Altus expands advanced X-ray inspection at Prototype Electronics

Image courtesy Altus

As assemblies increasingly incorporate bottom-terminated devices and dense multilayer PCB structures, Prototype Electronics identified the need to extend inspection beyond surface-level techniques. X-ray inspection enables verification of hidden solder joints and internal connections, providing additional assurance where conventional optical inspection is limited.

Following a competitive evaluation process involving demonstrations, sample validation and formal scoring against multiple suppliers, Prototype Electronics selected the Scienscope Xspection 3000, supplied and supported by Altus. The system was specified in the 130kV close-tube configuration, incorporating a micro-focus X-ray tube, high-resolution flat panel detector and fully programmable motion control. 

Flexible inspection geometry, including oblique viewing angles and a rotating inspection table, supports detailed analysis of dense, multilayer PCB assemblies and complex components, with zero tube maintenance requirements.

Daniel Ryland, Engineering Manager at Prototype Electronics, said: “We chose the Scienscope Xspection 3000 for its advanced imaging capabilities, user-friendly interface and reliability in detecting hidden defects within complex assemblies, critical for maintaining the high standards our customers expect. Its high-resolution X-ray technology provides clear and accurate inspection results, which significantly enhances our quality control processes

“We chose to partner with Altus Group for the supply of the Xspection 3000 because of their excellent industry reputation, responsive support, and in-depth technical knowledge. Their guidance throughout the selection and installation process was invaluable and their commitment to customer service gives us confidence that we’ll continue to receive the support we need as we integrate this technology into our operations.”

Anthony Oh, Technical Sales and Project Manager at Altus Group, said: “It has been encouraging to see the steady growth of UK-based installations of Scienscope batch X-ray systems over recent years, and to secure another competitive project against our market peers. We believe the balance of capability and price point makes us a strong partner for UK CEMs, supported by our experience in inspection and customer support. I am pleased for Prototype and glad to see the system already delivering value on site.”

Altus Group has partnered with Scienscope for over eight years, supporting X-ray inspection installations across the UK and Ireland with dedicated technical and application support.