Original Date: 04/20/1998
Revision Date: 01/18/2007

ITT Aerospace/Communications Division (A/CD) developed and implemented the Surface Mount Device Processing Database (SMD-PD) for generating Surface Mount Device placement and touch-up processes. By combining all its Surface Mount Device processing data into one centralized automated database, the company improved production time, reduced transcription errors, and established flexibility for component changes and machine reassignments. The company’s previous method was often inaccurate, required numerous hours to produce documentation, and could not keep up with changes and reassignments.

The SMD-PD takes advantage of two existing files: (1) the .MFG file which contains the reference designators and pad locations for each board and part; and (2) the bill of material (BOM) file which contains the BOMs for each board. By preparing and combining these files, operators can quickly and accurately generate the feederset index, the placement process, and the feeder labels. Figure 2-2 shows how to create an Surface Mount Device placement process. Previously, operators had to manually and repeatedly enter part numbers for each assembly. Since some assemblies have more than 300 parts, this procedure required numerous hours. Now, the operators only need to enter each part once into the Master Table of the SMD-PD. Part numbers needed for a parts list are then imported directly from the Master Table, eliminating transcription errors. Once the final placement program is created, the operators produce the finished placement process within 30 minutes, including the feederset index, the actual process pages, and the feeder labels required by new component assignments. The previous method performed the same feat in about eight hours. The SMD-PD also provides substantial flexibility in machine reassignments, and process or part number changes.

The SMD-PD’s built-in queries allow the operator to obtain extensive information on component usage such as a Surface Mount Device parts list for any assembly; all assemblies which use a particular component; case size, lead count, and lead configuration of a part; reference designators for a particular component; and components used on a particular production program. A reference copy of the SMD-PD resides in a shared directory on the company’s server, allowing accessibility throughout the facility.

The SMD-PD provides a well-established, accurate, and quick method to generate Surface Mount Device placement and touch-up processes. Since program debugging cannot begin until component feeders are loaded into the machine, the database’s fast turnaround time enables ITT A/CD to start production much quicker. In addition, the SMD-PD is a valuable analytical tool that can be used in Surface Mount Device manufacturing process studies.

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