The Q Source Resource

Wednesday, April 10, 2019

Visit Our Web Site for New Blog Posts

We've added The Q Source Resource blog to our company Web site. You can view it here.

We aren't abandoning our Blogger blog, but will be posting to both sites on different schedules and with different content. All current content on our Blogger site will remain on the site.

Thank you for your attention and for being a Q Source Resource reader/subscriber.

You may also contact us via email or phone (800-966-6020) for large orders or other inquiries. We also offer live chat customer service on our Web site.

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Monday, November 20, 2017

Meet ASG, Global Manufacturer of Assembly Products & Solutions

ASG, a division of Jergens, Inc., is an ISO 9001:2008-certified manufacturer, provider, and service center for products and solutions focused around assembly. ASG’s assembly solutions consist of four product groups: Assembly, Industrial, Precision Fastening, and Automation.

The ASG Assembly product group focuses on light and general assembly tools and accessories, like electric and manual screwdrivers, error-proofing products, production aides, and tool accessories that offer reliable performance. This is the product group to concentrate on if you are seeking tape and label dispensers, torque arms, digital torque testers, or screwdrivers. ASG Assembly serves the electronics, medical, optical, telecommunications, tier automotive, appliance, and general industry markets.

The ASG Industrial product group provides commanding pneumatic power and manual torque control as well as durable performance in tough working environments. ASG’s industrial products include air nippers, air motors, pneumatic torque control tools, pulse tools, and torque wrenches. These tools are intended to supply heavy industry end markets, including tier automotive, appliance, fabrication, machinery, construction, and electronics.

The ASG Precision Fastening product group focuses on controlled performance by providing intuitive interface, high feature-to-value ratio, proven reliability, excellent delivery, precision accuracy, and quality control of the final manufactured product. The Precision Fastening line features the X-PAQ™ controller, SD2500 Series screwdrivers, and products and solutions for precision fastening requirements. The markets served by ASG Precision Fastening include aerospace, energy, tier automotive, electronics, medical, and military.

The ASG Automation product group provides custom engineered performance solutions to meet the need needs of their clients. This line creates custom-engineered products for integration into assembly systems. Underpinned by world-class knowledge of threaded fastening, ASG’s systems are distinctive in their operation; providing market-leading precision. With robust elements of flexibility and expansion built-in, the systems are designed to persevere life cycle changes to provide customers with the ultimate automated solution. Offering auto feed systems, premium torque arms, and robots, ASG can provide the custom automation solution to meet any need.

ASG creates cutting edge assembly solutions products to meet the needs of customers all over the globe. To learn more about, or to purchase, ASG’s products please visit QSource.com’s ASG Department, email us, or call us at 800-966-6020. Q Source, Inc. has been an authorized distributor of ASG products for almost 25 years.

Friday, October 20, 2017

A Few Photos from the 2017 Long Island SMTA Expo and Technical Forum

Last Wednesday’s Long Island SMTA Expo and Technical Forum at the Melville Marriott in Melville, NY was another excellent resource for the SMTA community. Q Source’s exhibit presented a selection of popular and related products and offered the expertise of our staff and vendor representatives.

Here are a few photos from our table:

Q Source’s Territory Account Specialist Diane Semple overseeing our table exhibit.

Our Brady rep, Bob Scanlin, demoed these pro-quality industrial printers at our table.

ASG’s X-PAQ Precision Fastening System on display (learn more at QSource.com).

For more info about the Long Island SMTA, please visit their Web site. For info about Q Source, or to purchase products from our extensive online selection, please check out QSource.com. You may also contact us by phone (800-966-6020) or email.

Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Hot Air Rework vs. Desoldering Stations: Which One Should You Choose?

There are a few key differences between hot air rework stations and desoldering stations. First, and most notable, is the size of the two different stations. The hot air stations tend to be much larger than the desoldering stations. Thus, to work with hot air, you will need to bring the defective parts to the station. In comparison, the desoldering station can be brought to the parts, which offers much more flexibility. Another noticeable difference between the two stations is their price tag. A hot air station will often carry a heftier price tag because it includes more features and extras than desoldering stations. The key is to find the specific tool that is best for your application needs. Choosing the right tool for the job will save you countless time and money in the long run.

A hot air rework station has many benefits. Because it uses hot air, the station is great for very quick and easy jobs where, perhaps, just one component needs to be removed from a printed circuit board (PCB). The opposite is also true, adding a single part to a PCB is also extremely simple by utilizing hot air to quickly and efficiently return the board to working order. This tool can also be used to fit heat shrink onto wires making it an extremely versatile device.

A desoldering station also offers many benefits for specific applications. These stations provide a great deal of precision with their many features. Their compact size allows these stations to be much more mobile and makes for easier clean up at the end of a job. The simplicity of a desoldering station also makes it an asset to some. Why pay for all the bells and whistles when you only need the device for its basic uses? Desoldering Stations help make reworking PCBs an easier task.

Both types of rework stations offer a variety of benefits and shortfalls. By doing your research you can discover which device fits best in your specific day-to-day needs.

QSource.com offers a wide selection from JBC Tools and Weller®.

Tuesday, June 6, 2017

Yes, You Do Need an ESD Wastebasket

Originally posted as The Cause for ESD Wastebaskets by Transforming Technologies - Re-posted here, including slight edits, with permission

It is fair to wonder why there is a need for ESD wastebaskets. If the basket resides underneath a workstation, and stays there permanently, the need may not exist.

