ECSS-Q-ST-70-61 is now active and applies to new ESA projects. Ongoing ESA projects can still be produced according to ECSS-Q-ST-70-08 and ECSS-Q-ST-70-38, as mentioned in the relevant contracts.

On the operator certification course in manual soldering, work is done according to ESA requirements for assembly and soldering of electronic components, including the factors that affect the quality and reliability of manual soldering. When the participants have passed a practical and theoretical test, an approved ESA certificate is issued, which is valid for two years.

The basis for the course is the ESA and European space specification ECSS-Q-ST-70-61: 'High reliability assembly for surface mount and through hole connections'.

The course is of interest to anyone who needs - or wants - to be able to demonstrate a documentable knowledge of manual soldering and assembly processes.

Contents:

• The requirements of ECSS-Q-ST-70-61
• PCB and design
• Solderability on components and printed circuit boards
• Soldering requirements
• Tools and equipment
• Individual theoretical and practical test (certification)

Participation in the course requires a minimum of two years' experience in hand soldering. Before the first day of the course, participants must also send the following to HYTEK:

• Statement of experience documenting a minimum of two years of experience in hand soldering (download here)
• Recognized vision test that meets the ESA requirements (download here)
• Completed ESA Course Application Form (download here)

The course is intended for production engineers, quality engineers, designers and operators.