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EPTAC BLOG

Defining Popular IPC Certification Courses

Posted on 23st January, 2018 by Leo Lambert

When you and your employees obtain or renew your IPC certifications, you receive the proficiencies and knowledge to produce a consistent, high-quality product. Becoming IPC certified in one or multiple levels of electronic and cable wire harness assemblies demonstrates to your partners and customers that you follow the most widely accepted set of industry standards and methods, and are a trusted player within the industry.

Because there are a multitude of courses to choose from, selecting the classes that are appropriate for you and your staff is the most important part of getting certified. Below you will find a brief synopsis of some of our most popular courses to streamline your decision-making process.

IPC-A-610 – Visual Inspection to Accept/Reject Criteria

The IPC-A-610, Acceptability of Electronic Assemblies, is the most popular standard targeting excellence in end product acceptance or rejection. As the most widely used standard published by the IPC, certification in this course demonstrates commitment to producing consistent, high-quality products in printed wiring assemblies. This course provides trainees with illustrated drawings and example images to convey the various acceptable and rejectable conditions. After course completion and passing of the final examination, certification lasts for two years. Recertification will be required at that point.

IPC-J-STD-001 – Hand Soldering Criteria

The IPC J-STD-001, Requirements for Soldered Electrical and Electronic Assemblies, describes methods, materials, and acceptance criteria for producing high-quality soldered interconnections and components. The course and standard place an emphasis on process control and outline industry consensus requirements for a wide assortment of electronic products. Certification in this course demonstrates commitment to improving employee skillsets and assurance of well-soldered final products. Certifications last for two years.

IPC-A-600 – Inspection of Bare Boards, Pre-Assembly

The IPC-A-600, Acceptability of Printed Boards, outlines visual accept and reject criteria for the inspection of bare printed circuit boards. This course is ideal for printed board manufacturers, electronics assembly companies and OEM’s that want to demonstrate continued improvement in quality assurance and reduction of PCB reworks. The course also provides all parties with relevant language and the ability to identify nonconforming conditions to improve cross channel communication and collaboration. Certifications last for two years.

IPC-7711/7721 – Rework and Repair

The IPC-7711/7721, Rework of Electronic Assemblies/Repair and Modification of Printed Boards and Electronic Assemblies, details rework and repair methods of damaged or malfunctioning PCBs. Certification in this course translates into substantial savings for your company as your scrap rate diminishes. While these courses are often perceived as similar, there are specific distinctions that must be made clear. IPC-7711 is designed for soldered assembly rework and restoration to bring PCB assemblies to their original design, while IPC-7721 focuses on board repair and restoring functional capability. Certification in both lasts for 2 years.

IPC-A-620 – Cable and Wire Harness Assembly

The IPC-A-620, Requirements and Acceptance for Cable and Wire Harness Assemblies, is the industry standard for cable and wire harness fabrication and installation. This course defines various products and “criteria for Target, Acceptable, Process Indicator and Defect conditions” while also outlining essential acceptance criteria. This certification demonstrates your company’s commitment to improving quality assurance and legitimizes you as a player in the electronics manufacturing industry. Certifications last for two years.

Having reviewed these popular IPC certification courses, the decision is in your hands. The next step is finding an IPC authorized training center near you to attend the training sessions and earn your certifications. As an internationally recognized leader in solder training and IPC certification, EPTAC offers experienced instructors, decades of “tribal knowledge” in soldering, and the flexibility to obtain training to fit your schedule. Enroll in a course at one of their many locations around the country today.

About EPTAC

For over 30 years, EPTAC has been a leading provider of solder training and IPC certification. We provide professionals with the tools and training they need to advance their careers and improve their businesses. With 14 locations across North America, our solutions and instructional staff provide an easy access to knowledge that will enhance your business model and help you meet and exceed industry demands. For more information call 800.643.7822 or contact us.

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