HORSHAM, PA — Aegis Software has partnered with Hanwha Semitech Americas to introduce the FactoryLogix® Machine Programmer as a cloud-based Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution for U.S. Surface Mount Technology (SMT) customers. This innovative offering aims to streamline automated machine programming, expedite new product introductions (NPI), and enhance overall production efficiency.
FactoryLogix Machine Programmer automates key processes such as CAD and BOM data conversion into machine programs in seconds, accommodating decades’ worth of data formats, including Gerber files. By automating part number assignments, board rotation, and panelization, the solution reduces manual errors, shortens setup times, and ensures precise component placement.
The SaaS model enables Hanwha customers to avoid the costs and complexities of on-premises infrastructure. Automatic updates ensure access to the latest features, while the platform’s scalability supports both high-mix and high-volume manufacturing environments.
“At Hanwha, we are committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions that simplify and optimize the SMT programming process,” said Tim Kang, CEO of Hanwha Semitech Americas. “By offering Aegis’ FactoryLogix Machine Programmer as a SaaS solution, we enable our customers to streamline machine programming, reduce complexity, and accelerate production—all while leveraging the power of cloud-based automation.”
The partnership allows manufacturers to not only improve efficiency but also establish a seamless expansion path to broader digital manufacturing strategies through Aegis’ FactoryLogix Manufacturing Operations platform.
We are excited to collaborate with Hanwha to provide a SaaS-enabled machine programming solution that eliminates complexity and accelerates production readiness,” said Jason Spera, CEO and Co-Founder of Aegis Software. “This partnership reflects the growing demand for scalable, cloud-based solutions that provide manufacturers with greater flexibility, automation, and efficiency.”
This collaboration marks a significant step forward in advancing cloud automation within the SMT and electronics assembly sector, providing a robust platform for manufacturers to stay competitive in a dynamic industry.
MORRISVILLE, NC — The International Electronics Manufacturing Initiative (INEMI) has announced results from its recent Board of Directors election. The consortium’s members have added one new director and re-elected four incumbents.
New to the INEMI Board is Tadashi Kosuga, Executive Director and Distinguished Engineer, Commercial Subsystem Development, Lenovo. Returning incumbents include Ravi M. Bhatkal, Managing Director and General Manager for MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions; Ranjan Chatterjee, Vice President, Smart Manufacturing Solutions, PDF/SOLUTIONS; Andy Mackie, Principal Engineer and Manager, Thermal Interface Materials Applications for Indium Corporation; and Chris Rumer, Vice President, Foundry Technology Development and Director, Chandler Assembly Technology Development, Intel Corporation. See bios and photos (https://thor.inemi.org/webdownload/2025/BoD_Candidates.pdf).
“In addition to overseeing business operations and general affairs, our Board members play a very important role in guiding INEMI, helping us focus on issues of importance to the industry, and making sure we maximize value to our member companies,” says INEMI CEO Shekhar Chandrashekhar. “We have a strong group of directors who represent the breadth of the electronics manufacturing supply chain, and they provide the knowledge and expertise to help make INEMI a success. Congratulations to our recently elected Directors. We look forward to working with you.”
About iNEMI
INEMI is an industry-led consortium that forecasts and accelerates innovation in the electronics manufacturing supply chain. Comprising leading manufacturers, suppliers, industry associations and consortia, government agencies and universities, INEMI roadmaps the needs of the electronics industry, identifies gaps in the technology infrastructure, and helps eliminate those gaps through timely, high-impact collaborations among our members. These collaborations support our members' businesses and help drive the industry by accelerating the deployment of new technologies, developing industry infrastructure, stimulating standards development, and disseminating efficient business practices. INEMI is based in Morrisville, North Carolina, USA. For additional information, visit http://www.inemi.org
HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL – April 2025 - Saki America, Inc., an innovator in the field of automated optical and X-ray inspection equipment, is pleased to announce the hiring of Jacob Doose as Service Engineer in the Chicago area. Jacob will play a critical role in supporting Saki’s customers by providing technical service, troubleshooting, and process optimization to ensure peak performance of Saki’s advanced inspection systems.
Bringing extensive experience in manufacturing systems engineering, automation, and quality control, Jacob has a strong background in automated optical inspection (AOI), X-ray inspection, and manufacturing execution systems (MES). Prior to joining Saki America, he worked at SigmaTron, where he optimized production layouts, reduced downtime, and implemented lean processes to enhance efficiency. He also served as a Manufacturing Systems Engineer at Plexus, where he was responsible for data-driven process improvements, system implementations, and automation that saved over 10,000 hours of labor annually.
Jacob’s expertise includes SQL, Power BI, MES, AutoCAD, and various programming languages, making him well-equipped to enhance Saki’s technical service capabilities. His hands-on experience in creating AOI and X-ray programs, training operators, and troubleshooting equipment will help Saki America’s customers reduce downtime and improve overall manufacturing productivity.
“We are excited to welcome Jacob to our team,” said Craig Brown, General Manager at Saki America, Inc. “His technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and passion for process improvement will be invaluable in strengthening our service operations and ensuring our customers receive the highest level of support.”
For more information about Saki America, Inc., visit www.sakicorp.com/en/.
About Saki Corporation
Since its inception in 1994, Saki has led the way in the development of automated recognition through robotic vision technology. Saki's 3D automated solder paste, optical, and X-ray inspection and measurement systems (SPI, AOI, AXI) have been recognized to provide the stable platform and advanced data capture mechanisms necessary for true M2M communication, improving production, process efficiency, and product quality. Saki Corporation has headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, with offices, sales, and support centers around the world.
