Contax has supplied PCB assembly equipment to the Mullard Space Science Laboratory (MSSL), a department of University College London, and the UK's largest university space research group.

Production automation system specialist, Contax , has supplied PCB assembly equipment to the Mullard Space Science Laboratory (MSSL), a department of University College London, and the UK's largest university space research group. MSSL has installed an Essemtec FLX2010V placement machine, Essemtec SP003 stencil printer and McDry humidity cabinet. These will be used in the manufacture of instrumentation for use in space.

Gary Davison, Head of Electronic Construction and Inspection at MSSL explained, 'We had been trying to get funding for this equipment for some time, and when we finally received it, we went to Nepcon to review our options.

'There is a demand for components that are used in space instrumentation to get smaller and lighter, so that the cost of the launch is reduced.

This meant that we needed to upgrade our equipment to meet this demand.

Previously everything was hand soldered, but with the new smaller components, such as the 0805 and 0603, it was getting harder to do this'.

He continued, 'Our equipment is very specialised and it can take up to a couple of weeks to build one board as all the components have to be repeatedly tested, verified and examined under a microscope.

There is no room for error when you are building instruments for use in space.

It is expected that the instrument will be up there for 10 years or more and we can't just go up and replace a component if it goes wrong.

Consequently, each component can cost up to GBP10,000, and we don't keep spares'.

MSSL were therefore looking for a tried and tested system that could offer total accuracy and repeatability.

Vision was an important feature for the placement machine, as MSSL needed to calibrate it to very precise measurements.

The FLX2010V relies on a combination of laser and vision centreing systems, with an integrated feeder management system automatically recognising the feeders and pickup position.

The final criteria was that the machine had a small footprint.

MSSL is based in a converted victorian mansion and space was a critical factor in the selection of their equipment.

'We chose the FLX2010V because it offered everything we needed,' said Gary Davison.

'It has all the functionality and features that we wanted - and room for future proofing,' he added.

In addition, MSSL purchased the Essemtec SP003 stencil printer and McDry humidity cabinet.

'We needed a good, sound system that offers repeatability.

We felt that the Essemtec could provide that and more,' continued Gary.

'And the humidity cabinet ensures that we can store semi-conductor flight components in a safe environment.

They are far too valuable to damage,' he explained.

Summing up, Gary Davison said, 'The equipment is now in use and we have been very happy with it.

Contax sorted out initial teething problems promptly and we would definitely use them again.