa sit down with Kenny McGee, founder of Component Sense, to dive into the intricacies of the electronics supply chain. Kenny shares his journey from working in electronics manufacturing to founding Component Sense, a company focused on capital recovery from excess inventory while promoting sustainability. Tune in to learn about the environmental impact of excess electronic components, the importance of redistributing stock, and the challenges of reducing waste in the industry.
Ep.77:The RGB LED Dilemma in Manufacturing
In this episode of the PickPlace Podcast, Chris and Melissa discuss the challenges and intricacies of working with RGB LEDs, specifically the popular surface-mount DotStar LEDs from Adafruit. They dive into issues like handling cut strips versus continuous reels, the importance of sourcing directly from original manufacturers, and the need for moisture control when using these components in manufacturing. They also provide practical tips for engineers on cost-saving and quality assurance strategies when sourcing these parts for large-scale production.
Show Links:
https://www.adafruit.com/product/2343
https://docs.circuithub.com/en/articles/3350195-consigning-cut-strips
https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/adafruit-industries-llc/2343/5761204
Ep.76:RF Shields and Restroom Rants
In this episode we delve into the topic of RF (Radio Frequency) shields. . Chris explains the different types of RF shields—open top, closed top, and clip-based—detailing their applications, advantages, and challenges. We also explore the processes involved in placing these shields on circuit boards, emphasizing the importance of inspection and the complexities of manual versus automated methods, and discuss how to choose the best type of shields for your project. More importantly, Chris shares a detailed story about a poorly designed bathroom he recently experienced and realizes that one of his big pet peeves is thoughtlessness.
Show Links:
Two Piece Shield
Snap on, top piece: BMI-S-201-C https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/laird-technologies-emi/BMI-S-201-C/2175914
Solder on, bottom piece: BMI-S-201-F https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/laird-technologies-emi/BMI-S-201-F/2175888?s=N4IgTCBcDaIEIFkCSBaAyisAGAjCgYiALoC%2BQA
One Piece Shield
Clip Style
Ep.75:Stencils: The Unsung Heroes of PCB Perfection Pt. 2
In this episode Chris and Melissa continue their deep dive into the critical role of stencils in electronics assembly, with expert insights from Brett Babilonia. We discuss advanced techniques for stencil design, including custom reductions, step stencils, and nano coatings to ensure optimal solder paste application. The episode also highlights the importance of thoughtful PCB design to manage costs and improve manufacturing efficiency.
Ep.74:Stencils: The Unsung Heroes of PCB Perfection Pt.1
In this episode, we dive into the crucial role of stencils in electronics manufacturing. Joined by Brett Babilonia, we explore the complexities of stencil design, including handling missing data, determining foil thickness, and ensuring optimal solder paste application. We discuss common issues, such as SMT standoffs and hybrid components. Stay tuned for for more of an in-depth continuation in Part Two.
Ep.73:IPC APEX EXPO Meetup Recap
In this slightly random catchup episode Chris and Melissa discuss Chris' recent trip to California where he attended IPC APEX EXPO and hosted out first Pick, Place, Podcast meetup! Huge thanks to everyone who was able to come say hi, the wonderful conversations and show suggestions!
Ep.72: How IPC President and CEO, Dr. John W. Mitchell is working on solving the workforce problem
In this episode, we uncover the multifaceted persona of IPC President and CEO, Dr. John Mitchell, from his educational background to his Ironman pursuits. Learn about IPC alongside insights into John's acclaimed book, Fire Your Hiring Habits. John also talks about the history behind the IPC Apex Expo and what you can expect at the even if you participate.
Check out our other episode on IPC here.
Chris will be hosting a podcast meetup at IPC Apex Expo. We'd love it if you'd join him!
Date: Tuesday, April 9th
Time: 3:15 PM to 5:00 PM
Location: Room 209A, Anaheim Convention Center, CA
You can register for the event here.
pickplacepodcast.com
Ep.71:What factors influence PCB quotes w/ Brett Babilonia
In this episode we're happy to welcome back Brett Babilonia, who we spoke to way back in episode 3 and 4 on the show. In addition to purchasing, Brett also handles a lot of quoting at Worthington. We often get asked how we quote boards, is there a magical formula, and figured Brett is the perfect person to speak on this topic.
Ep.70: Stick It Up Your Tube
Parts packaged in tubes are awful and Chris has had enough. He's starting a movement to end the use of tubes once and for all. Why do they still exist? If anybody has an answer PLEASE write in to let us know. Join us on this hour long rant as we discuss all the reasons why tubes suck including their effect on the environment and how inefficient they are for pcb assembly.
