Valor’s TraceXpert solution now offers real-time performance monitoring and process verification for all machine brands and machine generations from Fuji, Panasonic, Siemens and Universal. Following the availability of these latest generation interfaces, TraceXpert provides machine vendor neutrality for line-monitoring, exact traceability, real-time materials management and optimized assembly line performance.
 
According to Henning Maerkedahl, executive VP at the development centre for TraceXpert, traceability is now the key driver in over 60% of new project implementations, and is one of the main reasons for introducing floor-level MES systems into a manufacturing environment.
 
Maerkedahl also noted, “Many customers either have SMT lines from multiple vendors or a mix of different machine generations across lines. TraceXpert is the only monitoring, verification and traceability solution that delivers proven integration for all machine vendor brands and their generations. This allows electronics manufacturers to achieve faster set-up time and reduce costly reworks; deliver higher quality and manufacturing yield - with one factory-wide solution. The multi-function, real-time control interfaces developed by Valor for the four leading machine vendors in the market are in addition to Valor’s general line-monitoring solution that covers all types of machines from all machine vendors.”
 

Valor Computerized Systems, valor.com

MicroMark precision spray marking system produces neat, consistent spots and stripes from 5 to 30 mm wide without overspray or clogging. Designed for reliability and low maintenance, it reportedly reduces downtime on automated and semi automated production lines.
 
Applications include color-coding to differentiate between similar components, indicating pass/fail status and showing whether a specific process has been performed.
 
Uses a precision spray valve and Low Volume Low Pressure (LVLP) air to make uniform spots and stripes without mist or overspray. The system’s high transfer efficiency and quick cutoff improve part appearance and keep work areas clean. A short microburst of air after each shot keeps the nozzle from clogging and reduces maintenance.
 
The system includes a microprocessor-based controller that simplifies system setup and operation. The controller can be easily interfaced with a PLC if desired. Ink or paint is supplied from a fluid tank with a constant-bleed air regulator that prevents fluctuations in fluid pressure.
 

Today’s highly flexible, fast SMT placement machines are designed for just-in-time manufacturing; they can run multiple jobs at once, have 300 or more ‘smart’ feeders loaded at any time with the entire range of components from 0201s up to 55 x 55 mm at high speeds. As feeders index components for pick up and placement, repeatable accuracy is critical. CeTaQ announces the availability of a machine Capability Analysis (MCA) service that verifies feeder and shuttle motion repeatability.
 
Michael Sivigny, general manager, said, “One of the consequences of the move to lead-free assembly is less tolerance for even slight variations in placement accuracy. Components do not self-center as easily during reflow with lead-free solders. Consequently, placement accuracy is more important than ever. While there are other aspects of pick and place machine accuracy addressed by our services, this approach specifically addresses issues with feeders. Our feeder calibration service is critical to ensure repeatability of pick location, feeder indexing, component location, and sprocket repeatability. This is of particular importance for handling components such as tiny 0201 and 01005 chips.”
 
CeTaQ’s service involves the use of a ‘smart’ camera that works in conjunction with its mobile metrology system. Additionally, the service dovetails with a feeder maintenance program designed to ensure continued accuracy once feeder accuracy and repeatability issues have been corrected. The service and methodology can also be applied to die feeders and picked die from cutting.
 

CAM350  Release 9.1 is the latest version of the software for the verification and optimization of PCBs. Streams Rule Check is now included at no additional charge in the mid-level CAM-350 configurations. The release also enhances the interfaces to major CAD systems including Mentor, Cadence and AutoCAD.
 
Streams Rule Check allows Design Rule checks, Design for Manufacturing checks and Netlist Comparison checks to be run simultaneously (or all in one “stream”), shortening the time it takes to analyze a design. It also allows a designer to save the stream based on technology, manufacturing capabilities or other requirements and recall it for use on future designs. The company will also deliver this functionality to customers under maintenance.
 
Other enhancements include: DFF analysis checks; interface updates; soldermask analysis enhancements; enhancements to minimum space and minimum width analyses; Latium updates; full screen mode; and defect fixes
 
DownStream Technologies, downstreamtech.com

CP0402 family of High Directivity LGA Termination Couplers provides high frequency performance and rugged construction for reliable automatic assembly. This miniature component is ideal for mobile communications, satellite TV receivers, GPS, vehicle location systems and wireless LANs.
 
The low-profile couplers, in frequencies from 400 MHz to 6 GHz, feature 3W continuous power dissipation, low insertion loss and high directivity (>20db). Available in Pb-free versions, with the parts providing excellent solderability and self-alignment during reflow.  
 
AVX Corp., avx.com

The Solderite product line has been developed for hand soldering stations and reportedly provides a cost effective solution to Pb-free solder implementation.
 
Addresses RoHS Compliance by providing substantial changes in the design of the soldering station. The three foremost properties of any soldering station are: Power, Temperature Control and Soldering Tip. The patented technology and design of the power supply and temperature sensing in these new products reportedly produce the fastest temperature recovery time on the market. Electroplated soldering tips ensure quality soldering and extended tip life.
 
Soldering stations underwent strict testing from lab, contract manufacturing and Pb-free soldering training centers. The tip life has averaged a two-to-one rate compared to standard soldering tips. Tip replacement cost did not exceed the cost of standard soldering tips.

 
Technology Asset Services, solderite.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

ASYS introduced a laser marking island during Apex. The island consists of a Board Destacker, Laser Marker, an optional Flip Station and a Restacker. Can handle a throughput of up to 510 PCBs per hour including code verification. The optional Flip Station, which is completely controlled by the laser marker, can flip the boards for double-sided marking requirements. The marker can handle all industry standard 1-D and 2-D codes, text and graphics in a maximum range of 18 x 18”. The island is less than 8.5 feet long and can be upgraded with multiple options.

ASYS Automation, asys-llc.com

 
Image capture and processing speed is up to 200% faster than previous models with an inspection time of less than 30 sec. for both sides of an 18 x 20” substrate. Is fully automatic, and programming is simple. Has Windows XP user interface, can be linked to the VS Series verification stations.

 
The Christopher Group Inc., christopherweb.com

Tyco Electronics recently upgraded its custom and pre-print label product line. New additions include improved adhesive-backed labels for use in industrial, commercial and consumer product applications. The range of materials, adhesives and printing methods make the custom and pre-print labels suitable for use in aerospace, telecom, datacom, electronics, military hardware, shipboard systems, medical equipment, pharmaceuticals and many other industries.
 
Can be designed by Tyco Electronics or originate from existing customer-specific logos, artwork or brand markings. Color matching, custom shapes and UL & CSA certified materials are available. Tyco Electronics also offers custom data printing for sequential numbering, 2-D data matrix, bar coding and other customization.
 
Offers four major printing technologies for custom and pre-print labels including: Flexography printing for general-purpose, high-volume, six-color printing; hot foil printing, a three-color process for various materials; thermal transfer for serial and barcode printing needs and laser engraving for the highest level of durability.
 
Printing substrates include: white polyester, clear polyester, metalized polyester, white vinyl, nylon cloth, vinyl cloth, polyimide film, polyvinvlfluoride, tamper-evident materials, stainless steel, polyolefin cable markers and heat shrinkable markers & sleeves.