However, there are a number of circumstances when the wastebasket could present a significant hazard to electronic products. The following are just a few examples of potentially risky scenarios:

Worksurface Cleaning: An operator lifts the wastebasket to the edge of the workstation to collect the debris being removed. Should a static-sensitive product be present on the worksurface and not contained in a shielding container, there is a good opportunity for exposure to electrostatic fields that exceed safe limits.

Lead Trimming/Board Cleaning Operations: When trimming component leads or using aerosol cleaners on PCBs (Printed Circuit Boards), some operators will hold the PCB over a wastebasket to catch the clippings or solvent run-off. Many times, the PCB will be placed well into the waste container to assure catching the unwanted materials. This operation puts PCBs and ESD-sensitive devices very close to potentially significant electrostatic fields.

Aisle Proximity: Some wastebaskets have been observed in close proximity to production floor aisles, where product transfer carts pass or may be parked. ANSI/ESD S2020 requires items that generate 2,000 volts or more (measured at 1” from the item) be kept at least 12” from ESD-sensitive devices. Using ESD wastebaskets eliminates the risk of carts being parked next to static-generating baskets.

While company ESD policies may prohibit some of the actions mentioned above, it does not mean that they will not occur from time to time. ESD wastebaskets provide assurance that the wastebasket will never be an ESD threat to your product.

Transforming Technologies offers ESD wastebaskets in static-dissipative polypropylene and in stainless steel for cleanroom operations. If a liner is to be used for easier maintenance, Transforming Technologies offers them in both conductive and static dissipative.

Please visit QSource.com for further information about these Transforming Technologies products:

28-Quart, Black ESD-Safe Waste Basket (WBAS 28)

Material: Carbon-loaded, black conductive Polypropylene
Point-to-Point Resistance RP: 10⁴- 10⁵ W
Height: 15"
Opening: 13.5" x 9.5"

22-Gallon, Black ESD-Safe Waste Basket (WBAS90)

Weight: 7.5 lb.
Dimensions: 30" x 20" x 11"
Material: Carbon-loaded, black conductive polypropylene
Resistance - RTP: 10⁴ - 10⁵
Marking: Yellow ESD symbol

44-Gallon, Black ESD-Safe Waste Basket (WBAS180)

Weight: 13 lb.
Dimensions: 31" x 24" x 24"
Material: Carbon-loaded, black conductive polypropylene
Resistance - RTP: 10⁴ - 10⁵
Marking: Yellow ESD symbol

2-Mil, 7-10 Gallon Pink Dissipative Anti-Static Trash Liners (WBASLP)

Basic Material: Single layer of non-amine polyethylene
Size: 24" x 24"
Tensile Strength: 2,000 to 3,000 PSI
Tearing Strength: 65- to 450-lb. per square inch
Surface Resistivity: ‹ or equal to 10¹¹ ohms/sq.
Static Decay Rate: 5 kV - 0 volts ‹ 2 seconds per
Shelf Life: Permanently anti-static under normal storage conditions

3 Mil, 7-10 Gallon Black Conductive Trash Liners (WBASLB)

Basic Material: Single layer of non-amine polyethylene
Size: 24" x 24"
Tensile Strength: > 2,000 PSI
Tearing Strength: > 400-lb. per inch
Surface Resistivity: ‹ 30,000 ohms/sq
Volume Resistivity: ‹ 30,000 ohms/cm
Shelf Life: Permanently anti-static under normal storage conditions

22-Gallon, Black Conductive ESD Trash Can Liners (WBAS22LB)

Basic Material: Single layer of non-amine polyethylene
Thickness: 3 mil
Size: 24" x 24"
Volume: 7-10 gallon (28-40 quart)
Tensile Strength: > 2000 PSI
Tearing Strength: > 400-lb. per inch
Surface Resistivity: ‹ 30,000 OHMS/sq
Volume Resistivity: ‹ 30,000 OHMS/cm
Shelf Life: Permanently anti-static under normal storage conditions

22-Gallon, Pink Dissipative ESD Trash Can Liner (WBAS22LP)

Basic Material: Single layer of non-amine polyethylene
Thickness: 3 mil
Size: 24" x 24"
Volume: 7-10 gallon (28-40 quart)
Tensile Strength: > 2000 PSI
Tearing Strength: > 400-lb. per inch
Surface Resistivity: ‹ 30,000 OHMS/sq
Volume Resistivity: ‹ 30,000 OHMS/cm
Shelf Life: Permanently anti-static under normal storage conditions

44-Gallon, Black Conductive ESD Trash Can Liner (WBAS44LB)

Basic Material: Single layer of non-amine polyethylene
Thickness: 3 mil
Size: 24" x 24"
Volume: 7-10 gallon (28-40 quart)
Tensile Strength: > 2000 PSI
Tearing Strength: > 400-lb. per inch
Surface Resistivity: ‹ 30,000 OHMS/sq
Volume Resistivity: ‹ 30,000 OHMS/cm
Shelf Life: Permanently anti-static under normal storage conditions

44-Gallon, Pink Dissipative ESD Trash Can Liner (WBAS44LP)

Basic Material: Single layer of non-amine polyethylene
Thickness: 3 mil
Size: 24" x 24"
Volume: 7-10 gallon (28-40 quart)
Tensile Strength: > 2000 PSI
Tearing Strength: > 400-lb. per inch
Surface Resistivity: ‹ 30,000 OHMS/sq
Volume Resistivity: ‹ 30,000 OHMS/cm
Shelf Life: Permanently anti-static under normal storage conditions

Friday, May 12, 2017

Dura 7000 Series Chairs Now Offer a Larger Weight Capacity

If you’re shopping for ergonomic chairs and need to consider weight capacity, please head over to QSource.com’s Bevco Dura 7000 Series Chairs Department. We think Bevco’s upgraded 7000 Series lineup may be just what you need.

