Features
Automatic Centroid Extraction (ACE) automatically converts selected pads into SMT parts by calculations based on the centroid of the SMT footprints
Teach Part allows the user to manually teach through holes and custom shaped SMT patterns
The Find Reference Designators (FReD) function performs character recognition on silkscreen data in order to automatically assign reference designators to parts.
This feature allows the user to import part numbers from a Bill of Materials (BOM) and merge the part numbers, package, and other information into a parts layer by matching the BOM part numbers (etc.) and reference designators with parts layer reference designators.
A detailed analysis of the parts contained on a board can be obtained using the Assembly Analysis report. The report is saved externally for easy distribution to interested parties and contains user-defined information. Information that can be included in the report ranges from simple information such as total number of parts to more specific information based on an individual Package Style. Additional sections include information on off-angle parts, information based on Part Number, estimated Solderpaste volume, and duplicate reference designators.
Many part properties can be assigned to part numbers or specific part instances, including alternate part number, feeder, and part values.
The Advanced Stencil Editing option provides users with several efficient stencil editing solutions, including pad splitting, "C" pad creation, heel and toe edits, and automatic pad adjustment for pad-pitch manipulation.
OUTPUT TO CIM SYSTEMS
GC-PowerPlace can enhance your CIM system capabilities by providing Gerber input and data manipulation. GC-PowerPlace can be used to prepare data in the formats of popular CIM systems, such as C-LINK, CircuitCam, Valor, and FABmaster.
IN-CIRCUIT TEST OPTION
The in-circuit test option is a valuable software tool for printed circuit board assembly. Test engineers receive enhanced data preparation capabilities that affect profitability. Using Gerber data, a readily available data source, the in-circuit test option offers flexibility in ICT programming. There are many financial benefits of having the in-circuit test option including; speeding up a board’s time to market, decreasing production time, and realizing a return on investment within 3 months.
PRODUCE PROGRAMS FOR ALL POPULAR PRODUCTION EQUIPMENT
If you have production lines with different machines, you can produce programs for all of them from the same set of data. GC-PowerPlace stores data in a "neutral" database, from which programs can be produced for all popular pick-and-place machines and other manufacturing equipment. You can also use it to create programs for AOI and solderpaste inspection equipment. Your sales department can even use it for preparing quotes.
