Circuits Assembly Online Magazine - Features

Medalist 5DX automated x-ray inspection’s 8.4 software release reportedly contains specialized algorithms that permit inspection of quad-flat, no-lead (QFN) components with reduced false call rates; defect characterization on non-wetted direct FET (field-effect transistor) by using an open slope paste test; and a threshold enabling inspection for solder presence along side edges of capacitors.

Agilent Technologies, www.agilent.com

The LNC 60 is used to simultaneously align components on six nozzles on each placement head inside JUKI’s newest pick-and-place machines. The LaserAlign sensor reportedly allows the component alignment process to perform rapidly on the fly. Will be used in KE-2070 series of high-speed chip shooters and KE-2080 series of high-speed flexible mounters, reportedly capable of placing down to 01005 components.

CyberOptics, www.cyberoptics.com

The BondJet BJ915 heavy wire bonder reportedly offers the highest speed and accuracy, and the largest work area available. Highlights are said to include a 10% speed increase over BJ910 with bonding speeds reported as fast as 450 ms/wire (300Âµm diameter 8 mm loop length wire) and 10 µm at 3 sigma placement accuracy. Said to be the only heavy wire bonder with both integrated pull test and nondestructive shear test capability. A process-integrated quality control (PIQC) system is said to provide wire deformation graphs for multiple or single wires, data logging of all error messages and tolerance limits, storage and printing of deformation curves for analysis, statistics, and process control.

Hesse & Knipps, www.hesse-knipps.com

The BluePrint-PCB Viewer application is available as a free Web download. Reportedly allows users to create a comprehensive PCB release package. Supports three viewers, including a standard viewer; one that supports html and can be viewed using an Active X component, and the Pack and Release Viewer, which is said to allow users to control the amount of time a document release package may be viewed by a third party. All versions support hyperlinking functions that link details to notes and callouts as well as URLs, e-mail addresses, audio, video and other electronic files. Reportedly can view and query the native CAD data. Contains search function.

DownStream Technologies, www.downstreamtech.com

The Static Control Anti-Fatigue 9900 series mats are said to enable workers to stand comfortably for long periods, while minimizing fatigue and reducing static electricity. The mats, 0.60" (1.52 cm) thick with a beveled edge made of solid molded rubber, consist of a matrix of hollow cylinders that function like springs when compressed. Said to get softer as compressed. Weigh 2 lbs. per sq. ft. and come in three sizes: a standard 3 x 5ft. (0.9 x 1.5 m); an octagonal 22" diameter (55.9 cm), and in 3ft.-wide runners that can be customized. Reportedly have a resistance in surface to ground snap of <1 x 10 (to the 6th power) ohms and surface to ground resistance of <2 x 10 (to the 6th power) ohms when connected through a 3M-brand ground cord 3040. Includes three-year warranty.

3M, www.3M.com

The JOT Automation line features a bare board unstacker, segmented conveyor, and high-speed router. The J210-50 bare board unstacker automatically feeds boards onto a production line. Has a pass-through length of 19.7" (500 mm). The track height is adjustable from 29.5–39.4" (750-1000 mm). The J204-50 segmented conveyor transports and buffers PCBs between process machines using multiple-drive technology. Comes with line width adjustment and mechanical connection to other equipment. Reportedly ensures no contact occurs between boards during transfer. The J215-33 single magazine handler is said to be ideal for high-mix, low-volume production. Features a feed-out conveyor for unloading. Offers a no-program setup. Track height is adjustable between 35.4 – 37.4" (900 and 950 mm). The J501-44 high-speed router is a compact inline router said to be suited for high-volume production of small panels. Makes use of grippers to hold the PCB in place for underside milling to ensure short-cycle duration. Cutting speed is reportedly up to 60 mm/s with a reported cutting accuracy of 0.15 mm. The J501-41 standalone mini-router for topside routing reportedly offers a cutting speed of up to 60 mm/s with accuracy of 0.2 mm within a compact footprint.

Elektrobit, www.elektrobit.com