#electronics contract manufacturing

[eastwestmanufacturing]

The Ultimate Guide to Electronics Contract Manufacturing

East West Manufacturing Enterprises specializes in premium Electronics Manufacturing Services, offering end-to-end solutions from design to production. With a focus on quality and reliability, we tailor our services to meet your specific needs, ensuring superior performance and customer satisfaction. Whether you're developing cutting-edge products or need dependable manufacturing support, East West delivers innovative solutions you can trust. Partner with us for seamless production and expertise that drives your success.

[avalontec]

𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐕 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐮𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠!

The electric vehicle revolution is here, and efficiency is the key to driving the future of mobility. Our latest insights reveal the groundbreaking strategies that are not only reducing costs but also pushing the boundaries of productivity in EV component manufacturing. Want to be part of the next big thing in EVs? This is a must-read! Read more here: https://www.avalontec.com/blog/optimizing-ev-manufacturing/

[odinsblog]

🗣️THIS IS WHAT INCLUSIVE, COMPASSIONATE DEMOCRACY LOOKS LIKE

Minnesota Dems enacted a raft of laws to make the state a trans refuge, and ensure people receiving trans care here can't be reached by far-right governments in places like Florida and Texas. (link)

Minnesota Dems ensured that everyone, including undocumented immigrants, can get drivers' licenses. (link)

They made public college free for the majority of Minnesota families. (link)

Minnesota Dems dropped a billion dollars into a bevy of affordable housing programs, including by creating a new state housing voucher program. (link)

Minnesota Dems massively increased funding for the state's perpetually-underfunded public defenders, which lets more public defenders be hired and existing public defenders get a salary increase. (link)

Dems raised Minnesota education spending by 10%, or about 2.3 billion. (link)

Minnesota Dems created an energy standard for 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040. (link)

Minnesota already has some of the strongest election infrastructure (and highest voter participation) in the country, but the legislature just made it stronger, with automatic registration, preregistration for minors, and easier access to absentee ballots. (link)

Minnesota Dems expanded the publicly subsidized health insurance program to undocumented immigrants. This one's interesting because it's the sort of things Dems often balk at. The governor opposed it! The legislature rolled over him and passed it anyway. (link)

Minnesota Dems expanded background checks and enacted red-flag laws, passing gun safety measures that the GOP has thwarted for years. (link)

Minnesota Dems gave the state AG the power to block the huge healthcare mergers that have slowly gobbled up the state's medical system. (link)

Minnesota Dems restored voting rights to convicted felons as soon as they leave prison. (link)

Minnesota Dems made prison phone calls free. (link)

Minnesota Dems passed new wage protection rules for the construction industry, against industry resistance. (link)

Minnesota Dems created a new sales tax to fund bus and train lines, an enormous victory for the sustainability and quality of public transit. Transit be more pleasant to ride, more frequent, and have better shelters, along more lines. (link)

They passed strict new regulations on PFAS ("forever chemicals"). (link)

Minnesota Dems passed the largest bonding bill in state history! Funding improvements to parks, colleges, water infrastructure, bridges, etc. etc. etc. (link)

They're going to build a passenger train from the Twin Cities to Duluth. (link)

I can't even find a news story about it but there's tens of millions in funding for new BRT lines, too. (link)

A wonky-but-important change: Minnesota Dems indexed the state gas tax to inflation, effectively increasing the gas tax. (link)

They actually indexed a bunch of stuff to inflation, including the state's education funding formula, which helps ensure that school spending doesn't decline over time. (link)

Minnesota Dems made hourly school workers (e.g., bus drivers and paraprofessionals) eligible for unemployment during summer break, when they're not working or getting paid. (link)

Minnesota Dems passed a bunch of labor protections for teachers, including requiring school districts to negotiate class sizes as part of union contracts. (Yet another @SydneyJordanMN special here. (link)

Minnesota Dems created a state board to govern labor standards at nursing homes. (link)

Minnesota Dems created a Prescription Drug Affordability Board, which would set price caps for high-cost pharmaceuticals. (link)

Minnesota Dems created new worker protections for Amazon warehouse workers and refinery workers. (link)

Minnesota Dems passed a digital fair repair law, which requires electronics manufacturers to make tools and parts available so that consumers can repair their electronics rather than purchase new items. (link)

Minnesota Dems made Juneteenth a state holiday. (link)

Minnesota Dems banned conversion therapy. (link)

