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Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, is introducing the LPKF CuttingMaster 2240 Cx, an advanced automated laser depaneling system designed to be fully inline, to maximise efficiency and reduce costs in high-volume PCB production. Developed by LPKF Laser and Electronics SE, the CuttingMaster 2240 Cx represents a major advancement in laser depaneling technology. The system eliminates the need for circulating workpiece carriers, simplifying automation and lowering operational costs while maintaining LPKF’s hallmark precision and reliability. Its integrated clamping device and product-specific fork handling and unloading capabilities streamline the depaneling process and reduce equipment complexity, enabling manufacturers to achieve higher throughput without additional floor space or capital investment. Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: "The CuttingMaster 2240 Cx is an impressive example of how automation continues to advance in electronics manufacturing. By removing circulating carriers and integrating intelligent handling, LPKF has developed a solution that provides both technical excellence and operational efficiency. In practical terms, it means that the CuttingMaster 2240Cx can be placed inline without the pain point of carrier handling. We are proud to support its introduction to the UK and Irish market and to help our customers adopt technology that drives productivity and process reliability. We already have customers utilising the Cx design as the initial stage of a final assembly process combined with collaborative robots." The system operates as either a standalone unit or as part of a fully integrated production line. Its LPKF CircuitPro software automatically generates optimal process data from layout files, ensuring consistent cutting quality and repeatable performance. Compatibility with robotic handling systems and standard SMEMA and OPC UA interfaces allows for easy integration with existing automation solutions, providing manufacturers with a flexible, scalable approach to production line design. Combined with a powerful laser source and advanced Tensor Technology, the CuttingMaster 2240 Cx delivers precise full contour or tab cut depaneling while maintaining a compact footprint. The system will be launched at Productronica 2025 in Munich, where it will be demonstrated as part of the Fraunhofer IZM production line. Visitors will have the opportunity to see its automated capabilities in action and understand how it addresses the growing demand for high-performance, cost-efficient depaneling solutions in the electronics manufacturing sector.

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has appointed a new Applications and Service Engineer to its team, reinforcing the company’s ongoing commitment to exceptional customer support and aftersales service. Denis Popilian joins Altus from Strip Tinning Automotive, where he spent eight years as a Prototype Technician, gaining extensive experience in PCBA assembly, including SMT, THT, and robotic engineering. His technical expertise and industry experience will be leveraged to support customers across the South and Midlands, from his base in Birmingham. Mike Todd, Operations Director at Altus Group, said: "We are delighted to welcome Denis to the Altus service team. His sharp technical skills and industry experience make him an ideal addition to our growing team. “2025 has been a busy year for our aftersales operations, and with Denis joining alongside other recent additions, our capabilities are at their largest yet. This growth allows us not only to respond more efficiently to customer needs but also to be proactive in areas such as pre-sales, case management, customer training, and professional services. Denis’ expertise will help us continue raising the standard of support our customers receive.” Altus Group has strategically invested in expanding its aftersales resource pool to ensure rapid response to customer requirements, reduce downtime, and streamline service operations. By adding high-calibre technical talent like Denis, Altus is strengthening its ability to deliver both reactive and proactive solutions, maintaining its reputation for exceptional support. Denis will undergo an intensive training and familiarisation programme to fully integrate into Altus’ service operations, ensuring he can provide customers with the expertise and support expected from a market-leading service team.

Datalink Electronics has partnered with Altus Group to integrate a cutting-edge automated soldering solution, enhancing its production capabilities and reinforcing its strategic focus on quality, automation, and scalability. The partnership sees Altus providing comprehensive support for the installation of the Inertec Cube 460 selective soldering system at Datalink Electronics, a respected contract electronics manufacturer with over 40 years of industry experience serving customers ranging from multinationals to high-growth start-ups. Recognising the challenges facing UK CEMs, including rising labour costs and skilled operator shortages, Altus leveraged its technical expertise and comprehensive support network to guide Datalink through a thorough evaluation process. After assessing various selective soldering platforms and robotic options, Datalink selected Altus as their trusted partner, citing the company's strong technical capabilities and reliable support infrastructure. Under the leadership of Aran, Business Development Director at Datalink, Datalink Electronics is focused on driving automation and process improvements to meet increasing demand while maintaining quality and service standards. Altus's solution directly supports these objectives through the deployment of the Inertec Cube 460 system - a compact, modular batch selective soldering platform designed for high-mix, low-to-medium volume production. The system automates complex soldering tasks traditionally performed by skilled operators, featuring programmable soldering angles, quick-change nozzles, precise microdrop fluxing, advanced quartz pre-heating, and RT-Console software for offline programming, traceability, and real-time warpage correction. The Cube 460 supports both leaded and lead-free soldering processes, ensuring flexibility across industries. Shane Nooney, Production Engineer at Datalink Electronics, said: “What a good result! The support from both Altus and Inertec throughout this project has been excellent, and we can't fault the quality of the technical validation or the effort involved. Ultimately, the machine and its performance spoke for itself, but knowing we had a strong partner in place for after-installation support was a major factor in our decision.” Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: "I'm really pleased with this project and delighted for the team at Datalink. We've been building a trusted relationship for some time and waiting for the right opportunity, and I'm very happy with how the process went, and of course, the end result. It's great to see another Inertec 460 out in the field; we're clearly building some real momentum.” The collaboration is expected to further enhance Datalink’s process control and throughput, supporting their wider growth strategy, while reinforcing Altus's reputation as the go-to partner for advanced manufacturing solutions in the UK and Ireland electronics sector.

