Machine vision inspects PCB coatings

FireWire cameras team with off-the-shelf software to check printed-circuit boards.

Conformal coatings are protective, dielectric materials designed to conform to the surface of an assembled printed-circuit board (PCB). Commonly used conformal coatings include silicone, acrylic, urethane, and epoxy. While these coatings protect circuitry from moisture, fungus, dust, and corrosion, they also prevent damage from board handling during construction, installation, and use, reduce mechanical stress on components, and protect them from thermal shock. Designed to resist abrasion, these coatings also minimize the electromigration of metal between conductors.

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