MEK’s breakout AOI and SPI technologies featured at SMT Nuremberg

PowerSpector S1 Solder Paste Inspection by MEK employs a unique new “5D” technology that delivers true area, shape, offset, volume and height measurement together and complete for the first time. PowerSpector S1’s high speed post-print SPI process incorporates patented new sensor technology and simultaneously combines 3D and 2D image processing methodologies along with elegant real-time SPC process data management that delivers defect detection far beyond current industry standards.

Jeremy Saise, Mek Technical Director said, “Having demonstrated this SPI product almost continuously for the past six months, I can say without hesitation that virtually everyone with an opportunity to see it has agreed it is a genuine leap forward in SPI technology and productivity.”

SMT visitors will also discover a new generation iSpector desktop AOI system that unites advanced optical performance with inherent flexibility and accuracy. iSpector was the world’s first desktop system to offer one top camera and eight side cameras in 45/45 degree configuration. Increasingly popular 45 degree space-saving circuitry designs can now be inspected with 10µm resolution side cameras. Combining simultaneous 9 camera inspection, true 24-bit colour imaging technology and 3D Solder Meniscus profiling, these systems deliver advanced AOI performance with either manual or fully automated PCB handling.

The Mek Inspection Island serves multiple lines while eliminating the requirement to manually handle PCBs. Featuring unique repair & traceability software for effective post processing of defects, operators are afforded the flexibility to select classification on the fly, through manual intervention.
Mek General manager Henk Biemans explained. “Traditionally, island operation has only been available for customers with an inline machine model, plus a loader and unloader. We’ve taken our most cost-effective and popular desktop model and combined it with a proven, conveyor/rack storage system to dramatically reduce the cost and complexity associated with automatic offline inspection. Innovations like this have enabled our customers to break out and rediscover AOI.”