- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -

 Hamel, MN, USA, August 21, 2000 - ASC International is announcing the introduction of its newest product for SMT process control, VisionMaster AP212, a fully-automated version of the Company’s popular VisionMaster 150 3-D Measurement System.

VisionMaster AP212 incorporates high-resolution PCB positioning with the sophisticated, 3-dimensional measurement technology found in ASC International’s VisionMaster 150 to provide Electronics Manufacturers with most accurate and automatic solder paste measurement tool in its class. The AP212 eliminates operator handling problems that can be associated with other off-line measurement and inspection systems, improving measurement repeatability and reproducibility. 

The AP212 uses a proprietary high-resolution (1.66 µm / 0.00007”) 3-D sensor based on triangulation and a white light scheme.  Teaching the system is as simple as instructing where on the PCB to measure and what solder paste characteristics are critical for maintaining process control, such as solder paste volume, height and area.  These instructions can be saved as text files that can subsequently be edited and appended off-line.

In operation, the user simply selects the program or script they wish to use, align the pasted PCB on the AP212’s positioning table and select “Run”. The AP212 automatically indexes the PCB to the pre-selected locations and makes high-resolution, 3-D measurements of the objects found at each site, comparing the answers to your pre-determined process specifications.   Information for any site found to have out-of-tolerance features is highlighted in the AP212’s script window.  Selecting this information with the mouse pointer will automatically index the PCB to the problem site for further inspection.  By selecting "Show 3-D Profile”, the operator can instantly view a colorful 3-dimensional picture of the problem area.  This information can be copied, printed or stored for later review or used to generate formal reports.

An NIST traceable standard is included for ISO/QS 9000 conformance.  Models start at under $40,000 (US), making VisionMaster AP212 an exceptional value for electronics manufacturers concerned with improving production yields.

About ASC International

ASC International is headquartered in Hamel, MN and helps electronics manufacturers worldwide improve their production yields with optical-based measurement systems, process control tools and production equipment.  For more information about the company and it’s products, call (763) 478-6200, e-mail info@ascinternational.com or visit www.ascinternational.com.