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Tin Whiskers
http://www.x404.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=17112		 Page 1 of 1
Author:  belchingmatt [ Sun Sep 02, 2012 9:20 am ]
Post subject:  Tin Whiskers
Tin Whiskers

Quote:
Tin Whiskers grow from pure-tin-plated surfaces. They are microscopic metal fibers that cause electrical short-circuits and failures.

There is no cure for them, except to not use pure-tin-plated electronic components. This was known over fifty years ago, but the present generation lost that knowledge until recently.

The failures that they are now causing have made them a clear and present danger to the technological foundation and infrastructure of the entire world.


I first read about this some time ago, but have been seeing more and more references of late.
Author:  davrosG5 [ Sun Sep 02, 2012 9:25 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Tin Whiskers
Interesting, although I thought from the thread title that this was going to be about a robot cat.
Author:  ardubbleyu [ Sun Sep 02, 2012 10:36 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Tin Whiskers
Isn't it something to do with some EU regulation banning lead in solder?
Author:  belchingmatt [ Sun Sep 02, 2012 11:12 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Tin Whiskers
ardubbleyu wrote:
Isn't it something to do with some EU regulation banning lead in solder?


Yes, but apparently some industries such as aerospace, military and medicine may be exempt. If that is the case then the problem is well known and acknowledged (read the NASA links from the article).

Lead isn't something that is created like Plutonium or Agent Orange. It's use and disposal just lead to a redistribution around the planet. Freeing from ore and resultant accumulation may be a localised problem which can be managed, but as these regs appear to be environmental concerns, I wonder what the comparative costs are for multiple replacement products with regards to production, distribution and disposal.

I suppose it will help to maintain the capitalist model.
Author:  jonbwfc [ Sun Sep 02, 2012 12:01 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Tin Whiskers
I appreciate it's cynical, but I do often wonder if we'd get some of the legislation we did if the extra cost it imposed upon the public was imparted to some degree directly on the people who are passing it.

Jon
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