Universal Instruments Corp. has designed a line that can assemble 2,000 microprocessors per hour (supposedly 60% to 80% faster than existing lines).

GSM Genesis platform features a twin beam gantry system and proprietary linear motors based on the company’s Variable Reluctance Motor (VRM) technology. Each beam can support one of three different heads: 30-spindle rotary Lightning head – a chip placement solution with VRM technology that is smaller than mechanical turret heads typically deployed to place small discrete components; a seven spindle Flexjet head with integrated cameras to handle a range of components; or a four spindle Pressure Enhanced (PE) head used in conjunction with a high resolution digital upward-looking Magellan camera to place challenging components that demand higher accuracy.

A chipshooter platform configured with two Lightning heads can assemble 32,000 to 37,000 capacitors/hr. Optimal tact time for the line is between 18 and 20 sec. A module comprising 16 to 20 capacitors can be addressed by a single chipshooter platform, while modules with 20 to 40 capacitors require a second chipshooter.

A flip chip platform features two PE heads. The machine’s motion control parameters – such as acceleration, settling band and stabilization time – are said to deliver higher accuracy. A special low-viscosity fluxer is integrated on the machine. With the flip chips fed in waffle packs, can assemble 2,000 flip chips/hr.

Universal Instruments, www.uic.com