Shows
Built for ThisThe Reluctant Entrepreneur: How Mike Konrad Built Success by Putting Purpose First
In this episode, Carly Pepin sits down with Mike Konrad, founder and CEO of Aqueous Technologies, to explore the unexpected lessons that come with entrepreneurship.
Once a self-described “reluctant entrepreneur,” Mike took a massive leap to create a product his former employer didn’t believe in. What began as an ego-fueled mission soon evolved into a profound journey of humility, leadership, and conscious marketing.
Through candid stories and powerful reflections, Mike shares how he transformed from a headstrong engineer into a purpose-driven leader who built his company on trust, education, and authenticity. His story is raw, relatable, and a must-listen for anyo...
2025-11-041h 09
BizBlendConscious Marketing That Actually Converts: From Hype to Trust (Education-First B2B Strategies) with Mike Konrad
On BizBlend, host Sana digs into “conscious marketing” with entrepreneur and podcaster Mike Konrad. Mike shares how his company shifted from loud, gimmick-driven ads and flashy trade-show booths to credibility-led, education-first marketing—workshops, technical talks, white papers, and podcasts. The result: better customers, deeper trust, and sustainable growth. If you’re a founder tired of shouting to be heard, this episode breaks down a practical pivot from attention-grabs to authority that compounds over time.
About the guest:
Mike Konrad is a veteran entrepreneur who founded an electronics-industry equipment company in 1992. After years of “look-at-us” advertising, he rebuilt his marketin...
2025-10-1131 min
Famous Interviews with Joe DiminoEntrepreneur, Podcast Host and Founder/CEO of Aqueous Technologies Mike KonradWelcome to a new edition of the Famous Interviews with Joe Dimino series. On this episode, we talk with Entrepreneur, Podcast Host & Founder/CEO of Aqueous Technologies Mike Konrad.Mike founded Aqueous Technologies in 1992, establishing himself as a leader in post-reflow cleaning and reliability solutions for the electronics manufacturing industry. With over three decades of experience at the crossroads of entrepreneurship, innovation, and electronics reliability, he brings unmatched insight into both technical and business growth.In addition to running Aqueous Technologies, Mike is also the host of two successful podcasts:🎙️ Reliability Matters — exploring electronics reliability...
2025-10-0428 min
Podjunction PodcastStop Selling to Start Selling | Mike KonradWhat if everything you know about marketing is backwards? Mike Konrad spent £70,000 on a waterfall that dropped words from the sky, only to discover the most important lesson of his 33-year business career. After transitioning from "high-tech carnival barker" to trusted industry authority, Mike stopped running adverts entirely - yet his sales kept climbing. In this episode, he reveals how abandoning product pitches, embracing education, and building genuine authority transformed not just his revenue, but the quality of customers who now fight to buy from him.What You'll LearnWhy stopping product promotion actually increases salesHow t...
2025-09-0255 min
Under the InfluenceMike KonradIn this conversation, Mike Konrad shares his extensive experience in the electronics manufacturing industry, particularly focusing on the importance of cleaning circuit boards to prevent failures caused by electrochemical migration. He discusses the evolution of cleaning practices, the significance of thermal management, and the shift from traditional advertising to value-based marketing. Mike emphasizes the need for long-term thinking in business and the role of influencers in modern marketing, advocating for a conscious approach that prioritizes value and positive impact over aggressive selling. Mike shares his insights on entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of trust, problem-solving, and embracing change. He discusses...
2025-08-031h 49
Your Wealth & Beyond: Secrets of Successful EntrepreneursLessons from a Reluctant Entrepreneur with Mike KonradWith 80% of new businesses seemingly destined to fail, the odds are stacked against most entrepreneurs. But today's guest is on a mission to shift that equation. From overcoming financial hardship and a lawsuit that nearly bankrupted him to reshaping his leadership style and creating a winning team culture, today's conversation is all about what it takes to build and scale a thriving business. Mike Konrad is the founder and CEO of Aqueous Technologies, a public speaker, podcast host, and author of The Reluctant Entrepreneur. Mike shares his 40-year journey in the electronics manufacturing industry, from leaving his...
2025-07-1145 min
Reliability MattersReliability Matters on the Road in Anaheim California at the IPC APEX Expo - Episode 169On this episode of the Reliability Matters podcast, I left my usual studio for the IPC APEX Expo in Anaheim California.I interviewed two subject matter experts on topics related to electronic assembly.My guests are:Gerald Gardner, Global Product Manager at Weller, a manufacturer of hand soldering equipment fume extraction systems, and precision tools.Mike Young – CEO OF SASinno Americas, a manufacturer of wave and selective soldering equipment.More information on my guest's companies is available here:SASinno Americashttps://www.sasinnoamericas.comWellerht...
2025-05-2729 min
The D-Code PodcastRev 2.7 STAR Special - Dr. Adam & Mike KonradSpecial Edition of The D Code – Live from the SMTA Star
Event
We had the rare opportunity to sit down with Dr. Adam
Klett of Kaizen and Mike Konrad at the SMTA Star event in Kansas for
a jam-packed roundtable episode of The D Code Podcast — and this one
went deep!
Here are a few highlights you don’t want to miss:
EIS > SIR?
Dr. Klett introduced us to Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS)
— a powerful evolution of SIR testing that uses AC signals to gathe...
2025-05-0640 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 167: Meet the Press: A Conversation with Journalist and PCEA President, Mike BuetowToday, we’re diving deep into the world of electronics manufacturing from a unique vantage point—that of the press. My guest today is someone who has spent decades at the forefront of reporting on the electronics manufacturing industry. Mike Buetow, editor-in-chief of Circuits Assembly magazine, has covered everything from the latest technological advancements to the biggest challenges facing manufacturers today. If there’s a major trend shaping the industry, you can bet Mike has written about it, analyzed it, and spoken with the experts behind it. Mike is also the host of his own podcast, PCB chat...
2025-04-2256 minThe D-Code PodcastIPC Apex Series, Day 2, Interview 15- Mike KonradThe Podfather 🎤
Our friend Mike Konrad from Aqueous Technologies and the host of The Reliability Matters Podcast, takes an unfamiliar seat as a guest during IPC Apex 2025!
Mike's humility won't allow him to accept the credit due to him for mentoring and helping us up on this journey.
We converse about podcasting, collaboration, and even a bit about cleaning!
Elias, Producer Paul, Sean, and Daniel send a heartfelt thank you to Mr. Konrad for setting us up with all the A/V for this event!
These chats were slotted for...
