Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services


Manufacturing test systems

11 May 2011 Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services

Test Research Inc. (TRI) provides test systems for each phase of the manufacturing process, including solder paste inspection, automated optical inspection (AOI), automated X-ray inspection (AXI) and in-circuit testing (ICT).

At the beginning of the electronics manufacturing process is solder paste inspection (SPI). The TR7007 is a 64-bit, 3D SPI system for mid- to high-volume manufacturing, boasting inspection speed of 171 cm²/sec at 14 micrometres resolution and 87 cm²/sec at 10 micrometres. In addition, the machine implements ‘fringe pattern’ technology and a dual lighting system that eliminates shadows. It also uses a linear motor for smoother, more accurate imaging. The entry-level TR7006 features inspection speed of 76 cm²/sec at 20 μm resolution.

X-ray inspection technology can see through PCBs and hard-to-inspect components to check their connections to the PCB. TRI’s TR7600 is an AXI test system that provides in-line inspection for high-density components such as flip chips and BGAs, and micro-components down to 0201 and 01005. The system uses X-ray penetration to capture images using nine CCDs at different angles. Software developed in-house by TRI analyses the slice images and calculates the different slice heights to inspect for PCB defects.

TRI’s test systems have already been installed successfully in South Africa, such as this AOI machine at Vektronix
TRI’s test systems have already been installed successfully in South Africa, such as this AOI machine at Vektronix

Optical inspection can take place pre- or post-reflow, inline or at a standalone station. TRI’s inline AOI solutions include the TR7700, which features a large-format digital 3CCD full-colour camera and can scan up to 130 cm²/sec@18 μm, and the TR7500, which combines a top-view digital 3CCD full-colour camera plus four angle cameras to provide complete AOI coverage. The standalone TR7530DT desktop system comes with a high-end digital 3CCD full-colour camera for clear capture of board images and is equipped with an ultra-low angle, coaxial RGB LED lighting system for efficient off-line defect detection.

After a board has been fully assembled, it needs to be fully tested. The TR5001 and TR8100LV are the latest models in TRI’s ICT product line, with well over 1200 systems deployed worldwide. The TR8100LV is a full-featured model for large, complex PCBAs, while the TR5001 is a cost-effective analog/digital tester with a variety of upgrade options from MDA to onboard programming and boundary scan.



Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Why South African manufacturers must rethink device programming
Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
[Sponsored] As South Africa positions itself as a fast-growing player in global electronics manufacturing, an often overlooked yet critical phase in the production lifecycle is coming into focus: device programming.

Read more...
PCBWay: Your go-to for fast, reliable electronics design solutions
PCBWay Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
[Sponsored] While many engineers may know PCBWay for its excellence in PCB manufacturing, its design service is equally impressive.

Read more...
Why South African manufacturers must rethink device programming
Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
[Sponsored] As South Africa positions itself as a fast-growing player in global electronics manufacturing, an often overlooked yet critical phase in the production lifecycle is coming into focus: device programming.

Read more...
Find high-quality flex and rigid-flex PCBs at PCBWay
PCBWay Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
[Sponsored] Flex and rigid-flex PCBs are widely used across various industries due to their unique combination of flexibility, durability, and design versatility. Among the leading providers, PCBWay stands out for its exceptional quality services.

Read more...
The ultimate range for design and repair
RS South Africa Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
Whether adapting existing systems or maintaining essential equipment, design and repair play a crucial role in ensuring efficiency and longevity.

Read more...
Next-generation SPI and AOI series
Techmet Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
Saki Corporation has launched its next-gen series for SPI and AOI featuring a modular design for enhanced inspection efficiency and automation.

Read more...
Yamaha’s Advanced Safety Package eases factory-safety
Truth Electronic Manufacturing Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
Yamaha Robotics SMT Section has extended availability of the Advanced Safety Package, which contains optional features to elevate printer and mounter safety above and beyond mandatory levels.

Read more...
Case Study: Siemens Valor automation solution
ASIC Design Services Editor's Choice Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
Electronics manufacturer BMK used Siemens Valor to enhance accuracy and speed up bill-of-materials quotations.

Read more...
The factory beat
Electronic Industry Supplies Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
Change is the only constant across today’s complex manufacturing landscape. The surge of digital transformation, spearheaded by Industry 4.0, has redefined how factories operate, build, and evolve.

Read more...
Microtronix powers up 2025 with smart meter production for Eskom
Microtronix Manufacturing Manufacturing / Production Technology, Hardware & Services
Microtronix has kicked off 2025 with a significant milestone: the production of smart meters for Eskom, designed to assist customers with load reduction initiatives.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved