Pick, Place, Podcast

Flexible PCBs can solve some incredible mechanical design challenges—but they also introduce a whole new set of manufacturing considerations.

In this episode, we answer a listener's question about flex and rigid-flex circuit assembly, covering what actually changes on the manufacturing floor when a board bends instead of staying rigid. Chris shares lessons learned from developing Worthington and CircuitHub's flex PCB assembly ...

In this episode Chris and Melissa dig into one of Chris’s favorite PCB design topics: pocket masking vs. gang masking on fine-pitch components.

Chris explains why solder mask slivers matter, how PCB design tools can accidentally create manufacturability problems, and what designers can do to help prevent solder bridging during assembly. The discussion covers solder mask expansion, registration tolerances, stencil printing, pic...

In this episode, Chris and Melissa return after a long break with a recap of Chris’s trip to APEX. They discuss customer visits, EMS management meetings, the value of trade shows, and why x-ray inspection is becoming such a big topic in PCB assembly. Chris also talks about AI, reusable checklists, his new Feeder Pugs project, and the time a hotel accidentally drilled into his room. Melissa closes things out with a pet peeve a...

Chris and Melissa welcome Pete Staples, CEO & co-founder of Blue Clover Devices, for a deep dive into how to plan tests, capture evidence, and debug those mysterious boards that look perfect but don’t work. 

Topics include:

• Who is Blue Clover Devices & what’s the PLT? 
• Bed-of-nails, ICT, flying probe, and PLT
• What assemblers really need when a board fails
• Production test vs. validation
• Updates on the Sti...

After a long break (and a few listener wellness checks!), Chris and Melissa return to catch up on what’s kept them busy and share some updates from around the industry. Then, they dive into this episode’s big topic: who’s responsible for the inevitable fallout when it comes to quick-turn PCB assembly?

Topics include:

• Catching up after six months of growth, hiring, and training
• Andrew Seddon’s appearance on ...

In this insightful episode, we delve deep into the pressing issues of sustainability within the electronics manufacturing industry with IPC President and CEO, Dr. John W. Mitchell, and Dr. Kelly Scanlon, IPC's lead sustainability strategist. 

They offer expert insights into how IPC is leading the charge toward more sustainable practices, the importance of data and harmonization in policy-making, and the challenges facing the in...

In this episode, join us as we continue our exploration into the high-speed world of motorsport sensor technology with Caleb Holloway, founder of Izze Racing. Caleb delves into the complexities of antenna design, the challenges of RF engineering in the demanding environment of racing, and the innovative solutions his team has developed to enhance data accuracy on the track. From whip antennas to the nuances of sensor integration on...

After a bit of a break we are back with a new, exciting episode! This week we are joined by Caleb Holloway, founder and owner of Izze Racing. Izze Racing provides electronics sensors, with an emphasis on tire data collection, to the motorsport industry. In the first part of this conversation, we delve into Caleb's transition from academia to running his passion company full-time, what's it like designing a product for the motor rac...

In this episode, we continue our conversation from last episode with  Dave Wilcox, PCB CAM engineer at CircuitHub, to explore the intricacies of plugging and filling vias.

Topics Covered:

• The differences between plugging and filling vias, and when to use each method.
• The common challenges faced during the reflow process, including the infamous "popcorn effect" caused by trapped flux.
• Practical advice on preventing manufacturin...

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...

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 recy...

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 ...

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 practica...

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 t...

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 effici...

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 hostin...