At Prototype Electronics, our commitment to precision, reliability, and continuous innovation remains at the core of everything we do. We’re proud to share our latest milestone — the acquisition of a Sciencscope Xspection 3000 X-ray inspection system, supplied by Altus Group. This a significant step forward in our mission to deliver the highest quality electronic assemblies to our customers.
The system boasts a high-resolution flat panel detector and advanced imaging software, allowing for real-time inspection and precise analysis of complex assemblies. With a 70-degree oblique angle tilt, a 360-degree rotating inspection table, and an integrated internal barcode reader, the Xspection 3000 provides comprehensive flexibility and traceability in inspection tasks. Combined with its intuitive user interface, automated inspection capabilities, and fully programmable motion control, the system ensures fast, accurate, and repeatable results—making it an ideal choice for both prototype evaluation and high-volume production environments.
Why Invest in X-ray Technology?
As the complexity of printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) continues to grow, so too does the need for more advanced inspection tools. Traditional optical inspection methods are limited when it comes to verifying hidden solder joints and densely packed components like BGAs (Ball Grid Arrays), QFNs (Quad Flat No-leads), and other bottom-terminated devices. These components are widely used across industries — from automotive to aerospace — where there is zero margin for error.
Our new X-ray system allows us to see beneath the surface of these critical assemblies, providing detailed insights into solder quality, internal connections, and potential defects that would otherwise remain invisible. This ensures that every product leaving our facility meets the stringent standards our customers expect and deserve.
Key Benefits for Our Customers
The integration of X-ray inspection into our process offers immediate and long-term benefits:
- Enhanced Quality Assurance
Identify voids, misalignments, and other hidden defects with high accuracy, improving overall product quality. - Faster Fault Diagnosis
Quickly pinpoint the root cause of assembly issues, reducing downtime and rework. - Improved Process Control
Gain deeper insights into soldering and reflow performance, enabling fine-tuning of production parameters. - Support for Complex and Miniaturized Designs
Confidently handle next-generation designs without compromising on inspection capabilities.
Supporting Innovation and Growth
For us, this investment isn’t just about upgrading equipment — it’s about futureproofing our services. As demand grows for more sophisticated and compact electronics, having the right tools in place is essential. Whether we’re working on prototypes, low-volume builds, or full-scale production, our X-ray capability ensures we deliver with confidence, clarity, and consistency.
Moreover, this step reflects our customer-centric approach. By strengthening our inspection capabilities, we give our clients peace of mind that their products are being built to the highest standards — with every layer and every joint fully verified.
What’s Next?
We’re excited about the possibilities this new equipment opens up, both in terms of technical capability and customer collaboration. As we integrate the X-ray system into our operations, we look forward to offering even greater insight, transparency, and assurance to our partners.
Our Engineering Manager, Daniel, explains “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.”
Daniel adds, “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.”
Connor, one of our Manufacturing Engineers, was appointed and trained as our RPS (Radiation Protection Supervisor) adds, “Being involved from the early stages of the X-ray system’s introduction has been a rewarding experience. The training provided the knowledge to ensure safe and compliant operation, while also deepening my understanding of the system’s capabilities and the safe use of X-ray radiation. This technology will play a key role in enhancing our inspection processes and maintaining our commitment to quality and safety.”
Connor continues by explaining “The introduction of the Xspection 3000 X-ray will enable us to integrate X-ray inspection into our standard manufacturing and quality control processes. This means we can non-destructively verify hidden solder joints, internal connections, and component integrity with a much higher degree of accuracy and confidence. It’s a significant step forward in ensuring the reliability and performance of the products we deliver to our customers.”
Prototype Electronics – Innovating with Confidence. Delivering with Precision.
For more information about our services or to discuss your next electronics project, get in touch with our team today.
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