These popular, durable chairs are more rugged and robust with improvements that include:

Higher 350-lb. Weight Capacity
Stronger Bushings
Available 20” Adjustable Chrome Flat Footrings

In addition to these upgrades, Bevco’s Dura Chairs feature a polyurethane that is impervious to water, oil, and most chemicals; are made to meet ANSI/BIFMA standards, and are GREENGUARD GOLD certified. Plus, they come standard with Bevco’s 12-year warranty.

Available in standard and cleanroom versions, these chairs offer a variety of options for use in schools, labs, and other industrial environments. And, as with all of Bevco’s chair lines, the Dura 7000 Series allows you to create the exact chair to meet your needs.

Please visit our Bevco Dura 7000 Series page to purchase your chairs. You may also contact us by phone (800-966-6020), email, or via our Web site.

Tuesday, February 14, 2017

How Well Is Your ESD Flooring and Footwear System Working? – Guest Blog

Figure 1: System Resistance Test

by Craig Zander, Transforming Technologies

Craig’s latest Q Source Resource Guest Blog looks at how a Walking Voltage Test reveals how well your ESD flooring & footwear system is working.

The ESD flooring and footwear system is an effective way to ground people that need to be on the move in a factory. ESD footwear, when worn properly, is designed to drain the voltage from a person to the floor and then to ground. Periodic testing of both the floor and the footwear is required to verify proper functioning.

Until recently, a System Resistance Test (ANSI/ESD STM97.1) was all that was needed to qualify an ESD control flooring and footwear system. If the resistance was less than 35 megohms, it was assumed that the person’s voltage would not exceed 100 volts (the upper limit for ANSI/ESD S20.20). However, this testing is done with the person stationary and having both feet flat on the ground. What happens when the person starts moving and the entire foot is not making contact with the floor?

Figure 2: The Walking Test Pattern

The most recent version of ANSI/ESD S20.20 now requires a Walking Voltage Test (ANSI/ESD STM97.2) be performed when qualifying flooring and footwear systems. The test consists of measuring body voltage generated during a six-step pattern used to simulate moving throughout a facility. This test will determine the actual voltage on the person while moving. Research has shown that when tested separately, ESD floors and footwear systems may pass the resistance test, but when used together, can greatly exceed the 100-volt threshold.

Determining the maximum voltage generated by people moving on the factory floor is very valuable information. By knowing the maximum voltage generated you will know that your flooring and footwear investment is performing as designed. You may also be pleasantly surprised to find out that the system is working quite well and you are able to handle devices with much lower Human-Body Model (HBM) damage thresholds.

WT5000

Equipment is available to accurately measure and record the walking voltage. One such instrument is the WT5000. The WT5000 Walking Test Kit (Warmbier WT5000 Electrometer Walking Test Kit) measures and records the walking voltage while providing a graphical readout. The instrument connects to a PC using any Windows version for easy data collection. The WT5000 identifies the peak voltages per the requirements in the standards.

The two-in-one EFM51WT (Transforming Technologies 7100.EFM51.WT Warmbier EFM51WT Field Meter Walking Test Kit) meter holds the PEAK value of the measured body voltage, as well as the LIVE static voltage measured on the operator’s body. The kit includes the EFM51 static field meter, walking test adapter plate, hand probe and conductive carrying case. The EFM51 is a fully functional field meter that, in addition to the Walking Test, measures and detects electrostatic fields, surface potentials, and discharge times (with optional charge plate accessory (part number 7100.EFM51.CPS.SET).

EFM51

You have made the investment in an ESD flooring and footwear system so that people can be mobile while still protecting your products from ESD events. Determining your actual walking voltage generated is critical to knowing that your products are being protected.

CLOSING: Thanks, Craig! We appreciate you filling us in about the necessity of Walking Voltage Tests to ensure proper ESD protection for flooring and footwear systems. Your expertise is invaluable to our Q Source community.

For information about Transforming Technologies and their ESD control/monitoring products (including walking test kits), please visit QSource.com. you.

Tuesday, October 11, 2016

Q Source VP Interviewed at the 2016 Costa Rica Life Sciences Forum

The Costa Rica Life Sciences Forum 2016 is being held this week in San Jose, Costa Rica. Q Source’s Vice President, Gus Lugten, was part of an interview filmed at the forum and posted on the CINDE (Costa Rican Investment Promotion Agency) YouTube Channel.

Lugten commented on the high level of education in Costa Rica, the impressive lineup of companies present in the country, and Q Source’s role in providing solutions to the challenges those companies face:

CINDE is a private, non profit investment services organization that has attracted more than 250 high-tech companies to Costa Rica over the past 32 years. Costa Rica is the second largest medical device exporter in Latin America and the Life Sciences Forum is their dedicated MedTech event for the Life Sciences sector in the region. The 2016 Life Sciences Forum event is the third edition of this gathering of reps from leading manufacturers, researchers, consultants, and government officials focused on the latest advances and achievements in this sector.

