Hi All,
Has anyone utilize a quick visual inspection method like using a clear template copy of the PCBA fabrication drawing (laying it over the PCBA) to do inspection?
Yes, I've seen this method used to good effect on boards which have multiple stages of assembly - the gerber files for the solder paste masks are blown (the pad sizes increased) and used as a layover which only picks up the components placed for that phase of manufacture.
Downsides : slightly reduced visibility, and poor refraction of lighting along with a limited life of the visual aids - leading to an additional reecurring cost.
Another version of this I have seen was that a cnc driller router was used to cut out the template which was then physically aligned to lie over the pcba, the initial generation of this mask is slightly more time consuming, but it's a superior method, with greater longevity (until someone tears it) and is much preferred by inspectors.
