Leading-Edge Auto-Alignment Concept: Multitest's MT2168 Features Superior Placement Accuracy

Multitest, a designer and manufacturer of final test handlers, contactors and load boards used by integrated device manufacturers (IDMs) and final test subcontractors worldwide, announces that its MT2168 Benchmark Pick & Place Handler has proven its superior placement concept at a high-volume production site in Asia. The customer experienced a significant improvement in the placement rate of tested devices in the output tray.

The MT2168’s position detection and control (PDC) addresses the issue of misplacement into trays and plates due to mechanical tolerances or thermal expansions. This is a common issue of any pick-and-place handler, particularly for small packages or variations of trays. For misplaced devices, there is the risk of getting damaged when the trays are stapled or of causing jams. The PDC concept on the MT2168 ensures a substantially better placement rate by integrating a sensor based alignment feature into the standard pick-and-place processes.

The MT2168’s PDC replaces repeated teaching processes, but is performed on-the-fly and independent of human operations and impact. With PDC, fine-tuning after kit conversion becomes obsolete. Additionally, PDC is an adaptive process that is optimized for the actual handling situations and requirements, e.g., during the heating-up phase.

Multitest (headquartered in Rosenheim, Germany) is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of test equipment for semiconductors. Multitest markets test handlers, contactors and ATE printed circuit boards. Globally, more than 700 employees serve the company’s customers in offices and branches in North America, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, China and Thailand.