04-10-2010, 09:49 PM
First I want to clarify one thing - RoHS means there is NO lead in the solder - zero. Older, non-RoHS electronics typically used solder that was 63% tin/ 37% lead or 60% tin/ 40% lead.
RoHS also bans the use of a number of other chemicals/compounds that are dangerous to the environment.
If assembled properly, RoHS consumer electronics devices should last the same amount of time as their predecessors. The exception is devices that experience high-G's (think dropping a cellphone or aircraft). There are studies that show a dramatically DECREASED life in these applications - which is why the military, NASA and aircraft manufacturers have continued to require leaded solder.
RoHS also bans the use of a number of other chemicals/compounds that are dangerous to the environment.
If assembled properly, RoHS consumer electronics devices should last the same amount of time as their predecessors. The exception is devices that experience high-G's (think dropping a cellphone or aircraft). There are studies that show a dramatically DECREASED life in these applications - which is why the military, NASA and aircraft manufacturers have continued to require leaded solder.