Q Source, Inc., formed in 1984, is a distributor supplier of products addressing the commercial industrial assembly and production environments. Most notably working with the Electronic and Pharmaceutical Industrial sectors, our product supply offering is now utilized in almost all industrial type manufacturing.

For more information about Q Source please contact us via our Web site, phone (800-966-6020), or by email.

Friday, October 7, 2016

Lgi Cleanroom Labels Added to QSource.com

QSource.com has recently added Lgi Cleanroom Labels to our Labeling & Identification offerings. Lgi, known for their CleanMark® labels, are innovative experts in label manufacturing and print technology.

Lgi CleanMark labels can be customized for size and used with either direct thermal or thermal transfer printers. They’re built to withstand extreme hot or cold temperatures, harsh chemical solvents, and physical abrasion. They feature the ability to indicate sterilization processes, such as autoclaving; may be pre-sterilized, and will not contaminate clean or sterile environments with particulates, outgassing, or microbes. CleanMark labels will firmly adhere to or easily peel from challenging surfaces.

Lgi’s CleanMark line of labels are easy-to-move, can be printed on with cleanroom pens or by any standard thermal transfer printer, and includes:

CleanMark Labels
CleanMark EZ-Peel Cleanroom Labels
CleanMark Printers & Ribbons
CleanMark Autoclave Labels
CleanMark Cryogenic Labels
CleanMark High Temperature Labels

As mentioned, Lgi’s CleanMark labels can be customized for size, adhesion, type, and removability. If you have specific requirements, please contact one of our cleanroom specialist for further assistance by calling 800-966-6020. Please consider the following when requesting a customized label:

For what cleanroom classification will your labels be used?
Is pre-sterilization required?
Are extreme temperatures a possibility?
Will there be chemical or solvent or exposure?
Do you need your labels to cycle through changing environments?
What type of surface will your labels adhere to (flat, cylindrical, conical, material, etc.)?
Do you need permanent or removable labels?
Do you need blank or pre-printed labels?
What type of printer (thermal transfer, direct thermal, or Laser) will be used?

Monday, August 29, 2016

Seven Steps to Creating an Ergonomic-Rich Working Environment - Guest Blog

by Carissa Harris, Marketing Communications Coordinator, Sovella, Inc.

In Carissa’s first Guest Blog for the Q Source Resource, she focuses on how you can create an ergonomic workspace.

Proper ergonomics play a vital role in workplace productivity.

When it comes to productivity and efficiency in the workplace, proper ergonomics play a vital role. A workplace that focuses on the well-being of their employees will find an increase in their output, leading to greater profit. Ergonomics is about more than just posture and arm reach. It takes into consideration all aspects of a worker’s movement, eyesight, noise level, and more. By having all components and areas in easy reach and at comfortable distances, it minimizes the amount of bending, twisting, and reaching workers need to make, and consequently reduces strain, stress, and discomfort, leading to a more relaxed positions and greater efficiency.

Here are seven steps that can guide you in creating an ergonomic-rich environment at your company:

Research and Develop a Plan of Action – Implementing a proper, ergonomic workplace requires research into the correct products for your company and your employees. Understanding the fundamentals of ergonomics will help when it comes time to selecting the best products for your environment. Creating a plan of action ahead of time will also reduce the risk of purchasing products that will not benefit employees in the long-term. It can be beneficial to look to other companies with ergonomic environments and see how you might replicate their successes.
Conduct Interviews with Employees and Observe Their Behaviors – To see where you have fallen short in the past, conduct interviews with employees and review any prior injury reports. This will provide the insight into the current problems and assist you in purchasing the right equipment in the future. Some risk factors in ergonomic-poor workspaces include: awkward postures, over-exertion, straining eyes, poor ventilation, and improper lighting. These can lead to worker injuries, including carpal tunnel syndrome, muscle cramping, slipped discs, and tendinitis. Understanding these risks and injuries will lead to better purchasing decisions and happier staff.
Gather the Team – Getting everyone on board will make the transition to ergonomics smoother and quicker. Employees will be open to the change when they are informed of the benefits, including less stress and strain.
Consider the Not-So-Obvious –
- Should employees be sitting or standing for their particular work? Or given the option for both? Tasks with little lifting or reaching may benefit from sitting with the option to stand, while jobs that require heavy-lifting, continuous movement, or parts retrieval will benefit from standing with the option to rest. Height-adjustable benches and proper seating are essential.
- Is the bench surface correctly positioned and does it cater to various heights? Body size and leg space are factors to consider.
- Which style of chair is best? Comfort and adjustability are important in choosing the best chair for the job. A chair that is ergonomic will be adjustable to accommodate all body types.
- Are the monitors in the correct position? Consider viewing angle and distance. Screens should be well lit and in focus to prevent strain on the eyes.
- How does lighting affect work? Shadows, brightness, even color of light can affect the well-being of employees. Proper lighting can prevent headaches and fatigue.
- Consider keyboard distance, reach distance for tools, placement of equipment, ventilation, etc. Managers should also encourage good posture and breaks to avoid strain, tension, and fatigue, as well as stretching. Remember, all employees are not created alike, and body type should be taken into account.
Be Sure Vendors Can Meet Your Ergonomic Needs – Choose furniture that can be properly adjusted and explore customizations to best suit your employees. Vendors should be able to demonstrate the functionalities, calculate benefits, and give references. Think about long-term use, and pick a sustainable option. Select a vendor that provides the best solution in a timely manner, with the best support.
Happiness is the Goal – Quality workspaces make for happier employees. If they feel better, they will perform better, in turn boosting your productivity and profitability. Ergonomic-rich environments have employees that take fewer sick days, report fewer injuries, and are over-all more satisfied.
Measure and Improve – Understand how employing ergonomics has improved productivity, reduced injuries, and created a happier staff. Compare output before and after, and survey your employees to determine any improvement and increased happiness. It is important to evaluate the workplace and make improvements as needed. By continuing to improve, you will continue to develop a better system that continues to function and produce at the highest possible level, founded upon proper, modern ergonomics.

