Buying power supplies for return on investment.(Statistical Data Included)

There is no question that reliable information and technology play a large role in design and manufacturing printed circuits. To succeed, printed circuit makers must be innovative, leveraging new technology, equipment, people, and processes. To maximize return on investment (ROI), we must first be informed. This article will provide practical information on today's advanced technology plating power supply equipment (rectifiers), explaining how they benefit return on investment.

This is not a technical article, and therefore will not linger on the technical details. ROI for manufacturing equipment can be maximized by improved capability or results; process benefits or cost reductions; improved quality and process monitoring; reliability and reduced down time; and instilling a competitive advantage.

TECHNOLOGY & CAPABILITY

Advances in power semiconductor technology, microprocessor technology, manufacturing processes, and networking are all contributing factors in today's more precise, flexible, and higher performance power supplies. As an example of how improved capability helps ROI, consider that most job shops process a wide variety of parts from one day--or even one hour--to the next. This requires a plating process to switch from a large part at high current, to a small part at low current. One part may have a simple geometry with a single metal finish, and the next may be very complex and require multiple metal finishes. Both parts must be processed with equal precision and quality. Today's advanced power supplies enable accuracy over a wider operating range, an greater control over the plating parameters such as output levels, regulation, wave form capability and advanced precise internal instrumentation.

Currently, advanced technology power supplies provide improved specification and a more consistent output signal; improved user ergonomics and displays; improved automation and process integration capability; an ability to generate more complex waveforms; and finally size and weight benefits.

INCREASE THROUGHPUT & REDUCE ERRORS

Purchasing more sophisticated manufacturing tools to improve production (and ultimately the bottom line) is a common and effective strategy. Product is manufactured through processes. The better, faster and more accurate the process, the more profitable it becomes.