IPC: Translation to other languages

It's Not Easy...

Translating technical documents is not an easy task. Despite the availability of many automated tools that allow for quick translation of texts and the dynamic development of artificial intelligence, discrepancies in document translation still occur.

Technical English further complicates this aspect because some words have multiple meanings depending on the context. This significantly challenges the accurate conveyance of a sentence's meaning.

For example, the word "driver" can mean, among other things:

• A vehicle driver (a physical person).
• An electrical circuit/control circuit for another circuit.
• A device driver (software) in an operating system.
• Something that provides impetus for development (e.g., in the economy).
• ...and probably many more...

Example

The Polish version of the IPC-A-610F pt 5.2.4 states[1], as translated back to English "IPC-T-50 defines nonwetting as the inability of solder to melt in order to form a metallic bond with the base metal.."

The English version of IPC-A-610F pt 5.2.4 states[1] "IPC-T-50 defines nonwetting as the inability of molten solder to form a metallic bond with the basis metal.."

As we can see, the Polish version suggests that the solder cannot be melted to form a bond, while the English version states that the molten solder cannot form a bond. So, in the English version, the solder is melted, while in the Polish version, is not melted. Therefore, the meaning of both sentences is somewhat different, with the English version being technically correct.

IPC Translation Rules

IPC standards take into account the risk of discrepancies when translating documents from English into other languages. To prevent potential misunderstandings, a rule has been established:

In the event of a discrepancy between the English version and the translated version of a document, the English version takes precedence.

Conclusions

Translating technical texts is very challenging, and discrepancies can sometimes occur. It is important to remember that this is an enormous and difficult task. We should respect and appreciate the translators' contribution to popularizing IPC standards.

The English version of the document takes precedence in the event of discrepancies in translation. Therefore, it is recommended to purchase at least one copy of the standard in English, which will be useful in case of doubts regarding translation and in using correct terminology in communications with clients and suppliers.