Cluso automated first article inspection is a computerized method of inspecting first-off boards without the need for manual inspection. Is a logically validated, semiautomatic solution that sits before the production line; integrates visual inspection with document or data file control and traceability reporting. Boards are checked for errors against a platform of controlled procedures. CAD and machine placement files and BoM are loaded into the system; the pick-and-place file is automatically verified against the BOM; the first-off printed circuit board is scanned, and the high-res digital image file is displayed on a monitor. Reviews BoM data. Location of individual parts on the PCB is also automated, as are coordinates from pick-and-place files or original CAD dataset.

Cluso, www.cluso.com.au

SAM-CT35Q large board model tabletop PCB router is designed for smaller work spaces. Easy-to-use system features a push button control to start operation. Automated precision router features built-in safety door to protect operator during routing process and fixture-based highly efficient dust vacuum system. High-speed router bit precisely cuts densely populated PCBs without stressing board. Cutting paths can be set as close as 0.5mm to a component. Routing area of large board model covers 500 x 300mm. Offline image-processing software for programming router paths.

Sayaka, www.sayaka.co.jp

Seika Machinery, www.seikausa.com

VT-RNSII inline post-reflow inspection system uses faster shutter speeds and improved image processing to perform inspections 20% faster than the original VT-RNS series. Permits faster throughput and more detailed inspections of densely populated boards within the same cycle time. Can provide 3-D information from a 2-D image. 3-CCD camera enhances solder shape recognition accuracy; is said to obtain 3x the information of a 1-CCD camera. Resolution is up to 10 μm; can inspect components as small as 01005 and 0.012” pitch. Also comes in benchtop model (VT-RNSII-ptH).

Omron Inspection Systems, www.omron247.com

Edge provides a sharp, shallow angle blade tip for via probing on printed circuit boards. Incorporates ZIP flat technology. Is fully replaceable in current fixtures with 100 mil receptacles.

Everett Charles Technologies, www.ectinfo.com

SonoFlux Servo GP is a fully automated ultrasonic reciprocating spray fluxing system. Has a precision gear pump liquid delivery system; offers precise control of flux quantity. Offers programmable selective area spray capability with little overspray. Additional features include 2" to 18" or 2" to 24" board width capability, full PLC control with Windows-based software, up to 500,000 recipe storage, single or dual mode, conveyor speed sensing option and optional barcode reader. Non-pressurized flux reservoir has low-level sensor alert and high flow rate accuracy, with deposition repeatability of +/- 5%.

Sono-Tek Corp., www.sono-tek.com

Ecobrid SC-AH100 automatic low-VOC stencil cleaner reportedly provides a 66% reduction in CO₂ emissions and energy consumption over previous automatic cleaning system. Cleans and dries in 5 min. Features touch panel operation. Includes slide-in mechanism.

Sawa Corp., www.sawa-corp.co.jp
Seika Machinery, www.seikausa.com

Forced verification for screen printers includes a sensor to detect when the cover of the machine is open. Triggers a request to validate the machine setup, including solder paste, stencil, squeegees, etc. Includes a cycle stop controller to physically stop the machine until all the required elements have been validated.

SMT Machine CAMX adapters are used to gather real-time material and process data from production equipment. Data can be shared via an IPC standard CAMX broker with Cogiscan TTC applications or ERP, MES and internal traceability systems. Support placement machines from Fuji, Juki, Mydata, Universal Instruments and Siplace, as well as screen printers from DEK, reflow ovens from VI Technology, AOI from Cyberoptics, Koh Young and Viscom, x-ray from Teradyne , ICT from Teradyne, and the SMD storage unit from Essemtec and Mydata.

RFID smart feeder upgrade kit for Samsung placement machines enables closed-loop setup validation and traceability for existing machines and feeders. Reduces machine downtime during changeovers and replenishment and reduces risk of human errors. 

Cogiscan Inc., www.cogiscan.com

ESS selective soldering machines, EWS-500 wave soldering machines and ERO-500 reflow ovens are designed for low-volume, high-mix assemblers.

ESS selective soldering machines are batch soldering systems with on-board, touch screen, micro-controllers and on-board flux, preheat and omni-directional soldering. Perform single point, drag, mini-wave and dip soldering. Off-line programming and photoscan software are available.

EWS wave soldering machines employ an "L" finger handling mechanism, permitting pallet-less board transport. Continuous width adjustments permit quick changeover for all board widths up to 12" or 310mm.

ERO-500 is a 5-zone, conveyor reflow oven for SnPb and Pb-free soldering of SMT boards, hybrid boards and curing of glue and thick-film pastes. Heating zones are independently programmable and controlled through the on-board LCD system controller. Can define parameters for conveyor speed, heating temperature, convection heat flow and cooling fans.

APSNovastar, www.apsgold.com

3800 8th Generation automated programming system combines Vector Engine Co-Processor technology, universal device support, and on-the-fly vision centering. Supports microcontrollers, NAND flash, NOR flash, serial flash, managed NAND flash, E/EPROM, flash EPROM, and other technologies with densities up to an 8 Eb theoretical limit. Supports devices with voltage down to 0.7 (Vdd). Co-processor design hardware accelerates waveforms during programming cycle. Includes LaserAlign sensor. Ideal for mid- to high-volume production. Can use eight to 16 socket cards, and is compatible with Flashstream socket cards.

BPM Microsystems, www.bpmmicro.com

NPM-W (Next Production Modular Wide) is a platform for processing printed circuit boards up to 750 x 550mm, placing components up to 120 x 90mm, and accommodating up to 120 unique inputs per module. Has a throughput of 70,000 cph in a 1280mm length. On-board fluxer permits PoP components from both tape and tray, while providing necessary feeder inputs. 3D sensing and chip thickness sensing are possible. Uses features of CM-series placement equipment.

Panasonic Factory Solutions Company of America, www.panasonicfa.com

FumeCube fume extractor now includes a remote control and machine communication interface. Can be connected to one or two flexible extraction arms. Arms can be attached to a bench using clamp brackets and the integrated airflow valve supplied. Is stainless steel and features a powerful blower to draw contaminated fumes away from the workers breathing zone; the fumes are passed through a three-stage filter system. Is quiet and portable.

Purex, www.purex.co.uk

Sarcon XR-v-AL is a silicone thermal interface material that offers the installation flexibility of a putty-like sheet and the performance of a high-end gap filler pad. Provides thermal conductivity of 6.0 W/m°K and thermal resistance of 0.04 °Cin²/W. Non-flammable, peel-and-stick material is 0.11 mm thick and can be applied to almost any electronic component or heat sink. Is available in sheet form on a carrier up to a max. 50 mm x 50 mm.  Exhibits low contact resistance and transfers heat from its source to a heat sink or spreader.

Fujipoly America Corp., www.fujipoly.com