Innovative research and development organisations in the electronics sector often face significant challenges during the early stages of product development. Specifically, the assembly of Surface Mount Technology (SMT) printed circuit boards (PCBs) can prove to be a major hurdle, especially when relying on outsourced manufacturing solutions. Xalten Systems Pvt Ltd, founded in 2023 and led by CEO Unnikrishnan, is committed to supporting the local industry and has stepped in to address these challenges with their range of advanced manufacturing equipment.
The Challenge of SMT PCB Assembly
As electronics continue to evolve, components are becoming smaller and more intricate, complicating the assembly process. Many startups find it difficult to engage larger manufacturing facilities for low-volume production runs, leading to inflated costs and delays. This scenario is a common plight for innovators aiming to validate their prototypes before moving to mass production.
Xalten’s Innovative Solutions
Xalten Systems has risen to the occasion by developing a suite of tools specifically designed for in-house assembly. Their offerings include:
- Pick and Place Machines
- Reflow Ovens
- Solder Paste Dispensing Solutions
These products, developed under the ‘Make In India’ initiative, empower innovators to handle miniature surface mount devices (SMDs) with precision and affordability.
Comprehensive Product Line
Xalten’s product range includes compact, desktop-sized machines that can be operated individually or as an integrated system:
- Pick and Place Machines:
- Capable of handling miniature components down to 0201 size (0.6 x 0.3 mm).
- Placement accuracy of 0.025 mm.
- Supports PCB sizes up to 300 mm x 300 mm.
- User-friendly software minimizes human error.
- Innovative cartridge systems reduce wastage and costs.
- Achieves production speeds between 500 to 2000 components per hour.
- Reflow Ovens:
- Accommodates multiple PCBs of the same size.
- Features uniform heating through infrared and convection.
- Wireless control options enhance user safety.
- Intelligent sensors prevent extreme temperature exposure.
Enabling In-House Assembly
Xalten’s machines eliminate the need for clean rooms and compressed air, making it easy for hardware developers to set up their assembly operations in-house. This capability allows innovators to test and iterate on their designs without the risks and costs associated with outsourcing assembly.
Why Choose Xalten?
Xalten distinguishes itself through several unique selling points (USPs):
- Affordability: Providing high-precision assembly solutions at a fraction of the cost of traditional manufacturing.
- Flexibility: Suitable for both prototyping and small-batch production, ensuring scalability for growing businesses.
- Complete Control: Enables startups and developers to maintain tight control over their product development cycles without external dependencies.
Addressing Industry Challenges
Many startups face the uphill battle of assembling prototype PCBs, often incurring high costs for low-volume runs. Recognizing this challenge, Xalten was founded to create accessible solutions that empower innovators. The company’s founders, inspired by their experiences in electronics product development, realised the pressing need for affordable automation in assembly processes.
Overcoming Design Challenges
Developing reliable and cost-effective machinery for electronics assembly was not without its hurdles. Xalten’s team underwent multiple design iterations to achieve the necessary precision while keeping costs low. Their innovative approach incorporates intelligent algorithms and advanced image processing to ensure accuracy in a compact design.
Target Market Segments
Xalten’s products cater to a variety of user segments, including:
- Startups and Incubators: Companies in early product development stages benefit from affordable assembly solutions.
- Academic and Research Institutions: Facilitating electronics assembly for educational and research purposes, while training the next generation of engineers.
- Corporate R&D Departments: Major companies seeking rapid prototyping and product development without compromising on intellectual property.
Additionally, Xalten aims to expand its reach to electronics hobbyists in the Western markets, further diversifying its customer base.
Future Prospects and Growth
With a dedicated team of 17 members and plans to expand to 30, Xalten is committed to scaling its operations. The company is actively developing technologies for mass manufacturing, aiming to produce equipment capable of achieving 8000 components per hour.
Expansion into Chip Manufacturing
Xalten is not only focused on assembly equipment; they are also exploring opportunities in chip manufacturing. By leveraging their established technologies, they plan to develop equipment for wire bonding and related processes in the near future.
Xalten Systems is at the forefront of empowering startups and innovators in the electronics industry with affordable, precise, and effective assembly solutions. By providing tools that simplify the assembly process, Xalten enables its customers to bring their ideas to life, paving the way for a more vibrant electronics ecosystem in India and beyond.