An ergonomic-friendly workstation project takes an initial investment of research time, budget, customization, and more, but turns those investments into an opportunity for business growth. By using baseline data and key performance indicators (KPIs) to analyze your investment decision (both before and after), you’ll be able to justify the effect ergonomics has on employees and their work. You can also start small and increase investments with proven results paving the way to continue.

Great tips, Carissa! Thank you for providing a solid plan to implement ergonomics into the working environment. We look forward to learning more about the topic and how Sovella can assist in such an implementation.

For information about Sovella ergonomic workspace products, or to place an order, please visit QSource.com. You may also contact us via email or phone at 800-966-6020 and we will be happy to assist you.

Friday, July 22, 2016

Using ACL 7600 IPA Wipes in Conjunction with ACL 8690 Acrylic Conformal Coating for PCB Rework/Repair Prep – Guest Blog

by Steve Allen, VP Marketing and Innovation, ACL Staticide

In Steve’s latest Guest Blog for the Q Source Resource, he recommends a process of PCB preparation for rework/repair.

Preparing PCBs (printed circuit boards) for rework or repair is a very important process. ACL Staticide has developed and manufactures an array of precision cleaners and surface preparation products, along with final finishing conformal coats to aid in this application. These products’ primary focus is in the area of printed circuit board repair and OEM manufacture. Let’s cover some key areas of PCB rework and repair using a two-step process for surface preparation and finishing.
In many instances of PCB repair, surface preparation with a pre-saturated wiper followed by treatment with conformal coating is the process of choice for reworking a board and getting it back into service.

With that in mind, ACL’s 7600 IPA Wipers are perfect for surface preparation following repair. The 7600 is a pre-saturated wipe using a precise 70/30 blend of extremely pure, electronics-grade isopropyl alcohol blended with deionized water to prevent premature evaporation of the cleaning solvent. The solvent is added to the wiper in a cleanroom environment. These wipers use a non-woven Sontara® technology designed to be extremely low linting, even at the perforation. Available in a 100-wipes reclosable container (made of non-hazardous material), the 7600 product is perfect for final finishing work of any circuit board. It is great for removal of hand oils, conductive greases, carbonized soils, dust/dirt, light flux residues, and a variety of other soils.

A 2-wiper use process is recommended for general-purposed cleaning and hand wiping of larger components and various board surfaces. One wipe is used for initial cleaning of heavier residues, and a second wipe for final surface cleaning and finishing. All surfaces should be allowed to gently dry for one to two minutes, or dry using compressed air or a duster product like the ACL 8640 Turbo Blast Duster.

Following this process, the board is prepared and ready for application of surface protection like acrylic conformal coating. ACL’s 8690 Acrylic Conformal Coating is the product of choice for protecting the PCB and all surface components from oils, moisture, and most soils. It is used following surface cleaning and preparation with the 7600 IPA wipers. ACL 8690 can be applied to the entire board surface. It is dry to the touch in less than 30 minutes and completely cures in 24 hours. It provides protection as well as heat resistance and contains a UV dye indicator so that the user can be sure the entire board and all components have been treated. ACL 8690 leaves behind a high-gloss cure (making it suitable for final presentation to the customer at contract manufacturers) and prepares the board for final installation.

This process of using both the 7600 wipes and 8690 conformal coating in conjunction with each other for final board preparation and final surface finishing prior to installation helps eliminate potential failures and damage to PCBS or devices. Please contact us with related questions or comments.

Thank you, Steve! That sounds like the way to go when preparing printed circuit boards. We look forward to your future articles.

For information about , or to order, any of the ACL products mentioned in this blog, please visit QSource.com. You may also contact us via email or phone at 800-966-6020 and we will be happy to assist you.

Friday, June 10, 2016

Make Common Home/Office Repairs w/Eclipse’s Household Tool Kit

Save 13% off the Q Source price of the Eclipse (PK-2028T) 13-Piece Household Tool Kit. Our FPF061016 Coupon Code is auto applied when you add a PK-2028T Tool Kit to your shopping cart. This Featured Product Friday (FPF) promo is valid from today, June 10, 2016 through Sunday, June 12, 2016 and the code is unlimited use.

This 13-piece tool kit features a versatile selection of tools for common, basic home and office maintenance. Includes a durable carrying case.