Altus Group, a leading distributor of advanced electronics assembly equipment in the UK and Ireland, will be adding the Xspection 6600 to its inspection portfolio as its flagship Scienscope offering, supporting Scienscope as they unveil the system at Productronica 2025. The system's advanced feature enables allow Altus to cater to applications that need a stronger penetration, larger magnification and a larger board size, representing a significant leap forward in non-destructive testing capabilities for high-density PCB and advanced package inspection. Designed for manufacturers requiring the highest levels of detail and reliability, the Xspection 6600 unit features a powerful 160 kV open X-ray tube with 1000 μA current and a spot size down to 1 μm, delivering exceptional imaging precision. With geometric magnification of 200x, a 65° tilt range, and a ⌀890 mm inspection table (circumference 2798 mm), the system provides comprehensive analysis capabilities across a wide range of board and component sizes. Joe Booth, CEO at Altus Group, said: "We have had a great history with Scienscope and have been very effective over the years with many installations locally. While most customer needs are met by the Xspection 3000 (a 110-130kV closed tube unit), the Xspection 6600 addresses a real need in the market for some customers for deeper, more accurate inspection of increasingly complex assemblies. The combination of high-power X-ray imaging and larger magnification gives our customers unprecedented insight into their products. We're excited to see it showcased at Productronica and look forward to supporting its introduction to the UK and Irish markets." To further enhance inspection performance, Scienscope has integrated self-learning AI software for faster interpretation, fewer false calls, and simplified programming. The enhanced BGA tool specifically reduces false alarms, while AI-driven image processing supports manufacturers looking to increase productivity and consistency in complex inspection tasks. The Xspection 6600 will make its debut at Productronica 2025 in Munich. To find out more or to make an appointment to view the new systems contact Altus, www.altusgroup.co.uk

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, has promoted Mike Todd to Operations Director. Mike has been with the company since 2015 and takes on the role in recognition of his outstanding contribution to aftersales and customer support. Mike joined Altus as a Spares and Logistics Manager and has progressed through five promotions over the past decade. His new role reflects Altus’ commitment to developing internal talent and delivering exceptional service across its customer base. He now leads the Aftersales and Central Team, supporting customers throughout the lifetime of their machine ownership. Joe Booth, CEO at Altus Group, said: “Mike thoroughly deserves this promotion, and I’m delighted he has this milestone to celebrate in his tenth year with the company. Aftersales support is complex and often pressurised, especially during breakdown situations, but high-quality support is critical for our reputation in the market. With Mike leading the team, we’ve built a reputation as a safe pair of hands, responsive when needed and proactive when not. I’m really excited to see how the team continues to develop from this strong foundation; we’ve never been in a better position to succeed.” Aftersales and ongoing customer support are critical to Altus’s long-term success. Over the last five years, the company has focused on increasing the value of its support services while enhancing sales and marketing processes. Altus recognises that excellent support can be as significant a differentiator as the technical capabilities of its machines. Recent milestones include rolling out a customer CRM, hiring experienced and skilled staff, merging technical teams, developing professional services, expanding service contracts, improving customer satisfaction, and maintaining ISO accreditations. Altus has ambitious plans to further enhance its support capabilities through new hires, new services, and initiatives aimed at delivering more value to customers. Mike’s promotion reflects the company’s commitment to delivering excellent pre and post-sales support, and ensuring customers get the most from their equipment.

