Selecting an AOI Machine: A Procurement Manager’s Take on SMT Efficiency

Choosing an AOI machine for your SMT line? A procurement manager shares how I.C.T's tailored automatic optical inspection machine tackled diverse PCBs, boosted efficiency by 20%, and cut costs. Learn key factors for your next investment. Contact smt@smt11.com

As a procurement manager, my job is to balance quality, cost, and reliability when investing in SMT equipment. Our factory faced a challenge: our aging inspection system couldn't handle PCBs ranging from 50x50mm to 510x460mm or the mix of 0201 chips and large connectors we were assembling. With a daily output of 12,000 boards, slowdowns from inaccurate inspections were costing us time and money.

We turned to I.C.T for a solution. Their team analyzed our production needs and recommended an automatic optical inspection machine with flexible optics and high-speed processing (up to 100 cm²/s). What stood out was their focus on customization—they configured the system to handle our diverse board sizes and component types without requiring multiple machines. This saved us significant capital expenditure.
During implementation, I.C.T provided a detailed cost-benefit analysis, showing how the machine's precision could reduce rework by 25%. Their training program was a bonus—our operators were up to speed in days, thanks to intuitive software and on-site support. One engineer shared, "The system's defect visuals are so clear, it's like having an extra set of eyes."
The results spoke for themselves: defect detection improved by 20%, and downtime from false positives dropped by 30%. This meant fewer returns and happier clients. I.C.T's global service network also gave us peace of mind—when a software update caused a hiccup, their team resolved it remotely within hours.
For procurement managers, the right AOI is about long-term value. I.C.T's commitment to tailored PCB assembly solutions and reliable support made this investment a no-brainer. It's not just about buying equipment—it's about partnering with a team that understands your bottom line.
Ready to upgrade your SMT line? Reach out to I.C.T at smt@smt11.com.

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