Follow our weekly FPF selection on The Q Source Resource Blog, via our email newsletter, or on our social media accounts. Please help us spread the word about Featured Product Friday by sharing the FPF code with your friends and colleagues.

For further questions about Featured Product Friday, please read our informational blog post, call us (800-966-6020), or send us an email. Please note: This promo is valid only at QSource.com and expires on June 12, 2016.

Wednesday, June 8, 2016

What You Need to Know When Selecting ESD Flooring – Guest Blog

by Craig Zander, Transforming Technologies

Craig’s newest Guest Blog, for the Q Source Resource, provides valuable tips about selecting ESD flooring for your workplace

The use of ESD flooring and footwear is a popular way to ground people working with ESD-sensitive devices that cannot use a conventional wrist strap/cord system because they need to be mobile, or because they are working near equipment with moving parts that could pose a hazard. ESD footwear and flooring provide a convenient method to drain the charge from the operator to ground.

There are many options for ESD flooring that are “permanent” solutions, such as conductive tiles and epoxies. These products generally have very good durability and can last for many years. Unfortunately, they also present a few challenges.

PERMANENT ESD FLOOR CHALLENGES

Cost: ESD floor tiles and epoxies are an expensive option. The cost of the tiles or epoxy in combination with the conductive undercoat and installation expense makes permanent flooring one of the more expensive options.
Moisture: In some cases, the moisture content in the sub-floor is too high to allow successful or long-term adhesion. Hydrostatic pressure from floors can cause tile lifting or epoxy bubbles. Testing must be done prior to installation to be sure that the floor can be installed.
Installation: Installing an ESD tile or epoxy floor requires experienced installers. The conductive undercoat must be applied in a precise quantity and manner. Mistakes can lead to poor adhesion and poor electrical readings on the installed floor.
Maintenance: While new floors may look amazing shortly after installation, they must be maintained to keep their appearance and their electrical performance. Some floors require certain floor finishes, and some floors cannot be waxed or their electrical properties will become diminished.
Permanence: While a permanent floor can be an advantage, it may be a disadvantage to companies that occasionally change facility layouts or to companies that lease space.

TEMPORARY OR PORTABLE ESD FLOORING

There are a number of options for those that need to ground their operators through footwear and flooring, but do not want a permanent ESD floor.

ESD Mats

ESD mats come in a variety of options including size, thickness, contour, and conductivity. ESD mats are generally placed in front of standing operations and provide a path to ground for the operator and, possibly, a more ergonomic standing surface than the standard floor.

Floor mats may be offered in specific sizes (i.e., 2’ x 3’, 3’ x 4’, etc.), or may be offered with interlock to provide a variety of lengths. They are easy to relocate should production equipment need to be moved.

ESD Runners

ESD floor runners offer a solution in front of long assembly lines, or areas where mobile equipment is being used and needs to be grounded.

ESD floor runners are generally smooth or slightly textured to allow mobile equipment to move, thus they offer less ergonomic benefit than mats.

Interlocking Tiles

ESD interlocking tiles provide an effective way to cover a larger area, or an entire floor, while still offering some portability. The tiles can be easily cut to fit an area and they are free floating on the floor so there are no moisture issues that come with permanent floors. Many of the interlocking tiles also provide ergonomic properties. Yellow safety edges are also available if the floor does not terminate at a wall.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT FLOOR

Whether you select permanent flooring or temporary/portable ESD flooring, you need to verify that the electrical properties of the footwear and flooring combination will meet your requirements.

To be in compliance with ANSI/ESD S20.20 you must verify two specific measurements. First, you need to measure the resistance of the person, through the footwear, through the flooring and to ground (ANSI/ESD STM 97.1 Floor Materials and Footwear – Resistance Measurement in Combination with a Person). Second, you need to verify the voltage being generated by people using your selected footwear (shoes or foot grounders) and flooring (ANSI/ESD STM 97.2 – Floor Materials and Footwear – Voltage Measurement in Combination with a Person).

ANSI/ESD STM97.1 (Warmbier Metriso 3000 Resistance Meter)

ANSI/ESD STM97.2 (Warmbier WT-5000 Walking Test Kit)

We’ve briefly reviewed the factors to be considered when choosing ESD flooring. With these in mind, you can select the floor that meets your needs for ESD properties, overall cost, and ease of use.

Thanks, Craig! That’s excellent information to assist our readers in choosing the proper ESD flooring solution to meet their needs. We’re excited for the next time you share your expertise with our Q Source community.

For information about Transforming Technologies and their ESD control/monitoring products, please visit QSource.com. You may also contact us via email or phone at 800-966-6020 and we will be happy to assist you.

Tuesday, May 17, 2016

Create a Proper Spill Control Plan w/Brady SPC Absorbents

Implementing a proper Spill Prevention Control & Countermeasure plan (SPCC) helps create a safe and productive work environment for your employees. With that in mind, we’ve recently added a broad-reaching Brady Absorbents Department to QSource.com.

OSHA and EPA regulations (29 CFR 1910.22(a)(2), 40 CFR 112.7(c)(1)(vii), and 29 CFR 1910.120(j)(1)(vii)) require specific spill control and cleanup procedures to protect employees. The cost of non-compliance can be devastating in a number of ways. Brady’s SPC product line offers hundreds of spill control solutions for your workplace so you can avoid those costly cleanups.

