MUNICH, GERMANY – Saki Corporation, an innovator in the field of automated optical and X-ray inspection equipment, will be exhibiting at SMTConnect 2024 in Nuremberg, Germany from June 11-13. As a key highlight of the Selecs booth #235 in Hall 4, Saki will be showcasing its unique range of automated inspection solutions including the award-winning X-ray Automated Inspection System (AXI) and innovative ‘One Programming’ and AI Solutions Features.

The European market's growing demand for Saki's advanced total solutions for in-line automated inspection of SMT processes has reinforced the company's dedication and strategic emphasis on the EMEA region. Saki's most recent hardware and software will be on display at booth #4/235, demonstrating its capacity for high-precision, high-speed automated inspection.

With the support of its distributor Selecs GmbH, the Saki technology team will demonstrate the most recent equipment array for high-speed, high-precision AOI and AXI in-line inspection:

AXI

Saki's latest 3Xi-M110 v3 machine is the industry's fastest automated X-ray inspection solution and winner of a Global Technology Award 2023. It features Saki's optimized Planar CT software, which was developed in-house for the industry's fastest cycle times. With highly accurate void measurement and detection for both PCBs and components, this 3D-AXI machine delivers excellent quality assurance.

AOI

The 3Di-LS2 and 3Di-LS3 are powerful 3D-AOI models equipped with 12μm and 8μm camera heads, perfect for today's SMT line manufacturing process requirements. They are designed to increase productivity, efficiency, and quality. Closed-loop technology, dual servo motor drive, high-resolution linear measurement, and sturdy gantry design ensure pinpoint precision and repeatability. Both AOI machines are equipped with Saki's innovative Z-axis control head and side camera feature to demonstrate the Saki Total Inspection Line Solution concept's versatility and flexibility.

SPI

The 3Si-LS2 SPI machine with 12μm camera head is designed to support large PCB sizes up to 500 mm x 510 mm. With unified hardware and software, machine operators enjoy a seamless transition between platforms, resulting in a superior experience that reduces costs and increases overall satisfaction.

In addition to its machine solutions, Saki will also present its versatile software suite which works with the equipment to form a total solution for quality inspection:

QD Analyzer, Saki’s powerful SPC system, a BF2-Monitor for offline reviews and a Multi Process View (MPV) demo station will present Saki’s software strength that greatly improves process troubleshooting and determines root causes. These innovations will help clients increase automation to solve labor & resourcing issues, tackle skills shortages, improve productivity and achieve greater manufacturing quality and efficiency.

Saki Link (reference exhibit) – Saki Link is a unique feature that enables real-time control and management of all Saki inspection systems (SPI, AOI, AXI) in the SMT line from one location, linking inspection results and providing predictive inspection coverage for the whole inspection process. With direct communication between related Saki inspection systems, handling complex inspection machinery and optimizing throughput across the SMT line is substantially simplified.

One Programming (reference exhibit) – Saki’s One Programming feature is the next step in implementing Saki’s unique “One Software & One Hardware” platform philosophy. One Programming allows for a one-step programming operation to generate and build inspection programs/recipes for subsequent inspection processes (SPI-AOI-AXI). This approach significantly reduces the time required to prepare inspection setups for new products and assures perfect inspection coverage.

AI Solutions (reference exhibit) – an introduction to Saki’s unique integration of AI functionality.

“We are excited to be returning to exhibit at SMTConnect again this year to showcase our innovative inspection technologies and solutions,” said Jarda Neuhauser, General Manager, Saki Europe. “The exhibition is an excellent platform for us to connect with industry professionals to demonstrate the benefits and power of our total inspection line solutions and introduce our latest innovations to the market. Our solutions are a result of years of research and development, and we’re confident they will continue to set the standard for precision and accuracy in our industry.”

For more information about Saki visit www.sakicorp.com/en/

STEINACH, SWITZERLAND – Variosystems plans to double its revenues by 2026 and, to make that happen, is banking on expansion, boosted employee numbers, and a broader range of services. The Steinach-based global electronics service partner is expanding its engineering further and added Markus Dillinger to its management with effect from May 1, 2024. The expert brings with him 25 years of experience in leadership positions in the industry and was most recently General Manager at System Industrie Electronic (S.I.E.). At Variosystems, Dillinger will harmonize and enhance global engineering and test engineering processes. Variosystems is additionally investing in the test engineering competence center in Sri Lanka and intensifying its cooperation with test machine maker SPEA.

