How to choose the right pick-and-place machine
A pick-and-place machine sets SMD components precisely onto the board. This guide shows how to match component range, speed in CPH, feeder types and placement accuracy to find the machine that fits your production.
View soldering guidesWhich component range must the machine cover?
Component range is the first selection criterion. It defines which sizes and package shapes the machine can reliably pick and place - from tiny chip resistors in 0201 format (0.6 × 0.3 mm) to large connectors, QFP and BGA packages.
Miniature parts such as 01005 or 0201 need finer vision and a smaller nozzle set, while large components require head clearance and higher payload capacity. Always check the minimum and maximum component size plus the maximum component height in the datasheet.
How much speed do you really need?
Placement rate is stated in CPH (Components per Hour) and measured under defined conditions per IPC-9850. Benchtop units reach 3,000 to 8,000 CPH, compact lines 15,000 to 25,000 CPH, and high-speed heads 40,000 CPH or more.
What matters is the real rate, not the catalogue peak. Changeover, vision inspection, nozzle swaps and the share of large components noticeably reduce effective throughput. Calculate with your typical assembly and batch size instead of the brochure optimum.
- Prototypes and small runs: a benchtop machine at 3,000‑8,000 CPH is enough.
- Medium series: a compact machine at 15,000‑25,000 CPH with fast changeover.
- High volume: a modular chip shooter at 40,000 CPH with inline linking.
- Include setup and changeover time, not only the peak rate.
Which feeder types and how many feeder slots?
Feeders present components to the placement head in an orderly way. The choice depends on how your parts are packaged: tape (reel), stick (tube), tray (JEDEC waffle) and loose bulk supply. The number of feeder slots limits how many different parts can run per setup.
Count the number of different components in your largest assembly. If feeder capacity is not enough, you need multiple setups or a larger machine. Intelligent feeders with component recognition also reduce the risk of mix-ups and wrong placements.
How accurately must the machine place?
Placement accuracy tells you how exactly a part lands on its pad. Typical values are ±0.025 to ±0.05 mm (at 3σ, measured per IPC-9850). For fine-pitch ICs, QFN and BGA, high accuracy and good camera vision are decisive so the parts self-align during reflow.
Two vision systems work together: the fiducial camera reads the board reference marks, the component camera centres each part before placement. Missing or poor vision leads to offset, tombstoning and rework. Passive-only placement needs less; fine-pitch needs more.
- ±0.05 mm is enough for passive parts and larger ICs.
- ±0.025 mm or better for QFN, 0201 and fine-pitch BGA.
- Fiducial recognition to correct board distortion.
- Component vision to check position, polarity and leads.
Frequently asked questions
What does CPH mean on a pick-and-place machine?
CPH stands for Components per Hour, the number of parts placed per hour. The figure is measured per IPC-9850 under ideal conditions; real output is usually lower because of changeover and vision.
What is the smallest component a benchtop machine can place?
Many benchtop units reliably place from 0402, better models handle 0201 or even 01005. Vision resolution and the right nozzle set are decisive.
Which feeders do I need for ICs and connectors?
ICs often come in tubes (stick) or on JEDEC trays, connectors sometimes loose. Check whether the machine accepts tray and stick feeders in addition to tape feeders.
How important is placement accuracy?
For passive parts ±0.05 mm is enough; for fine-pitch ICs, QFN and BGA it should be ±0.025 mm or better so parts stay aligned during reflow.
Looking for the right pick-and-place machine?
We advise on benchtop and inline machines to match your component range, batch size and accuracy needs - from a first small run to a full production line.
Per IPC-9850
Speed and accuracy figures based on a recognised standard.
Full feeder choice
Tape, stick and tray feeders for every component.
Right throughput
Sized correctly from prototype to high volume.
Expert advice
Our specialists support selection and setup.