MORRISVILLE, NC - Juki Automation Systems, a world-leading provider of automated assembly products and systems, announces that it will display the IFS-X2 RFID intelligent feeder system with traceability in booth 817 at the upcoming Nepcon East exhibition and conference, scheduled to take place April 30-May 1, 2008 at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center in Boston.

Juki’s second generation Intelligent Feeder System (IFS-X2) provides enhanced graphics and an improved user interface that makes feeder setup easier, faster, and more accurate. IFS-X2 allows for inventory control and features a closed-loop system that tracks the entire material flow and production process to ensure error-free production and total traceability with RFID technology.

IFS-X2 features a graphical setup wizard that leads the operator through the entire process from retrieving a reel from stock through feeder loading. On- and offline feeder banks are networked, allowing the user to quickly and accurately locate any feeder for quick and easy loading. Additionally, the system features a closed-loop system that checks for accurate feeder setup before production can be run, ensuring optimal production performance and accurate component selection for placement.

IFS-X2 seamlessly updates inventory when new and used reels of components are received. Component count is done in real time, ensuring precise stock control and, therefore, a reduction of inventory costs that result in faster load access to components needed for other jobs. The Web services interface allows real-time communication to all ERP systems.

The system uses a 1- or 2-D barcode scanner that identifies incoming boards for production. All components placed on that board are then recorded and stored in a database that allows for future tracking of the components and the generation of traceability reports. This valuable feature allows complete transparency for process validation and error analysis.

RFID technology has become very popular for the logistics industry, especially for large retailers who have replaced barcode identification. The passive RFID tags can store more data and are more reliable in reading than the classic barcode. Juki’s IFS-X2 system uses this technology for data transfer between the feeder and the feeder trolley.