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			Welcome to Microfocus Radioscopy! I specialize in the repair and maintenance of these types of X-Ray systems. These types of X-Ray systems are also refered to as "Realtime" X-Ray systems. Realtime basically means that you can see the image of the device that you are looking at under X-Ray in real time video mode. It basically looks like watching something move around on a security monitor.
		The devices being x-rayed can be moved around inside the x-ray enclosure. This is achieved by clamping the sample in a robotic manipulator. The manipulator basically moves the sample left, right, front, back, up and down. Most manipulator systems also include a tilt and rotate feature that is exceptionally helpful in diagnosing BGA type problems. The motion of the robotic unit is controlled via two large joystics mounted on the right side of the system cabinet. Magnification of the sample is achieved by moving the device closer to the x-ray tubehead. Some systems also allow the detection device (image intensifier) to be moved farther away from the tube which also increases magnification. These types of X-Ray systems are capable of a spatial resolution down to approximately 3um (microns). Such high resolution capabilities enable electronic semiconductor manufacturers to be able to diagnose failures that occur inside micro electronic devices. Detecting failures in a device that has been classified as defective is called "Failure Analysis". X-Ray is an extremely valuable failure analysis tool because it is non-destructive to the sample. Other forms of failure analysis consist of actually cutting into the devices or acid etching away encapsulation materials to reveal the source of the failure. Working in this field is extremely rewarding because in my opinion X-Ray is unique. These systems are complicated and in order to be effective in their repair one must have an extensive background in this field. I have been working on Microfocus X-Ray systems now for over 7 years and I am looking forward to continuing my work in this exciting field.