Author Archives: WorkingBear


Dec31
Understanding TAL (Time Above Liquidus) and Why It Matters in PCB Assembly

post on December 31, 2025

TAL (Time Above Liquidus) refers to the amount of time during the SMT reflow process when the solder material (such as solder paste) is above its liquidus temperature. You can think of it like ice melting into water and then … Continue reading →

Process, Quality, SMT, Soldering     WorkingBear    Views (3,868)     comment (0)
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Dec24
Why Does Second-Source Qualification Always Fall into a Vicious Cycle?

post on December 24, 2025

“Second-source” qualification usually means that a component has at least two qualified suppliers. The reasons for introducing a second source are straightforward: to deal with material shortages, handle EOL (End of Life) parts, reduce material costs, increase price negotiation leverage, … Continue reading →

Management     WorkingBear    Views (2,018)     comment (0)

Dec18
Why Second Sourcing Matters: Real Challenges and Practical Solutions in Electronics Supply Chains

post on December 18, 2025

In electronics manufacturing and supply chain management, a “second source” (2nd source) means having an alternative supplier for critical components or materials. The goal is to spread risk and improve overall operations. It’s not just a safety net against supply … Continue reading →

Management     WorkingBear    Views (3,070)     comment (0)

Dec10
What is the Electronic Components Spot Market (Buy and Sell)?

post on December 10, 2025

The spot market for electronic components is similar to a flea market or second-hand marketplace. The difference is that a flea market mainly sells used items, while the spot market for electronic parts—like MCUs, ICs, MLCCs, capacitors, resistors, indoctors, MOSFETs, … Continue reading →

Management     WorkingBear    Views (1,904)     comment (0)
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Dec03
PCB Edge Removal and De-paneling Methods: A Complete Overview

post on December 3, 2025

When making printed circuit boards (PCBs), individual boards are first combined into a big panel board. After components mounting or soldering, they are separated into individual boards using de-paneling tools. This article summarizes the three most common PCB de-paneling methods … Continue reading →

Manufacture, PCB/FPC/PTF, Process     WorkingBear    Views (2,010)     comment (0)
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