Guide to Inspection Time (with 20μm Lens):

• Approx. 5 seconds for a 150 x 150 mm board
• Approx. 14 seconds for a 330 x 250 mm board
• Approx. 33 seconds for a 510 x 460 mm board

Inspection times may vary based on inspection conditions. Carry time and clamp time are not included.

RGB Illumination Enables High-Speed Inspection of Solder Fillet

The Sherlock 500LA uses advanced RGB illumination to enhance the accuracy and speed of solder inspection. This lighting method colors the flat surface of the solder joint (the land) in red, while the sloped areas appear in green or blue. This color contrast makes it possible to clearly see both flat and angled surfaces in a single image, improving the system's ability to detect defects.

With this approach, a well-formed solder fillet appears in three distinct color zones, making it easy to identify proper solder coverage and shape. By combining this with high-speed imaging, the Sherlock 500LA ensures fast, reliable inspection of solder joints—supporting high-volume production without sacrificing accuracy.

White LED Lighting for High-Precision Inspection of Part Color and Part Number

White LED lighting in the Sherlock 500LA delivers high-precision inspection of component color, markings, and positioning, enabling accurate identification of resistors, connectors, and other parts. This includes reliable detection of resistor color bands, printed text, OCR, and component orientation or misplacement. By providing uniform illumination and reducing glare and shadows, the system ensures clear imaging that minimizes false calls and false accepts—resulting in consistent inspection accuracy across a wide range of components.

High-Precision Inspection of Tall and Small Components Without Board Vibration

The Sherlock 500LA is engineered for simultaneous inspection of both tall and ultra-small components without causing any vibration to the PCB. Its exclusively developed telecentric optical system features a deep depth of field (DOF), allowing for precise inspection of part numbers, polarity markings, and placement—even on tall components—using a single, high-performance camera.

Unlike systems that move the board, the Sherlock 500LA keeps the PCB stationary and moves the camera during inspection. This approach ensures maximum image clarity and allows for faster inspection speeds. The camera is guided by an X-Y bi-axial, belt-driven motion system with a positional accuracy of 50 µm, enabling high-speed and highly accurate scanning across the board.

The system also features an intelligent board transport mechanism that automatically adjusts the conveyor width programmed for each job. Standard features include a pneumatic PCB stopper and vacuum clamp, with an optional motorized clamp available to eliminate the need for compressed air. Built with a sturdy, vibration-damping frame, the Sherlock 500LA operates smoothly and quietly, ideal for production evironments demanding precision and reliability.

Simplified Programming, Powerful Performance

The Sherlock 500LA makes AOI programming and operation easier than ever with its user-friendly, touch-screen interface. Built-in automation features—such as automatic pick-and-place data conversion and CAD import—streamline setup, while a robust, customizable parts library eliminates the need for highly skilled AOI operators. These tools dramatically reduce programming time and simplify inspection setup for even complex boards.

Unlike the limited libraries found in many AOI systems, the Sherlock 500LA's parts database contains extensive inspection parameters for each component. These include optimized image processing settings, specific lighting conditions, defined inspection zones, and more. Users can quickly modify existing parts or create custom ones, ensuring the system adapts easily to unique production requirements.

Designed with usability in mind, the software provides an intuitive experience for both novice and experienced operators. A helpful "Navigation Mode" guides users step-by-step through programming and inspection processes, and built-in online help is available at any time for immediate support. The full user manual is integrated into the software, with an easy-to-use function lookup tool. All advanced functions and their attributes are clearly explained, enabling users to fully leverage the system's capabilities without extensive training.

Go Beyond Defect Detection — Optimize Your Entire Process

Enhance more than just inspection accuracy with the addition of Statistical Process Control (SPC) software. Installed on a separate computer from the Sherlock 500LA, this powerful tool helps identify process abnormalities early, track performance trends over time, and pinpoint recurring problem areas. By turning inspection data into actionable insights, SPC software allows you to make informed decisions that improve yield, reduce defects, and elevate overall production quality.

For maximum efficiency and traceability, the Sherlock 500LA's integrated camera is capable of reading both 2D and linear barcodes—eliminating the need for a separate scanner. In addition, it supports optical character recognition (OCR), allowing the system to accurately read and verify component labels, part numbers, and other printed identifiers as part of the inspection process.

Reliable Support & Protection for Your Investment

To ensure long-term performance and peace of mind, every Sherlock System comes with a one-year parts warranty and full access to Manncorp’s dedicated technical support team via phone and email. Unlike many service providers, Manncorp's technicians are full-time employees with extensive hands-on experience in every aspect of circuit board assembly and AOI operation—offering knowledgeable, reliable assistance when you need it most.

Each Sherlock System machine also includes remote service support software and a built-in network adapter, enabling secure Internet-based diagnostics and troubleshooting. In addition, all systems come with two days of remote support for setup, training, and operational guidance, helping your team get up and running quickly without the need for on-site service.