J-STD-001D is a process document that establishes a set of criteria for the manufacturing of electronic assemblies to a degree of reliability dependent upon the end use of the product. The criteria encompass a broad spectrum of products from general purpose electronics (designated as Class 1), to dedicated service electronics
(designated Class 2), and to high performance electronics (designated Class 3). To ensure consistent levels of quality during the manufacture of a product, the document focuses on a process control methodology being incorporated into the manufacturing process.

The EMPF offers training in the use of this standard and its associated methodology in the J-STD-001D Certified IPC Specialist (CIS) course (Figure 6-1 inset). This course consists of five modules that can be taught over a one to five day duration (depending upon the number of modules chosen). The first module is mandatory and all subsequent modules are optional and dependent upon the successful completion of the first.

• Module One: covers general requirements, materials, components, cleanliness, assembly, and soldering process criteria. Successful completion is dependent upon passing an open book exam, as well as, a closed book exam with a combined average of 70% or better and no single score less than 60%.
  
  
• Module Two: (optional) covers terminals and wire connections and includes (but is not limited to) specifications regarding wire preparation, wire wrap, soldering and inspection of stranded wire to various terminal connections.
  
  
• Module Three: (optional) covers installation, soldering, and inspection of through-hole connections (both supported and unsupported).
  
  
• Module Four: (optional) covers mounting, soldering, and inspection requirements for surface mount components.
  
  
• Module Five: (optional) covers inspection criteria.

All the optional modules require that the student pass an open book exam with a score of 70% or better.

Students will learn the differences between the three classes of product, how to navigate the standard, how to interpret the requirements of the standard and become familiar with the terminology used. Workmanship skills assessment is used with modules two through four and inspection skills are developed through a practical exercise in module five. The student must perform wire and component preparation, and then hand solder (Figure 6-1) a variety of terminations. The soldered connections have to meet Class 3 requirements of the J-STD-001D. It is also required that half of the soldered connections be accomplished using lead-free solder.

Upon successful completion, the student will receive a certificate valid for two years from the date of issue in the areas where proficiency is demonstrated. The certification is a portable credential which is issued to the individual. Candidates for training in J-STD-001D may include (but are not limited to): assemblers, technicians, engineers, inspectors, or anyone involved in the manufacturing process who will not be training others (a separate course is taught for instructors).

Employees who attend this training program will be better equipped to apply an established regimen of criteria known for producing quality electrical and electronic assemblies within a manufacturing environment. For further information, please contact the EMPF registrar at 610.362.1295 or registrar@empf.org.