2025-04-1115 min
EMS@C-LEVELThe Reluctant Entrepreneur: Mike Konrad's Journey Through Entrepreneurship, Networking and SMTAEver wondered what it takes to turn a reluctant start into a flourishing entrepreneurial journey? Discover the fascinating story of Mike Konrad, a podcaster, author, and industry raconteur, as he shares his unexpected path to entrepreneurship and authorship. With his book, "The Reluctant Entrepreneur," at the heart of our conversation, Mike opens up about the motivations that fueled his writing and the invaluable lessons learned from a 32-year business journey. He recounts how engaging with university students helped him reflect on significant anecdotes, emphasizing the importance of learning from mistakes. Mike also shares his thoughts on the evolving entrepreneurial...
2025-03-1427 min
Story SamuraiMike Konrad | Jan 22, 2025In this conversation, Mike Konrad shares his journey as a reluctant entrepreneur, discussing the challenges and triumphs he faced while building his business. He emphasizes the importance of passion, the role of family support, and the necessity of honest feedback in decision-making. Mike also delves into the significance of understanding the difference between revenue and profit, the concept of best-in-class products, and the evolution of marketing strategies in the digital age. He concludes with reflections on the value of learning from mistakes and the importance of building brand loyalty through genuine connections with customers. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
2025-02-1134 min
Story SamuraiMike Konrad | Jan 22, 2025In this conversation, Mike Konrad shares his journey as a reluctant entrepreneur, discussing the challenges and triumphs he faced while building his business. He emphasizes the importance of passion, the role of family support, and the necessity of honest feedback in decision-making. Mike also delves into the significance of understanding the difference between revenue and profit, the concept of best-in-class products, and the evolution of marketing strategies in the digital age. He concludes with reflections on the value of learning from mistakes and the importance of building brand loyalty through genuine connections with customers.
★ Support this podcast on Pa...
2025-02-1134 min
Cabinet Maker Profit System PodcastAppliance Shortages explained with Mike KonradFrustrated with appliance delays? You're not alone! In this episode, Dominic Rubino talks with Mike Konrad, CEO of Aqueous Technologies, to explain why it's happening and what contractors can do about it. 💡 Here's what we cover: 🔹 13 reasons the appliance shortage happened (it's not just COVID). 🔹 The semiconductor crisis and why appliances rely on computer chips. 🔹 How global politics, weather events, and demand shifts made it worse. 🔹 What cabinet makers and contractors can do to manage delays. If you're dealing with delayed installations, go-backs, or client frustration, this episode is a must-watch. 🔔 Follow for more insights on business growth! ---- 🎙️ Guest: Mike Konrad | Site | Re...
2025-02-0653 minCabinet Maker Profit System Podcast I Business Owners I Cabinet Makers I Architectural Millwork I Furniture Makers I Business ideas I Tips I Business Coach Dominic RubinoAppliance Shortages explained with Mike KonradFrustrated with appliance delays? You're not alone! In this episode, Dominic Rubino talks with Mike Konrad, CEO of Aqueous Technologies, to explain why it's happening and what contractors can do about it. 💡 Here's what we cover: 🔹 13 reasons the appliance shortage happened (it's not just COVID). 🔹 The semiconductor crisis and why appliances rely on computer chips. 🔹 How global politics, weather events, and demand shifts made it worse. 🔹 What cabinet makers and contractors can do to manage delays. If you're dealing with delayed installations, go-backs, or client frustration, this episode is a must-watch. 🔔 Follow...
2025-02-0653 min
The Author Your Brand ShowThe Entrepreneur Who Didn’t Want to Be One: Mike Konrad’s JourneyMike Konrad didn’t plan to start a business, but when environmental regulations like the Montreal Protocol disrupted the electronics industry, he saw an opportunity. Now, the founder and CEO of Aqueous Technologies, Mike shares his unexpected journey into entrepreneurship, filled with legal battles, financial hurdles, and groundbreaking innovation.
In this episode of the Author Your Brand Show, Mike discusses being first to market, staying focused on a niche, and why reputation matters more than patents. He also reflects on the lessons behind his book, The Reluctant Entrepreneur, and how writing it clarified his journey.
Wh...
2025-01-2947 min
Reliability Matters2024 Season Wrap-Up of the Reliability Matters Podcast - Episode 159Today we’re celebrating the end of another incredible year. This isn’t just any episode—it’s a time to reflect on the journey we’ve been on together, highlight some milestones, and share a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has made this podcast such a success. Can you believe it? Reliability Matters has now released 159 episodes! It feels like just yesterday we started this podcast with the mission to explore how industry experts and their knowledge contribute to the reliability of electronics. And here we are—growing, learning, and making a real impact in our field.
2024-12-2408 min
The Reluctant Entrepreneur PodcastEpisode #4: A Conversation with Philip Portman, Founder & CEO of TextdripToday, I’m thrilled to dive into the world of innovation, resilience, and growth with a guest who has been a pioneer in the field of business communications. Joining me is Philip Portman, the CEO and visionary force behind Textdrip, a groundbreaking platform that’s transforming how businesses connect with their audiences through strategic text messaging.Philip’s journey as an entrepreneur is nothing short of inspiring. From navigating the highs and lows of startup life to building a successful company that empowers businesses to engage with customers meaningfully, he has proven to be a resilient and creative leader...
2024-11-201h 22
The Reluctant Entrepreneur PodcastEpisode 2: A Candidate Conversation with Serial Entrepreneur, Mike KoenigsFrom his childhood job shoveling snow, earning $70 a month, to becoming a serial entrepreneur, 19 time number one best selling author, speaker, and interactive online personality and influencer, Mike Koenigs shares his journey of entrepreneurship, the challenges, successes, and more.Mike Koenigs company can be found here:https://superpoweraccelerator.com/reinvent/https://www.mikekoenigs.com Mike Konrad's Book:The Reluctant Entrepreneur - Anatomy of a Business Start-Up - From Uncertainty to Unstoppable Available as a paperback, ebook, and audio book here:https://tinyurl.com/3esumcuz Mike Konrad's Website:https://www.mik...
2024-10-3154 min
The Value Growth Podcast17 - How Understanding Customer Needs Can Transform Your Business Strategy with Aqueous Technologies' Mike KonradIn this episode of the Value Growth Podcast, your host, Ken Sanginario, interviews Mike Konrad, a self-proclaimed reluctant entrepreneur from Southern California.Mike shares his journey, which began at 31 after his product idea was dismissed by his employer. He started his own company, facing immediate challenges, including a lawsuit from his former employer. Mike discusses lessons learned about growth, cash flow, and adapting skill sets. He emphasizes sustainable business practices and the shift from traditional advertising to education-based marketing. Mike's insights highlight the importance of resilience and informed decision-making in entrepreneurship. Think you'd be a...
