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Next-generation AXI Raises Throughput
June 13, 2007 |Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
SANTA CLARA, Calif. The ×6000 automated X-ray (AXI) inspection system from Agilent Technologies builds on the increased throughput and automation features of the company's 5DX, with additional speed, simplified interfaces, and streamlined X-ray image capture. While the ×6000 and 5DX share a common X-ray tube, the latest-generation ×6000 eliminates the Z motor and lasers for vertical alignments, a design strategy that is said to improve throughput by 23×. A digital imaging chain and autofocus technology perform the 3-D image capture. Agilent characterizes the next-generation AXI as offering improved time-to-market, defect coverage, and cost of test.
The ×6000 offers revamped programming steps, including an advanced sorting control and "click and drag" component specifications. These updates target operators with less training or experience, reducing set-up times and operator errors. The company also automated more of the set-up process, setting "initial tuning" of algorithms for better thresholds. Users can adjust these algorithms as needed. This automation, along with other features to reduce false calls and increase test speeds, results in a reported 20% increase in machine uptime, enabling higher throughput than with prior generations.
The AXI system performs all tests in 3-D, as opposed to using 2- and 3-D. This feature allows more in-depth inspection of medium- to high-complexity boards, according to the company. The ×6000 hosts an improved component database from 0201s through 0.4-mm BGAs and joint-type-specific algorithms for more accurate defect analysis. Users can adjust joint-type specifications as necessary to suit a particular product. The system can generate 10 to 15 datasheets per joint for PCBs with 25,00050,000 solder joints. Measurement data is charted and sorted so that operators can define effective tests for each project. Other updates include a smaller inspection region to replace larger fields of view (FOV); this reduces the effect of warpage on inspection data.
To reduce the cost of inspection, Agilent increased the throughput of the ×6000 to 23× that of the previous-generation 5DX. Removing Z motors and lasers in favor of a digital imaging chain is said to speed tests, as it eliminates multiple FOV passes required to construct an image. Stage movements in the X/Y axes are 6× tighter than prior AXI systems. A project database automatically recognizes repeat projects, and then pulls up the most recent test strategy for that given assembly. Project development reportedly takes, depending on the particular design, less than one day. The system targets higher-volume production through increased throughput, suiting Asian and other high-volume production regions.
Other updates to the system include new language interfaces, supporting international use, and an adjustable keyboard and display to suit different operators. The ×6000 occupies a smaller footprint than the 5DX, due to a redesigned mechanical/electrical layout. Agilent introduced the machine to the U.S., European, and Asian markets early in 2007 and currently installed four machines in China, Thailand, Germany, and the U.S.