The Niton XL3 Series third-generation handheld XRF analyzer is said to provide the fastest solder alloy grade identification and laboratory-quality composition analysis of plastics and polymers. Typical time for routine solder screening measurements is said to be less than 5 sec. Features a 50 kV, 2W x-ray tube. Comes in a range of configurations with an assortment of optional features and accessories; quick screening to simultaneous measurement of up to 25 elements in a sample. Offers component testing; solder analysis; populated PCBs and finished goods; hi-reliability screening.

The CM8 PWB cleaner has elastomer rollers said to remove contamination to 1µm and transfer dry, unattached particles from the substrate onto pre-sheeted adhesive rolls. An anti-static system prevents recontamination of the board. Has a direct motor drive mechanism said to eliminate the need for drive belts or chains. Cleans a range of substrates and board thicknesses.

AVIA 355-14 is an intermediate power level model in a package optimized for micromachining at high throughput rates. Is an all-solid-state Q-switched laser said to generate more than 14W at 355 nm. Pulse duration is <30 ns and high beam quality is (M2 <1.3). Reportedly supports pulse repetition rates as high as 300 kHz. Long-lived pump diodes are field- replaceable. Frequency-tripling component has a projected lifetime of stable output power for more than 60,000 hrs. Includes Posilock beam position sensor and feedback system. Additional automation enhancements include total pulse control and a variety of pulse-shaping features. Applications include chip singulation, scribing and dicing of silicon and low-K materials, via drilling, and solar-cell micromachining.

Coherent Inc., www.coherent.com 

 eTEC thin film embedded thermoelectric cooler functions as miniature, solid-state heat pump; is ideal for cooling hot spots that result from localized areas of high heat flux on an IC. Operates by Peltier effect. Is designed with compound semiconductor materials that have high electrical conductivity and poor thermal conductivity. Adds 100 µm of height to a heat spreader. Has ms response time. Said to pump a max. heat flux of 150 W/cm2 with some designs delivering as much as 400 W/cm2. Can operate in a high COP regime and pump a heat flux of 50 – 100 W/cm2.

Nextreme, www.nextreme.com