Smarter Machines Use AOI to Transform PCB Inspections

Estimated reading time: 1 minute

As automated optical inspection (AOI) evolves from traditional end-of-process inspections to proactive, in-line solutions, the integration of AI and machine learning is revolutionizing defect reduction and enhancing yields, marking a pivotal shift in how quality is managed in manufacturing.

Giovanni Obino, senior director of industrial digital solutions at MKS’ Atotech, discusses the remarkable advancements in AOI technology over the past decade and the imperative for PCB manufacturers to embrace digital transformation.

Marcy LaRont: Giovanni, the advanced abilities of automated optical inspection machines are contributing an even higher level of defect reduction and increasing yields. Never has the nexus between software and hardware been so important or impactful. What progression have you seen in the past 10 years?

Giovanni Obino: There has been so much technological change in the past 10 years that it feels like we’ve progressed 50 years. Some of the most important changes in AOI equipment have been the transition from 2D to 3D and the introduction of AI and machine learning.

To keep up with the fast-changing electronics market, AOI in the PCB industry needs to evolve continuously toward full autonomy in applying the requested acceptance criteria when checking the quality of the products.

There has been an institutional shift, on top of AOI, at the end of the production process: a valuable in-line additional tool at earlier and potentially multiple stages during manufacturing. We can get to that defect identification, prediction, and reduction before so much cost is built into the panel. The concept of flexible AOI in-line is a game changer, and with machine learning and increased processing power, AOI can process faster, with much more data and, ultimately, be more reliable, and detect more defects.

To continue reading this interview, which originally appeared in the June 2025 issue of PCB007 Magazine, click here.