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, is now offering the ASSCON VP 2200 vapour phase reflow system, the first dual-lane inline VP unit available in the region. The VP 2200 addresses the growing demand for high-throughput, thermally challenging PCBAs in military, medical, and industrial applications. The system delivers faster reflow processing, greater flexibility, and lower maintenance costs, building on the success of ASSCON’s VP 2100 launched in 2021. The VP 2200 was developed as a single, flexible system platform to meet customer needs for speed, flexibility, and performance while keeping costs low. Configurable in single-lane or dual-lane mode, and with or without vacuum, it replaces four previous inline systems with one fully retrofittable solution. Upgrade paths and retrofit options ensure the platform can evolve with customer requirements. Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, said: "ASSCON is a prime example of a supplier focused on customer value and long-term horizons. By concentrating on a single process, they are pushing the technology to places it hasn’t been before. They are already the leading brand, and this type of investment in research and development will only strengthen their position. "Vapour phase reflow is highly popular in the UK and Ireland because of the complex, high-technology PCBAs we specialise in, particularly in the military, industrial, and medical sectors, all of which have seen strong growth recently. For some applications and volumes, higher throughput is crucial, and the ability to use the VP 2200 in dual-lane mode, effectively doubling what was previously possible, will have a major positive impact. I can’t wait to see the unit again at Productronica, where ASSCON will officially launch the new platform." In dual-lane mode, the VP 2200 accepts boards from single-lane upstream production and uses a modular shuttle to double throughput, making it the first dual-lane vapour phase unit on the market. Maintenance is simplified, with consistent spare parts, easily accessible components, and reduced service effort. The system features ASSCON’s permanent filter system, which reduces GALDEN filter change time by 90%. The filters are positioned inside the cooling zone without a housing, and the simplified design maintains full effectiveness while halving the number of parts. Flux management has also been enhanced to improve operational uptime. The software platform and HMI provide a consistent, intuitive operating and programming experience across both batch and inline systems. Tobias Tuffentsammer, Head of Sales at ASSCON, added: "We believe that innovation is key to staying at the forefront of the vapour phase process and, more broadly, to capturing a larger share of the overall reflow market. We have been listening to our customers and know they are very satisfied with vapour phase technology, but many face pressures to handle high volumes, which demands shorter reflow tact times. "This new platform will be revolutionary for the throughput capacity we can offer customers, while also simplifying our internal processes and providing numerous advantages for both ASSCON and our clients. Thanks to economies of scale, we can deliver this level of innovation at a competitive price point, further enhancing customer ROI." For more information about the VP 2200 or to arrange a demonstration, please contact Altus Group, who will be happy to provide details and organise a viewing. For more information, visit: www.altusgroup.co.uk

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment in the UK and Ireland, is showcasing the latest development from Scienscope as the company extends its component management portfolio with a new Smart Reel Tower. The Smart Reel Tower can be configured with or without humidity control and complements Scienscope’s widely adopted smart racking solutions. With several OEMs stepping away from this market in recent years, Scienscope brings proven expertise and a strong track record to storage tower technology. Adding to a portfolio that already includes goods-in scanning, X-ray counting, and smart racking for reels, stencils and feeders, the new system completes Scienscope’s offering and gives manufacturers access to the most comprehensive component management ecosystem available. As with all Scienscope solutions, integration is a core strength. With thousands of global installations, the company has extensive experience connecting to ERP and MES systems, ensuring seamless machine-to-machine communication and reliable process control. Anthony Oh, Technical Project Manager at Altus, said: “This is really exciting for us in the UK because we often get requests where humidity control is important for the customer, and smart racking cannot scratch that itch. With this new Scienscope Smart Reel Tower solution, we immediately can become a preferred supplier to many customers that are familiar with how well Scienscope performs in the other component management processes. Given our history of integrating across a whole manner of pick and place and MES solutions, we should be the most flexible integrator in the market.” The Smart Reel Tower combines high capacity and throughput with a compact footprint, making it suitable for both SMT line-side and warehouse environments. Its dual-deck storage design accommodates up to 2,000 reels, while the dual-channel entry and exit system processes a minimum of 600 reels per hour with six-second cycle times. The unit is also AGV compatible, making it fully Industry 4.0 ready. Adrian Radu, European Sales Manager at Scienscope, said: “This unit has been a long time coming but I am really pleased that it has arrived. We have been very successful with smart racking, but the Smart Reel Tower adds another string to our bow and completes our product offering. It means we can meet more customer needs without limitation, even when humidity control is a priority. I am looking forward to showcasing the unit in Europe later this year and seeing the first installations.” The new Smart Reel Tower will be unveiled at Productronica 2025, with demonstrations also planned in the UK and Europe. Together, Altus and Scienscope are providing manufacturers with advanced component management solutions designed to improve efficiency, safeguard quality and prepare operations for the next stage of automation. If you would like further information or to make an appointment to view the system at Productronica contact Altus-www.altusgroup.co.uk