2024-10-3047 min
Made For Moore with Holly J. MooreFrom Uncertainty to Unstoppable with Mike KonradIn this episode with Entrepreneur & Author Mike Konrad we discuss:
✅ shifting strategies
✅ how Mike’s company survived embezzlement
✅ Mike’s book “The Reluctant Entrepreneur”
✅ understanding ego in business
✅ embracing failures
Connect with Mike at https://www.mikekonrad.com/
Connect with Holly at https://www.instagram.com/hollyjmoore
New episodes every Wednesday!
2024-10-2355 min
The Reluctant Entrepreneur PodcastThe Reluctant Entrepreneur Podcast - Episode 1: Introduction to the PodcastI’m your host, Mike Konrad, the author of The Reluctant Entrepreneur - Anatomy of a Business Start-Up - From Uncertainty to Unstoppable, available on Amazon as a paperback, e-book, and an audible book, and I’m excited to share real stories that reveal the many paths people take to build their own businesses. Whether you stumbled into entrepreneurship or you’ve always known it was your calling, this podcast is for you.Let’s start with what it means to be a reluctant entrepreneur. Many entrepreneurs don’t set out with a grand plan to build a bus...
2024-10-1207 minThe D-Code PodcastThe D-Code Podcast Rev 1.5 (Featuring Mike Konrad)Join The D-Code in conversation with Mike Konrad, the founder and CEO of Aqueous Technologies and host of @ReliabilityMatters . Mike shares the importance of podcasts to the industry for knowledge sharing, and he knows what he's talking about... he just completed his 150th episode! Also up for discussion: the importance of cleaning - even with "no clean" flux; new technologies in board cleaning; educational-focused vs marketing-focused outreach strategies; and much more...
2024-09-101h 41
Lessons in LeverageNaivety to Savvy with Mike Konrad - Episode 38Mike Konrad shares his journey as an entrepreneur, from being a reluctant entrepreneur to starting his own company. He discusses the challenges he faced, including a lawsuit from his ex-employer and financial struggles. Mike emphasizes the importance of taking risks, making fearless decisions, and shifting gears as the business grows. He also highlights the value of learning from mistakes and being open to new ideas. Mike credits his long-term mentorship with a consultant for helping him navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. In this conversation, Mike Konrad shares his insights on the importance of marketing and providing value...
2024-06-1952 min
The Best Of Conscious CommunicationMike Konrad: How Intuitive Decisions Lead To SerendipityDoes this sound familiar? Have you ever been given advice that just didn't sit right with you, leaving you feeling stuck and frustrated? It's time to stop relying on ineffective strategies and start trusting your intuition to make better business decisions. Let's uncover the power of intuition and how it can lead you to success in your entrepreneurial journey.About Mike Konrad:Mike began his career in the electronic assembly equipment industry in 1985. Mike founded Aqueous Technologies in 1992 in response to the Montreal Protocol and the resulting international treaty banning the most popular cleaning/defluxing solvents. Mike is a...
2024-03-0158 min
Conscious CommunicationMike Konrad: How Intuitive Decisions Lead To SerendipityDoes this sound familiar? Have you ever been given advice that just didn't sit right with you, leaving you feeling stuck and frustrated? It's time to stop relying on ineffective strategies and start trusting your intuition to make better business decisions. Let's uncover the power of intuition and how it can lead you to success in your entrepreneurial journey.About Mike Konrad:Mike began his career in the electronic assembly equipment industry in 1985. Mike founded Aqueous Technologies in 1992 in response to the Montreal Protocol and the resulting international treaty banning the most...
2024-03-0158 min
The LimelightReliability Matters with Mike KonradMike Konrad’s podcast is an independent show, free of ads and sponsors. He’s not trying to sell anyone anything – in fact, his business model is all about giving and education. He believes that ads and sponsors affect both the content of a show and the way the listeners experience the show. Mike thinks of ... Read more
2023-05-3000 min
The LimelightReliability Matters with Mike KonradMike Konrad’s podcast is an independent show, free of ads and sponsors. He’s not trying to sell anyone anything – in fact, his business model is all about giving and education. He believes that ads and sponsors affect both the content of a show and the way the listeners experience the show.
Mike thinks of himself as a sales guy, and he started with a much more hardcore sales strategy, then realized that this tactic wasn’t really achieving what he wanted. He had to transition from a sales business model to one that was education based. He...
2023-05-3022 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 110: A Wrap-Up of the Reliability Matters 2022 SeasonOn this episode, there are no guests, and no specific topics. I would like to use this opportunity to thank my guests, our syndication partners, and, of course, my audience for making this podcast so successful. We have a full season ahead in 2023 and I'm excited to share those episodes with you. Please keep your questions and topics suggestions coming. Send them to mike@mikekonrad.com.A huge shout-out to my 2022 guests:Joel Scutchfield Brian O'LearyTony LentzMike AdamsonGreg Papandrew Kevin Huo Michelle Ogihara Marco SanchezColin...
2022-12-2008 min
James Parris EditionJimbo Paris Show #93 – Best Customer-Centric Products & Services for Business Growth (Mike Konrad)“Your mission has to be bigger than you. You have to make the world a better place. You have to change the world. So, I believe if you have that giant goal in mind, and you do it right, treat your people well, you treat your customers well. You build the best-in-class equipment, profit and growth are a result of that.”– Mike Konrad Welcome to The Jimbo Paris Show #93 – Best Customer-Centric Products & Services for Business Growth (Mike Konrad) Mike began his career in the electronic assembly equipment industry in 1985. Mike found...
2022-09-1515 min
The Parris PerspectiveJimbo Paris Show #93 – Best Customer-Centric Products & Services for Business Growth (Mike Konrad)“Your mission has to be bigger than you. You have to make the world a better place. You have to change the world. So, I believe if you have that giant goal in mind, and you do it right, treat your people well, you treat your customers well. You build the best-in-class equipment, profit and growth are a result of that.”– Mike Konrad Welcome to The Jimbo Paris Show #93 – Best Customer-Centric Products & Services for Business Growth (Mike Konrad) Mike began his career in the electronic assembly equipment industry in 1985. Mike found...
2022-09-1415 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 100: A 100th Episode Special (Recorded Live)Episode 100: A 100th Episode Special (Recorded Live)This is the 100th episode of the Reliability Matters podcast! Hear clips from past episodes and messages from past guests on their views about reliability.A special thanks to the 117 guests I have had the privilege to learn from. Also, thank you to my listeners and viewers of this podcast. I sincerely appreciate all of you. As we pass more than 20,000 episode downloads, I feel grateful to host a show that provides so much valuable information to our industry.Here is a list of my guests (subject matter...
