Nikon XT V 160 Electronics X-ray System

A tightly controlled nanofocus X-ray spot and the latest digital imaging technology ensure that the XT V 160 produces sharp images of micron level features even in the most challenging samples. The advanced electromagnetic lens is computer controlled to ensure that the image remains in focus at all kV settings and the target does not burn when using high power.

A combination of tilt and rotate is required to give the best unobstructed view of BGA balls. The next step is to scan along the rows to inspect for failures. With standard manipulators, this necessitates the simultaneous operation of 3 axes - requiring considerable skill on behalf of the operator. X-Tek’s true parallel tracking maintains the X and Y axes parallel to the BGA, allowing the rows to be scanned using a single X or Y axis. This feature is enabled as part of the advanced system control concept.

The operator chooses a region of interest (ROI) to inspect and positions it in the centre of the screen. Under any combination of rotate, tilt and magnification, the ROI remains completely locked into the center of the field of view. The true concentric imaging feature operates over the entire scan area of the manipulator. The ROI stays locked in, regardless of the sample’s position on the manipulator table, ideal for inspecting around single or multiple BGA balls.

The transmission target design fitted to the XT V160’s X-ray source has an ultra thin output window that enables samples to be safely placed within 250 microns of the focal spot providing up to 6000x system magnification. The patented X-Tek Xi “Open Tube” X-ray source is smaller than any other design and allows X-ray images of fine detail in thick and dense samples to be seen with ease. This high energy vacuum de-mountable unit allows views at steep angles through solder joints and heatsinks without ever running out of energy.

The XT V 160 incorporates the most advanced image capture and analysis software running on the latest specification processing hardware. The resulting data can be saved or exported directly any COM compliant
package e.g. Word, Excel, Access and SPC systems . Processing hardware
and software are both controlled in-house so that advances in technology
can be passed on to the user without delay. Inspect-X includes special functions for inspection of semiconductor package voids, wire bonding and BGA solder bumps. It also makes use of Microsoft VBA as a scripting/macro language, allowing rapid software customization to suit specific inspection requirements.

X-Tek’s open X-ray tube development has driven down the size, weight and cost of the system whilst maintaining superior quality and performance. By introducing a patented zero-maintenance cable-less HT generator, the preventative maintenance has been dramatically reduced making the long term cost of ownership considerably lower than any comparable system.

And with a footprint of only two square metres, XT V 160’s volume provides a generous 400x400mm (16”x16”) scan area in a system.

The XT V160 has been designed for ease-of-use without compromising performance.

Fully adjustable shelves ensure that all system controls are at the
operator’s fingertips whether standing or sitting, independent of the
person’s height.

The Windows control screen is laid out logically with all regularly used
functions in view on single click buttons while movement of the precision joysticks gives a direct and logical response from both sample manipulator and X-ray image. The system is highly intuitive to operate and as a result, operator training time is significantly reduced.

XT V 160 is pre-configured to turn the system into a CT system. This way 3D images can be recontructed to gain even more insight into components and sub-assemblies.