12v picotlynx, 3a: non-isolated dc-dc power modules, Data sheet – GE Industrial Solutions 12V PicoTLynx 3A User Manual
Page 24: Surface mount information
GE
Data Sheet
12V PicoTLynx
TM
3A: Non-Isolated DC-DC Power Modules
4.5Vdc –14Vdc input; 0.59Vdc to 5.5Vdc output; 3A Output Current
May 2, 2013
©2013 General Electric Company. All rights reserved.
Page 24
Surface Mount Information
Pick and Place
The 12V PicoTLynx
TM
3A modules use an open frame
construction and are designed for a fully automated assembly 
process. The modules are fitted with a label designed to provide 
a large surface area for pick and place operations. The label 
meets all the requirements for surface mount processing, as 
well as safety standards, and is able to withstand reflow 
temperatures of up to 300
o
C. The label also carries product
information such as product code, serial number and the 
location of manufacture. 
Nozzle Recommendations
The module weight has been kept to a minimum by using open 
frame construction. Variables such as nozzle size, tip style, 
vacuum pressure and placement speed should be considered to 
optimize this process. The minimum recommended inside 
nozzle diameter for reliable operation is 3mm. The maximum 
nozzle outer diameter, which will safely fit within the allowable 
component spacing, is 7 mm. 
Lead Free Soldering
The 12V PicoTLynx
TM
3A modules are lead-free (Pb-free) and
RoHS compliant and fully compatible in a Pb-free soldering 
process. Failure to observe the instructions below may result in 
the failure of or cause damage to the modules and can 
adversely affect long-term reliability. 
Pb-free Reflow Profile
Power Systems will comply with J-STD-020 Rev. C 
(Moisture/Reflow Sensitivity Classification for Nonhermetic Solid 
State Surface Mount Devices) for both Pb-free solder profiles 
and MSL classification procedures. This standard provides a 
recommended forced-air-convection reflow profile based on the 
volume and thickness of the package (table 4-2). The suggested 
Pb-free solder paste is Sn/Ag/Cu (SAC). The recommended linear 
reflow profile using Sn/Ag/Cu solder is shown in Fig. 51.
Soldering outside of the recommended profile requires testing to 
verify results and performance. 
MSL Rating
The 12V PicoTLynx
TM
3A modules have a MSL rating of 2a.
Storage and Handling
The recommended storage environment and handling 
procedures for moisture-sensitive surface mount packages is 
detailed in J-STD-033 Rev. A (Handling, Packing, Shipping and 
Use of Moisture/Reflow Sensitive Surface Mount Devices). 
Moisture barrier bags (MBB) with desiccant are required for MSL 
ratings of 2 or greater. These sealed packages should not be 
broken until time of use. Once the original package is broken, 
the floor life of the product at conditions of 
≤ 30°C and 60%
relative humidity varies according to the MSL rating (see J-STD-
033A). The shelf life for dry packed SMT packages will be a 
minimum of 12 months from the bag seal date, when stored at 
the following conditions: < 40° C, < 90% relative humidity. 
Per J-STD-020 Rev. C
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
Reflow Time (Seconds)
R
efl
ow
T
em
p
(°
C
)
Heating Zone
 1°C/Second
Peak Temp 260°C
* Min. Time Above 235°C
 15 Seconds
*Time Above 217°C
60 Seconds
Cooling 
Zone
Figure 51. Recommended linear reflow profile using 
Sn/Ag/Cu solder. 
 
Post Solder Cleaning and Drying Considerations
Post solder cleaning is usually the final circuit-board 
assembly process prior to electrical board testing. The 
result of inadequate cleaning and drying can affect both 
the reliability of a power module and the testability of the 
finished circuit-board assembly. For guidance on 
appropriate soldering, cleaning and drying procedures, 
refer to Board Mounted Power Modules: Soldering and 
Cleaning Application Note (AN04-001).