2022-07-271h 14EMS@C-LEVELEMS@C-Level 2022 Season, episode 3 - Mike Konrad on Thirty Years of Aqueous TechnologiesWhat can you say about Mike Konrad? A successful entrepreneur, a maverick, a cleaning guru, a pod-caster, and an all-round nice guy who I like to think of as friend first and colleague second. Some thirty years ago Mike founded Aqueous Technologies, I caught up with him to discuss that thirty year journey. Like every episode of EMS@C-Level this is sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Manufacturing Autonomy Specialist CloudNC (https://www.cloudnc.com)EMS@C-Level is hosted by global inspection leaders Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) a...
2022-05-1844 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 90: A Conversation with Component Storage Expert Mike AdamsonWhile it may seem like an untimely topic given the current supply chain shortages, storage systems for electronic components are an important part of the electronic assembly industry. While we are still in the midst of a supply chain crisis, sooner or later this will be solved and the question of where to put all of our components will be waiting for us to answer. It's often said we don't have time to work on the important because we're so busy working on the urgent. My guest today is Mike Adamson, Product Manager for Inovaxe Corporation, a provider...
2022-02-2347 min
Success Is _ PodcastSUCCESS IS TIME w/ CONTAMINANT REMOVAL EXPERT, MIKE KONRAD (Ep.4)📌PODCAST EPISODE 4
Success is _ podcast with guest Mike Konrad is live today. Mike Konrad is an industry expert on removing contamination from circuit assemblies. He is also the host of the Reliability Matters podcast and an internationally known speaker on increasing reliability through contamination removal and cleanliness quantification techniques and procedures. Mike is the founder of Aqueous Technologies, a manufacturer of automated cleaning and cleanliness testing systems designed for the electronic assembly industry, and has served as its CEO/CTO since 1992.
Mike defines success in two ways he perceived it, one from his...
2022-01-2237 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 85: 2021 Reliability Matters Episode Wrap-UpWelcome to this special edition of the reliability matters podcast. unlike other episodes, this episode has no guests. At the time of this recording, we have 85 published episodes with more than 16,000 downloads. The reliability matters podcast began as an experiment. I figured we would produce about 10 episodes on various subjects and then move on to something else. Well, I was wrong. I have received countless emails from listeners thanking me for the podcasts stating how much they enjoy listening. The thank you goes more appropriately to my guests. Without them, I would simply be another talking head. And who needs...
2021-12-2105 min
Work From Your Happy Place with Belinda EllsworthTaking Your Chances with MIKE KONRADMike began his career in the electronic assembly equipment industry in 1985. Mike founded Aqueous Technologies in 1992 from his garage in response to the Montreal Protocol and the resulting international treaty banning most popular cleaning/defluxing solvents.Mike is an internationally known speaker on the subject of increasing reliability through contamination removal and cleanliness quantification techniques and procedures. Mike was awarded “Distinguish Speaker Status” with SMTA in 2018 and received the “Rich Freiberger Best of Conference Award” in 2019.
Mike was recently elected to the SMTA Global Board of Directors where he chairs the SMTA Training Committee and is also a member o...
2021-11-0146 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 76 - Meet the PressA conversation with media personalities Mike Buetow (Circuits Assembly Magazine), Trevor Galbraith (Global SMT & Packaging), Phil Stoten (Scoop TV), and Eric Miscoll (EMC Now). During our conversation we covered various topics including post pandemic production, innovations within our industry, supply chain and labor shortages, and more.My guests may be reached here:Mike Buetowmbuetow@upmediagroup.comTrevor Galbraithtgalbraith@trafalgarmedia.comPhil Stotenphil@wearescoop.comEric Miscollemiscoll@emsnow.com
2021-09-211h 13
PCB ChatC2C 6: Dr. Mike Stull and Mike KonradConcept to Creation host Mike Konrad says, while I am the host of this podcast, interviewing entrepreneurs within the electronics assembly industry, several people have asked about my story of entrepreneurship. I was recently interviewed by Dr. Mike Stull from California State University San Bernardino where he is school director, professor, department chair and program director of the Inland Empire Center for Entrepreneurship. Dr. Stull recently had me on his hot-seat program, where we discussed the founding of my company and the nearly 30-year journey since day one of my company.
This podcast is brought to you...
2021-07-1248 min
The Concept to Creation PodcastC2C Episode 6: Mike Konrad (Aqueous Technologies) is Interviewed by Dr. Mike Stull of California State UniversityWelcome to episode 6 of the concept of creation podcast. While I am the host of this podcast, interviewing entrepreneurs within the electronic assembly industry, several people have asked about my story of entrepreneurship. I was recently interviewed by Dr. Mike Stull from California State University San Bernardino where he is a, School Director, Professor, Department Chair, and Program Director of the Inland Empire Center for Entrepreneurship. Dr. Stull recently had me on his hot-seat program where we discussed the founding of my company and the nearly 30 year journey since day one of my company.Mike Konrad...
2021-07-0648 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 69: Part 2 of an Interview with Me (Mike Konrad) on the Pick-Place Podcast with Chris Denney and Melissa HoughI was privileged to be a guest on the Pick-Place Podcast with Chris Denney (Worthington Assembly) and Melissa Hough (CircuitHub). This is the second of a two-part interview.In this episode we are joined by Mike Konrad to chat about board cleaning. Mike founded Aqueous Technologies in 1992 in response to the Montreal Protocol and the resulting international treaty banning most popular cleaning/defluxing solvents. Their board cleaning equipment assists manufacturers with increasing product reliability while saving both water and energy, reducing the industry's environmental impact.In addition to being the President of Aqueous Technologies, he is...
2021-06-091h 27
The Concept to Creation PodcastEpisode 4: A Conservation with Kyzen's Dr. Mike Bixenman and Tom ForsytheDr. Mike Bixenman and Tom Forsythe talk about the founding of Kyzen Corporation, a multi-national chemical manufacturer for the electronics cleaning and metal cleaning industry. They discuss the early days and challenges they faced along the way. They even disclose the "secret" meaning of an early ad campaign featuring the cryptic message "2LG2Q"! Dr. Mike Bixenmanmbixenman@magnalytix.comTom Forsythetom_forsythe@kyzen.com
2021-06-011h 09Reliability MattersEpisode 68: An Interview with Me (Mike Konrad) on the Pick-Place Podcast with Chris Denney and Melissa HoughI was privileged to be a guest on the Pick-Place Podcast with Chris Denney (Worthington Assembly) and Melissa Hough (CircuitHub). This is the first of a two-part interview.In this episode we are joined by Mike Konrad to chat about board cleaning. Mike founded Aqueous Technologies in 1992 in response to the Montreal Protocol and the resulting international treaty banning most popular cleaning/defluxing solvents. Their board cleaning equipment assists manufacturers with increasing product reliability while saving both water and energy, reducing the industry's environmental impact.In addition to being the President of Aqueous Technologies, he is...
