Latest news with #RoHS
Time Business News
a day ago
- Business
- Time Business News
Navigating ITAR and RoHS Compliance in PCB Assembly
PCB assemblies are the backbone of modern electronics, powering everything from smartphones to satellites. Yet, behind every successful circuit board assembly lies a complex web of regulations that manufacturers must navigate to ensure both legal operation and market access. In the United States, two of the most critical compliance pillars for turnkey PCB assembly are ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) and RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances). For PCB assembly providers in the USA, meeting these standards is not just a box-ticking exercise—it is a fundamental requirement for participating in defense, aerospace, and global electronics markets. Compliance impacts every stage of the process, from material sourcing to final shipment. This blog unpacks what ITAR and RoHS mean for circuit board assembly, highlights their key differences, outlines best practices, and addresses common challenges faced by U.S.-based manufacturers. ITAR stands for International Traffic in Arms Regulations, a set of U.S. government rules that control the export and import of defense-related articles and services. The U.S. Department of State, specifically the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC), administers ITAR. Its primary goal is to prevent sensitive military technologies from falling into the wrong hands, safeguarding national security. PCB assemblies designed for military, aerospace, and defense applications are often classified as ITAR-controlled. This includes, but is not limited to: Satellite boards Guidance systems RF (radio frequency) modules Any circuit board assembly that is specifically designed for use in defense articles listed on the United States Munitions List (USML) is subject to ITAR. Even technical data, such as fabrication drawings and netlists, can be ITAR-controlled. Registration: Companies must register with the DDTC before engaging in ITAR-related manufacturing or export activities. Companies must register with the DDTC before engaging in ITAR-related manufacturing or export activities. Documentation: Detailed records of all transactions, technical data transfers, and physical movements of ITAR-controlled items must be maintained for audit purposes. Detailed records of all transactions, technical data transfers, and physical movements of ITAR-controlled items must be maintained for audit purposes. Secure Data Handling: Only U.S. persons may access ITAR-controlled data, and secure IT systems are required to prevent unauthorized access. Only U.S. persons may access ITAR-controlled data, and secure IT systems are required to prevent unauthorized access. Export Licensing: Manufacturing or exporting ITAR-controlled PCBs often requires obtaining specific licenses from the U.S. government. Manufacturing or exporting ITAR-controlled PCBs often requires obtaining specific licenses from the U.S. government. Facility and Labor Requirements: Facilities may need export-restricted zones, and all involved personnel must be U.S. persons. This impacts hiring, training, and facility access policies. RoHS stands for Restriction of Hazardous Substances. Originating as an EU directive, RoHS restricts the use of ten hazardous materials—including lead, cadmium, mercury, and certain phthalates—in electrical and electronic equipment. The aim is to reduce environmental impact and health risks associated with electronic waste. Lead-Free Soldering: PCB assembly lines must use lead-free solder alloys, such as tin-silver-copper, and avoid fluxes containing restricted substances. PCB assembly lines must use lead-free solder alloys, such as tin-silver-copper, and avoid fluxes containing restricted substances. Material Selection: All base materials, finishes (e.g., ENIG), and components must be RoHS-compliant. Suppliers must provide documentation confirming this compliance. All base materials, finishes (e.g., ENIG), and components must be RoHS-compliant. Suppliers must provide documentation confirming this compliance. Labelling and Testing: Each shipment of RoHS-compliant circuit boards should include a Certificate of Conformance and clear labelling. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzers may be used to verify the absence of restricted substances. Each shipment of RoHS-compliant circuit boards should include a Certificate of Conformance and clear labelling. