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Questions for an X-ray Equipment Manufacturer: What are the most significant advancements in X-ray inspection technology in recent years, and how have they improved defect detection in circuit assemblies? Jesper Lykke: X-ray technology hasn't changed significantly, but the soware that processes the images has advanced considerably. With AI-driven defect detection, identifying flaws, even those traditionally hard to spot, has become much easier. AI can filter out noise, assess the area based on experience, and indi- cate whether a potential defect is present. is allows operators to focus primarily on the most challenging defects, while AI efficiently handles routine detections. It's a win-win: Operators are not overwhelmed by excessive defect calls, and the company can maintain high product quality with greater ease. How do you guide electronics manufacturers in selecting the right X-ray system for their specific inspection needs, such as quality control, failure analysis, or process monitoring? Lykke: rough conversations, we aim to understand exactly what the customer expects from the machine. is involves ask- ing numerous practical questions, such as: • Will the system be used inline or offline? • What inspection speed is required? • What type of defect/process control does the system need to handle? • How many boards need to be inspected daily? • What are the space constraints on the pro- duction floor? • Is this for a new line setup or integration into an existing line? • What are the customer's specific process requirements? By gathering this information, we can effectively guide the customer toward the best solution for their needs. is is not a quick, five-minute conversation. Our goal is to provide comprehensive support, ensur- ing we fully understand the customer's needs and expectations. Can you explain the key differences between 2D, 3D, and CT X-ray imaging, and in what scenarios each technology provides the greatest value? Lykke: e key difference lies in the level of detail: 2D provides fewer details, while CT offers the most comprehensive view. is all depends on the number of images captured for each area of interest; the more images, the clearer the solder joints or defects will appear. However, this comes with a tradeoff: CT takes longer than 2D. Choosing the right method is about balancing speed and inspection goals. For manual or semi-automated X-ray inspec- tion in a lab environment, maximizing detail is oen the priority since time is less critical. Conversely, for inline X-ray inspection, speed is essential, making 2D or 3D more suitable. What role does automation and AI-driven analysis play in modern X-ray inspection sys- tems, and how does it impact efficiency and accuracy in defect detection? Lykke: is role is significant. As mentioned earlier, AI greatly simplifies defect detec- tion, requiring far less effort while improving accuracy. Refer to the explanation above for more details. 28 SMT007 MAGAZINE I APRIL 2025 Jesper Lykke