Almost 70% of all process errors in SMT lines are associated with the stencil printing stage. Many of these errors can be eliminated in a cost-efficient way. The Ersa VERSAPRINT 2 printer series is equipped with modern camera technologies that enable fast setup and full-area solder paste inspection directly within the printer. The intuitive user interface supports space-saving operation. With the concept of “features on demand”, VERSAPRINT 2 can be flexibly adapted to meet specific application requirements.

• LIST camera enabling 100% inspection within the process cycle
• Low space requirement in the production line for printing and inspection
• Closed-loop process control for stencil printing and post-print inspection
• Simple programming and operation
• Stencil printing and SPI combined in one machine

• VERSAPRINT stencil inspection identifies errors before they occur
• Zero-point measurement of the unprinted LP at any time before printing
• Integrated closed-loop function for print offset control
• Integrated software platform for printing and inspection
• Maintenance and servicing for one machine and one AP covering both processes

During 3D inspection, VERSAPRINT 2 analyzes solder paste print parameters such as volume, area, height, short, and offset. When deviations from defined specifications are detected, the system additionally records a 2D image of the affected area, enabling clearer visualization and more effective analysis by the operator. For detailed examination, the operator can rotate and zoom the detected defect in the 3D image as needed. Height profiles are displayed using color coding, where borderline regions are marked in yellow and red. A critical factor in height measurement is the correct definition of the zero point. Since the pad area used as the zero reference is covered with solder paste during measurement, common SPI practice requires measuring a limited number of unprinted boards before production to establish this reference. This procedure typically needs to be repeated when changing batches or suppliers.

An essential advantage of the integrated inspection within the printer is the ability to measure every PCB prior to printing. If particularly high accuracy is required, or if sufficient cycle time is available, the system can consistently perform a pre-inspection. Statistical Process Control (SPC) serves as a key instrument for ongoing process optimization. The SPC function integrated in VERSAPRINT 2 gathers all relevant process data, including inspection results, summarizes the information clearly, and visualizes trends. This data can be used directly at the machine for immediate process adjustment, for end-of-line comparison with AOI systems, or as a monitoring tool for production management.