Machine Capability Study (MCS)2025-12-04T08:24:54+01:00
Objective tests for maximum process quality.

Machine Capability
Study (MCS)

We specialize in manufacturer-independent machine capability studies (MCS) on SMT systems. Our mobile measuring systems enable fast and precise measurements directly on site in your production facility.

  • Do you have any questions? +49 (0) 351 / 426607-60

Independent measurements

Objective, cross-manufacturer machine capability studies (MCS) for all SMT systems – we measure directly in your production facility with our mobile measuring system. You do not need your own measuring technology. Note: External support (e.g., supplier, process engineer, manufacturer, maintenance technician) is required for the operation of the machines.

Accredited testing laboratory

We are accredited according to DIN ISO EN 17025 for the determination of positioning accuracy and registered with DAkkS under the registration number D-PL-20318-01-00. Our measurements meet, among other things, the IATF 16949 requirements and provide independent analyses – regardless of the brand of the tested machine.

Fast optimization

Thanks to many years of experience, our engineers immediately recognize the causes of specification violations. 90% of the causes are systematic errors, which can usually be corrected directly on site together with your technicians. The success of corrections is always confirmed with a measurement and documented in the report.

25+

Years of Experience

Good reasons for an MCS as a service

Why an MCS as a service pays off for you

We offer you manufacturer-independent and competent machine capability studies as a service. For the investigation of the positioning accuracy of SMT systems, we are accredited according to DIN ISO EN 17025 and registered with the DAkkS under the registration number D-PL-20318-01-00.

This means that we meet the requirements for our customers who, for example, work according to IATF 16949.

In addition, we are ISO 9001 certified. What this means for you:

  • No own measuring equipment necessary

  • Decades of experience of our service team

  • Low line downtime → minimal costs

Our measurement service in the SMT process

Measurement services in SMT manufacturing

Printer

  • Accuracy
  • Squeegee force

SPI

  • Measuring system analysis

  • xy

  • Height, volume, area

Placer

  • Accuracy

  • Placement force

AOI

  • Measuring system analysis
  • xy

Oven

  • Repeatability

  • Temperature

  • Reflow time

Laser/Labeler

  • Accuracy

Robots and special machines

  • Accuracy

Dispenser

  • Accuracy

  • Diameter

Die bonder

  • Accuracy

  • Placement force

Depaneler

  • Accuracy

Printer

  • Accuracy
  • Squeegee force

SPI

  • Measuring system analysis

  • xy

  • Height, volume, area

Placer

  • Accuracy

  • Placement force

AOI

  • Measuring system analysis
  • xy

Oven

  • Repeatability

  • Temperature

  • Reflow time

Laser/Labeler

  • Accuracy

Robots and special machines

  • Accuracy

Dispenser

  • Accuracy

  • Diameter

Die bonder

  • Accuracy

  • Placement force

Depaneler

  • Accuracy

Your path to tested machine capability

Explained step by step

  • STEP 1
Problem analysis

Analysis of the measurement task, including machine type (e.g. placement or printing system), measured variables (X‑, Y‑, Theta‑accuracy, placement force), machine configuration, board dimensions and specification limits.

  • STEP 2
Test planning

Define the test plan: selection of the appropriate measuring board and component spectrum as well as definition of the number and positions of the components.

  • STEP 3
Preparation of the measurement

Compilation of all necessary data to create a suitable program on the systems to be tested.

The programming is done by the operator.

  • STEP 4
Performing the measurement

The system to be tested processes a measuring board according to our specifications. This is then tested by our measuring system.

  • STEP 5
Analysis of the results

The data obtained in this way is processed numerically and graphically. Systematic and random influences are identified and the condition of the system is assessed.

  • STEP 6
Improvement measures

Any deviations are corrected directly with the support of your technicians. More than 90% of the deviations can be corrected immediately. Otherwise, the findings serve as a basis for repairs.

  • STEP 7
Documentation of the results

Creation of a detailed test report that shows the final state, measures and their traceability. Test reports in the accredited area are always provided with the DakkS and ILAC logo.

Our solutions – for every phase of your SMT process

Modular services for maximum process reliability

Manufacturing & quality assurance

Check the machine capability of your SMT systems.

  • Machine monitoring

  • Machine acceptances

  • Qualifications

Product development & design

Ensure the feasibility of your designs through precise measurements.

  • Feasibility studies

  • Validation

  • Testing

Certification &
Audit

Pass audits with our test reports.

