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26 PCB007 MAGAZINE I SEPTEMBER 2023 indeed more than just speed enhancement; it becomes a multi-faceted, integral part of the manufacturing process. Larger and more com- plex packages, coupled with larger and more complex inspection data sets, make efficient data handling, storage, and analysis impera- tive. is enables the identification of trends, root causes of defects, and process improve- ments. Within the context of Industry 4.0 and Smart manufacturing initiatives, inspection machines must seamlessly share data with other systems to enable real-time feedback and process optimization. is requires an increasingly higher degree of connectivity, interoperability, and compatibility with fac- tory automation systems. As production volumes surge, preserv- ing product quality is even more important. Inspection machines assume the role of a gate- keeper, vetting components to ensure that only those meeting the quality criteria will progress down the production line. Inspection is increasingly contributing to statistical pro- cess control (SPC) techniques by capturing data for predictive analysis; SPC can preempt potential issues and enable proactive preven- tive measures. Finally, inspection machines contribute to data-driven decision-making, generating a wealth of data which offers valuable insights into both trends and defects, which, in turn, generates process improvement efforts. Koh Young Process Optimizer (KPO) is a current example of applying AI for real-time process adjustments. is integration into Industry 4.0 initiatives fosters seamless data flow, facilitat- ing improved productivity and enhanced con- nectivity with other systems. In essence, the evolution of inspection means multi-faceted roles: process control, quality assurance, data-driven decision-mak- ing, and defect prevention. ese roles ensure that manufacturing processes remain efficient, reliable, and agile in meeting the demands of the modern industry landscape. Besides larger component packages, OEMs and applications such as automotive, are demanding much larger volumes of finished boards, with much higher yields and increased reliability. How does this change the role of inspection equipment? Surely just making the machinery faster isn't the entire solution. In the context of escalating production vol- umes, higher yields, and stringent reliability requirements, the inspection machine's role is 4-way moire.