What Is J-Standard Soldering?

J-standard soldering refers to IPC J-STD-001C, the only remaining industry standard for soldering. Previously the Department of Defense had a standard called MIL-STD-2000, but that has been canceled.

Founded in 1957 as the Institute for Printed Circuits, it became known as IPC in 1999 after some confusing name changes. IPC now complements its name with "Association Connecting Electronics Industries" to reflect its mission statement.

IPC dedicates its efforts to establishing international standards that guarantee quality electronic circuits that comply with government regulations. It also promotes financial success of its member companies.

The J standard, a copyrighted document for sale in printed or download versions, covers the requirements for soldering quality established by IPC. The printed copy costs $80 and the downloadable version, $85.

J-standard soldering conforms with all the parameters established in the document IPC J-STD-001C. According to Thompson Reuters sales information, the parameters include "methods and verification criteria for producing quality soldered interconnections and assemblies."

Several electronics schools and institutes teach J-standard soldering in a practical, hands-on setting. Many of them include a copy of IPC J-STD-001C in the price of their tuition.