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Top 5 Questions about WEEE & RoHS
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#1 Are Advanced Circuits’ PCBs compliant with European Directive on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)?
Yes, the materials that we use to produce your circuit boards do not contain any of the banned substances (polybrominated biphenyls (PBB) or polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE)).
#2 Are Advanced Circuits’ products compliant with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (RoHS) Directive?
Yes and NO – it depends on the type of PCB we ship to you. If we apply solder to your boards then NO we do not meet the lead free requirement. If we supply you with PCBs that do not have a solder finish – like gold or tin then YES those boards meet the full requirement of the directive.
#3 Can I successfully assemble your gold plated boards using lead free pastes and components?
Probably NOT, the elevated temperatures you will use on the lead free paste will exceed the limitations of the laminate materials we are currently using to build your PCBs.
#4 When will Advanced Circuits be providing lead free PCBs that will meet RoHS and my needs as an assembler?
A specific timeline has not been determined. We have completed the basic planning and are evaluating the testing information of the leading solder alloys. We are also expecting to receive information from our customers indicating their specific requirements or recommendations. This is not a simple change, it will involve new laminates, drill evaluation, new UL qualifications, copper plating thickness review, and the thermal increases at solder application may affect solder mask, possibly legend inks and more….
#5 Will I still be able to get leaded solder on my boards?
YES, Advanced is planning to continue to offer the same leaded solder application we have now in addition to the “lead free” product. The leaded solder will be available as long as it is practical, cost effective, and legal.
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