Aesc, Switzerland — Essemtec, a leading manufacturer of surface mount technology production equipment, announces that it has been awarded a 2008 SMT China Vision Award in the category of Pick-and-Place – Multi-Function for its FLX2011 Flexible Pick-and-Place System. The award was presented during an April 8, 2008 ceremony that took place at the Shanghai Everbright Convention & Exhibition International Hotel during NEPCON China/EMT China.

The FLX2011 pick-and-place series fulfills the requirements of a high-mix SMT production and features 01005 chip placement capabilities. It also offers a large application range, allows production changes without downtime and features 5X higher resolution of the measurement system over the competition.

FLX2011 is available in a standard size, as a large model and with or without conveyor systems. It can be expanded to an FLX2021 or FLX2031 system for higher speed and feeder capacity. Additionally, it has 20 percent improved speed over its predecessor, the FLX2010.

In a high-mix production, changeover is the most important cost factor. With the FLX concept, changeover cost and time are minimized. Offline production preparation and programming in combination with intelligent feeders and a very large feeder capacity allow a product changeover with no downtime, resulting in tremendous cost benefits.

The unique “virtual-view function” allows test and correction of a program without placing a component. Easyplacer, the system’s operation software, is a key factor for the machine’s flexibility. The powerful Windows-based software features a full graphic interface, making operation and programming easy. Also, with Easyplacer, the user always has control over the machine‘s status, the feeders and the components. The software is continuously updated and improved in cooperation with the customer. Additionally, the Internet-based remote maintenance system facilitates short problem solving time and saves traveling expenses for experts.

The SMT China VISION Awards program is sponsored by SMT China Magazine and honors the top categories of various manufacturing-related products, materials and equipment. The purpose of this program is to recognize, reward and celebrate excellence in the Asian electronics industry.