The Basics of IPC-A-610 Certification

The IPC-A-610 certification is a requirement throughout the medical, aerospace, and military manufacturing industry as a condition of employment, and those who obtain it put themselves at a crucial advantage to obtain or retain their position. This certification – otherwise known as Acceptability of Electronic Assemblies – is the most widely used standard published by the IPC, and it sets the standard for what is or is not acceptable during assembly of printed circuit boards. Read on to get to know the basics of IPC-A-610 certification with EEI Manufacturing.

There are many variables that factor into electronics assembly, such as the long-term reliability or aesthetic of a product, in addition to its many components as well. Within all that, there is a fair amount of scope for something to be labelled as good, bad, or something in between. The IPC-A-610 standard is comprised of three classes that are distinguished by certain principles and qualities.

Class 1

As the lowest class in electronics assembly, it is the most lenient with potential defects. Products in this class are typically used in cheap, low-consequence items like children’s toys. Though expected to function as expected, they also have a shorter lifespan. As such, products utilizing class 1 electronics assemblies are priced fairly to justify the quality.

Class 2

This class of IPC standards is typically the most requested for non-critical electronic assemblies because products may not be the highest quality but are sure to have longer and more effective reliability. Much like the first class, this one also allows for some degree of imperfections, such as “off pad” component placement that will still function appropriately but fail to look perfect.

Class 3

As the highest standard in electronics assemblies, class 3 requires the best workmanship in terms of quality, durability, and neatness. Due to the stringent requirements that are in place, class 3 is typically required for many high-end electronic products and other critical assemblies. Predictably, the highest quality assemblies come at a premium. Perfect component placement will require longer build time and additional cost.

Who benefits from IPC-A-610 Certification?

Whether you choose to become a specialist (CIS) or trainer (CIT), the IPC-A-610 certification is a guaranteed way to show the world your vast knowledge of electronics assembly and soldering. This training was created for anyone responsible for ensuring reliability and quality in electronic assemblies and earning an IPC-A-610 certification bestows a working knowledge of PCB assembly standards that will ensure the quality of your own work or that of others.

Being certified means being officially recognized by the IPC as possessing a thorough understanding of the document, as well as a high level of proficiency in its application. Upon certification, you are expected to recertify every two years, though a 90-day grace period is available after expiration. For this reason, the IPC-A-610 certification remains an incredibly useful tool for those new to the field as well as seasoned veterans.

EEI Manufacturing is your leading resource for thorough and practical IPC training. We understand that quality must be integrated into every step of the manufacturing process, and we provide the training to manufacturing companies that allows them to achieve a high-quality end product and maintain a competitive position in the marketplace. Our full catalog of IPC courses is available on our website, including each course syllabus for full detail. Contact EEI Manufacturing today to learn more and get started on your path to certification.