Circuits Assembly Online Magazine - Demand from Medical Device Market Encourages SMT Equipment Makers

PALO ALTO, CA – Medical device equipment sales topped $1.25 billion in 2007 and are on track to reach $1.89 billion by 2014, research firm Frost & Sullivan reports.

High demand for reliable, flexible equipment from this market encourages SMT equipment manufacturers to develop higher-end machines, with accuracy, parts handling, and speed requirements at the forefront.

“Technology trends like remote patient monitoring and the incorporation of wireless technology in hospitals are expected to offer EMS providers an opportunity to utilize the experience gained from other conventional markets to provide suitable solutions for medical OEMs,” says Frost & Sullivan research analyst Julian Harris. “An increased supply of SMT equipment will ensue, elevating market growth.”

Though the medical device sector holds enormous potential, the FDA’s stringent regulatory standards deter many EMS companies from entering the market, which leads to a decline in overall machine sales, says the firm. However, increasing end-user need to comply with certifications such as ISO 13485 can help reverse the trend and accelerate demand for SMT equipment.

In response, advises Frost, SMT equipment manufacturers have to increase customer awareness on FDA regulatory standards and step up research and development initiatives with end-users. This enables penetration rates to attain new heights and help market revenue figures climb dramatically, according to Frost.

The decreasing size of medical PCBs remains another challenge for SMT equipment manufacturers. The highly complex nature of new package types and their fine-pitch components pushes manufacturers to integrate technologically advanced vision systems in their equipment. To meet end-user requirements for accurate placement and speed, manufacturers added dual camera heads and optimized illumination features to enhance value. These features will go a long way in reducing defects and enhancing the overall performance, says Frost.

“One primary focus is to modify the feeding capabilities and to correct solder misalignment with technological innovations in order to enhance the operational efficiency of the placement process,” notes Harris. “As top-tier placement equipment companies leverage this trend, other market participants will follow suit.”

Enhancements to the placement process offer manufacturers an edge, which allows effective customization of equipment per end-user requirements. Moving forward, manufacturers will provide both technologically innovative machine models, as well as service packages to ensure steady revenue growth. Sustained efforts through customer education, improved machine capabilities, as well as research and development are required to engender more efficient SMT placement processes and fuel revenue growth for SMT equipment suppliers in the medical market, says the firm.