Microscopes

A microscope is a scientific instrument used to magnify tiny objects to observe details. It is primarily categorized into two types: optical microscopes and electron microscopes. For example, optical microscopes use a lens system to magnify samples and are suitable for general surface topography analysis. Electron microscopes, on the other hand, use electron beams instead of light sources, offering higher resolution and magnification.

In the field of electronic components, microscopes are used in the chip packaging industry to inspect and optimize manufacturing processes. These include:

Optical Microscopes: For example, bright-field microscopes are used for general defect observation, while laser scanning confocal microscopes enable 3D imaging and precise measurement of package bump height and surface roughness.

Electron Microscopes: For example, scanning electron microscopes (SEMs) provide high-resolution surface detail analysis, enabling identification of problems such as solder porosity. Transmission electron microscopes (TEMs) are used to observe the internal lattice structure of chips and optimize material properties.

Furthermore, scanning electron microscopes, commonly used in scientific research, combined with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), can simultaneously obtain compositional information, facilitating material characterization.