FLX2010-MK can automate all placement and dispensing tasks in the production of membrane keyboards or other flexible circuits. Two dispensing heads allow the application of glue, conductive glue or solder paste. LEDs and other SMD components are aligned optically for accurate placement. Even metal domes for keys can be placed automatically.

All placement and dispensing tasks can be programmed in any sequence, can place all SMT components from 0201s to QFPs at up to 5,000 cph.

The two available models vary only in the size of the placement range (MK: 500 x 300 mm; MKL: 800 x 600 mm"). The films can be even larger and are fixed on a flat vacuum table. Different size substrates can be combined; product-specific adapter plates can be used for double sided flex circuits - even in the reflow process.

Each dispensing head can be individually lowered and can be used in non-contact metering mode or with a standoff. A variety of feeding systems are available for SMD components supplied in tapes, sticks or trays. Metal domes are supplied as bulk material, taped or in sticks - the feeding system is selected accordingly.

ESSEMTEC

Bivar has announced a new line of snap-in and vertical standard-mount card guides, PCB ejectors and handles, all manufactured in compliance with WEEE and RoHS Pb-free materials and processes. Applications include the latest PCB packaging technologies in telecommunications, computer peripherals, test and medical diagnostic instruments and equipment, and plant system enclosures.

VERT-O-GIDE offers a dual channel vertical guide for 1/16" PCBs with over 31 styles, eliminating card cages in applications where PCBs can be vertically mounted.

The new line also includes Bivar's ejectors, inserter/extractors, PCB handles and connector cutout covers.

Over 571 different styles and sizes are available, including the company's optional stainless steel channel inserts available for all standard 1/16" PC board card guide styles, to provide anti-static properties.

Bivar Inc., www.bivar.com

CmController5 Compact reportedly helps improve yields and reduce solder joint defects by improving solder paste printing machine process stability. Solder paste printing is a critical step in the SMT PCB assembly process, since 60 to 70% of all soldering defects can be traced to the printing process.  The controller provides measurement technology for equipment and process capability analysis for printers and other production equipment; the data and measurement results obtained provide the base for stable and controlled printing and processing.
 
Michael Sivigny, general manager, said, "When a consistency problem originates in a systematic deviation, data from testing with our CmController is used to identify offsets, calibrate the printer and restore stability and repeatability to the printing process, lowering defect levels, eliminating rework and increasing throughput and profitability."
 
Process capability for a solder paste printer is measured by printing glue dots or solder paste on a highly accurate glass board with a specifically-matched laser-cut stencil and then evaluating it in the controller, particularly the positioning accuracy of the printed solder deposition relative to the substrate structures.

The mobile product and service offers third-party, objective evaluation methodology. Special vision algorithms, accurate glass plates and components allow for independent measurement of Cp and Cpk indices on production equipment. All brands and models of SMT printers, dispensers, placement and semiconductor machines are validated. Is designed for use on the production floor, does not require a controlled cleanroom environment.

CeTaQ Americas, www.cetaq-americas.com

LightRay Optics is a patented lighting accessory that attaches to MS-Q handheld imagers to enhance their ability to read direct part marks.