They spent nearly a billion dollars on a variety of environmental programs, from heat pumps to reforestation. (link)

Minnesota Dems expanded protections for pregnant and nursing workers - already in place for larger employers - to almost everyone in the state. (link)

Minnesota Dems created a new child tax credit that will cut child poverty by about a quarter. (link)

Minnesota Democrats dropped a quick $50 million into homelessness prevention programs. (link)

And because the small stuff didn't get lost in the big stuff, they passed a law to prevent catalytic converter thefts. (link)

Minnesota Dems increased child care assistance. (link)

Minnesota Dems banned "captive audience meetings," where employers force employees to watch anti-union presentations. (link)

No news story yet, but Minnesota Dems forced signal priority changes to Twin Cities transit. Right now the trains have to wait at intersections for cars, which, I can say from experience, is terrible. Soon that will change.

Minnesota Dems provided the largest increase to nursing home funding in state history. (link)

They also bumped up salaries for home health workers, to help address the shortage of in-home nurses. (link)

Minnesota Dems legalized drug paraphernalia, which allows social service providers to conduct needle exchanges and address substance abuse with reduced fear of incurring legal action. (link)

Minnesota Dems banned white supremacists and extremists from police forces, capped probation at 5 years for most crimes, improved clemency, and mostly banned no-knock warrants. (link)

Minnesota Dems also laid the groundwork for a public health insurance option. (link)

I’m happy for the people of Minnesota, but as a Floridian living under Ron DeSantis & hateful Republicans, I’m also very envious tbh. We know that democracy can work, and this is a shining example of what government could be like in the hands of legislators who actually care about helping people in need, and not pursuing the GOP’s “culture wars” and suppressing the votes of BIPOC, and inflicting maximum harm on those who aren’t cis/het, white, wealthy, Christian males. BRAVO MINNESOTA. This is how you do it! And the Minnesota Dems did it with a one seat majority, so no excuses. Forget about the next election and focus on doing as much good as you can, while you still can. 👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿

👉🏿 https://threadreaderapp.com/thread/1660846689450688514.html

[phonemantra-blog]