2021-05-2647 min
The Concept to Creation PodcastEpisode 3: A Conversation with FCT Assembly's Founder Mike ScimecaMike Scimeca founded his first business in 1991. Today, he owns nine businesses units. Mike shares his successes, failures, challenges, and advice for budding entrepreneurs.Mike may be reached at:mscimeca@fctassembly.com
2021-05-181h 03
Travel With MeaningEp 59: Konrad WaliszewskiKonrad Waliszewski is the CEO & Co-Founder of Tripscout, a venture-backed travel company that has built one of the most popular travel entertainment and trip planning apps. He has visited approximately 100 countries and Forbes has called him a "modern day Marco Polo." The Tripscout app is the #1 ranked trip planning app in the AppStore, has raised $5m of venture capital, and has built an audience of 8m+ followers on Instagram across their network of travel accounts. Tripscout has maintained a fully remote team from its conception and that team currently spans 7 countries and 4 U.S. states. ...
2021-05-1256 min
Pick, Place, PodcastBoard Cleaning w/ Mike Konrad (part 2)In the second half of our conversation with Mike Konrad of Aqueous Technologies we talk all about how to implement a board cleaning process. If you're just tuning in we recommend that you listen to the first half of our conversation with Mike where we learn about the history of board cleaning and why board cleaning is useful, before listening to this one. pickplacepodcast.com
2021-05-101h 25Pick, Place, PodcastBoard Cleaning w/ Mike Konrad (part 1)In this episode we are joined by Mike Konrad to chat about board cleaning. Mike founded Aqueous Technologies in 1992 in response to the Montreal Protocol and the resulting international treaty banning most popular cleaning/defluxing solvents. Their board cleaning equipment assists manufacturers with increasing product reliability while saving both water and energy, reducing the industry's environmental impact.In addition to being the president of Aqueous Tech, he is also a fellow podcaster and runs the Reliability Matters Podcast, which discusses reliability of circuit assemblies, reliability "best practices" and success stories.In the first part of t...
2021-04-2644 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 58: 2020 Round-UpEpisode 58: 2020 Round-UpOn this last episode of 2020 there are no guests, no experts, no best-practice advice. Just a short recap of 2020. We just reached more than 10,000 downloads of the podcast! A HUGE thank you to my audience and my guests for making this podcast possible! On this episode I'll announce the first few guests of the 2021 season of Reliability Matters. This is looking like a terrific season!We are now producing an audio-only format and a video format. The video format may be viewed on our new YouTube channel at:https://www.youtube.com...
2020-12-1408 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 53: Meet the Press - A Conversation with Industry Journalists about the State of the EMS IndustryEpisode 53: Meet the Press - A Conversation with Industry Journalists about the State of the EMS IndustryIn this episode, I speak with Mike Buetow, Editor In Chief of Circuits Assembly and Printed Circuit Design and Fab magazines, Trevor Galbraith, publisher of Global SMT and Production magazine, and Philip Stoten of Scoop TV. We discuss the state of the electronics assembly industry, the affects of COVID-19 on our industry, emerging technologies, and more.Mike Buetow may be reached here:https://www.circuitsassembly.com/ca/mbuetow@upmediagroup.comTrevor Galbraith may be reached...
2020-10-131h 07
Overcoming with Mike, Mark, and TimEpisode 25: Family TraditionsEpisode 25: Family TraditionsMike, Mark, and Tim talk about their family traditions.
2020-10-0538 minOvercoming with Mike, Mark, and TimEpisode 24: Fear of Getting Old with Mike, Mark, and TimEpisode 24: Fear of Getting Old with Mike, Mark, and Tim
2020-09-1358 minOvercoming with Mike, Mark, and TimEpisode 22: Overcoming with Mike and Mark (a New Format)Mike and Mark discuss COVID-19, hotels, celebrities, politics, and more
2020-08-2458 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 49 - A Conversation with SMTA's Tanya Martin and Greg Vance about SMTAI 2020Episode 49 - A Conversation with SMTA's Global Executive Director Tanya Martin and SMTA President Greg Vance about SMTAI 2020's new virtual format. Numerous exhibitors are taking part in this new format. More than 100 technical presentations and papers will be available on-demand. Additionally, nine 3.5 hour professional development courses will be presented live!Register to attend the virtual exhibition and technical conference here:https://smta.org/mpage/smtai
2020-08-1133 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 48: A Conversation with a China Supply Chain Expert about Importing from and Exporting to ChinaEpisode 48: A Conversation with David Alexander, a China supply chain expert about Importing from and Exporting to China.We are all familiar with the pros and cons of importing goods from China. China supply chain expert David Alexander discusses pros and cons of doing business in China. David also discusses the lesser known opportunities of exporting US goods to China and China's appetite for western brands.David is the Founder and President of Baysource Global, company which provides management of offshore factories, US sales and distribution of Chinese products as well as distribution of US products...
2020-07-2853 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 47: A Conversation with Environmental Sustainability Expert Matthew ChalkleyEpisode 47: A Conversation with Environmental Sustainability Expert Matthew Chalkley Matthew Chalkley has over 26 years of supply chain experience in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector. Matthew has held a number of senior operational management positions within, engineering, manufacturing, materials management, procurement, and customer order fulfillment.Matthew was the Global Program Manager for IBM’s Supply Chain Social & Environmental Management System and the Global Tactical Lead for IBM’s Center of Excellence for Product Environmental Compliance. Matthew currently chairs the Environmental Sustainable Electronics (ESE) Technical Work Group for the International Electronics Manufacturing Initiative, known as iNEMI.
2020-07-141h 00Reliability MattersEpisode 46: "The Experts" - A Special Episode Featuring a Conversation with Four Industry ExpertsEpisode 46: "The Experts" - A Special Episode Featuring a Conversation with Four Industry ExpertsMike Konrad joins Dr. Jennie Hwang, Phil Zarrow, Bob Willis, and Ray Prasad to discuss several industry topics including the pandemic, common technical issues, training and support, and other interesting topics. A video version of this podcast is also available here:https://vimeo.com/433866207/d0f9ac8f65Dr. Jennie Hwang jennie.hwang@h-techgroup.comwww.jenniehwang.comPhil Zarrowphil_zarrow@itmconsulting.comwww.itmconsulting.comBob Willisbob...
2020-06-301h 11
Reliability MattersEpisode 45: A Conversation with Dr. Chris Jackson About ReliabilityEpisode 45: A Conversation with Dr. Chris Jackson About ReliabilityDr. Chris Jackson discusses reliability and his five-part article series entitled "3 Ways to do Reliability Allocation."Dr. Chris Jackson is the founder of Acuitas, a company dedicated to reliability. Chris founded Acuitas in 2010. He was awarded his mechanical engineering degree from the University of New South Wales, and has since receive a Masters in PhD in Reliability Engineering from the University of Maryland. He is an American Society of Quality Certified Reliability Engineer (CRE), and a Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) from Engineers Australia.He ha...
