News

In an effort to further increase testing volume—and to ensure that all manufactured components may be tested to NEMA standards—STC Electronics has recently added a Despatch Ecosphere environmental chamber to it’s array of test equipment.

According to Electronics Technician Steve Lescalleet, utilizing this type of equipment is an essential part of the electronics manufacturing process.

“The environmental chambers put our products through temperature extremes that they’ll probably never see out in the field,” Lescalleet says. “If the units can work properly through this type of testing, there’s no question in our minds about whether they can withstand real-life extremes.”

Depending on customer requirements, the environmental testing performed by STC Electronics may include various tests that cover operating voltage, high and low temperatures, humidity, vibration, and shock (as defined by NEMA TS2 standards).

Lescalleet points out two primary objectives when it comes to performing these demanding environmental tests.

“The first objective is to find weaknesses in product design, and we do this kind of testing on prototypes so we can eliminate these weaknesses before we begin full-scale production. The second objective is find weak points in our assembly process so our production methods can be continually improved.”

So which of the many environmental tests performed by STC is the most demanding for electronics components?

“The tests related to low-temperature limits present the biggest challenge, no doubt,” says Lescalleet. “When a unit has been subjected to our low-temperature tests, they’ve essentially been through a really, really bad winter. And If a unit doesn’t pass the required tests, it doesn’t leave the plant.”

Design Engineer Les Vaughn recently celebrated his 20th anniversary with STC Electronics. In 1988, Les joined STC Electronics and worked primarily in designing and building the test fixtures that were used to verify proper performance before units were sent to customers.

Prior to joining the company, Les had completed a degree in electronics and had worked as a radio broadcast engineer, as well an on-air personality. This experience and training proved beneficial as he took on a greater and greater role in the design of circuit layouts for customers.

Les’ current job responsibilities include working with customers to define requirements—as well as building and testing prototypes to meet these requirements. He also designs transformer power supplies and even avails himself when needed for difficult production equipment repairs.

When asked where he gains the most satisfaction from his job, Les doesn’t hesitate.

“When I talk to a customer and they have just a basic idea of a requirement, and I can build a part that they need and can use. That’s when I get the most satisfaction.”

Congratulations Les!

Linda Shaw recently reached the 20-year milestone with STC Electronics. In 1988, Linda began working at STC Electronics as part of the Production Team. After five years in this position, she was promoted to Production Team Leader, where she currently serves.

Linda’s responsibilities include assigning job tasks, supervising production procedures and quality, measuring build times, and training production personnel. Linda also assembles transformers and offers a wealth of knowledge about proper production methods for all types of STC products.

Linda has received extensive ISO 9001:2000 training, and she works closely with the Design Engineers in creating and testing prototypes. She has also worked with UL inspectors during the approval process for STC Electronics products.

Congratulations Linda!

Steve Lescalleet has joined STC, Inc. as an Electronic Technician. In this role, Steve is responsible for the proper assembly and testing of several STC products.

Steve holds a degree in Aviation Elecronics from Southern Illinois University as well as FCC and FAA certifications. He has over 20 years of experience in electronics, including work in avionics for American Airlines (TWA). His interest include general aviation (private pilot license), electric cars, and solar power. Steve is a welcome addition to the STC team.

Scott Kolts has joined STC, Inc. as Communications Manager. In this role, Scott is primarily responsible for developing product manuals, company marketing material, and web sites. Scott has ten years of experience in technical writing and marketing, and he is a welcome addition to the STC team.

Angie Calkin, an 18 year veteran of STC, was promoted to the newly created post of Vice President of Operations. Angie will be responsible for manufacturing operations at STC Electronics’ facility in McLeansboro, IL.

STC, Inc., Electronics Div. has been supplying customers with the best quality in printed circuit assemblies since 1986. We appreciate both the customers who have been with us since the beginning and those who may have just discovered STC Electronics.

STC Electronics is preparing to meet the schedule for compliance mandated by Europe’s RoHS/WEEE (lead free) directives on effected products. If you need information about the compliance schedule or requirements for items you purchase from STC Electronics, please contact Les Vaughn at sales@stcelectronics.com or 618-643-2555.

STC, Inc. was among several businesses and individuals receiving recognition at the annual Legislative Recognition Breakfast held June 7, 2004 at Southeastern Illinois College. The event was held in conjunction with National Small Business Week.

Tammy Weston, director of Southeastern Illinois Regional Planning and Development Commission presented the award. Brad Cross accepted the award on the behalf of STC, Inc.

January 1, 2004 – Copper, an essential component of virtually all electronic assemblies continues to climb the cost ladder.

Detailed historical charts of copper market prices can be found on the internet at http://futures.tradingcharts.com/chart/CP.

The “base price” or the cost magnet wire suppliers pass along for the copper content in wire is typically $0.35 higher than the “High Grade Copper” price shown in most market charts.