Abstract: With the present invention, a reflow soldering method is provided for soldering a nonvertically approaching lead, which is part of a nonvertically approaching device (e.g, an edge connector), to a corresponding soldering surface (e.g., a pad on a circuit card) that includes solder. The soldering surface and solder are heated in an oven to melt the solder. While the solder is liquids, the nonvertically approaching lead is mated with the soldering surface as it is inserted into the solder. The soldering surface, solder, and nonvertically approaching lead are then cooled, and the solder solidifies to conductively mount the nonvertically approaching lead to the soldering surface.

Abstract: A method for wave soldering comprises the steps of providing a circuit board having a plurality of electronic components thereon and providing a pallet comprising a frame, first and second parallel rails attached to the frame, and third and fourth rails for receiving the circuit board. The third and fourth rails are attached to the first and second rails and the third and fourth rails form an angle of between about 30.degree. and 60.degree. with the first and second rails. Next, a solder wave is provided which generally flows in a first direction. Finally, the pallet is moved in a second direction generally perpendicular with the first direction across the solder wave. The components are therefore positioned at an angle with respect to the solder wave and solder-related electrical defects are reduced.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring and correcting the straightness of a hollow vacuum nozzle for semiconductor assembly equipment comprises a collet which can rotate over 360.degree. and holds the nozzle. An indicator, such as a dial indicator, has a tip which conformally and continuously engages the nozzle so that as the collet and nozzle are rotated the indicator tip rides on the nozzle. Any horizontal movement of a bent nozzle is shown on the indicator. The bend in the nozzle can then be repaired and rechecked while the nozzle is installed in the collet.

Abstract: There is a method for increasing the life of the mechanical bonding between the PCB and the surface mount IC. Specifically, the invention elevates the atmospheric pressure during the heating and cooling phases of Ball Grid Array (BGA) soldering of an IC device to a PCB. This accomplishes a decreasing of the curvature of the solder ball wall inherent in the typical BGA technique. Uniquely, by increasing the atmospheric pressure around the solder ball during the cooling phases, specifically, the outer pressure will decrease the outer curvature of the walls. This allows the PCB and IC to increase the stand off distance, and increase the strength of the mechanical properties of the weld. With stronger bonding, the ICs will stay bonded longer to the PCB before deteriorating and thereby needing replacement.