Distributed by the Accelonix Group in the UK & Ireland, Benelux, France and China, the XRHCount from VCcount has been gaining traction in the electronics manufacturing industry.
Almé, a renowned electronics subcontractor based near Annecy, Haute-Savoie, France, recently conducted an in-depth benchmark of the XRHCount to evaluate its performance in real production conditions. The goal was to compare this solution against other available market equipment, focusing on speed, versatility, and ergonomics.
Almé Chooses the XRHCount from VCcount After a Successful Benchmark
Counting Speed
During the test, the XRHCount demonstrated superior performance, especially in terms of speed. The team found that the device could count a reel in just 8 seconds—twice as fast as a competing machine, which took 16 seconds for the same operation. Additionally, when counting four reels, the XRHCount completed the process in 10 to 12 seconds, whereas the competing machine required 24 seconds.
Versatility and Efficiency
Almé also recognized the XRHCount’s ability to handle various component formats, including small and large reels, trays, tubes (sticks), and ESD bags. This versatility allowed Almé to optimize operations without needing multiple machines. Furthermore, the large tray of the equipment was appreciated for its capacity to count very large reels or multiple tubes simultaneously, which enhanced productivity.
Ease of Use and Ergonomics
The X-ray component counter also stood out for its ease of use, a key criterion for EMS. The integrated barcode scanner was found to be particularly user-friendly, enabling quick and reliable recording of components without time loss.
Additionally, the adjustable screen, which can be placed either on the side or in front according to operator preferences, contributed to improving the overall ergonomics of the equipment. This flexibility allows users to adjust the machine to their working conditions, reducing fatigue and increasing comfort, especially on production lines where multiple operators rotate.
Conclusion of the Benchmark
The XRHCount was very well received by the Almé team, particularly for its counting speed, its versatility in handling different component formats, and its ease of use. The integrated barcode scanner and adjustable screen improved the ergonomics and efficiency of the device, offering flexibility that is highly appreciated in intensive production environments.
Despite a few minor improvement suggestions, no critical issues were identified during the benchmark. Almé praised the overall performance of the XRHCount, especially its ability to integrate quickly with their “Beegest” management system, thus enhancing their material logistics, stock management, and inventory control over the long term.
XRHCount Technical Features
The XRHCount from VCcount is equipped with several innovative technical features, making it a top choice for EMS looking to improve productivity and inventory management.
Contactless Counting
The XRHCount allows components to be counted in multiple formats, including MSL (Moisture Sensitivity Level) bags, without opening them, even when these bags contain desiccants.
This feature is particularly useful for electronics manufacturers handling moisture-sensitive components, such as semiconductors, where any breach of the packaging could compromise product integrity. In production environments with strict humidity control standards, the use of VCcount’s X-ray counter ensures component quality while optimizing the counting process.
Automatic Barcode Recognition
With its automatic barcode recognition system, the XRHCount simplifies component tracking in environments where traceability is essential, such as large-scale production lines. For instance, in a factory producing electronic boards for the automotive industry, the equipment can automatically scan component reel barcodes, instantly integrating this information into the ERP system. This reduces manual errors and accelerates logistics operations.
Recognition of Atypical Shapes
The XRHCount can recognize atypical shapes, which is particularly advantageous for manufacturers working with specialized or non-standard components. By identifying these shapes, the XRHCount ensures reliable counting, avoiding frequent errors associated with handling these components.
Fast Counting Cycle
One of the XRHCount’s key strengths is its fast counting cycle. A complete cycle takes only 8 seconds per reel, and with the QuadCount function, it is reduced to 2 or 3 seconds per reel, depending on the size. This is particularly beneficial in high-production environments, such as smartphone manufacturing plants, where thousands of components need to be counted daily.
XRHCount Counting Cloud
The Counting Cloud feature of the XRHCount takes efficiency to another level. It significantly reduces programming effort when a new component needs to be counted. This system operates on the principle of data sharing from “Component Shape Images”.
Thanks to this feature, each customer contributes to enriching the global database by sharing their learning experiences with other users. With thousands of component reel images already stored in the database, users benefit from the accumulated knowledge, reducing setup time for unlisted components and improving overall counting accuracy.
Intuitive Interface and Adjustable Screen
The XRHCount’s intuitive touchscreen interface and adjustable screen offer a seamless user experience, even in intensive working conditions. For example, in a production line where different operators use the same machine, the adjustable screen allows the interface to be tailored to ergonomic preferences, avoiding discomfort and boosting productivity. Moreover, the simplicity of the interface enables new users to adapt quickly, reducing training time.
Ready to Use
The XRHCount’s “Plug and Play” system allows for immediate use upon installation. In environments where deployment time is critical, such as EMS working under tight production deadlines, this feature eliminates downtime. A company replacing its old counting equipment can begin using the XRHCount immediately without needing a long calibration or training phase, speeding up the integration of the new equipment.
Minimal Maintenance
Thanks to its optimized design, the XRHCount requires minimal maintenance. This is especially beneficial in production environments where unplanned downtime can have significant financial impacts. The XRHCount ensures continuous operation, reducing the risk of production delays. Additionally, the equipment can be ordered as a stand-alone unit or integrated into a production line.
