As component sizes shrink and manufacturing tolerances tighten, AOI systems have become make-or-break technology.
The market’s explosive growth—from $883.3M today to $3.1B by 2030—has brought innovations from both established players like Mirtec and Koh Young, alongside AI pioneers like Averroes.ai.
We’ve analyzed five leading inspection solutions to cut through the hype and examine what these systems can actually deliver on your production line.
1. Averroes.ai
Averroes.ai fundamentally changes AOI inspection by eliminating the traditional compromise between accuracy and ease of use.
Unlike traditional AOI systems relying on pre-programmed defect criteria, our platform uses a deep learning engine for real-time defect detection and continuous learning.
This allows us to adapt to variations in lighting and product positioning, ensuring consistent performance across diverse manufacturing conditions.
Our platform connects directly to your existing AOI cameras and systems, processing output through advanced algorithms to achieve up to 97% accuracy.
This no-code platform automatically adapts to new defect types. Real-world results show a performance increase from 63% to 97% accuracy across semiconductor, electronics, and automotive manufacturing.
For manufacturers facing traditional AOI limitations, our software-based approach delivers immediate improvements without new hardware investments.
Features
No-Code AI Engine: Reduces dependence on specialized programmers while maintaining high accuracy
Active Learning System: Suggests interesting images for human feedback, creating a continuous improvement loop
Real-Time Monitoring: Provides instant defect detection with comprehensive analytics
Hardware Agnostic Integration: Works with existing cameras and inspection equipment
Environment-Adaptive Processing: Maintains accuracy despite lighting or positioning variations
Pros:
Achieves 97% accuracy with minimal training data
Eliminates complex programming requirements
Achieves near-zero reduces false positives
Works with existing hardware, minimizing capital investment
Continuous learning improves accuracy over time
Cons:
Requires existing optical inspection hardware for AI integration
Koh Young’s Zenith Alpha system tackles the increasing complexity of PCB inspection using advanced True 3D measurement technology and AI defect detection.
Its widespread adoption is evident in over 20,000 global installations, establishing it as a proven industry standard.
The system excels at inspecting ultra-fine pitch components and complex solder joints, proving particularly valuable in high-density automotive and telecommunications PCB manufacturing.
Zenith Alpha sets new standards for tall component inspection, handling parts up to 25mm tall with shadow-free measurements. Furthermore, AI auto-programming significantly reduces setup time—a 70% improvement over traditional methods.
Features
True 3D Measurement Technology: Delivers precise component and solder joint analysis using proprietary algorithms
AI-Powered Auto Programming: Reduces programming time from days to hours
Advanced Tall Component Inspection: Handles components up to 25mm without shadowing issues
Foreign Material Detection: Identifies debris and contaminants across entire boards
Saki’s 3Di Series stands out for its comprehensive inspection capabilities across SMT, THT, Press-fit, and IGBT technologies—all within a single platform.
Developed in 1994, this system uniquely addresses the challenges of mixed-technology board inspection using advanced imaging and AI.
The 3Di’s ability to reliably detect even subtle defects, such as solder spots on gold contacts (a challenge for older AOI systems), is demonstrated by its success at Smart Modular Technologies, a leading memory module manufacturer.
There, the system dramatically increased quality assurance and productivity in a high-volume, high-mix production setting.
For manufacturers needing flexible, high-accuracy inspection across multiple assembly technologies, the 3Di Series eliminates the need for separate systems, simplifying operations and boosting efficiency.
Features
Multi-Technology Inspection Platform: Handles SMT, THT, IGBT, and Press-fit in one system
Common Platform Architecture: Streamlines programming and operation across inspection types
Real-Time SPC Monitoring: Enables web-based quality tracking and machine status updates
IoT Integration: Supports smart factory implementation through comprehensive data connectivity
Pros:
Single system solution for multiple assembly technologies
Reduces overall equipment investment for mixed production lines
Strong global support network ensures minimal downtime
Comprehensive data collection for process improvement
Cons:
Complex initial setup due to multi-technology capabilities
The TR7700 Series sets new standards through its adaptive height resolution technology, automatically optimizing inspection parameters based on PCBA characteristics while maintaining speeds up to 80 cm²/sec.
TRI’s latest generation AOI System combines this dynamic measurement capability with multi-phase lighting and AI-assisted programming to deliver precise inspection across varying board complexities.
For manufacturers in automotive and consumer electronics where both speed and measurement precision directly impact quality, the TR7700 offers superior height measurement accuracy without creating production bottlenecks.
The system’s ability to adjust measurement parameters in real time makes it particularly effective for manufacturers handling diverse product lines with varying component heights and densities.
Features
Adaptive Height Resolution: Automatically optimizes inspection parameters based on PCBA type
High-Speed Imaging System: Achieves inspection rates up to 80 cm²/sec
Programmable Digital Fringe Projections: Multiple projection patterns for enhanced defect detection
Smart Programming Interface: Reduces setup time through AI-assisted programming
Advanced Metrology Tools: Provides precise measurements for quality assurance
Pros:
Exceptional inspection speed without compromising accuracy
Strong performance across various PCB types and components
Efficient handling of both high-volume and high-mix production
Reduced programming time through intelligent assistance features
Comprehensive defect coverage including complex solder joints
Cons:
Significant initial investment required for full system implementation
Storage requirements for inspection data can be substantial
Mirtec’s MV-6 OMNI Series tackles high-volume inspection challenges through patented Blue DLP Moiré technology and a powerful 15 MP camera system.