Decoding OEM: Unraveling the Mystery Behind the Acronym When it comes to the world of manufacturing and technology, the term "OEM" often pops up. OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer and plays a significant role in various industries. In this article, we will delve into the concept of OEM, employing the MECE (Mutually Exclusive, Collectively Exhaustive) Framework to provide a comprehensive understanding of its implications and significance. [caption id="attachment_62824" align="aligncenter" width="800"] what does OEM stand for[/caption] Understanding OEM What Does OEM Stand For? OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. It refers to a company that produces components or products that are used in the manufacturing of another company's end product. The term "equipment" refers to the physical or digital parts, devices, or software that are integrated into the final product by the OEM. The Role of OEM in Different Industries OEM is prevalent in various industries, including automotive, electronics, software, and more. In these sectors, OEM ensures that the products manufactured by different companies meet the required quality, reliability, and compatibility standards. OEM plays a crucial role in maintaining consistency and standardization within the industry. OEM vs. Aftermarket: Key Differences OEM products are different from aftermarket products. OEM components are produced by the original manufacturer of the end product, ensuring a high level of quality, compatibility, and warranty. Aftermarket products, on the other hand, are produced by third-party manufacturers and may not meet the same quality standards as OEM products. While aftermarket products may be cheaper, they often lack the same level of reliability and compatibility as OEM products. OEM in Practice OEM in the Automotive Industry In the automotive industry, OEM components are seamlessly integrated into vehicles during the manufacturing process. These components, such as engines, transmissions, and electronic systems, are specifically designed and manufactured by the original vehicle manufacturer. Using OEM parts in vehicles ensures optimal performance, warranty coverage, and safety. OEM parts are built to the exact specifications of the vehicle, providing a perfect fit and maintaining the integrity of the vehicle's design. OEM in the Electronics Industry The electronics industry heavily relies on OEM components to create various devices. OEM electronics, such as integrated circuits, displays, and sensors, are designed and produced by the original manufacturer. These components are known for their compatibility with the devices they are intended for, ensuring reliable performance and seamless integration. Using OEM electronics in devices enhances their functionality and reliability, as they are specifically engineered to work harmoniously with the overall system. OEM in the Software Industry In the software industry, OEM software refers to software packages that are licensed by original manufacturers to be bundled with other products or services. OEM software is often pre-installed on computers, smartphones, or other electronic devices. It provides users with a legitimate and authorized version of the software, along with regular updates and technical support. OEM software is an integral part of the overall user experience, offering enhanced functionality and compatibility. FAQs: What are the advantages of choosing OEM products? Choosing OEM products comes with several advantages. OEM products are known for their high quality, as they are produced by the original manufacturer and designed to meet specific standards. They offer compatibility with the intended system, ensuring seamless integration and optimal performance. Additionally, OEM products often come with warranties, providing peace of mind to consumers. Are OEM products more expensive than aftermarket alternatives? OEM products may be slightly more expensive than aftermarket alternatives due to their higher quality and compatibility. However, it is important to consider the long-term benefits of choosing OEM, such as better performance and reliability. The cost difference is often justified by the enhanced user experience and reduced risk of compatibility issues. Can OEM parts be used to upgrade existing products? Yes, OEM parts can be used to upgrade existing products in many cases. OEM manufacturers often provide compatible upgrade options for their products, allowing users to enhance the performance or functionality of their devices. Whether it's upgrading a vehicle with OEM performance parts or upgrading a computer with OEM components, using OEM parts ensures compatibility and maintains the integrity of the original product design. However, it's important to check the compatibility and specifications provided by the OEM to ensure a successful upgrade. How can consumers identify OEM products? Identifying genuine OEM products can be crucial to ensure quality and compatibility. Here are a few tips: Check the packaging and labels for the OEM branding and logos. Look for authorized OEM retailers or purchase directly from the OEM's official website. Read product descriptions and specifications to ensure they match the OEM's official information. Verify the warranty and support provided, as OEM products usually come with manufacturer-backed warranties. Is OEM limited to physical products, or does it extend to services as well? While OEM is commonly associated with physical products, it can also extend to services. In service-oriented industries, OEM refers to companies that provide specialized services or solutions to other businesses. These OEM service providers offer expertise, resources, and support to help other companies enhance their operations or deliver specific services. For example, in the IT industry, OEM service providers may offer white-label services or customized solutions that can be resold by other businesses under their brand. Conclusion: OEM, or Original Equipment Manufacturer, is a fundamental concept in various industries. Understanding OEM helps us recognize the importance of quality, compatibility, and standardization in the products and services we use. Whether it's automotive, electronics, software, or other sectors, OEM plays a crucial role in ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and customer satisfaction. By choosing OEM products, consumers can enjoy the benefits of high-quality components and seamless integration, ultimately enhancing their overall experience. So, the next time you make a purchasing decision, consider the value that OEM brings to the table.

[mmr-14]

https://www.maximizemarketresearch.com/market-report/electronic-contract-manufacturing-and-design-services-market/23593/

The electronic contract manufacturing and design services concentrate primarily on technologies and sub-technologies such as computers, consumer devices, networking, servers and storage, telecommunications, and peripherals.

[acmecircuit]

Top 10 PCB Manufacturers in the World: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

In today's technologically advanced world, printed circuit boards (PCBs) play a crucial role in powering various electronic devices. From smartphones and laptops to medical equipment and automotive systems, PCBs serve as the backbone of modern technology. With the increasing demand for high-quality PCBs, it's essential to know about the top manufacturers in the world. This comprehensive guide will explore the top 10 PCB manufacturers globally, shedding light on their expertise, capabilities, and contributions to the industry.

PCB Manufacturing Industry: An Overview

Before delving into the top 10 PCB manufacturers, let's first understand the PCB manufacturing industry as a whole. PCBs are vital components that provide electrical connections and mechanical support for various electronic components. They are made by laminating thin layers of copper onto a non-conductive substrate, usually made of fiberglass or composite epoxy materials.

PCBs can have multiple layers, each serving a specific purpose. The manufacturing process involves intricate steps such as designing the PCB layout, etching the copper layers, drilling holes, and applying solder mask and silkscreen for labeling.

The PCB manufacturing industry is highly competitive and driven by innovation. With advancements in technology, manufacturers are constantly pushing the boundaries to produce PCBs that are smaller, more efficient, and capable of supporting complex electronic designs.

Now, let's dive into the top 10 PCB manufacturers in the world and explore their unique strengths and contributions.

ACME Circuits — We are the best-printed circuit board manufacturer and services providers. We provide high-quality PCB assembly, PCB design, PCB fabrication, PCB layout, PCB programming, testing, etc.

