Point Technologies Engineers New Ultrathin Probe Needle Coating Technology; Advancing Small Pitch Probe Design, Manufacturing and Quality Benefits
Point Technologies' ultrathin insulating coating provides several distinct advantages over conventional insulated tube-type needles


LA AURORA DE HEREDIA, COSTA RICA, January 14, 2009 /24-7PressRelease/ -- POINT TECHNOLOGIES, S.A., a leading manufacturer of probe needles used for semiconductor wafer testing, introduces a new, ultrathin coating technology that provides a protective insulation barrier on probe needle surfaces. This coating replaces the thick plastic tubes that are currently used.

Point Technologies' ultrathin insulating coating provides several distinct advantages over conventional insulated tube-type needles. First, it provides both an insulating as well as a protective coating to probe needle surfaces. The coating formulation provides excellent electrical insulation, superior strength, stable properties over a wide temperature range and protection from cleaning solvents and solder fluxes. It can be applied in an extremely thin layer of 0.1- 0.2 mil (0.0001-0.0002 inch or 0.0025-0.0050 millimeter). This advantage allows closer placement of probe needles and opens applications to smaller pitch and higher density probe card designs.

All of Point Technologies' coating advantages add up to time and cost savings. Quality is also enhanced by eliminating the application of insulated tubes as there is less chance of damage to the probe tip during assembly. "Probe needle accuracy is extremely vital to semiconductor testing," said Marco Bruno, General Manager of Point Technologies. "Our new coating provides the probe needle integrity and durability semiconductor chip manufacturers demand."

Point Technologies utilizes a precision, electrochemical pointing process in the manufacture of its probe needles. It provides etching of small diameter wires and achieves extremely tight tolerance tapers with sub-micron points. Its new ultrathin insulating coating process will help customers reach the next performance level in probe card technology and manufacturing quality.

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Press Release Contact Information:

Karol Garro
Point Technologies
Customer Representative
P.O. Box 52-3006
Zona Franca Barreal, La Aurora de Heredia
Costa Rica 3006
Voice: 215-343-6565
Website: Visit Our Website