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzers may be used to verify the absence of restricted substances. Vendor Compliance: Manufacturers must ensure that all components and materials sourced are RoHS-compliant, often requiring supplier audits and documentation checks. Although RoHS began as an EU regulation, it has been adopted in various forms worldwide. In the U.S., states like California have implemented their own RoHS laws, and the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) directive also influences domestic practices. U.S. manufacturers follow RoHS to access international markets and meet global customer expectations. Aspect ITAR RoHS Scope National security, defense, military Environmental health and safety Applicability Military, aerospace, defense sectors Consumer, industrial, all electronics Enforcement U.S. Department of State (DDTC) EU authorities, U.S. state agencies Penalties Severe fines, export bans, prosecution Fines, product recalls, market bans Overlap Possible for military boards exported abroad—may require both ITAR and RoHS compliance (e.g., lead-free military PCB) ITAR: Registration with DDTC, restricted access zones, and secure data systems are mandatory for ITAR-sensitive work. RoHS: Dedicated lead-free manufacturing lines, compliant soldering processes, and regular equipment audits are essential. RoHS: Material declarations, Certificates of Conformance, and batch-level traceability records must be maintained. ITAR: Controlled technical data, access logs, and export documentation are required for every transaction and transfer. ERP/MRP systems help track materials, manage documentation, and ensure traceability for both ITAR and RoHS requirements. Automated reporting aids in conflict mineral tracking and regulatory audits. Always verify a supplier's ITAR registration and RoHS certification. For ITAR-sensitive projects, selecting a U.S.-based turnkey PCB assembly provider is critical to avoid unauthorized foreign access and ensure full regulatory compliance. A U.S. defense contractor requires an RF module for a missile guidance system. Using an offshore supplier could risk unauthorized access to ITAR-controlled designs, resulting in severe penalties. The workflow involves design, secure data transfer, U.S.-person-only assembly, and detailed documentation from design to delivery—all within a registered, secure U.S. facility. A consumer electronics OEM sources components from multiple vendors. To achieve RoHS compliance, the procurement team conducts supplier audits, collects Certificates of Conformance, and ensures lead-free soldering during assembly. Regular testing and documentation are maintained to satisfy EU market requirements. Using Non-Compliant Components: Always verify supplier certifications and test materials if necessary. Always verify supplier certifications and test materials if necessary. Exporting ITAR-Controlled Designs Without Licenses: Never share technical data or products internationally without proper DDTC licensing. Never share technical data or products internationally without proper DDTC licensing. Failing to Document RoHS Conformity: Maintain up-to-date records and Certificates of Conformance for all shipments. Maintain up-to-date records and Certificates of Conformance for all shipments. Relying on Unverified Vendors: Work only with certified, U.S.-based partners for ITAR-sensitive projects and demand RoHS documentation from all suppliers. Integrate Compliance Early: Address ITAR and RoHS requirements during the design phase (DFX approach) to avoid costly redesigns or delays. Address ITAR and RoHS requirements during the design phase (DFX approach) to avoid costly redesigns or delays. Maintain a Vetted Supplier List: Regularly audit and update approved vendors to ensure ongoing compliance. Regularly audit and update approved vendors to ensure ongoing compliance. Train Teams on Regulations: Provide ongoing training for engineering, procurement, and quality teams on evolving ITAR and RoHS rules. Provide ongoing training for engineering, procurement, and quality teams on evolving ITAR and RoHS rules. Monitor Legislative Updates: Stay informed about changes, such as ITAR amendments or RoHS 3 updates, to remain compliant and competitive. Navigating ITAR and RoHS compliance in PCB assembly is not just about avoiding penalties—it is about ensuring access to critical markets, protecting sensitive technologies, and supporting environmental responsibility. For OEMs and manufacturers, working with certified, experienced domestic partners like Star Engineering provides peace of mind and a distinct competitive advantage. Star Engineering offers turnkey PCB assembly solutions that meet the highest standards of ITAR and RoHS compliance. Connect with the Star Engineering team today to ensure every circuit board assembly meets the requirements for quality, security, and global market access. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Associated Press
11-07-2025
- Automotive
- Associated Press
Slkor Launches High-Voltage Automotive-Grade LDO Regulator SL4275 with Integrated Reset Function
Slkor offers alternative replacement - SL4275 - for Infineon TLE4275 55V, 800mA Linear Voltage Regulators. Slkor today introduces the SL4275, a robust 5V low-dropout ( LDO ) voltage regulator designed for automotive and industrial systems requiring high input voltage tolerance. This monolithic 5-pin TO-package device supports inputs up to 55V and delivers 450mA of output current, featuring integrated short-circuit, over-temperature, and undervoltage reset protection. Engineered for reliability in harsh environments, the SL4275 targets applications such as infotainment, ADAS, body control modules, and industrial power systems including power tools and battery packs. Critical Performance for Demanding Applications In automotive scenarios, stable voltage regulation during cold-crank conditions and load transients is essential. The SL4275 ensures ±2% output accuracy (5.0V nominal) with ultra-low quiescent current (80µA), minimizing power drain in always-on systems. Its dedicated reset function monitors output stability: when VQ falls below 4.65V, the RQ pin asserts a low-level reset signal, with delay time programmable via an external capacitor (D pin). This safeguards microcontrollers and communication interfaces during brown-out events. Comprehensive Protection for System Integrity The SL4275 integrates multilayer protection to handle automotive electrical hazards: ● Short-to-battery/ground resilience via current-limiting control and thermal shutdown ● Reverse current blocking through internal MOS design ● Stability assurance with output capacitors (CQ ≥ 22µF, ESR ≤ 5Ω) ● Robust trace compensation is achieved using an input capacitor (CI), enabling reliable operation across -40°C to +125°C ambient temperatures. Enhanced Design Flexibility The regulator's low dropout voltage maximizes efficiency in battery-connected systems. Its reset delay programmability supports custom power sequencing, while the 5-pin TO package (TO-220/TO-252 variants) enables flexible thermal management. The device meets RoHS compliance and is optimized for space-constrained industrial designs including e-bikes and telematics controllers. Product Availability The SL4275 is now available for sampling, providing a cost-effective alternative to Infineon's TLE4275. Slkor offers full technical support for design integration targeting automotive-qualified power solutions. About SLKOR： SLKOR, headquartered in Shenzhen, China, is a rapidly emerging national high-tech enterprise in the power semiconductor sector. With R&D centers in Beijing and Suzhou, its core technical team originates from Tsinghua University. As an innovator in silicon carbide (SiC) power device technology, SLKOR's products are widely used in new energy vehicles, photovoltaic power generation, industrial IoT, and consumer electronics, providing critical semiconductor solutions to over 10,000 clients globally. The company delivers more than 2 billion units annually, with its SiC MOSFETs and 5th-generation ultrafast recovery SBD diodes setting industry benchmarks in efficiency ratio and thermal stability. SLKOR holds over 100 invention patents and offers 2,000+ product models, continually expanding its IP portfolio across power devices, sensors, and power management ICs. Certifications including ISO 9001, EU RoHS/REACH, and CP65 compliance demonstrate the company's steadfast commitment to technological innovation, lean manufacturing, and sustainable development. Media Contact Company Name: Shenzhen SLKOR Micro Semicon Co., Ltd. Contact Person: Support Email: Send Email Phone: +86 13008868302 Address:2010, Block A, Bairuida Building Vanke City Community Bantian Avenue, Longgang District City: Shenzhen Country: China Website: Press Release Distributed by To view the original version on ABNewswire visit: Slkor Launches High-Voltage Automotive-Grade LDO Regulator SL4275 with Integrated Reset Function
Business Wire
10-07-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Tivoli Lighting Expands illumiwall™ Series with New Static White Light Sheets for Dynamic Backlighting
IRVINE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--With more than 50 years of innovation and linear lighting leadership, Tivoli Lighting introduces its illumiwall™ 2.0 Static White light sheets to deliver uniform illumination for seamless backlighting of semi-translucent surfaces such as acrylic, fabric or stone with field flexibility. The 12' x 24' dimmable light sheet is available in 3000K, 4000K and 5000K with a high 90+ CRI rating. The illumiwall™ 2.0 Static White light sheet is fully customizable. Integrated terminal ports allow for easy power access from any side, while built-in ½' stand-offs provide consistent spacing with a load rating of 220 lbs. per sheet of support to ensure structural integrity. Each illumiwall™ sheet delivers up to 1925 lumens using only 20 watts, operating at 24V DC. For quick and easy installations, the illumiwall™ light sheets feature a 3M peel-and-stick backing. For precise onsite fitting, the sheets can easily be cut into 1' x 1' units. The illumiwall™ light sheet has an IP54 rating for damp locations and is cULus, RoHS and CE listed. It performs in temperatures ranging from 20°C (4°F) to 45°C (113°F) with a 50,000-hour performance life and a three-year warranty. As a complement to the illumiwall™ 2.0 Static White series, Tivoli Lighting also offers RGBW to match almost any lighting criteria. For more information about the illumiwall™ 2.0 Static White light sheet from Tivoli Lighting, call 714-957-6101 or visit Tivoli Lighting can also be found on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram. About Tivoli With more than 50 years of innovation and experience, Tivoli continues to lead the linear lighting industry with its award-winning architectural and theater LED-based products that offer improved appearance, quality, performance, and energy saving advantages. Tivoli's team continues to strive to incorporate innovation, color quality, and longevity of life into every product it manufactures and engineers for high quality performance and extended service life.
