Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1538999
40 SMT007 MAGAZINE I SEPTEMBER 2025 Large, irregular, or mechanically unique parts, often referred to as odd-form components, have never truly disappeared from electronics manufacturing. While many in the industry have been pursuing miniaturization, faster placement speeds, and higher- density PCBs, certain market Odd-form Assembly: Dedicated Insertion Equipment Matters S M A RT AU TO M AT I O N by J osh Casp er, Horizon S ales sectors are moving in the oppo- site direction. Automotive, industrial, and aerospace assemblies increas- ingly use connectors, relays, coils, and mechanical hardware that simply cannot be placed using standard SMT placement systems. For many, the cur- rent approach relies heavily on manual labor-driven insertion. These parts require a different approach. Here, I'll highlight why odd-form technology is back in the spotlight and why odd-form placement equipment is becom- ing increasingly useful in today's modern production environment.