Essential Files for Pick and Place Machine in SMT Assembly
1. Pick and Place File (CSV/TXT/Excel)
Purpose: Tells the machine where and how to place components.
Key Data Included:
- Reference Designator (e.g., R1, C5, U3)
- X & Y Coordinates (placement position on PCB)
- Rotation Angle (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°)
- Component Footprint/Package (e.g., 0805, QFN-16, SOIC-8)
- Layer (Top/Bottom) for double-sided PCBs
Format: Usually .csv, .txt, or .xlsx (varies by machine brand).
2. Gerber Files (PCB Design Data)
Purpose: Defines the PCB’s copper layers, solder mask, and silkscreen.
Key Files Needed:
- Top/Bottom Copper Layers (for pad locations)
- Solder Mask Layers (to avoid placing parts on masked areas)
- Silkscreen Layers (for reference markings)
Format: Standard .gbr (Gerber) or .ODB++ (more advanced).
3. Bill of Materials (BOM)
Purpose: Lists all components needed for assembly.
Key Data Included:
- Part Numbers (manufacturer or distributor codes)
- Descriptions (e.g., “10kΩ Resistor, 0805”)
- Quantities per PCB
Format: Typically .xlsx or .csv.
4. Centroid File (Optional but Helpful)
Purpose: A refined version of the pick and place file, often generated by PCB design software (e.g., Altium, KiCad, Eagle).
Key Data Included:
- Exact center point of each component (for better accuracy).
- Polarity markings (for diodes, ICs, etc.).
Format: .csv or .txt.
5. Nozzle & Feeder Configuration File (Machine-Specific)
Purpose: Tells the machine which nozzles and feeders to use for different components.
Key Data Included:
- Nozzle type (for small passives, large ICs, etc.)
- Feeder slot assignments (where reels/trays are loaded)
Format: Machine-specific (e.g., Yamaha, Juki, ASM).
6. PCB Panelization File (If Using Panels)
Purpose: If PCBs are assembled in panels, this file defines fiducials, breakaway tabs, and board spacing.
Key Data Included:
- Fiducial marks (for machine vision alignment)
- Panel dimensions & array layout
Format: Usually part of the Gerber files or a separate .dxf.
Summary Table of Required Files
| File Type | Purpose | Format |
|---|---|---|
| Pick and Place File | Component placement coordinates | .csv, .txt, .xlsx |
| Gerber Files | PCB design (pads, traces, mask) | .gbr, .ODB++ |
| BOM (Bill of Materials) | List of components | .xlsx, .csv |
| Centroid File | Enhanced placement accuracy | .csv, .txt |
| Nozzle/Feeder Config | Machine setup | Machine-specific |
| Panelization File | Multi-board assembly | .gbr, .dxf |
Why Are These Files Important?
- Missing/incorrect files → Misplaced parts, assembly errors, delays.
- Accurate files → Faster setup, higher yield, fewer defects.
Would you like a sample pick and place file or BOM template? Let me know!