1.0 Purpose
To establish guidelines for the handling of moisture sensitive parts. This guideline is based on JEDEC J-STD-033A (July 2002). This document is intended for use in handling BGA devices. It may also be used for other moisture sensitive parts as approved by the department supervisor.

2.0 Identification
Most BGA’s are moisture sensitive parts. Therefore, unless otherwise specified all BGA’s will be treated as moisture sensitive parts. In most cases, the BGA’s will be supplied in protective packaging. There will usually be a moisture sensitivity level label or marking which will show the sensitivity level classification. If no information is available on the bag then the part will be considered class 3.

Moisture sensitivity levels are 1 – 6. Level 1 is not sensitive and does not require sealed bags or baking or control of bag open time. Level 2-6 require the controls listed below.

3.0 Initial nspection of BGA's

1. If bags are opened at Incoming Inspection for counting or verification of parts, then they should be resealed immediately. If they are resealed within 10 minutes, then it is not necessary to make a note of open and close time.
2. If parts are not in a sealed bag, then it is best to leave the parts un-bagged or unsealed as an indicator that the parts need baking before they can be used.

4.0 Baking Parts
Parts must be baked before using if the following conditions occur. When baking parts follow Table 1 for baking times. After baking, place one unit (units marked on bag) minimum of desiccant packs and one humidity indicator card (HIC) in the bag and reseal the bag. Place a CTC moisture sensitivity label on the bag, and fill in the proper information.

1. If the bag is open when received from the customer. 
2. If the bag is opened during initial inspection and not resealed. 
3. If there is a seal date on the bag, and it is more than 1 year old.
4. If the bag is opened and the HIC (humidity control indicator card) is pink in the 5% or 10% or 15% circle.

5.0 Using Parts
When bags are opened so that parts can be used, they start to absorb moisture and become subject to shelf life controls. Table 2 shows the amount of time that a bag can be opened and parts can still be used.

1. If a bag is opened and all of the parts are not used by the end of the day, then the bag must be resealed. Apply a Moisture Sensitivity Label to the bag if it doesn't have one. Mark the Sensitivity Level (1 - 6), the Exposure Limit Hours, etc. Mark the open and close time on the Label.
2. Each time the bag is opened, the open and close time, and date must be marked on the label. When the total open bag time exceeds the limit (table 2), then the parts must be re-baked per table 1.

6.0 General Information for Handling Moisture Sensitive Parts

1. Reseal all bags at the end of the shift using 1 unit minimum of desiccant packs and HIC. Record bag open and close time on the label.
2. Resealing bags immediately after the parts have been removed is the best way to preserve the open bag time.
3. HIC’s and desiccant bags can be baked and reused. Save them in the bins provided.
4. Desiccant bags should be replaced with new/re-baked bags every day if bags are being opened.
5. Desiccant bags can be reused if baked at 245oF for 16 hours.
6. HIC’s can be reused if baked at 245oF for 16 hours.
7. Don't use bags that are damaged or have pin holes, they will not prevent moisture from getting in the bag.
8. Always mark the open and close time on the label.
9. Make sure all bags have a CTC Moisture Sensitivity Label if they are being resealed after using some parts.
10. When baking parts, check the temperature rating of the trays before placing in the oven. Every tray will have a temperature marked on it somewhere. Generally black trays are OK, but some are not. Generally colored trays are not high temperature. If you don't check the temperature rating on the tray, you may end up with a big gooey blob of plastic and a bunch of ruined parts.
11. Make sure trays are held together with a rubber band or tape before sealing in the bag.