Keywords
Citation
(1999), "FirstCheck speeds inspection, reduces downtime", Soldering & Surface Mount Technology, Vol. 11 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/ssmt.1999.21911cad.027
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 1999, MCB UP Limited
FirstCheck speeds inspection, reduces downtime
FirstCheck speeds inspection, reduces downtime
Keywords CyberOptics, Inspection, Printed circuit boards
CyberOptics has introduced the FirstCheck™ off-line PCB verification system for first-article inspection (Plate 4). Using FirstCheck, operators can finish post-placement or postreflow inspection three to five times faster than visual inspection. First-article inspection is performed to validate the SMT process after a line changeover or new setup.
Plate
4 FirstCheck™
Typically operators use a magnifier or microscope to check PCBs for component presence/absence, identity, polarity, position or angle, and solder joint integrity. Meanwhile, production stops and the line sits idle. FirstCheck helps operators complete first-article inspection sooner, thus reducing costly downtime.
FirstCheck consists of a board scanner, monitor, and software for translating and displaying standard CAD files. For first-article inspection, the system shows the board overlaid with the CAD diagram and on-screen call-outs identifying all components. Any inconsistencies between the scanned board and the CAD diagram are very apparent, making it easy for the operator to identify defects. All pass/fail decisions are made by the operator -- no programming is required.
During production, FirstCheck is used for periodic checks of sample boards pulled off the production line. Once a "golden board" has been designated, FirstCheck superimposes and aligns the golden board image over the sample board image. Differences between the two boards are readily apparent on-screen, so operators can easily locate, identify and record defects.
FirstCheck is a manual, off-line system offering a mid-range alternative between low-cost, time-intensive visual inspection and faster, more expensive in-line AOI systems.
For more information, call +1 (612) 542 5927; www.cyberoptics.com