  • DIN ISO EN 17025 accredited test reports

  • Fulfillment of customer requirements

  • Support with acceptances

Process optimization & engineering

Identify weaknesses in the process and increase performance.

  • Root cause analysis for process problems

  • Comparison of systems

  • Improvement of performance

Maintenance & technology

Ensure machine precision during operation.

  • Regular machine capability tests

  • Condition assessment of older systems

  • Information for preventive maintenance

Training & knowledge transfer

Use our experience for your employee development.

  • In-house training on MCS

  • Training on the interpretation of measurement data

  • Introduction to the basics of statistics

Since

1996

Accredited

What is being tested?

Objectively evaluate and improve machine parameters

Our tests capture key performance characteristics of your machines. These include:

  • Positioning accuracy

  • Repeatability

  • Placement and squeegee forces

  • Repeatability

  • Measurement device capability studies
Frequently asked questions about machine capability analysis

Answers to typical practical questions – understandable and to the point.

How does the measurement of positioning accuracy work?2025-08-07T06:24:57+02:00

For the measurement of positioning accuracy, we use high-precision measuring plates and components. These are processed by the system under test according to the specified program. The processing result is then measured and evaluated using our systems.

How are forces measured in printers and pick-and-place machines?2025-08-07T06:25:29+02:00

The system to be tested processes a CeTaQ sensor board as in normal production. The forces are recorded during the entire processing. Our software automatically assigns these to the tools. This enables a detailed analysis and potential for improvement can be identified.

What specific benefits does an MFU offer for my production?2025-08-07T06:26:02+02:00

A machine capability study identifies weaknesses before they lead to rejects or customer complaints. It provides objective data that can be used to improve machine parameters in a targeted manner. This allows you to increase quality, avoid unnecessary downtime, and secure yourself against auditors or customers in a well-founded manner. A real competitive advantage, especially for IATF- or ISO-certified companies.

Targeted Improvement of Production Processes

Discover how precise analyses of your manufacturing lead to increased quality and efficiency.

Want more background knowledge?

Our basics explain important terms, methods and measuring principles

Contact Information

+49 (0) 351 888 15 50

CeTaQ GmbH
Am Promigberg 1
01108 Dresden
Germany

info@cetaq.com

Company
Product Solutions
Legal
Request CeTaQ

Take advantage of our analysis tools for your SMT processes – precise, traceable, effective.

© 2024 - 2025 / Measurably better manufacturing – with CeTaQ. © 2025 CeTaQ GmbH
All rights reserved.

SMT stencil printer

Precision in the printing process – ensuring quality, increasing performance

The printing process is crucial for the quality of the final product. The accuracy of the printer and the squeegee force are decisive quality parameters.

Our testing laboratory is accredited according to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025:2018 for the measurement of the positioning accuracy of SMT equipment and offers the measurement of these crucial quality parameters as a service.

For this analysis, we use our specially developed measuring system CmPrint2.0. The printing process is carried out as under real production conditions. Thanks to our patented method, the results are free from influences by material or operator.

SPI

Precision in the printing process – ensuring quality, increasing performance

Solder Paste Inspection (SPI) represents the most significant measurement system in your SMT line. However, the question arises whether the measured values are accurate.

This is precisely what we verify as part of a Measurement System Analysis (MSA), often also referred to as “Gauge R”

Why is this critically important? MSA is the absolute prerequisite for evaluating the accuracy of the printing process. We must ensure that the SPI system is suitable for its intended measurement task.

Placer

With increasing miniaturization, the demands on the accuracy of pick and place machines also grow.

With increasing miniaturization, the demands on the accuracy of pick and place machines also grow.

In addition to positioning accuracy, placement force is also becoming increasingly important. Sensitive components are damaged if the forces are too great, while other placement processes require a minimum amount of force.

Our testing laboratory is accredited according to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025:2018 for the measurement of the positioning accuracy of SMT equipment and offers the measurement of these crucial quality parameters as a service.

For the measurement of positioning accuracy, we use our mobile CmContoller 8. The functionality and scope are similar to the CmConroller 9, which is also available as a product.

The placement forces are determined and evaluated with our CmForce system.

AOI

Precision in the printing process – ensuring quality, increasing performance

The AOI (Automated Optical Inspection) functions as your most important monitoring instrument after the soldering process. It serves to intercept errors before they reach the customer.

The question of the reliability of this monitoring is central. A measurement system analysis (MSA) for an AOI ensures that a reliable distinction is made between “Good” (OK) and “Bad” (not OK).

