Targeting to best-in-class solutions

During Apex in San Diego, another very interesting announcement was made: Assembléon (formerly Philips Electronics Manufacturing Technology EMT) and GenRad will strategically link their software resources together in order to provide more value on the shop floor. Compared to other deeper-rooted intentions in this business, this is an OEM license agreement. Nevertheless, it is also a step into a strategic partnership. This trend has now received inspiration from the zeitgeist in this business.

This OEM license agreement enables the two players in manufacturing technology to distribute both GenRad’s CIMBridge line optimization and Assembléon PPS Pro software. The aim of the partners is to offer their users an easy route to the lowest possible cost-per-placement, while supporting them with training and service. Assembléon’s customers will benefit from access to a flexible programming environment. While tailored to the requirements of their equipment, the CIMBridge framework software can be expanded to support multi-vendor production lines. Assembléon continues to develop and supply GenRad with a full range of supported machine-specific optimizers for integration into its environment.

GenRad’s customers will benefit from support of upcoming features of Assembléon machines, as soon as they become available. And this, coupled to GenRad’s support for machine programming and optimization through its multi-vendor platform, enables the partners to offer customers the best solutions available in the industry. Users now have access to the partnerships‘ combined range of software products through a single vendor. The collaboration also offers a global best-in-class training and support package administered by the vendor chosen. Training and support is offered jointly, according to each partners‘ specific expertise.

It seems that the partner-ship has clear approval from customer side. Examples of a successful and satisfying co-operation on different spots are reported. Mentioned is the Valencia (Spain) plant of Manufacturing Services Limited, using four Assembléon fast component mounters along with third-party equipment, and operating under the control of Powerline PPS Pro in combination with other GenRad modules. In addition, at Philips Consumer Communications based at Le Mans, France (manufacturing over 10m cell phones and cordless handsets), GenRad has implemented the CIMBridge solution.

In summary, the existing partnership between Philips EMT/Asembléon und GR has been successful for over three years. Therefore, this agreement now reaffirms both companies‘ commitment to giving users maximum flexibility and simplicity. Users may now choose a supplier according to their knowledge, and have access to high levels of machine software support. (gbw)

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