Projects under this Program
HFR-Free Signal Integrity - Chair: Steve Hall (Intel), Co-chair: David Senk (Cisco)
HFR-Free PCB Material - Chair: John Davignon (Intel)
Background
Several major OEMs are evaluating a conversion to HFR (halogenated flame retardant)-free PCB materials. While mobile phone manufacturers are well along in this effort, the next area of impact will likely be driven by high-volume consumer computer applications.
An industry-wide conversion to HFR-free materials faces numerous challenges:
- Reliability of materials with alternative flame retardants has not been fully qualified.
- Complete "technology envelopes" or technical specifications have not been established for various product applications.
- Incomplete design knowledge in segments of the supply chain increases risk of conversion issues.
- A rapid complete conversion of computer products will have a major impact on the supply chain and needs to be coordinated.
INEMI is working with several of our major OEM members to assess the feasibility of a broad conversion to HFR-Free PCB materials. While IPC and JEDEC are developing halogen-free standard specifications and numerous companies have compliant materials, significant questions remain regarding overall readiness to make a transition to these materials. For example:
- What electrical properties are needed to meet high-speed signaling requirements?
- With many HFR-free materials showing higher stiffness, what mechanical properties are needed to ensure system reliability isn't degraded?
- Can design modifications reduce sensitivity to electrical and material properties?
Statement of Work
Statement of Work: INEMI HFR-Free Technology Leadership Program (Version 5.0; May 15, 2009)
Presentations Papers
White Paper: INEMI Timeline for HFR-Free Electronics & PVC-Free Cabling (October 2010)
Symposium on Global ICT Environmental Initiatives (October 27-28, 2009, Brussels)
INEMI paper on HFR-free receives a best paper award from SMTA China (August 2009)
Position Statement
INEMI Position Statement on the Definition of "Low-Halogen" Electronics (BFR/CFR/PVC-Free) (07/01/09)
Press Releases
INEMI HFR-Free Leadership Program Launches with 22 Companies Participating (08/03/09)
INEMI Members Release Position Statement on the Definition of “Low Halogen” for Electronic Products (07/01/09)
INEMI Organizes New Program to Support Supply Chain Conversion to HFR-Free PCBs (03/31/09)
For Additional Information
[email protected]