2020-06-2352 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 44: A Conversation with Dr. Jennie Hwang About ReliabilityEpisode 44: A Conversation with Dr. Jennie Hwang About ReliabilityDr. Hwang's wide-ranging career encompasses international business operations, sustained leadership in worldwide manufacturing and technology services, innovative research, intellectual property management, global leadership positions, as well as corporate and university governance.Dr. Hwang held senior executive positions with Lockheed Martin., SCM Corp., Sherwin Williams., and was the CEO of International Electronic Materials Corp. as well as co-founded entrepreneurial companies. Currently, her company provides business, technology and manufacturing solutions to the global industry. She has served as an advisor to many Fortune 500 multinational companies, as well as the...
2020-06-0947 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 43: A Conversation with Cal State University's Dr. Mike Stull about Entrepreneurship and Today's Challenging TimesEpisode 43: A Conversation with Cal State University's Dr. Mike Stull about Entrepreneurship and Today's Challenging TimesDr. Mike Stull is the Director of the Inland Empire Center for Entrepreneurship (IECE) at California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB). He also serves as Chair for the Department of Management in the Jack H. Brown College of Business and Public Administration and academic director for entrepreneurship. With more than 30 years as an entrepreneur in for-profit, non-profit, and public sector environments, Mike describes himself as the “living example” that entrepreneurship is a process that can be applied in any setting and...
2020-05-281h 00
Reliability MattersEpisode 42: A Conversation with X-Ray Expert Keith BryantEpisode 42: A Conversation with X-Ray Expert Keith BryantKeith discusses the advantages of x-ray technology, its practical uses, and common mistakes made when using x-ray technology. Keith's Bio:A fully qualified engineer, Keith has over thirty years’ experience in Electronics Manufacturing. He is well known and respected for presenting technical papers at many high-profile events around the world and for his many published articles and interviews. He started his career in this industry with bare printed circuit boards in the early days of high-count multi-layer technology, moving through to running contract manufacturing operation. He...
2020-05-2655 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 41: A Conversation with Better Board Buying's Greg Papandrew About Ways to Buy Boards BetterEpisode 41: A Conversation with Better Board Buying's Greg Papandrew About Ways to Buy Boards Better. Should you purchase boards overseas or domestically? What questions should you ask your board vendor? Greg answers these and other board-buying questions.Our guest is Greg Papandrew, co-founder of Better Board Buying. Greg is the author of PCB Basics for Buyers. Greg can be reached here:Greg Papandrewgreg@boardbuying.comhttps://boardbuying.com
2020-05-1242 minOvercoming with Mike, Mark, and TimEpisode 15: Overcoming Your Fear of Raising ChildrenEpisode 15: Overcoming Your Fear of Raising ChildrenMike, Mark, and our loyal audience share stories of raising children.
2020-05-1156 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 40: A Return Conversation with SMT Guru Bob WillisEpisode 40: A Return Conversation with SMT Guru Bob Willis. Thirty nine episodes after Bob's first appearance on Reliability Matters he returns to discuss life as a consultant in the electronics assembly industry. Bob can be reached at: Bob Willis2 Fourth Avenue,Chelmsford, Essex,CM1 4HA EnglandTel: +44 (0)1245 351502https://www.bobwillis.co.ukbob@bobwillis.co.uk
2020-04-2851 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 39: A Conversation with Advanced Assembly's Mark Hughes and Greg Ziraldo About Producing Reliable Assemblies Within a CM EnvironmentEpisode 39: A Conversation with Advanced Assembly's Mark Hughes and Greg Ziraldo About Producing Reliable Assemblies Within a CM Environment.During this interview, we discuss two papers:Introduction to Reliability in Electronics: Tools and Metrics for Anticipating Device Failureby Mark Hugheshttps://tinyurl.com/rxmntruCosmic Mishaps: How Cosmic Rays Can Disrupt Your DesignPart 1: https://tinyurl.com/smccuf7Part 2: https://tinyurl.com/ro4e5ntPart 3: https://tinyurl.com/qp94aos
2020-04-141h 07
Reliability MattersEpisode 38: A Special COVID-19 Episode - Conversation with Circuits Assembly Magazine's Editor in Chief Mike BuetowEpisode 38: A Special COVID-19 Episode - A Conversation with Circuits Assembly Magazine's Editor in Chief Mike BuetowMike and I discuss the state of the industry amid the COVID-19 crisis. Mike provides a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) analysis of our industry and provides his view from Productronica and APEX.
2020-03-311h 00
Reliability MattersEpisode 37: A Conversation with IPC's President and CEO Dr. John MitchellEpisode 37: A Conversation with IPC's President and CEO Dr. John MitchellDr. John Mitchell talks about the state of the industry, COVID-19 (Corona Virus), and the future of the electronic assembly industry.
2020-03-2457 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 36: A Conversation with "Board Talk" hosts Phil Zarrow and Jim HallEpisode 36: A Conversation with "Board Talk" hosts Phil Zarrow and Jim Hall.Welcome to a special episode of Reliability Matters, recorded live at IPC APEX Expo, thanks to my friends at Scoop TV. You may hear some background noise as I’m not in my usual studio rather, I’m on a busy and rather loud trade show floor. Today, we are bringing back two previous guests, Phil Zarrow and Jim Hall of ITM Consulting. Phil and Jim host Board Talk, a popular broadcast where they field assembly-related questions and provide answers in a style only they...
2020-03-1027 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 35: A Conversation with Dr. Darren Williams of Sam Houston State UniversityEpisode 35: A conversation with Dr. Darren Williams of Sam Houston State University about cleaning processes and materials. Dr. Williams has been at SHSU since 2004 teaching Physical Chemistry, Forensic Chemistry, and graduate courses in Spectroscopy and Thermodynamics. He came to Huntsville from the US-DOE Pantex Plant in Amarillo. He taught at West Texas A&M University for four years after obtaining his Ph.D. from Oregon State University in 1997. He is originally from Fort Worth, and obtained his B.S. in chemistry from the University of Texas at Austin in 1992. He is the author of over two...
