Inspection systems for electronic circuits from the “Close‐Ups” company

Abstract

Purpose

To examine the different types of equipment available for optical inspection of assembled electronic circuit boards.

Design/methodology/approach

Compares bench magnifiers and microscopes, “eyepieceless” scopes and video microscopes. Presents the Mantis range from Vision Engineering Ltd, and the video inspection products from Close Ups. Compares the cost and performance of various systems.

Findings

“Eyepieceless” and video microscopes allow the operator more head movement and are less tiring than traditional microscopes. Very clear and detailed images are required for solder joint inspection, and the customer should look for equipment with an established track record in this field.

Originality/value

Points out the pitfalls of equipment selection for electronic circuit assemblers.

Citation

Connolly, C. (2006), "Inspection systems for electronic circuits from the “Close‐Ups” company", Assembly Automation, Vol. 26 No. 4, pp. 283-286. https://doi.org/10.1108/01445150610705191