Dec 07, 2012 
Hitachi high-speed, high performance solder paste printers and Koh Young Technology's 3D Solder Paste Inspection (SPI) systems can now "talk" to one another via Koh Young's award-winning Closed Loop Interface process control software. The process control software brings the SPI system and the printer together via a closed-loop communications link to not only identify defects in solder paste printing, but correct them at the printer. This powerful process optimization tool, the first such system of its kind, prevents soldering defects downstream that result in excess rework, productivity delays, and lower yields. The new development was recently announced at the SMTAI 2012 show in Orlando, Florida, where, additionally, it was the recipient of a coveted Global Technology Award.
“This new enabling interface is especially well suited to Hitachi’s HP-07 and HP-08 solder paste printers, which offer high speed and superior printing performance and are designed for high-throughput and productivity,” Matt Wyglendowski, National Sales Manager for the Production Systems Division of Hitachi HTA, said. “When linked to the post-print Koh Young SPI machine, the use of the Closed Loop Interface is easy to use and achieves desired print registration without manual process “tweaking”. It eliminates or reduces operator intervention and errors, and stabilizes the print process.” As a result, he adds, there are fewer soldering defects, higher yields, less operator intervention, improved product reliability and overall profitability. “After all, 74% of defects in PCB manufacturing are related to solder paste and paste printing.”
Hitachi’s HP-07 and HP-08 solder paste printers also have the capacity to accommodate large-size printed circuit boards with a range from 50 x 50 to 620 x 510mm. They boast extremely fast cycle rates, making both models well-suited to work in conjunction with Hitachi’s Sigma Series high speed modular mounters. These printers are known for their excellent printing quality, very fast cycle time, and easy operation.
Based on the true 3D measurements of the Koh Young SPI system (after the print) communicated to the printer, the printer’s software automatically adjusts printing parameters to optimize the print process and mitigate potential problems and defects. Whereas the SPI machine typically detects solder paste print defects and offer real-time defect analysis and trend charts, the KY Closed Loop Interface ‘talks’ to the printer, which automatically makes corrections. SPI print offset and theta measurements are sent directly to the printer for on-the-fly alignment correction. Automated offset corrections can be verified in real time through offset histograms and bull’s-eye charts from KY SPC Plus software.
Hitachi High Technologies America, Inc. (“HTA”) is a privately-owned global affiliate company that operates within the Hitachi Group Companies. HTA sells and services semiconductor manufacturing equipment, analytical instrumentation, scientific instruments, bio-related products as well as industrial equipment, electronic devices, electronic and industrial materials, consumer electronic products, wireless mobile telephones, and hard disk manufacturing systems. The HTA Production Systems Division (PSD) offers optimal integrated manufacturing solutions to large and small customers by supplying a variety of cutting-edge surface mount technology manufacturing solutions. For more information, and company contact information, visit www.hitachi-hta.com.
The HP-07 and HP-08 printers are designed and manufactured by Hitachi Plant Technologies, Ltd. (HPT), a sister company of Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation in the same Hitachi group. HPT has specialized in high quality and accuracy in printing technologies for half a century.
Koh Young Technology specializes in the design and manufacturing of 3D measurement and inspection equipment for the global circuit board assembly and semiconductor markets. Direct sales and support centers are located in the United States, Europe, Japan, Singapore, China and Korea. For more information about the company, visit www.kohyoung.com.