2020-02-2541 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 34: A Conversation with "The Cleaning Lady and the Rocket Scientist" Barbara and Ed KanegsbergEpisode 34: A Conversation with "The Cleaning Lady and the Rocket Scientist" Barbara and Ed Kanegsberg about all things cleaning. Barbara and Ed are the authors of Handbook for Critical Cleaning available here:https://tinyurl.com/rlomsz2Barbara and Ed discuss their upcoming Product Quality Cleaning Workshop, in cooperation with Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, TX and Dr. Darren Williams May 13-14. For more information, please click on the link below:https://www.shsu.edu/academics/chemistry/cleanresearch/cleaningworkshop.html
2020-02-2058 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 33: Altium's Judy Warner Interviews Reliability Matter's Host Mike Konrad on the Subject of Cleaning for ReliabilityEpisode 33: Altium's Judy Warner (a fellow podcaster) interviews Reliability Matter's host Mike Konrad on the subject of Cleaning for Reliability. Judy is the host of Altium's On-Track podcast . More podcasts from Judy are available here: https://resources.altium.com/altium-podcast
2020-01-2848 minOvercoming with Mike, Mark, and TimEpisode 8: Overcoming With Mike and Mark Episode 8: Overcoming Your Fear of KaraokeOvercoming With Mike and Mark Episode 8: Overcoming Your Fear of Karaoke
2020-01-2029 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 32: A Conversation with Greg Smith and Tony Lentz About Stencil Design and Void ReductionEpisode 32: A Conversation with Greg Smith and Tony Lentz About Stencil Design and Void ReductionGreg and Tony talk to me about stencil design and how to reduce voiding. Voiding is a key concern in specific electronic applications including automotive and LED electronic manufacturing. Greg and Tony published a paper entitled "Root Cause Stencil Design for SMT Component Thermal Lands"Download here: https://tinyurl.com/szx3xt8Greg Smith can be reached here: gsmith@blueringstencils.comTony Lentz can be reached here: tlentz@fctassembly.com
2020-01-1455 minOvercoming with Mike, Mark, and TimEpisode 6: Overcoming Your Fear of Marriage (a semi-serious episode)Overcoming Your Fear of Marriage (a semi-serious episode)Mike and Mark discuss marriage (not to each other)
2020-01-1154 minOvercoming with Mike, Mark, and TimEpisode 5 of Overcoming with Mike and Mark - Overcoming the Fear of Embarrassing MomentsEpisode 5 of Overcoming with Mike and Mark - Overcoming the Fear of Embarrassing Moments
2019-12-1640 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 31: A Conversation with Scoop's Phil StotenEpisode 31: A Conversation with Scoop's Phil Stoten recorded at SMTAI in Chicago. Phil discusses Industry 4.0 and other industry-related topics.
2019-12-1030 minOvercoming with Mike, Mark, and TimEpisode 4: Overcoming With Mike and Mark - Bad Words and Questionable SayingsOvercoming With Mike and Mark - Episode 4: Bad Words and Questionable Sayings.During this episode, Mark mentioned his tribute to Anne Mooney "Matters of Life and Death". It may be listened to here:https://www.spreaker.com/e/MGZU5wVbQBh
2019-12-0242 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 30: A Conversation About Reflow Technology with Guest David HellerEpisode 30: A Conversation About Reflow Technology with Heller Industries' CEO David Heller. David joined the family business in 1987, twenty seventy years after its founding. David shares what reflow ovens were like at the beginning stages of surface mount technology and the numerous technological changes required along the way.
2019-11-2659 minOvercoming with Mike, Mark, and TimEpisode 3: Fear of Buying a CarEpisode 3: Mike and Mark discuss the fear of buying a car (the trials and tribulations of dealing with a new car dealer).
2019-11-2547 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 29: A Return Conversation with Foresite's Lead Investigator Eric CamdenEpisode 29: Recorded at SMTAI in Chicago - A Return Conversation with Foresite's Lead Investigator Eric Camden. Eric discusses his experiences in field failure analysis including the failures and causes.
2019-11-1225 minOvercoming with Mike, Mark, and TimEpisode 2: Overcoming with Mike and Mark - Fear of Public RestroomsEpisode 2: Fear of public restrooms. Mike and Mark discuss their pet "peeves" with public restrooms, paruresis, and stragities to overcome.
2019-11-1138 min
Overcoming with Mike, Mark, and TimEpisode 1: Overcoming... with Mike and Mark - Premier EpisodeEpisode 1: Overcoming... with Mike and Mark - Premier Episode
2019-11-0344 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 28: Part 2 - A Conversation with IPC's Brook Sandy about IPC APEX EXPO’s Technical ProgramEpisode 28: Part 2 - A Conversation with IPC's Brook Sandy about IPC APEX EXPO’s Technical ProgramRegister for IPC APEX EXPO here: https://ipcapexexpo2020.ipc.org
2019-10-2558 minReliability MattersEpisode 27: Part 1 - A Conversation with IPC's Brook Sandy about the IPC APEX EXPOEpisode 27: Part 1 - A Conversation with IPC's Brook Sandy about the IPC APEX EXPO.Register for IPC APEX EXPO here: https://ipcapexexpo2020.ipc.org
2019-10-2555 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 26- An Interview with Ventec's Technology Ambassador Alun MorganEpisode 26: My guest today is Alun Morgan, he is a Technology Ambassador at Ventec International Group.Our conversation today is all about cars, and the increased reliability expectations associated with their electrical systems. The electronics in modern vehicles provide an unpresented level of safety, not just for the driver, but for those people and objects around the vehicle. Because our cars go in and out of harsh environments, the circuit assemblies within the car are subjected to heat, humidity (and other sources of moisture), which contribute to reliability and therefore safety. We’ll discuss one of th...
2019-10-221h 02
Reliability MattersEpisode 25 - An interview with Indium's Kay Parker about SMT Printing and Being New in the Electronics Assembly IndustryEpisode 25 - An interview with Indium's Kay Parker. We discuss SMT solder paste printing and Kay's experience as a new engineer in the electronics assembly industry.Kay Parker is a Technical Support Engineer based at Indium Corporation’s headquarters in Clinton, N.Y. In this role, she provides guidance and recommendations to customers related to process steps, equipment, techniques, and materials. She is also responsible for servicing the company’s existing accounts and retaining new business.Kay first joined Indium Corporation as a college intern. During her internship, she worked alongside process engineers in Indium Corporation’s Meta...
2019-10-0842 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 24 - A Conversation with Teradyne's Reliability Experts Mark Levin and Jon RodinEpisode 24 - A conversation with Teradyne's Manager of Reliability Mark Levin and Senior Software Engineering Manager Jon Bodin about reliability, DFM, and their new book "Improving Product Reliability and Software Quality: Strategies, Tools, Process and Implementation", 2nd Edition. The book is available here: https://tinyurl.com/y2f3nhav
2019-09-241h 03
Reliability MattersEpisode 23 - A Conversation About Testing Circuit Assemblies with Datest Founder Robert Boguski Jr.Episode 23 - A conversion with Datest Founder Robert Boguski Jr. about testing circuit assemblies. The conversation covers many types of circuit testing, ethics in testing, and how to share results with customers.
