WEST HAVEN, CT – Enthone has launched the Entek OSP Final Finish Verification Program. The program enables OEMs and EMS firms to confirm that the Entek OSP-coated printed wiring boards purchased are supplied by a certified Entek PWB fabricator.
The program also provides the fabricator with confirmation of approved distributors that are authorized to distribute, sell and provide technical support of Entek OSP final finish chemistry.
The program offers assistance on the selection and process optimization of all Enthone final finishes specified for use by fabricators.
EL SEGUNDO – The Japan earthquake and tsunami in March had limited impact on semiconductor companies in the first quarter of 2011, as a result of an inventory buildup from the previous five quarters, says IHS iSuppli.
Read more: IHS iSuppli: Inventory Buildup Limits Effect of Japan Disaster on Semi Firms
ST. LOUIS – Viasystems is investing $100 million to expand production at three large plants and closing one leased facility in China, say published reports.
Chief executive David Sindelar hopes customers accept “high single- to mid-double-digit” price increases, as a result of the high price of copper and increasing Chinese wages, which are still lower in comparison to the US rates, he told a local newspaper.
The printed circuit board fabricator has experienced minimum wage increases of 18 to 20% since 2010, in addition to higher health care and retirement taxes, affecting profits.
Viasystems also operates plants in Oregon and California, which the PCB fabricator acquired last year when it purchased Merix.
WASHINGTON – The Environmental Protection Agency said it would suspend the 2011 submission period for the Toxic Substances Controls Act's Inventory Update Reporting.
The decision came as a result of complaints from the chemical industry and House Republicans. The suspension also makes it possible for the EPA to finalize proposed changes and avoid changes being finalized in the middle of the reporting period, say published reports.
Companies are required to file a report for each chemical found on the TSCA Inventory list that they process, import or manufacture. The EPA proposed changes in 2010 that would increase the information required to be reported, the frequency of reports to every four years, instead of five, and the number of firms involved in the process.
SANTA CLARA, CA -- Whizz Systems has begun installation at its new contract electronics assembly site in Kulim Hi-Tech Park, Kedah, Malaysia, the company told PCD&F.
SEOUL -- Korean printed circuit board fabricators are pushing hard into the HDI sector, with sales of IC substrates up 21% year-over-year in the first quarter.