Variosystems realizes customer-specific electronics solutions for industry, aviation, transportation, and the medical and life sciences sectors. The Steinach-based global electronics service partner covers the entire value chain, from development to production as well as life cycle management. Variosystems is seeking to double its revenues by 2026. To achieve this, the company is further expanding its VARIOexperience range of services, investing in engineering, and boosting its employee numbers. Markus Dillinger became an addition to the management team on May 1, 2024. As Head of Test Engineering Variosystems Europe, he is leading the teams at the sites in Switzerland, Croatia, and Sri Lanka – and assuring product quality with tailor-made testing strategies.

Variosystems applies a variety of optical and electrical test methods as well as environmental tests. The high degree of automation and the involvement during development lower costs over the long term. As Head of Test Engineering, Dillinger is a driving force for the global harmonization of testing processes, bolstering the over 20-year partnership with leading test machine maker SPEA, and further developing the competence center in Sri Lanka. In the future, local test engineering resources at all locations globally will use SPEA’s automated systems.

Over 25 Years’ Leadership Experience in the Electronics Industry

“By bringing Markus Dillinger on board, we are gaining more than 25 years’ leadership experience in the electronics industry. He will develop our Engineering and Test Engineering teams further and ensure high-quality, cost-effective, and on-time solutions in conjunction with our interdisciplinary teams and in close cooperation with our customers,” says Stephan Sonderegger, CEO of Variosystems. Dillinger is moving to the global specialist from technology company System Industrie Electronic (S.I.E.), where he was General Manager. He believes there is enormous potential: “Variosystems has a clear vision. We wish to form and strengthen partnerships that are long-term and strategic by providing reliable electronics solutions and using resources sustainably. We create the trust that is needed by offering tested quality. In doing so, we help our customers to remain or become market leaders.”

Investment in Sri Lanka Competence Center

Variosystems’ largest production site is located in Badalgama, Sri Lanka. This ultramodern facility was doubled in size to approximately 30,000 square meters in fall 2023. In addition to electronics and wire harness manufacturing, it is also home to a center for test engineering. Its more than 30 test engineers develop tailor-made testing technology for sites globally and offer technical support. Variosystems plans to make further investments and double its personnel over the coming months. Markus Dillinger is responsible for strengthening the competence center and developing a global engineering and test engineering network. The aim behind this is to support the customer organizations in Europe, North America, China, and the Asia-Pacific region with a harmonized testing strategy and SPEA technology platform in the future.

AUSTIN, TX – ROCKA Solutions today announced the appointment of FHP Reps as its exclusive manufacturers’ representative in the states of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Nebraska, and Kansas. FHP Reps is renowned for delivering best-in-class equipment, consumables, and services to the electronics manufacturing industry, with a focus on providing comprehensive solutions.

“We are excited to welcome FHP Reps to the ROCKA Solutions family,” said Justin Worden, VP Sales & Marketing at ROCKA Solutions. “Their deep understanding of the Southeast market and strong relationships with key stakeholders make them the ideal partner to represent our brand in this region.”

FHP Reps stands out from other rep firms by offering a diverse range of products and services, including equipment, consumables, and solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of their clients. With their expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction, FHP Reps has established a reputation for excellence in the industry.

“We are honored to represent ROCKA Solutions and their innovative solutions for the electronics manufacturing industry," stated Keith Favre, President of FHP Reps. “We look forward to introducing ROCKA Solutions’ cutting-edge solutions to our customers and helping them achieve their manufacturing goals.”

As the appointed manufacturers’ representative in their territory, FHP Reps will promote ROCKA Solutions’ SMT production supplies, including stencil rolls, cleaning wipes, and soldering materials, among others. The company will work closely with customers to understand their unique needs and provide tailored solutions to help optimize manufacturing processes and improve operational efficiency.

CRANSTON, RI – AIM Solder, a global leader in solder assembly materials for the electronics industry, is excited to announce its new partnership with Cluff & Associates, a renowned electronic manufacturers’ representative. This strategic alliance aims to strengthen AIM Solder’s presence and customer support in Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming.

Cluff & Associates, established in 1979 and headquartered in Denver, Colorado, brings over four decades of expertise and a robust network in the electronics assembly sector. As a nationally recognized leader, Cluff & Associates is dedicated to providing top-tier solutions and enhancing the distribution of innovative products.

Nolan Neva, Regional Sales Manager at AIM Solder, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “Partnering with Cluff & Associates aligns perfectly with our mission to deliver reliable and innovative product solutions. Their deep market penetration and commitment to excellence will undoubtedly enhance our ability to serve our customers and meet the dynamic needs of the electronics industry in the Rocky Mountain region.”

Cluff & Associates is committed to leveraging its extensive knowledge and experience to promote AIM Solder’s comprehensive product line. Their approach ensures that each product line is effectively matched with dealers and distributors whose customer bases benefit most from advanced soldering materials and solutions.

Both companies are excited about the future and the mutual benefits this collaboration promises. For more information about Cluff & Associates, visit cluffinc.com.