A malfunctioning AOI results in two main problem areas:2025-11-17T11:21:21+01:00

  • Pseudo defects (false errors): Your AOI interrupts the production line due to a supposed, but non-existent, error. This leads to losses in overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), cycle time, and an unnecessary burden on the operating personnel.
  • Escape (false OK): The most critical case. Your AOI overlooks an actual error (e.g., an open solder joint or a defective component). This error reaches the field and causes the highest consequential costs.
Oven (Oven)

Precision in the printing process – ensuring quality, increasing performance

Measuring at least 20 temperature profiles in succession serves as proof of the process stability and capability of the reflow oven over a short period (short-term capability). Systematic and random fluctuations in temperature, soldering time, and dwell time are recorded and evaluated.

We offer measurements on reflow ovens as a service, currently only in Europe.

Laser/Labeler

Precision in the Printing Process – Ensuring Quality, Increasing Performance

We can also measure and evaluate the accuracy of laser and label markings on the board.

For lasers, we use a special board, which is robust against laser beams. Through a color change on a film, the position of the laser marking can be measured with the CmController. For labelers, the machine adheres the labels to our measuring plate.

Our testing laboratory is accredited according to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025:2018 for measuring the positioning accuracy of SMT systems and offers the measurement as a service.

For the measurement of positioning accuracy, we use our mobile CmContoller 8. The functionality and scope are similar to the CmConroller 9, which is also available as a product.

Robots

Precision in the printing process – ensuring quality, increasing performance

After clarifying all technical details, we can also measure and evaluate robots and other special machines. For special machines, additional development work on our part is usually required.

For robots, as shown above, a camera-equipped measuring unit is mounted freely in space.

The robot arm is equipped with a reference unit featuring a pin and backlight; additionally, this can be weighted to achieve a mass similar to that in production.

The robot learns the position above the camera, which serves as a reference position for the subsequent accuracy analysis. During this process, the robot arm moves in space and approaches the learned reference position from various directions.

During the measurement, the deviation from the learned reference position is determined.

Dispenser

Reliably test and optimize dispensing processes

Dispensers are often used in the manufacturing process, and in some cases, dispensing glue is integrated as an option in the SMT stencil printer or pick-and-place machine. Accuracy in dispensing is, of course, important for the quality of the product.

Our testing laboratory is accredited according to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025:2018 for measuring the positioning accuracy of SMT equipment and offers the measurement of dispensing accuracy as a service.

For this purpose, the dispenser must process a measuring plate and set dots according to our specifications. To measure the accuracy, we use our mobile CmContoller 8. The functionality and scope are similar to the CmConroller 9, which is also available as a product.

What does an analysis involve?2025-11-26T12:40:58+01:00

  • Dispenser accuracy measurement
  • Measurement of the diameter of dispensed dots, if applicable
  • Analysis of causes for any deviations that may occur
  • Derivation of corrective measures
  • Verification of the effectiveness of the corrections
  • Calculation of and values based on given specification limits
  • Evaluation of compliance with these specifications, taking into account the measurement uncertainty and the given target values
  • Creation of a detailed and informative test report
Die Bonder

Precise measurements for reproducible machine quality

The accuracy requirements for die bonders are generally very high. In addition to positioning accuracy, the placement force of sensitive dies is also important.

Our test laboratory is accredited according to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025:2018 for measuring the positioning accuracy of SMT systems and offers the measurement of these crucial quality parameters as a service.

For measuring positioning accuracy, we use our mobile CmContoller 8. Its functionality and scope are similar to the CmConroller 9, which is also available as a product. The placement forces are determined and evaluated with our CmForce system.

What does an analysis involve?2025-11-13T11:23:06+01:00

  • Measurement of the die bonder’s positioning accuracy and optional bonding force
  • Analysis of causes for any deviations that may occur
  • Derivation of corrective measures
  • Verification of the effectiveness of the corrections
  • Calculation of and values based on given specification limits
  • Evaluation of compliance with these specifications, taking into account the measurement uncertainty and the given target values
  • Creation of a detailed and informative test report
Depaneler

Precision in the printing process – ensuring quality, increasing performance

A special fiberglass board is used to determine the precision of depaneling machines. The machine must drill a predefined layout into this board. Subsequently, the exact positions of the holes are measured with the CmController.

As a testing laboratory accredited according to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025:2018, we offer the measurement of the positioning accuracy of SMT equipment as a professional service.

For measuring the positioning accuracy, we use our mobile CmController 8. This offers a similar range of functions as the CmController 9, which is available as a product.

Go to Top