A versatile microfocus x-ray analysis tool for both manual and programmed inspection of electronic components and PCB assemblies.

The Hawk has been developed in direct response to customers requirements using the latest materials technology and X-Tek’s 20 years of experience in the design and manufacture of x-ray apparatus.

Maximum Magnification - 6000x

An ultra thin output window design enables the sample to be placed safely within 250 microns of the focal spot giving up to 6000X system magnification. Thanks to the Hawk’s unique pyramid transmission x-ray target, the magnification of detail on large substrates and PCBs remains at an impressive level even at steep viewing angles.

High Resolution - Micron Level Features

A tightly controlled microfocus x-ray spot and the latest CCD imager technology ensure that the Hawk produces sharp images of micron level features even in the most challenging samples. The single pole electron 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.

High Penetration - 160kV

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 substantial carbon fibre tray moves under manual or programme control at up to 60mm/sec in both X and Y directions making the Hawk highly suitable for batch production of smaller components and assemblies. Trays loaded with samples onto custom fixturing can be snapped in and inspected using a vast library of machine vision functions linked together in quick and easy to compile routines.

With the tray replaced by two precision programmable rotation axes and a custom sample fixture, the Hawk becomes the obvious choice for solder joint inspection on all PCB assemblies, including double sided, up to 310mm x 500mm, producing sharp high magnification images from virtually 360 degrees around the PCB.

For component package inspection, standard JEDEC sample trays or complete lots of IC strips can be located into the Hawk’s tray, dedicated software tools measure die attach void percentages and wire sweep ratios. For closer examination, individual strips and tubes can be rotated to expose delamination and wire loop problems.

The Hawk 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 and 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.

The Hawk incorporates the most advanced image capture and analysis software running under Windows 2000 on the latest specification processing hardware. The resultant data can be saved or exported directly to MS Word, Excel and any other com compliant package, photo quality printouts are made available on a range of inkjet, laser or thermal printers.

Processing hardware and software are both controlled in-house so that advances in technology can be passed on to the user without delay. IXS includes as standard, special functions for inspection of semiconductor package voids, wire bonding, BGA solder bumps and also Microsoft Visual Basic as a scripting/macro language, allowing rapid software customisation to suit specific inspection requirements.

Footprint Efficient

The compact Xi source releases more of the Hawk’s volume for sample manipulation, providing a generous 20” x 14” scan area in a system footprint un-challenged by any other “open tube” x-ray system.

Low Ownership Cost

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 lower than a sealed tube system.