In IPC-A-610, what does the term “bridge” refer to?

The term “bridge” in the context of IPC-A-610 refers specifically to an unwanted electrical connection between two conductors. This situation typically occurs when solder flows between two adjacent pads or leads, creating a short circuit that can adversely affect the performance of the electronic assembly. Such bridging can lead to undesired behavior in the circuit or even failure of the electronic device. Understanding this term is crucial for quality assurance in electronic manufacturing, as identifying and rectifying solder bridges is essential to ensuring the reliability and functionality of the assembly. This aspect of solder integrity is critical when evaluating solder joints during inspections.