Our new Brady SPC Absorbents Department features everything you need to create an effective SPCC plan with products in the following categories:

When creating your SPCC plan, you need to consider three main factors.

What Are You Absorbing?

Universal spills include coolants, solvents, gasoline, vegetable oil, kerosene, and other water-based fluids
Oil only spills include hydraulic oil, motor oil, brake fluid, cooking oil, turpentine, and other oil-based fluids
Chemical spills include aggressive chemicals, citric acid, sodium hydroxide, and other unknown chemicals

What Type of Absorbent Application?

Wiping, dripping or foot traffic applications use pads, rolls, SOCs, and pillows
Barrier-backed or heavy traffic applications use mats and rugs
Emergency spill response use spill containment and spill kits

What Size & Weight Do You Need?

Brady SPC products are available in a wide variety of sizes and absorbency weights in many categories

Visit QSource.com’s Absorbents Department to start building your SPCC plan. If you have questions about what your specific work area requires, you may contact us by phone (800-966-6020), email, or via our Web site. We also offer a complete line of Brady Labeling and Identification products.

Wednesday, May 4, 2016

SCS’ New Air Ionizers Offer Reliable Static Control

These two reliable ionizers feature built-in automatic emitter point cleaners, adjustable fan speeds, and steady-state DC ionization. If you’re looking for a dependable solution for ionization, these units are a smart choice.

SCS 9110-NO - BENCHTOP AIR IONIZER

The SCS 9110-NO 100-240 VAC Benchtop Air Ionizer w/Power Source helps eliminate the build-up of static charges on insulative materials. It has an easy access cover for maintenance, a white powder-coated metal housing, and an illuminated power switch. In addition, it features the following specifications:

AC/DC Power Adapter Power Input: 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz - Power Output: 24 VDC, 2.5A
Operating Voltage: 24 VDC, 1.8 A maximum
Power Consumption: 14 watts (normal operation) 42 watts (auto cleaning operation)
Fuse: 2 QA, 250V, 5.2 x 20 mm glass tube
Ion Emission: Steady-state DC
Balance Voltage: ± 15 volt (25 ± 5°C, 45 ± 10% RH)
Decay Time: ≤ 2 sec
Air Speed: 500' per min (152 m/min)
Audible Noise: High fan speed: 54 dB (sustained), 57 dB (auto cleaning)/Low fan speed: 48 dB (sustained), 55 dB (auto cleaning)
Ozone Level: < 0.05 ppm
Certifications & Approvals: cULus, CE, RoHS, WEEE

SCS 9310-NO - OVERHEAD AIR IONIZER

The SCS 9310-NO 100-240 VAC Overhead Air Ionizer w/Power Source includes most of the same features as the 9110-NO Benchtop unit. In addition, its specifications include:

Operating Voltage: 24 VDC, 2.5A maximum
Power Consumption: 43 watts (normal operation) 60 watts (auto cleaning operation)
Fuse: 5 A, 250V, 5.2 x 20 mm glass tube
Decay Time: ≤ 3.5 sec
Air Speed: 200' per min (61 m/min)
Audible Noise: High Fan Speed: 57 dB (sustained), 60 dB (auto cleaning)/Low Fan Speed: 46 dB (sustained), 51 dB (auto cleaning)

Please Note: Neither unit includes a power cord. The compatible SCS 770000 North America Power Cord is available separately.

Please visit QSource.com to purchase one of these new SCS Air Ionizers. You may also contact us by phone (800-966-6020), email, or via our Web site.

Wednesday, April 20, 2016

GHS Chemical Labeling: When to Re-Label Existing Chemicals – Guest Blog

by Tom Smith, Product Manager, Brady Corporation

In Tom’s first Guest Blog for Q Source, he answers the question of GHS labeling for older chemicals.

Does your facility have chemicals that have been sitting on the shelf for a year or more? OSHA’s final Hazard Communication Standard deadline around the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals is quickly approaching. All customers must be fully compliant with the requirements, including those for Safety Data Sheets and chemical container labels, by June 1 of this year. Read on to learn if you need to re-label them with new GHS labels.

To answer this question, you first need to determine if you have chemicals on your shelves without GHS labels. Under GHS, OSHA required all chemical manufacturers to begin shipping their chemicals with compliant labels by June 1 of last year. OSHA also provided distributors with an additional six months (up to December 1, 2015) to make sure their inventories were updated and they were shipping chemicals with compliant labels. With this in mind, it’s entirely possible you may have ordered a chemical from your distributor before December of last year and received containers that have the previously used “right-to-know” or NFPA diamond labels.

Once you determine if you have older chemical containers without GHS labels in your facility, the next step is deciding whether you need to re-label them. The good news is that OSHA provides some guidance on this issue, explaining that “employers are not responsible for updating labels on shipped containers, even if the shipped containers are labeled under HazCom 1994.”

"To answer this question, you first need to determine if you have chemicals on your shelves without GHS labels."

Although you’re not responsible for updating older labels, you do have a responsibility when it comes to damaged labels or undisclosed hazards. OSHA explains that “the employer must re-label items if the labels are removed or defaced. However, if the employer is aware of newly identified hazards that are not disclosed on the label, the employer must ensure that the workers are aware of the hazards as discussed below under workplace labels.”