2019-09-1059 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 22 - A Conversation About Adhesion Testing with BTG Lab's Materials Scientist Elizabeth KiddEpisode 22 - A Conversation About Adhesion Testing with BTG Lab's Elizabeth KiddOn this episode, we’ll be discussing surface adhesion. What makes a surface more adherable, what makes it less adherable, and most importantly, how can one determine a surface’s adhere-ability (is that a word?) before applying a coating.
2019-08-2658 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 21- A Conversation with Manuel Schöllig - There's More to Clean than just AssembliesA Conversation with Manuel Schöllig of Emil Otto, a German manufacturer of soldering and cleaning materials about cleaning stencils, pallets, fixtures, ovens, and assemblies. There's more to clean than just circuit assemblies. Manual reviews many non-assembly cleaning requirements. Manuel also describes a new flux type that reportedly does not rely on heat activation to remove harmful flux activators.
2019-08-101h 00
Reliability MattersEpisode 20- A Conversation with Conformal Coating Expert Phil KinnerEpisode 20- A conversation with Electrolube's conformal coating expert Phil Kinner. We discuss the reasons for conformal coating and the variety of conformal coating materials available.
2019-07-2338 min
Dare to Know: Interviews with Quality and Reliability Thought Leaders | Hosted by Tim RodgersDTK Mike KonradDTK Mike Konrad Business Leader
Tim Rodgers interviews Mike about circuit board cleaning systems.
Mike Konrad is an industry expert on the removal of contamination from circuit assemblies. He's been part of the electronic assembly cleaning industry for the past 33 years. Mike designed several automated cleaning and cleanliness testing machines, he's published scores of technical articles on the subject of cleaning and cleanliness assessment, and he's been a member of editorial boards for several industry publications.
Mike served on the US Navy's EMPF manufacturer's committee and is a featured speaker at industry...
2019-07-1500 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 19- A Conversation about Display Technologies and Reliability-Improving Production MethodsMy guests today are two of the people behind Anders, a UK-based company which manufactures displays and embedded control systems. Anders manufactures display and embedded controller products for a variety of industries including medical, marine, industrial, home, and much more. My guests are Ander’s General Manager, Paul Mullen and Display and Input Technology Manager, Mike Logan. Both Paul and Mike spoke with me from their London headquarters. Anders website is https://www.andersdx.com
2019-07-0956 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 18 - A Conversation with Saturn Electronics' Yash Sutariya about PCB FabricationYash Sutariya is the President of Saturn Electronics Corporation, Saturn Flex Systems, and Saturn PCB Services, all PCB-centric operating entities. Today, we’ll discuss what every buyer of printed circuit boards should be concerned about and Yash will offer a few auditing tips that would be helpful when auditing or selecting a PCB supplier. Yash is the author of PCB RELIABILITY: AUDITING YOUR SUPPLY CHAIN TO INSURE IT, a paper he presented at SMTAI 2018.
2019-06-251h 02
Reliability MattersEpisode 17 - A conversation with Brian D'Amico about AOI and SPI best practices.My conversation with Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) and Solder Paste Inspection (SPI) system supplier Brian D'Amico covers AOI and SPI best practices. Modern circuit assemblies are difficult, if not impossible, to inspect without the aid of advanced inspection systems. Brian has been in the electronic assembly equipment industry for thirty six years. His knowledge (and passion) for inspection technology is truly impressive.
2019-06-1054 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 16 - SMT-WARS- Lessons Learned from a Contract Manufacturer & Their Customer Who Sued ThemSMT-WARSLessons Learned from a Contract Manufacturer and Their Customer Who Sued ThemWhat happens when an electronic contract manufacturer follows their customer’s instructions to the detriment of the product? Product failures, blame, drama, and a really big lawsuit. Mike Konrad reviews the trials and tribulations of a contract manufacturer and their customer. Assembly residue-related failures (ECM) contributed to product failures, product recalls, and, ultimately, a multi-million-dollar lawsuit. Misguided “best practice” techniques only made matters worse. This podcast will discuss what factors contributed to the “perfect storm” of product failures. Factors that go as far...
2019-05-2848 minReliability MattersEpisode 15 - Scoop TV Interviews Mike KonradWelcome to another episode of Reliability Matters. I’m coming to you from Baltimore MD where I am speaking at the IPC High Reliability Conference. This is our 16th episode. We began this podcast journey in January 2019. Every week this year, we released a new episode. Many of the past 15 episodes featured interviews with various industry experts in a variety of subjects including X-ray, thermal management, cleaning and cleaning materials, failure analysis, design for reliability and other best-practice topics. I’ve had a great time hosting this podcast and I hope you have found it valuable, rele...
2019-05-1411 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 14- An Interview with Reliability Expert Fred SchenkelbergAn interview with reliability expert Fred Schenkelberg. Fred Schenkelberg is an international authority on reliability engineering. He is the reliability expert at FMS Reliability, a reliability engineering and management consulting firm he founded in 2004. Fred left Hewlett Packard’s Reliability Team where he helped create a culture of reliability across HP to assist other organizations. His passion is working with teams to improve product reliability, customer satisfaction, and efficiencies in product development; and to reduce product risk and warranty costs. Fred has a Bachelor of Science in Physics from the United States Military Academy and a Master of Sc...
2019-04-301h 02
Reliability MattersEpisode 13 - A Conversation with KIC's MB Allen About Thermal Management and ReliabilityMost of our episodes feature guests representing specific segments of the electronic assembly industry. Today’s episode is no exception. My guest on this episode is MB Allen from KIC. KIC provides thermal profiling hardware and profiler software tools that help define, measure, monitor, and improve thermal processes for electronics manufacturing services. Today, more than ever, thermal management is vital to ensuring a proper reflow or soldering process. There is a direct link between proper reflow profiles and reliability, which makes this topic relevant for any conversation about reliability. MB Allen is the Manager of Applications and Sales fo...
2019-04-2348 min
Reliability MattersEpisode 9 - An Interview with Dr. Mike Bixenman about Cleaning Challenges, Chemicals, Components, and Cleanliness TestingEpisode 9 features an interview with Dr. Mike Bixenman. We’ll be talking about cleaning for reliability, challenging components and fluxes, methods to determine how clean is clean enough, and how and why he co-founded Kyzen Corporation.Mike is one of the founders of Kyzen Corporation and serves as its Chief Technology Officer. Mike is well known within the electronic assembly industry and is a featured speaker at industry conferences and symposiums around the world.Mike is the Chair of the IPC Cleaning and Coating Conference held once every two years in Chicago and is the Technical Ch...
2019-03-251h 05