2. Foxconn Technology Group 

3. TTM Technologies

4. Tripod Technology Corporation

5. Unimicron Technology Corporation

6. Zhen Ding Technology Holding 

7. Nippon Mektron 

8. Sumitomo Electric Industries

9. Young Poong Electronics

10. Samsung Electro-Mechanics 

Conclusion

Choosing the right PCB manufacturer is paramount to the success of any electronic product. The top 10 PCB manufacturers in the world mentioned in this article have demonstrated their expertise, reliability, and commitment to delivering high-quality PCB solutions. Whether you prioritize innovation, customization, sustainability, or scalability, these manufacturers offer a diverse range of options to suit your specific requirements. By partnering with a reputable and trusted PCB manufacturer, you can ensure the seamless integration of PCBs into your electronic devices, ultimately enhancing their performance and reliability.

[aaloktronix]

Aaloktronix is a leading Electronic Contract Manufacturer (ECM) located in Seattle, USA. Our main focus is on delivering innovative solutions in PCB Design, PCB Assembly, Wire-cable Harness assembly, Material Procurement/BOM Scrub, Prototype Assembly/PCBA, Turn-key PCB Assembly, Quick Turn Assembly, and more. For more information visit https://aaloktronix.com/

[gf365india]

GF365 is the leading and reliable custom manufacturer of electronic devices. GF365 is also the Global authorized electronic suppliers for more numbers of industry-leading brands.

Expert team is highly specialized in the rapid introduction of the newest products and technologies. GF365 is the best marketplace where you can easily source and buy raw materials of all sizes. It involves targeting the design engineers as well as buyer communities.

[eastwestmanufacturing]

System Integration & Testing Services for Businesses in Austin

Discover reliable and efficient system integration services with East West Manufacturing Enterprises. We specialize in streamlining your operations through cutting-edge, customized solutions tailored to meet your unique business needs. From seamless technology integration to optimized workflows, our expertise ensures improved efficiency and productivity. Trust East West Manufacturing Enterprises to deliver innovative solutions that empower your business to thrive in today's competitive landscape.

[nasa]

Athletes Go for the Gold with NASA Spinoffs

NASA technology tends to find its way into the sporting world more often than you’d expect. Fitness is important to the space program because astronauts must undergo the extreme g-forces of getting into space and endure the long-term effects of weightlessness on the human body. The agency’s engineering expertise also means that items like shoes and swimsuits can be improved with NASA know-how.

As the 2024 Olympics are in full swing in Paris, here are some of the many NASA-derived technologies that have helped competitive athletes train for the games and made sure they’re properly equipped to win.

The LZR Racer reduces skin friction drag by covering more skin than traditional swimsuits. Multiple pieces of the water-resistant and extremely lightweight LZR Pulse fabric connect at ultrasonically welded seams and incorporate extremely low-profile zippers to keep viscous drag to a minimum.

Swimsuits That Don’t Drag

When the swimsuit manufacturer Speedo wanted its LZR Racer suit to have as little drag as possible, the company turned to the experts at Langley Research Center to test its materials and design. The end result was that the new suit reduced drag by 24 percent compared to the prior generation of Speedo racing suit and broke 13 world records in 2008. While the original LZR Racer is no longer used in competition due to the advantage it gave wearers, its legacy lives on in derivatives still produced to this day.

Trilion Quality Systems worked with NASA’s Glenn Research Center to adapt existing stereo photogrammetry software to work with high-speed cameras. Now the company sells the package widely, and it is used to analyze stress and strain in everything from knee implants to running shoes and more.

High-Speed Cameras for High-Speed Shoes

After space shuttle Columbia, investigators needed to see how materials reacted during recreation tests with high-speed cameras, which involved working with industry to create a system that could analyze footage filmed at 30,000 frames per second. Engineers at Adidas used this system to analyze the behavior of Olympic marathoners' feet as they hit the ground and adjusted the design of the company’s high-performance footwear based on these observations.

Martial artist Barry French holds an Impax Body Shield while former European middle-weight kickboxing champion Daryl Tyler delivers an explosive jump side kick; the force of the impact is registered precisely and shown on the display panel of the electronic box French is wearing on his belt.

One-Thousandth-of-an-Inch Punch

In the 1980s, Olympic martial artists needed a way to measure the impact of their strikes to improve training for competition. Impulse Technology reached out to Glenn Research Center to create the Impax sensor, an ultra-thin film sensor which creates a small amount of voltage when struck. The more force applied, the more voltage it generates, enabling a computerized display to show how powerful a punch or kick was.

