The IPC-9241 standard is intended as a guideline in the proper preparation of a metallographic sample (microsection) of a printed board. The finished microsection is used for evaluating the quality of the laminate system and plated structures (e.g. PTHs and vias). Microsection sample preparation is regarded by many as a highly developed skill. The guidelines in this standard discuss the many variables and problems associated with the process from sample removal to micro-etch. The guidelines do not promote any one vendor’s process, but discuss the variables common to microsectioning. Number of pages 44. Released December 2016.
IPC-9241 Guidelines for Microsection Preparation
SCOPE
Microsection preparation is a process. These guidelines discuss the many variables and problems associated with the process from sample removal to micro-etch. The guidelines do not promote any one vendor’s process, but discuss the variables common to microsectioning.The process variables and problems are organized so the reader can research a specific issue or overview the variables of a process area.
Coupon Test Strip
Companies generally use a ‘‘home grown’’ or military conformance coupon for microsection inspection. IPC-2221 outlines the attributes a coupon test strip should exhibit based on the product type being built.
Preview the IPC-9241 table of contents .pdf file.
Developed by the Microsection Subcommittee (7-12) of the Testing Committee (7-10) of IPC. Users of this publication are encouraged to participate in the development of future revisions.