Business Wire
09-07-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Z2Data Acquires AMSYS to Strengthen Supply Chain Risk Management Platform
SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Z2Data, a leading provider of supply chain risk management (SCRM) solutions, today announced the acquisition of AMSYS, a German company with a subsidiary in Romania recognized for its expertise in life cycle management, obsolescence risk mitigation, and compliance data automation. The acquisition strengthens Z2Data's mission to deliver a unified SCRM platform that empowers organizations to proactively reduce risk across product development, sourcing, and regulatory operations. Z2Data CEO Mohammad Ahmad said: "AMSYS has built a strong reputation helping companies manage risk through structured tools and processes. Joining forces expands our presence in Europe and strengthens our ability to deliver end-to-end solutions that help customers act faster and manage risk more effectively. We are excited about what we will build together and warmly welcome the AMSYS team to the Z2Data family.' Bolstering Risk Intelligence Across the Product Life Cycle Founded in 2014, AMSYS has built a strong presence in the aerospace, defense, railway and transportation as well as automation, medical and electronics industries by helping organizations manage product life cycle, obsolescence and compliance risk. Its Life Cycle Management (LCM) Client is a widely used solution that delivers life cycle data, risk identification, and advanced workflow-based case management—empowering cross-functional teams to mitigate disruptions before they occur. The integration of AMSYS's LCM Client application into Z2Data's platform will provide customers with a more complete picture of supply chain risk, including: Unified, end-to-end risk visibility Z2Data offers a comprehensive single-platform solution—covering part-to-site risk mapping, real-time alerts, sub-tier supplier mapping, and PCN notifications. Integrating the AMSYS LCM Client enriches this ecosystem with lifecycle foresight, enabling deeper product level analysis combined with internal and site-level intelligence. Superior life cycle management data and analytics at scale Z2Data processes data on more than 1 billion components, 700,000+ suppliers, and 30,000 manufacturing sites, plus real-time event monitoring covering 120+ risk types. AMSYS brings domain expertise to contextualize this data within proactive obsolescence action plans and enhanced individual workflow capabilities. Powerful compliance and sustainability support Z2Data's offers compliance information and supply chain-wide ESG capabilities—including alerts for RoHS, REACH, Prop 65, UFLPA, and forced labor risks in sub-tier networks. AMSYS's structured workflows and compliance automation integration boosts responsiveness and audit readiness. AMSYS Co-Founders and Managing Directors Bjoern Bartels and Hans-Georg Dueck jointly said: 'AMSYS has always been dedicated to helping customers navigate the growing complexity of obsolescence risk, supply chain disruptions, and environmental compliance—particularly in highly regulated industries. Joining forces with Z2Data enables us to not only scale our mission significantly, but to embed predictive intelligence and actionable foresight across every layer of the global supply chain ecosystem. Together, we're excited to co-innovate advanced software solutions and targeted professional development programs that strengthen resilience and performance throughout the product life cycles of our existing and new customers.' Advancing the Future of Supply Chain Risk Management With geopolitical tensions, component shortages, and evolving regulations reshaping global supply chains, the need for end-to-end risk intelligence has never been greater. The combination of Z2Data and AMSYS delivers a best-in-class solution for companies seeking to operate with agility, foresight, and resilience. This acquisition reinforces Z2Data's position as the most comprehensive SCRM platform for product-driven organizations worldwide. About Z2Data Z2Data is an innovative technology company headquartered in Santa Clara, California, specializing in data-driven solutions for global supply chain resilience. Leveraging cutting-edge analytics, machine learning, and a vast network of verified data sources, Z2Data supports engineering, procurement, and compliance teams with actionable intelligence to drive smarter decision-making. The company's holistic approach helps organizations address part shortages, supplier instability, geopolitical exposure, and regulatory compliance at both strategic and operational levels. Z2Data is committed to empowering manufacturers to navigate uncertainty and build stronger, more sustainable supply chain ecosystems. About AMSYS GmbH AMSYS GmbH is a trusted German solution provider with a focus on extending the operational lifespan and compliance integrity of complex technical systems. With deep roots in regulated industries, AMSYS brings a systems-engineering mindset to digital obsolescence planning, technical risk documentation, and long-term component strategy. Beyond software, AMSYS fosters professional excellence through international standardization initiatives, industry working groups, and customized capability-building programs for its clients. The company stands for transparency, traceability, and long-term value in life cycle management.
India.com
08-07-2025
- Business
- India.com
Samsung QLED TVs Set New Standard for Home Entertainment with Quantum Dot Tech, Knox Security, and Eco Innovation
Gurugram, July 8, 2025 — Samsung, India's leading consumer electronics brand, is revolutionizing home entertainment with its latest range of QLED TVs, engineered with industry-first Real Quantum Dot technology. This innovation guarantees 100% color volume, delivering breathtaking picture quality with exceptional brightness, deep contrast, and stunning color precision—transforming movie nights, gaming marathons, and sports viewing into immersive experiences. What truly sets Samsung's QLED TVs apart is their eco-friendly, cadmium-free design. As the pioneer in developing cadmium-free Quantum Dot technology, Samsung continues to set benchmarks in sustainable engineering, offering TVs that are RoHS compliant and SGS certified, ensuring minimal environmental impact alongside unmatched performance. This commitment to safer, greener technology means consumers can enjoy brilliant visuals without compromise. Further elevating the experience, Samsung QLED TVs are secured by built-in Samsung Knox. This robust multi-layered security safeguards personal data at the hardware, platform, and service levels, offering peace of mind while streaming, browsing, or using smart apps. Recognized with the 'Real Quantum Dot Display' certification by TÜV Rheinland, Samsung QLED TVs not only meet but exceed global standards, cementing Samsung's leadership in premium display technology. Available across Samsung's official online store, exclusive brand outlets, and major retail partners nationwide, the new QLED TV lineup brings cinematic brilliance and smart living into more Indian homes than ever before. With its powerful blend of cutting-edge picture technology, eco-conscious design, and industry-grade security, Samsung is once again redefining the future of home entertainment—making it more vivid, secure, and sustainable for every household.