Astronaut Sunita Williams poses while using the Interim Resistive Exercise Device on the ISS. The cylinders at the base of each side house the SpiraFlex FlexPacks that inventor Paul Francis honed under NASA contracts. They would go on to power the Bowflex Revolution and other commercial exercise equipment.

Weight Training Without the Weight

Astronauts spending long periods of time in space needed a way to maintain muscle mass without the effect of gravity, but lifting free weights doesn’t work when you’re practically weightless. An exercise machine that uses elastic resistance to provide the same benefits as weightlifting went to the space station in the year 2000. That resistance technology was commercialized into the Bowflex Revolution home exercise equipment shortly afterwards.

Want to learn more about technologies made for space and used on Earth? Check out NASA Spinoff to find products and services that wouldn’t exist without space exploration.   

Make sure to follow us on Tumblr for your regular dose of space!

[technoadvance-blog]

Get the best SMT and SMD Reflow Services in Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad, India. Our experienced team delivers fast, efficient, and high-quality results. Contact us now to get started!

Our services play a crucial role in the production of process control instruments for industrial and commercial applications, such as temperature, pressure, and flow control solutions.

[avalontec]

Revolutionizing Aerospace Manufacturing: The Power of Advanced Technologies in Combustion Liner Production

In the dynamic and challenging landscape of aerospace manufacturing, the production of combustion liners stands as a critical component that demands utmost precision and reliability. A visionary team of engineers set out on a transformational journey to revolutionize the industry's approach to manufacturing aerospace combustion liners. By addressing complex challenges head-on, they not only resolved existing issues, but also propelled the company towards unparalleled success. This blog unveils their strategic triumphs and the remarkable impact created while providing actionable insights to optimize aerospace combustion liner production.

Unraveling Opportunities and Ingenious Solutions:

A Thorough Foundation: The journey began with a meticulous analysis of the initial input study for combustion liners, complemented by a comprehensive gap analysis. By identifying potential failure points and aligning processes with precise engineering requirements, the team laid a solid foundation for their subsequent endeavors.

Streamlined Process Design: Armed with invaluable insights, the team crafted an ingenious process design that maximized efficiency and accuracy in manufacturing combustion liners. An intuitive process flow diagram provided a holistic view of the production process, allowing the team to pinpoint optimization opportunities and enhance combustion liner quality.

Stage-Wise Manufacturing Mastery: A groundbreaking stage-wise manufacturing process emerged, comprising individual components of combustion liners, precise sub-assembly, and the final assembly of the combustion liner. Empowered by process-controlled tools featuring a foolproof poke-yoke mechanism, errors were minimized, and productivity soared.

Elevating Quality with CTQ Inspection Gauges: To surpass customer expectations and stringent aerospace standards, the team introduced stage-wise inspection gauges for Critical to Quality (CTQ) aspects in combustion liners. These precision tools became guardians of uncompromising quality, ensuring the final combustion liners met rigorous performance requirements. A Symphony of Control: A meticulously crafted control plan was orchestrated, harmoniously linking each manufacturing step of combustion liners to key inspections. This symphony of control guaranteed a flawless production process, eliminating rework and costly delays. Mastering Welding Challenges: Recognizing welding's significance in combustion liners, the team established a state-of-the-art welding cell. Welding operators underwent rigorous training and qualification, ensuring precision and consistency in every weld to enhance the combustion liner's structural integrity. The Crucible of Brazing and Heat Treating: Critical brazing and heat treatment processes found perfection under the watchful eye of a reliable and qualified source. These pivotal steps culminated in aerospace combustion liners of uncompromising durability and performance, ensuring optimal operation under demanding conditions.

Unleashing the Impact:

Time-Defying Triumph: The transformational project delivered combustion liners with exceptional efficiency, setting a new benchmark for aerospace manufacturing timelines.

Scaling Heights: With streamlined processes and enhanced capabilities, the team achieved awe-inspiring success by producing a considerable number of combustion liners. The optimized workflow exhibited its scalability and adaptability, driving productivity to soaring heights.

NADCAP-Certified Excellence: The pinnacle of achievements was the coveted NADCAP certification earned for the manufacturing of aerospace combustion liners. This prestigious recognition solidified the company's reputation as a trailblazer in combustion liner production.

Conclusion:

The journey of revolutionizing aerospace combustion liners showcased the potential and bold implementation. By harnessing the power of streamlined processes, meticulous quality control, and a dedicated team, the company realized exponential growth and customer satisfaction in aerospace combustion liner manufacturing.