Altus Group, a leading distributor of electronics manufacturing equipment in the UK and Ireland, has supplied Alan Anderson Manufacturing, a growing electronic manufacturing services provider, with a state-of-the-art 3D Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) system. This advanced solution is designed to align with their increasing production needs, enhancing inspection precision, streamlining efficiency, and further strengthening their commitment to quality control. As AA Manufacturing’s operations have grown significantly, they recognised the need for more advanced inspection technology to keep up with the increasing complexity of their products. After consulting with Altus for expert guidance, they decided to invest in the Koh Young Zenith Alpha HS+ 3D AOI system. While their previous system, a benchtop AOI had performed well, this new system allows them to meet the higher demands for inspection precision and efficiency, ensuring their continued commitment to the highest level of quality control while streamlining production processes and ultimately increasing capability. Phil Bray, Managing Director at Alan Anderson Manufacturing, said: "The reputation of Koh Young and Altus in the market is clearly outstanding; a glance at their recent news and extensive partner list confirms they are a stand out in the technology. For us, the decision to invest in the market’s leading 3D AOI solution is driven by a commitment to quality, not simply to catch non-conformities, but to equip our team with the tools needed to measure deviations from perfection and ultimately drive yield improvements. Our customer expect best in class, and that is what we are committed to deliver." The Koh Young Zenith Alpha HS+ offers fully automated 3D inspection with advanced features such as high-speed processing and precise SPC analysis, providing 100% inspection coverage up to 25mm in full 3D metrology. It ensures micron-level precision across all components, while integrated KSMART software enables real-time data analysis, helping optimize production processes and improve yield. Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group, commented, “Alan Anderson Manufacturing is a dynamic company making smart investments to drive growth and have taken the market by storm over the last years. We’re very pleased to support them with another successful project and their new 3D AOI solution, which will no doubt strengthen their offering to their customers, and position in the UK CEM market.” With this cutting-edge inspection technology in place, Alan Anderson Manufacturing is now well-positioned to scale its operations while maintaining its commitment to exceptional quality control standards. www.altusgroup.co.uk.

Altus Group, a leading distributor of capital equipment for the electronics industry in the UK and Ireland, has successfully concluded its inaugural 2025 User Day, which was extended to two days due to overwhelming demand for the conformal coating process and inspection solutions event. Both sessions at the company's Redditch headquarters reached full capacity within a week of registration opening. The event brought together industry suppliers and manufacturers to showcase the latest developments in conformal coating technologies and address the growing interest in bringing these processes in-house. Live demonstrations and expert presentations were provided by PVA, Koh Young, Actnano, Humiseal, Kolb, and Plasmatreat. Attendees experienced hands-on demonstrations of key technologies including the PVA Delta 8 robotic system for selective conformal coating and dispensing, Neptune C+ from Koh Young for 3D in-line dispensing process inspection, and Kolb's PCBA cleaning solutions. The strong response reflects increasing industry interest in conformal coating solutions, driven by various factors including increased military production requirements, rising outsourcing costs, and higher staffing expenses that are encouraging manufacturers to bring coating processes in-house. This trend is reflected in Altus Group's business performance, with the company achieving record PVA system sales in 2024 and already on track to surpass those figures in the first half of 2025. Joe Booth, CEO of Altus Group said: "We are aiming to go beyond simply providing our customers with machines - we want to be the trusted industry partner able to deliver thoughtful pre-sales advice and comprehensive production solutions. It's about providing honest pros and cons with proof through real application work, rather than just sales chatter. Conformal coating is the perfect example of where our holistic and educational approach sets us apart, because bringing this technology in-house can have significant pitfalls if not properly managed. “The event itself and having to put on an extra day due to demand has been terrific. The feedback from suppliers was excellent because of very engaged customers, and the feedback from customers because we covered so many angles has really made all the prep worth it. I am looking forward to the next event soon!" The event attracted both companies new to conformal coating and those looking to upgrade their existing processes. Altus generated a lot of new leads and received positive feedback from attendees. To receive news on upcoming events and industry developments, companies can sign up to the Altus newsletter at www.altusgroup.co.uk/news.