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FEATURES

PCB Laminates
A Novel Halogen-Free, Phosphorus-Free Material for PCB Applications
Some studies have found halogen-containing epoxy resin might produce hazardous carcinogenic gases, such as dioxin and furan, under certain combustion temperatures (i.e., <1000°C). Halogen-free flame retardants, which exclude TBBPA, are becoming increasingly popular as a replacement. There are a variety of approaches to replacing TBBPA and other halogenated flame retardants. Tests show a new novel halogen-free, phosphorus-free material can fulfill the environmental requirements, exhibit good characteristics and nonflammability without a high cost penalty.
by Christina Jien and Johnson Chang

Retrospective
In Memoriam
2011 will likely be recalled as a transitive year, one in which we took stock of the pros and cons of various geographies and business models as we tried to come to grips with very uncertain economic times. It will also be recalled as the year we lost some of the industry’s biggest names from all ends of the design and manufacturing spectrum, from Steve Jobs to Werner Engelmaier. This month we reflect on their impact on our industry and our lives.

FIRST PERSON

• Caveat Lector
  Packaged up.
  Mike Buetow
  
  
  

MONEY MATTERS

• ROI
  Vertically challenged.
  Peter Bigelow

• Focus on Business
  The real challenge of diversity.
  Susan Mucha

TECH TALK

• Signal Integrity Insights
  Reducing crosstalk.
  Dr. Eric Bogatin

• Designer’s Notebook
  Putting a cap on it.
  Duane Benson

• In Flex
  Shortening the production timeline.
  Jay Desai

• Final Finishes
  Skin deep.
  Lenora Toscano

• Technical Abstracts
  In case you missed it.