Jun 01, 2012 
KIC introduces the new X5 Profiler, redefining what a data intelligence profiler can and should do. As opposed to the low-cost data acquisition profilers that focus purely on recording a product profile, a data intelligence profiler takes the additional active role of suggesting new oven setup in order to optimize the thermal process.
The X5 ships standard with process optimization software that enables users to improve their process along three dimensions:
To position the profile in the center of the process window
To maximize conveyor speed
To reduce the oven’s electricity use while running a deep in-spec process
The process optimization software verifies millions of alternative oven setups and automatically selects the most optimum recipe within a few seconds. While the thermal process is inherently dynamic due to the natural drift in the process, a profiler displays a static “snapshot” of the process every time a new profile is run. For this reason, the X5 comes standard with a basic SPC package. Every time a new profile is run, the profile data are added to an SPC chart, which includes Cpk numbers, in order to better display changes in the profiles over time. Such information is invaluable in detecting trends and volatility that notify users of possible future problems. Users can potentially decide to adjust the process prior to any out-of-spec situation should the SPC charts reveal such a likely output.
KIC’s new X5 Profiler is not only about the software. The hardware has to endure thousands of extreme thermal cycles, sometimes in ovens with voltage spikes on the conveyor, and frequently in harsh environments with rough handling. The X5 is designed to last in such conditions. KIC is putting its money where its mouth is, introducing the X5 with a full two-year warranty – standard, gratis.
Based in San Diego, KIC is the industry leader in automated thermal management tools and systems for reflow, wave, cure and semiconductor thermal processes. The company pioneered the development of oven profilers and process optimization tools, and then worked to create the next generation of thermal systems to help manufacturers improve the thermal process quality while reducing cost.
In addition to KIC Explorer, products include the KIC RPI reflow process inspection system, the KIC Vision automatic profiling system and more. With the introduction of cutting edge tools, the company continues to stay on the leading edge of process optimization and automatic thermal management systems, and has won numerous industry awards.
