Thread

1. qphe95 · 1786036687 · focus · HN ↗

   You guys should really be making an end to end PCB machine, sourcing the parts and part inventory for custom PCBs really should be the responsibility of the end user.

   1. asadm · 1786036788 · focus · HN ↗

      whats the closest to this that exists today? (??? + pick and place?)

      1. willcarkner · 1786036896 · focus · HN ↗

         PCBA lines are largely automated as of today, issues start when you do high-mix work. Most time ends up being spent switching between jobs and programming machines, meaning that tool usage time is low.
      2. qphe95 · 1786037069 · focus · HN ↗

         I'm not the expert but Gemini doesn't say anything exists besides the Voltera V-One (which obviously doesn't work for complex PCBs). I am imagining something like a PCB microfactory the size of a container (or even smaller) that completely handles PCB etch and drill, solder paste application, PnP, baking, and testing.

         1. willcarkner · 1786037295 · focus · HN ↗

            That would be super cool. Difficulty comes with multi-layer PCBs, hard to find a solution for laminating.
   2. willcarkner · 1786036834 · focus · HN ↗

      Possibly, but our users find value in not having to kit, store, or ship parts to CMs.

      1. qphe95 · 1786037712 · focus · HN ↗

         I'm skeptical this is a cost effective for low volume prototyping which is where the speed of made in America matters.

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