Software eases SMD pick-and-place machine operation

Essemtec has announced its ePlace 4.0 that the company said is the most modern graphical user-machine interface for various SMD placement machines. Additionally, ePlace 4.0 uses Windows 7/64 bit as its operating system, stated the company.

The Windows 7 operating system simplifies the integration of the pick-and-place machine in a company's network, noted Essemtec. The fact that ePlace 4.0 now works with an SQL database further eases the integration, added the company. The user can chose between MS-SQL, MySQL and PostgreSQL. In the past, ePlace used a highly efficient XML database, which remains available with the 4.0 release. However, data now can be exported from XML to an SQL database and vice versa via a simple mouse click.

ePlace 4.0 is as easy to understand as previous versions because the UI appearance remains unchanged, claimed the company. However, user help has been expanded with numerous additional documents and process information. Many details of ePlace have been adapted to customers' growing needs. For example, components with no visible leads such as BGAs now can be shown from bottom-up alternatively.

In conjunction of ePlace with the pick-and-place machine, the vacuum detection of the placement head has been optimized. The vacuum generator is now stabilized in tighter limits. As such, pick-up errors can be detected quicker and more reliably for even the smallest components. Additionally, if one places round components (e.g. MELFs) with flat pickup tools, the feature can be deactivated for these components.

ePlace 4.0 automatically corrects all systematic changes due to temperature drift. ePlace 4.0 automatically recalibrates the pick-and-place head during the short production breaks when switching circuit boards on the conveyor.

The conveyor system now can be altered from left-right to right-left operation with one mouse click. Also, the multistage system automatically switches to synchronous mode if required by the length of a PCB (e.g. 600mm long PCBs).

The ePlace 4.0 is a further quantum leap in the development of the GUI, which according to the company boasts speed, user friendliness and the integration capability. Additionally, the solution offers savings in time and money in daily production, added Essemtec.