News

Vanguard EMS Announces Full Lead-Free Manufacturing Capability

Over 9,000 lead-free assemblies manufactured to date.

Beaverton, Oregon - July 29, 2004 - Vanguard EMS, an electronics manufacturer serving leading-edge technology firms, announced that it now offers full lead-free manufacturing capability. This capability encompasses surface mount technology, wave soldering, manual assembly and rework.

"Many electronics manufacturers are grappling with plans for compliance with the EU's RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) legislation, which bans the use of lead in products manufactured after July 1, 2006," stated Floyd Sutz, President of Vanguard EMS. "In keeping with our commitment to stay ahead of our customers' needs, Vanguard launched an initiative in early 2003 to help our customers effectively deal with lead-free requirements."

"Vanguard EMS has made significant investments in advanced equipment and R&D to create robust, production-ready processes," added Bill Winther, VP Operations for Vanguard EMS. "We partnered with a significant customer and with our material and equipment suppliers to develop and validate our ability to routinely manufacture lead-free products at high quality levels."

To date, Vanguard EMS has manufactured over 9,000 lead-free printed circuit assemblies containing both surface mount and pin-thru-hole technologies. Process validation has been completed for several PCB surface finishes and for a wide array of package types, including Micro Ball Grid Arrays.

About Vanguard EMS
Vanguard EMS serves as the production resource for leading-edge companies that outsource complex electronic products, and features an ISO 9001:2000 registered 70,000 square foot facility with six SMT production lines, complete testing and logistics support. ISO 13485:2003 Medical Device Quality Management System certification is pending. Vanguard's operations were originally founded in 1988. For more information, please visit www.vanguard-ems.com.