NORTH TONAWANDA, NY — April 15, 2025 — NOVAIR USA Corporation ("NOVAIR USA"), a global leader in oxygen, nitrogen, and medical gas generation solutions, proudly announces the appointment of PIT Equipment Services, LLC (“PIT Equipment Services”) as an official representative serving North America. This partnership will expand NOVAIR USA’s high-quality American-made nitrogen and oxygen generation systems in the territory for the electronics manufacturing industry and beyond.
PIT Equipment Services, led by industry veteran Don Dennison, has established itself as a premier representative firm, known for its customer support, technical expertise, and longstanding partnerships. PIT Equipment Services brings over four decades of experience in serving the electronics assembly sector, adding to NOVAIR’s nearly five decades providing top air gas solutions worldwide.
“With a stellar reputation and a deep understanding of the industry, PIT Equipment Services is the ideal partner to expand NOVAIR USA’s reach and support customers with tailored gas generation solutions,” said John Longuil, NOVAIR USA Chief Executive Officer. “We are excited about this collaboration and the value it will bring to our customers seeking efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly gas solutions.”
NOVAIR USA’s industry-leading nitrogen and oxygen generators deliver oxygen at 93% ±3% concentration and nitrogen purity levels ranging from 90% to 99.999%. These systems support a wide range of industries, including electronics manufacturing, semiconductors, healthcare, aerospace, and many other medical and industrial applications. Through this partnership, NOVAIR USA aims to strengthen its service capabilities, ensuring that customers receive cutting-edge gas generation solutions that optimize production efficiency and sustainability.
For more information, please visit www.novair-usa.com.
About NOVAIR USA Corporation
NOVAIR USA is a member of NOVAIR Groupe, headquartered in North Tonawanda, New York, USA, in-between Niagara Falls and Buffalo. The company is the leading global manufacturer of quality American-made systems. These include oxygen generators, nitrogen generators, industrial air and vacuum systems, and medical gas piping solutions. NOVAIR USA equipment produces 93% +/-3% oxygen concentration as well as 90% to 99.999% nitrogen concentration using nothing but ambient air and electricity. It helps fill cylinders for first responders and others that save lives, while boosting industrial output for industries through economical, eco-friendly solutions. NOVAIR is redefining air gases!
NORTH BILLERICA, MA — BTU International, Inc., a leading supplier of advanced thermal processing equipment for the electronics manufacturing market, will exhibit at the SMTA Capital Expo & Tech Forum on May 8, 2025, in Arlington, Virginia. At the event, BTU will highlight its Aurora reflow oven platform, showcasing the latest innovations in precision thermal processing and energy efficiency.
The Aurora 125N and Aurora 150N, state-of-the-art 12-zone convection reflow ovens, feature advanced process control and enhanced efficiency, setting a new benchmark for solder reflow technology. The Aurora platform also includes the 175N and 200N models, providing increased throughput and flexibility. With the addition of the 125N, the Aurora line now offers four distinct models, each tailored for different production demands and scalability.
The Aurora series integrates best-in-class features, including:
Designed to minimize the total cost of ownership while maximizing performance and sustainability, the Aurora reflow platform supports high-reliability PCB assembly across diverse industries.
Visit BTU at the SMTA Capital Expo & Tech Forum to learn how the Aurora platform can enhance your manufacturing process with cutting-edge reflow technology. For more information about BTU International and its industry-leading reflow solutions, visit
www.btu.com.
About BTU International
BTU International, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Amtech Group (Nasdaq: ASYS), is a global supplier and technology leader of advanced thermal processing equipment in the electronics manufacturing market. BTU’s high-performance reflow ovens are used in the production of SMT printed circuit board assemblies and in semiconductor packaging processes. BTU also specializes in precision controlled, high-temperature belt furnaces for a wide range of custom applications, such as brazing, direct bond copper (DBC), diffusion, and sintering. BTU has operations in North Billerica, Massachusetts, and Shanghai, China, with direct sales and service in the U.S.A., Asia and Europe. Information about BTU International is available at www.btu.com.
CHINA - PCBAIR, a leading provider of PCB manufacturing and assembly services with fully automated production lines, announced that it is increasing funding for research and development to incorporate AI into its manufacturing processes, dramatically improving defect prediction accuracy and efficiency.
"We are focused on improving our manufacturing processes," says Dr. Jian Li, Chief Technology Officer at PCBAIR. "Our investment in AI-powered defect prediction represents a major step forward. By applying machine learning and advanced thermal imaging analysis, we can identify potential defects with unprecedented precision, long before they impact product quality."
The core of PCBAIR's research centers on developing sophisticated AI algorithms trained on vast datasets of thermal images and other process data. This allows the system to learn the subtle indicators of potential defects, such as solder joint inconsistencies, component misalignments, and other anomalies that might be missed by traditional inspection methods.
"This technology has the potential to transform how we approach quality control," adds Sarah Chen, Director of Quality Assurance at PCBAIR. "Instead of simply reacting to defects, we can proactively address them, ensuring that every circuit board we produce meets the highest standards of performance and reliability. This is particularly crucial for our customers in demanding sectors like aerospace, medical devices, automotive electronics, and industrial automation, where failure is not an option."
PCBAIR's research also incorporates the integration of AI-driven insights with its existing automated production lines, creating a closed-loop system for continuous improvement. The company anticipates that this technology will not only enhance its own manufacturing capabilities but also provide valuable data for optimizing PCB design and component selection.