Step-by-step in-house SMT solutions
We are serving across UK and Ireland
Support for complex multi-layer designs
Integrated SMT finishing and multilayer PCB prototyping
SMT and finishing complete PCB prototyping by enabling solder paste application, precise SMD placement and reflow soldering for electrically functional assemblies in low volumes. These processes, adapted for laboratory use, support efficient in-house production alongside multilayer circuit board development for complex designs. Software with intuitive operation simplifies workflow control, from paste printing to final assembly, ensuring accurate and repeatable results across prototype builds and multilayer electronic systems.
SMT Methods for PCB Prototyping and Assembly
SMT methods complete PCB prototyping by converting fabricated boards into fully functional electronic assemblies through solder mask coating, solder paste printing, component placement and reflow soldering. Our laboratory-adapted processes at Tracks Laser & Electronics Ltd ensure precise and reliable low-volume production with consistent results across complex designs.
Solder Paste Application
LPKF ProtoPrint S4 enables high-precision stencil printing for fine-pitch SMT assembly. It supports ultrafine resolution up to a 0.4 mm grid size, while stencil thickness control ensures accurate paste deposition. In-house milled polyimide stencils can be produced quickly using LPKF circuit board plotters.
Component Placement
LPKF ProtoPlace E4 and S4 systems provide accurate manual pick and place assembly for fine pitch SMD components. They improve positioning precision in compact layouts where manual assembly becomes difficult.
Reflow Soldering
LPKF ProtoFlow E and ProtoFlow S4 ovens deliver controlled lead-free and RoHS-compliant reflow soldering. They also support thermal curing processes, such as through-hole paste hardening with stable temperature control.
Solder Mask and Surface Finishing
LPKF ProMask provides protective solder resist coating to prevent short circuits and improve durability, while LPKF ProLegend enables durable PCB marking without wet chemical processes, ensuring clean and professional board finishing.
SMT Assembly Equipment for PCB Prototyping
LPKF Edition SMT ProtoPrint S4
A manual stencil printer designed for precise and repeatable solder paste application in PCB prototyping and small batch production. It supports fine pitch SMD work with high positioning accuracy and adjustable print parameters. The system allows the use of stainless steel or polyimide stencils with flexible clamping options and micrometre-based alignment for accurate PCB positioning.
LPKF Edition SMT ProtoPlace E4
A manual pick and place system for fast and accurate SMD component placement in laboratory environments. It improves assembly speed compared to manual methods while maintaining precise control for fine-pitch components. Components are handled via a vacuum needle with integrated camera support, enabling accurate placement with smooth axis movement and ergonomic operation.
LPKF Edition SMT ProtoFlow S4
Compact reflow oven for lead-free and RoHS-compliant soldering of PCB prototypes up to 320 × 220 mm. It ensures stable thermal control for reliable solder joints and consistent assembly quality.
The system supports custom and predefined thermal profiles with multi-sensor monitoring and controlled cooling to prevent thermal stress on components and boards.
LPKF ProMask and LPKF ProLegend
Surface finishing solutions for protecting PCB structures and enabling clear component identification. ProMask provides solder-resist protection against short circuits, while ProLegend ensures durable PCB marking without wet-chemical processes. Both systems are designed for fast laboratory use with reliable results for prototype and small series production. Here is the process:
Advanced prototype assembly systems
Call us today for SMT/finishing PCB prototyping support.
