Need to spec in smt prototype equipment

Any ideas on what to buy? Only need to build surface mount protos, ability to rework. Is a rework station okay? Will subcontract production after design is proven.

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| Any ideas on what to buy? Only need to build surface mount protos, ability to rework. Is a rework station okay? | Will subcontract production after design is proven.

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If it's really low volume I would only invest in a stencil printer and convection reflow oven to start with. If you want to go really low budget get a manual unit such at one from Transition Automation. Make up some really good shop aids and have someone hand place the devices. Maybe also a six zone BTU reflow oven. Some rework machines say they offer pick and place capability but most are time consuming to program and use. I would probably go with a Pace system (lots of hot air and conduction reflow attactments). Plan to use it only for devices you don't want to manually solder or can't place before the solder paste cures. Add placement equipment as you need it but be careful! You can spend alot of money on a POS. Go with a trusted name. I would recommend a Fuji IP2 if you have some low volume needs and some high accuracy placements are required. It is a flexible machine that is relatively cheap if you can find one on the used market (about $200K to $300K).

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| Any ideas on what to buy? Only need to build surface mount protos, ability to rework. Is a rework station okay? | Will subcontract production after design is proven. Best bet is to get an Elite or OK Industries manual printer if you are not doing fine pitch. If you get into the 16mil or under arena you may want to invest in a better printer. A small 4 zone used oven from a reputable dealer would do the job and hand placing the components is the best bet. If you have a budget of around $15K, Mancorp offers a complete system. You might want to investigate. I believe that Fritsch also offers something very basic. Hope this helps.

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