Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1538540
48 PCB007 MAGAZINE I AUGUST 2025 A RT I C L E by G i ova n n i O b i n o a n d A n d re a s S c h a t z , M KS Atote c h P rinted circuit board manufacturing is rapidly changing, driven by miniaturization, stringent reliability requirements, and growing pressure for sustainable production. Meeting these challenges requires more than incremental improvements; it demands a combination of precise equipment and real-time process intelligence. The pairing of Uniplate® PLBCu6 with the Digital Factory Suite (DFS) demonstrates how hardware and software can work together to create more responsive, resource-efficient manufacturing. Rising Complexity and Sustainability Pressures Modern PCB and HDI manufacturing pushes technical boundaries with finer design features, tighter tolerances, and complex layer structures. At the same time, environmen- tal regulations are forcing manufacturers to reduce chemi- cal usage, manage waste, and minimize energy consump- tion. Many traditional automation sys- tems, built on programmable logic con- trollers and disconnected MES platforms, are not designed to handle this level of adaptability. Their lack of real-time responsiveness and closed-loop control leaves performance gains and efficiency improvements untapped. A more connected approach—linking precision plating processes with intelligent digital monitoring—offers a path to over- coming these challenges. Precision Inline Metallization The Uniplate PLBCu6 is designed for high- density, high-reliability PCB production Integrating Uniplate PLBCu6 With the Digital Factory Suite