Mastering IPC-7711/7721 – The Key to Carrying Out Efficient BGA Rework Services?

by Kristen White Blogger

BGA rework is complicated. It’s the process of fixing circuit boards or surface-mounted devices with BGA packaging (ball grid array). These processes involve the use of rework stations which serve as the places where technicians carry out these highly intrinsic processes. The use of high-quality BGA rework stations is vital for executing intricate tasks like manually replacing missing components, repositioning components that were installed inaccurately, removing defective components, etc. However, using the best rework stations isn’t the only way to guarantee success on high or low-volume production operations. Professionals also need to know about certain standards set by the IPC (Association Connecting Electronics Industries).

Important Standards to Follow During Rework Procedures

The IPC-7711/7721 quality standard that certified professionals use to conduct rework and repair processes. This standard, like other standards put forward by the IPC, is recognized globally. Professionals who receive IPC-7711/7721 certification are viewed by the electronics industry as qualified enough to handle tasks like - component installation, component removal in through-hole PCBs, repair of surface mount assemblies, wire splicing, and other chip rework procedures. Professionals with IPC-7711/7721 certification are also qualified to train other people in rework and repair techniques.

Anyone dealing with complex electronic assemblies will benefit a lot from the guidelines taught in IPC-7711/7721 certification programs. Professionals who have excellent hand and eye coordination and a clear understanding of these standards are able to provide high-quality BGA Rework Services. However, mastery of the IPC-7711/7721 standard isn’t enough. Professionals also need to be well-versed with the IPC-A-610 standard.

What is the IPC-A-610 standard?

The IPC-A-610 standard (commonly referred to as “Acceptability of Electronic Assemblies”) is the go-to document for all electronics industry professionals when they’re tasked with determining whether or not an electronic assembly is of ‘acceptable’ quality or not. Professionals who get IPC 610 certification online or in person are qualified to distinguish between high and low-quality soldering techniques, whether or not acceptable surface mounting processes were used during the manufacture of SMD devices and a host of other important details.

All manufacturing supervisors, quality control professionals, engineering facility supervisors, etc., receive IPC-A-610 certification. Step by step, professionals learn what quality of work is expected from them in manufacturing facilities. Similarly, the IPC-7711/7721 course includes step-by-step processes of building the technical skills of professionals who want to master repairing and reworking damaged electronic components.

Getting BGA Rework

Companies that need BGA Rework Services should either build up their employees’ technical skills and abilities by sending them to training courses conducted by IPC-certified instructors. By having an in-house team full of professionals who know the IPC-7711/7722 standard, the IPC-A-610 standard, and other important IPC standards, companies can benefit a lot. They’ll essentially have an in-house team that can rework, repair, and modify damaged BGAs in relatively short periods.

Or, the companies can partner with IPC-certified third-party providers of BGA repair services. These third-party professionals can save companies significant amounts of money by preventing them from disposing of damaged BGAs. E-waste represents 70% of all toxic waste in America. Their skilled reworks can enable manufacturers to cut down waste generation and help their manufacturing projects resume to normal!