Digital Optical Comparator
The fully digital, Windows-based VisionGauge optical comparator compares parts to their CAD drawings. Employing VisionGauge OnLine software, the system is designed to deliver accurate performance and greater throughput than traditional optical comparators in a compact footprint, according to its manufacturer. Software and systems manufacturer Visionx has designed this easy-to-use, shop-floor-ready digital optical comparator to be completely automated, including offering automatic pass-fail capability. Intuitive operation minimizes the need for user training, and because the comparator works directly with CAD data, no overlay or template is necessary. Taking advantage of stable, long-life LED illumination, it produces a high-contrast image with sharp edge profiles for easy viewing in daylight. Furthermore, the digital technology enables users to collect complete digital records of inspection and measurement operations and send data to Excel or other external applications. Available in five optical configurations between 5× and 100×, the comparator can be mounted vertically or horizontally.
Visionx Inc.
POINTE-CLAIRE, QC, CANADA
www.visionxinc.com

Laser Marking System
The EVC diode-pumped laser marking system, the latest unit in the E series from Telesis Technologies Inc., is designed for marking delicate and sensitive electronic components and medical instruments. The system features a Q-switched Nd:YVO4 end-pumped laser with a remote fiber-coupled diode pump source and offers such attributes as deep focal tolerance, a small beam diameter, air cooling, and stable output power. The laser's beam characteristics enable high-quality, high-speed marking on a range of materials that includes metals, plastics, and composites. System reliability and durability are ensured by an average diode life of better than 25,000 working hours and a mechanical and optical design that tolerates shocks, vibration, and dust. A small footprint facilitates integration of the marking system into both manual off-line and automated in-line production lines.
Telesis Technologies Inc.
CIRCLEVILLE, OH
www.telesis.com 

Bar Code Reader
Used in factory automation applications, the fixed-mount DataMan 500 X bar code reader is powered by the VSoC vision chip, a proprietary device designed to optimize performance and ease of use. Available from Cognex Corp., the reader can achieve high code-reading rates even if it is not positioned optimally. It employs 1DMax and 2DMax code-reading technology to read 1-D bar codes and 2-D matrix codes efficiently in a trigger-free manner. The vision chip enables 90 1-D codes to be read in a second and provides image acquisition with autoexposure at rates up to 1000 frames per second. Flexible lens options and field-interchangeable lighting allow users to realize a depth of field greater than that generally obtainable using other image-based bar code readers, according to the manufacturer. Supporting a variety of communication modes, including Ethernet/IP and Profinet, the reader can be accessed from any terminal connected to the network.
Cognex Corp.
NATICK, MA
www.cognex.com

Wire Stripper
Designed for production applications, the Model C300 twin-blade rotary wire stripper and twister can strip insulation material from solid and stranded wires. The triple-head unit is capable of processing Teflon, PTFE, PVC, nylon, rubber, Kel-F, miniature coax, and coaxial cables, as well as shielded wires and cables. It also allows the slug to be left on the wire for later removal when the wire is terminated. The stripping head incorporates a pair of easily and finely adjustable tungsten carbide stripping blades that remain accurately on center.
The Eraser Company, Inc.
SYRACUSE, NY
www.eraser.com

PCB Plasma Treatment System
The MaxVia plasma treatment system is designed to streamline PCB manufacturing operations by quickly and uniformly treating panels of various sizes and types. Providing high throughput and plasma uniformity in desmear and etch-back applications used in high-density-interconnect, flexible, and rigid circuit-board manufacturing processes, the system from Nordson March features a plasma chamber large enough to accommodate panels up to 24 × 42 in. and has a throughput capacity of 92 to 138 units per hour. The production rate depends on the panel size, and plasma uniformity is maintained even at high production volumes. The treatment system consumes less CF4 gas than competitive systems used to perform desmear applications, according to its manufacturer.
Nordson March
CONCORD, CA
www.nordsonmarch.com