Smarter Inspection, Greater Savings – Mek Brings AOI & ROI Insights to IPC APEX 2025

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Mek (Marantz Electronics), a global leader in Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) and Solder Paste Inspection (SPI) systems, is excited to announce its participation in IPC APEX EXPO 2025, the largest electronics manufacturing event in North America. Taking place from March 18-20, 2025, at the Anaheim Convention Center, Mek will be exhibiting at Stand 1632, where visitors can explore the company’s latest AOI innovations, including the new PowerSpector JSAz 550 desktop AOI and the VeriSpector Assembly Station AOI, along with its recently launched ROI Calculator.

The new Mek PowerSpector JSAz 550 desktop AOI system features a completely redesigned chassis, including upgraded motors, drives, and spindles. While the optics and software remain consistent with MEK’s other desktop models, the new chassis design ensures that the JSAz 550 meets the demands of inspecting larger PCBs with efficiency and precision.

The latest release retains the ultimate flexibility of other Mek PowerSpector desktop AOI systems, known for high defect coverage and short programming times. PowerSpector remains the only desktop AOI solution on the market that can be equipped with nine cameras, offering unmatched inspection precision for manufacturers with space constraints. It is equipped with selective 3D laser measurement technology for precise height measurements and offers a versatile inspection engine capable of handling SMT and THT components.

In addition, Mek will highlight its VeriSpector AOI system, specifically designed for the inspection of Through-Hole Technology (THT) components before they enter wave or selective soldering processes. With inspection times of under five seconds, VeriSpector enables manufacturers to perform real-time assembly and placement checks, allowing for immediate repairs and defect prevention. The inline version of VeriSpector, which will be on display, ensures robust performance and compatibility with a range of automation options, making it a vital tool for enhancing the quality and efficiency of manual and semi-automatic assembly processes.

Mek will also present its new ROI Calculator, a powerful online tool that helps manufacturers assess the financial benefits of AOI investment. By entering key production data, such as operator wages, PCB output, and batch sizes, users can instantly calculate potential cost savings and return on investment. With full transparency, the tool allows manufacturers to see the true economic impact of transitioning from manual to automated inspection.

Visitors to Stand 1632 at IPC APEX will have the opportunity to see Mek’s advanced AOI systems in action and discover the tools they need to enhance inspection accuracy, reduce costs, and drive efficiency.