Ep.69:How New Solder Products Are Developed w/ AIM Solder Content Marketing Specialist, Gayle Towell
Welcome to the first episode of 2024 (which was recorded in 2023)! In today's show we're joined by AIM Solder's Content Marketing Specialist, Gayle Towell.
AIM is a leading global manufacturer of solder assembly materials for the electronics industry with manufacturing, distribution, and support facilities located throughout North and South America, EMEA, and Asia.
Gayle helps to walks us through topics like what exactly a soldering company like AIM does, how they make their products, who buys it, how they decide what product to design next, and more.
Ep.68: A digitized solution to managing manufacturing workflow processes w/ Praxie CEO, Michael Lynch
We like to talk to interesting people on this show so when Praxie reached out to us wondering if their CEO, Michael Lynch could come on the show we knew it would be a fun conversation.
Michael is the former head of Internet of Things at SAP software and now CEO of Praxie (and believe it or not, former lead in Les Miserables on Broadway prior to that!).
We talk about how Michael went from the acting/performance world to the internet of things and eventually wound up founding Praxie.
Praxie provides a platform that allows organizations to transform their workflows with AI-powered processes, dashboards, and applications, without spending an arm and a leg and taking months to complete. This is especially relevant for manufacturing businesses who are stuck using Excel spreadsheets and software from the 80s.
Ep.67: Conveyers, An Episode You Didn't Know You Needed
Why would we dedicate an entire episode to conveyers, you ask? Because it just so happens to be Chris' favorite topic! Chris has an addiction to progress and conveyers are one of the best ways in a factory setting to achieve that (both literally and figuratively). We get an overview of the different types of conveyers typically used in a factory setting and get into the technical aspects of how to set conveyers up before venting about the end of daylight saving time.
Transfer inspection conveyer - https://vanstron.us/collections/transfer-inspection-conveyors/products/copy-of-ptb-460l-5m-20-long-pcb-transfer-inspection-conveyor
Ep.66:An Answering Your Questions Grab Bag
At the end of our episodes we've been asking you to send in any questions you had...and we're finally answering them. In this grab bag episode we discuss topics like what happens to excess parts, the ISO certification process, the shrinking size of resistors, and more! In honor of spooky season, we also share some scary stories from production.
Ep.65: Impedance Control Demo w/ NCAB Group Field Application Engineer Ryan Miller
In this episode we welcome back NCAB Group Field Application Engineer Ryan Miller. The first time we had him on the show he gave us a lesson on what impedance control is, in what situations is it necessary, and more.
This time we recorded a video demo going through how he would create a stackup the requires controlled impedance.
In order for this episode to make sense watch the video version:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwsyTUTN1z0
Ep.64:Catch up with Chris
What's been going on at the factory while we've been away? Chris catches up Melissa and all of you listeners on all of the new people, machines, and processes that have been introduced during our break.
Ep.63:ESD Flooring w/ SelecTech CEO Tom Ricciardelli
After a LONG hiatus, we're back! Our break was for a very good reason though. Listen to find out why!
In this episode, we welcome SelecTech CEO and co-founder Tom Ricciardelli. Tom is a technical flooring expert on static control or ESD flooring. He is also chairman of the committee formed by the ESD Association (www.esda.org). His company, SelecTech, is a leader in the manufacture of innovative flooring products and has a very interesting story on how it came to be.
Tom gives us a quick recap on what ESD is (we also have a full overview episode on ESD) and discusses the importance of having an ESD-protected floor. We also talk about what the ESDA is, LEED certification and sustainability, as well as a very meta pet peeve.
For more information on SelecTech's ESD flooring visit https://staticstop.com/
Side note: Worthington Assembly is currently selling their used MY100 pick and place machine. If interested contact Chris at cdenney@worthingtonassembly.com or visit https://www.worthingtonassembly.com/my100-sale for more information.
Ep.62:Soft Skills of Engineering w/ Being an Engineer Host, Aaron Moncur
This week we're joined by fellow podcast host Aaron Moncur who runs the Being an Engineer Podcast and is also the founder of Pipeline Design and Engineering.
We had a fun discussion on the soft skills of engineering, including how to have systems in place that align with/support your goals, time management, and productivity hacks you might find useful for managing yourself and your team.
Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations, and more.
Ep.61:How Small Manufacturers Manage Large Volume Orders
How do smaller manufacturers like Worthington and CircuitHub manage larger volume orders? Recently we've seen a big increase in these types of orders so it only seemed fitting to have a discussion about it. We briefly touch on the financial and negotiation side of things before getting to the logistics of how we handle large-volume orders. This includes how we decide if we're going to build and/or ship in batches, how large orders change how we buy parts, and why building this can be a very successful way of producing boards.