To embark on your own path of transformation, embrace a holistic approach to process optimization, leverage NPI technologies, and invest in nurturing a skilled and committed workforce. In the ever-evolving aerospace industry, adaptation and continuous improvement are the wings that will propel you towards unrivaled success in aerospace combustion liner production. Now is the time to soar to new heights and unlock the true potential of your combustion liner endeavors.

[metamatar]

When electronics manufacturing took off in China in the 1980s, rural women who had just begun moving to the cities made up the majority of the factory workforce. They didn’t have many other options. Managers at companies like Foxconn preferred to hire women because they believed them to be more obedient [...]

Hiring a young, female workforce in India comes with its own requirements — which include reassuring doting parents about the safety of their daughters. The company offers workers free food, lodging, and buses to ensure a safe commute at all hours of the day. On days off, women who live in Foxconn hostels have a 6 p.m. curfew; permission is required to spend the night elsewhere. “[If] they go out and not return by a specific time, their parents would be informed,” a former Foxconn HR manager told Rest of World. “[That’s how] they offer trust to their parents.”

[...] the Tamil Nadu government sent a strong signal welcoming Foxconn and other manufacturers: Authorities approved new regulations that would increase workdays from eight to 12 hours. This meant that Foxconn and other electronics factories would be able to reduce the number of shifts needed to keep their production line running from three to two, just like in China. [...] Political parties aligned with the government called the bill “anti-labor” and, during the vote, walked out of the legislative assembly. After the bill passed, trade unions in the state announced a series of actions including a demonstration on motorbikes, civil disobedience campaigns, and protests in front of the ruling party’s local headquarters. The government shelved its new rule within four days.

Indian Foxconn workers told Rest of World that eight hours under intense pressure is already hard to bear. “I’ll die if it’s 12 hours of work,” said Padmini, the assembly line worker.

For the expatriate workers, the slower pace of the factory floors in India is its own shock to the system. A Taiwanese manager at a different iPhone supplier in the Chennai area told Rest of World that India’s 8-hour shifts and industry-standard tea breaks were a drag on production. “You have barely settled in on your seat, and the next break comes,” the manager lamented.

In China, Foxconn relies on lax enforcement of the country’s labor law — which limits workdays to eight hours and caps overtime — as well as lucrative bonuses to get employees to work 11 hours a day during production peaks [...] five Chinese and Taiwanese workers said they were surprised to discover that their Indian colleagues refused to work overtime. Some attributed it to a weak sense of responsibility; others to what they perceived as Indian people’s low material desire. “They are easily content,” an engineer deployed from Zhengzhou said. “They can’t handle even a bit more pressure. But if we don’t give them pressure, then we won’t be able to get everything right and move production here in a short time.” [...] At the same time, the expat staff enjoy the Indian work culture of tea breaks, chatting with colleagues, and going home on time. They recognize they are helping the company spread a Chinese work culture that they know can be unhealthy. [...]

On the assembly line, Foxconn’s targets were tough to reach, workers said. Jaishree, 21, joined the iPhone shop floor in 2022 as a recent graduate with a degree in mathematics. (With India’s high level of unemployment, Foxconn’s assembly line has plenty of women with advanced degrees, including MBAs.) [...] “At the start, during my eight-hour shift, I did about 300 [screws]. Now, I do 750,” she said. “We have to finish within time, otherwise they will scold us.” [...]

Mealtimes are an issue, too. In December 2021, thousands of Indian Foxconn employees protested after some 250 colleagues contracted food poisoning. In response, the company changed food contractors, and increased its monthly base salary from 14,000 rupees to 18,000 rupees ($168 to $216) — double the minimum wage prescribed by the Tamil Nadu labor department for unskilled workers. [...]

Working conditions take a physical toll. Padmini has experienced hair loss because she has to wear a skull cap and work in air-conditioned spaces, she said. “Neck pain is the worst, since we are constantly bending down and working.” She has irregular periods, which she attributes to the air conditioning and the late shifts. “[Among] girls with me on the production line, some six girls have this problem,” Padmini said. Workers said they regularly see colleagues become unwell. “The day before yesterday, a girl fainted and they took her to the hospital,” [...] Padmini, at 26, believes she is close to the age where the company might consider her too old. “They used to hire women up to age 30, now they hire only up to 28,” she said.