What sort of additional hazards may be undisclosed? NFPA 704 does not address hazards such as carcinogens (cancer causing) or mutagens (causing birth or genetic defects in the unborn child). However, the OSHA 2012 HazCom/GHS regulation does consider those hazards. Therefore, if you have an existing chemical that you know is a carcinogen, you also have to indicate that hazard and appropriate precautions on your label.

As with most regulations, the details are the key to understanding the appropriate actions to take. When it comes to employee safety, particularly with a new regulation, taking the conservative route with over-communication and thorough training is the ideal option. While you’re not required to re-label older chemicals, be sure the presence of the differing labels is made clear to employees to ensure they are safely handling all containers in your facility. As the full GHS implementation takes effect, these older containers will eventually be circulated out with future chemical orders and GHS-compliant labels will be used consistently.

Thanks, Tom! Your valuable information is extremely useful for making educated chemical safety decisions. We look forward to your future contributions to the Q Source Resource.

Wednesday, April 13, 2016

Q Source Adds Luxor – H. Wilson Specialty Furniture to Web Site

Q Source, yesterday, increased its product offerings by adding Luxor – H. Wilson as a new manufacturer on QSource.com. Luxor – H. Wilson has been manufacturing quality innovative workspace product solutions for seventy years.

Luxor – H. Wilson are leaders in the production of a variety of products for use in work-intensive environments. More than 100 of these quality products are now available through Q Source, including:

Mobile Cabinets
A/V, Mobile Flat Panel & Presentation Carts
LCD TV Stands/Mounts & Universal LCD TV Stands
Mobile Lecterns, Standup Presentation Desks & Standup Desks
Tablet Charging, Tablet/Chromebook Charging, Tablet/Chromebook Computer Charging Carts & Tablet Wall/Desk Charging Boxes
Mobile Marker, Mobile Glass Marker, Wall-Mounted Porcelain Marker & Wall-Mounted Marker Boards
Double-Sided Magnetic, Mobile Room Dividing Whiteboards & Mobile Magnetic Whiteboard Room Dividers w/Mesh

For more information about Luxor – H. Wilson products, and to make a purchase, please visit our Luxor – H. Wilson Department at QSource.com. You may also contact us by phone (800-966-6020), email, or via our Web site.

Thursday, March 31, 2016

Top 12 Advantages of Vision Engineering’s Eyepiece-Less Stereo Microscopes

Vision Engineering offers a supreme ergonomic advantage. Using their advanced technology, such as Vision Engineering’s Eyepiece-less Stereo Microscopes, increases user comfort and leads to higher levels of accuracy and efficiency. With that in mind, here are the Top 12 Advantages of Vision Engineering’s Eyepiece-Less Stereo Microscopes:

Reduces strain by liberating users from a fixed working position
Allows for natural upright body posture, which increases user comfort
Provides an entirely natural view of the subject by allowing ambient light to enter the eyes
Allows users to wear prescription or safety glasses
Next to no set-up required, which means no fiddly eyepieces to configure for each user

Eyepiece-less technology provides users with better peripheral vision for tasks requiring hand-eye coordination
Enhanced 3D depth perception via freedom of head movement allows stunning image quality
Comfortable operators equals greater levels of accuracy for longer periods of time
Minimizes strain-related injuries and/or healthcare costs associated with prolonged microscope use
Superior performance improves fault detection and reduces costly mistakes
Happy workers are productive workers
Show your customers you have the best inspection capabilities and gain the competitive advantage

QSource.com carries a complete line of Vision Engineering products, including their eyepiece-less Mantis series of stereo microscopes.

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

Stay Grounded w/Transforming Technologies ESD Socks

Transforming Technologies continues to develop new, innovative ESD protection products. Their new ESD Socks provide an effective way to ground personnel if wrist straps are not an option.

Transforming Technologies ESD Socks are meant to be worn with ESD shoes and ESD flooring. ESD socks provide good contact between the user and ESD footwear, which is needed for a proper path-to-ground. Transforming Technologies’ socks have conductive hotspots woven into the ball and heel to ensure a strong connection to the skin. (For a system to be effective, ESD flooring and footwear must have a low enough resistance to allow voltage from operator to flow to ground.)

Manufactured with polyester, spandex, and conductive yarn, these ESD socks have a resistance of less than 103 (on the gray heel and toe hotspots) and are available from QSource.com in small (up to size 8), medium (8-12), and large (12+) sizes.

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Waterloo Industries Heavy-Duty Toolboxes & More Now at Q Source

Are you looking for heavy-duty, professional-quality toolboxes, workbenches, or other storage-related products? We suggest checking out our newest addition to QSource.com, Waterloo Industries.

Waterloo Industries was founded in 1922 as a manufacturer of valve spring compressors, but when a tool box they created to carry samples of their valve spring compressor gained great interest, they soon became focused on creating high-quality, durable toolboxes of all kinds. Today, their products include:

Tool Chests
Tool Cabinets
Hand Tool Boxes
Utility Carts
Project Centers
Bulk Storage
Workbenches
Accessories and more...

Waterloo products are used in a number of industries (such as maintenance & repair, industrial & manufacturing, vehicle service & repair, and career & technical education) and are intelligently designed to meet the rigors of professional use. Many Waterloo products offer extensive warranties and are made in the USA.

Please visit our Waterloo Industries Department at QSource.com for more information and to purchase one of these durable, easy-to-use storage solutions today. You may also contact us by phone (800-966-6020) or email.

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