Reliability aspects of electronic devices for advanced requirements

Purpose – This paper aims to detail the qualification of alternative substrate materials and reliability aspects for quad flat no lead (QFN) packages for highly stressed electronic devices, e.g. for use in automotive applications.Design/methodology/approach – Detailed information is given on the advanced climatic and mechanical requirements that electronic devices have to withstand during life cycle testing to qualify for the automotive industry. Studies on the suitability of high‐temperature thermoplastics as substrate materials for printed circuit boards and the qualification of QFN packages for advanced requirements are described. In addition, information on cause‐effect relationships between thermal and vibration testing are given.Findings – With respect to adhesion of metallization on high‐temperature thermoplastics and the long‐term stability of the solder joints, these substrate materials offer potential for use in electronic devices for advanced requirements. In addition, the long‐term stability o...