This combination enables noise-free 3D measurements on reflective surfaces while maintaining production speeds.
The system’s 45% speed increase in Turbo mode, coupled with its ability to handle both 2D and full 3D inspections simultaneously, makes it particularly effective for automotive and consumer electronics manufacturing, where throughput and precision are equally critical.
Features
Blue DLP Moiré Technology: Delivers shadow-free 3D measurements on reflective surfaces
15 MP CoaXPress Camera: Ensures high-resolution imaging at increased speeds
8-Phase Color Illumination: Optimizes defect visibility across various surface types
Integrated Side Camera System: Provides multi-angle inspection for comprehensive defect detection
IPC-Based Programming: Simplifies setup through standardized inspection criteria
Turbo Speed Mode: Increases inspection speed by 45% without compromising accuracy
Pros:
Exceptional performance on reflective components
Rapid inspection speeds without sacrificing accuracy
Straightforward programming based on IPC standards
Effective handling of both 2D and 3D inspection requirements
Comparison: 5 Most Advanced AI Semiconductor Companies
Feature
Averroes.ai
Koh Young Zenith
Saki 3Di
TRI TR7700
Mirtec MV-6
AI Integration
✔️
✔️
✔️
✔️
✔️
Real-Time Inspection
✔️
✔️
✔️
✔️
✔️
Multi-Phase Lighting
❌
✔️
✔️
✔️
✔️
Automatic Defect Classification
✔️
✔️
✔️
✔️
❌
Deep Learning
✔️
❌️
❌️
❌️
❌️
What To Avoid
Outdated Optical Technology
Many manufacturers make the mistake of selecting AOI systems with older-generation optical engines that rely solely on 2D imaging.
These systems often struggle with modern manufacturing challenges:
Limited ability to detect coplanarity issues
High false call rates on reflective surfaces
Inadequate resolution for fine-pitch components
Poor performance with tall components
Inability to measure solder joint volume
Oversized Systems for Current Needs
A common and costly mistake is purchasing AOI systems with capabilities far beyond current production requirements.
While future-proofing is important, oversized systems often result in:
Unnecessarily high initial investment
Increased training requirements
Underutilized features
Higher maintenance costs
Extended setup times
This is particularly true for manufacturers who could achieve their quality goals by upgrading existing inspection hardware with advanced software solutions.
Insufficient Support Infrastructure
Some manufacturers focus solely on system specifications while overlooking critical support requirements:
Can AI AOI systems completely eliminate the need for human inspection?
While AI AOI systems significantly reduce human intervention, they cannot completely eliminate the need for human oversight. Human operators remain essential for verifying complex defects, training AI models on new defect types, and making final decisions on borderline cases.
What impact does board warpage have on AOI inspection accuracy?
Board warpage can significantly affect inspection accuracy, but modern AOI systems incorporate automatic compensation features.
Systems like the TRI TR77000 and Koh Young Zenith use dynamic height adjustment and multiple reference points to maintain measurement accuracy even with warped boards. However, severe warpage beyond system specifications may still require additional handling solutions.
How do AOI systems handle conformal-coated boards?
AOI inspection should generally occur before conformal coating application, as the coating can mask defects and affect measurement accuracy.
For post-coating inspection, specialized systems with specific illumination techniques and programming parameters are required. Standard AOI systems typically struggle with the reflective and transparent nature of conformal coatings.
Conclusion
The latest AOI systems showcase significant technological advances: Saki 3Di Series excels with multi-technology inspection capabilities across SMT and THT, TRI TR7700’s adaptive height resolution technology maintains precision at 80 cm²/sec, Koh Young’s Zenith handles components up to 25mm tall without shadowing issues, and Mirtec MV-6’s Blue DLP technology enables noise-free 3D measurements on reflective surfaces.
Yet manufacturers still face persistent challenges: substantial hardware investments, programming complexity, and extended integration periods.
Averroes.ai addresses these challenges by transforming existing inspection hardware into AI-powered systems. Our solution delivers 97% accuracy without new equipment purchases or complex programming while automatically adapting to new defect types.
Ready to improve your inspection accuracy without purchasing new hardware? Request a free demo to see how we can upgrade your current inspection capabilities.
As component sizes shrink and manufacturing tolerances tighten, AOI systems have become make-or-break technology.
The market’s explosive growth—from $883.3M today to $3.1B by 2030—has brought innovations from both established players like Mirtec and Koh Young, alongside AI pioneers like Averroes.ai.
We’ve analyzed five leading inspection solutions to cut through the hype and examine what these systems can actually deliver on your production line.
1. Averroes.ai
Averroes.ai fundamentally changes AOI inspection by eliminating the traditional compromise between accuracy and ease of use.
Unlike traditional AOI systems relying on pre-programmed defect criteria, our platform uses a deep learning engine for real-time defect detection and continuous learning.
This allows us to adapt to variations in lighting and product positioning, ensuring consistent performance across diverse manufacturing conditions.
Our platform connects directly to your existing AOI cameras and systems, processing output through advanced algorithms to achieve up to 97% accuracy.
This no-code platform automatically adapts to new defect types. Real-world results show a performance increase from 63% to 97% accuracy across semiconductor, electronics, and automotive manufacturing.
For manufacturers facing traditional AOI limitations, our software-based approach delivers immediate improvements without new hardware investments.
Features
Pros:
Cons:
Score
2. Koh Young Technology 3D AOI Systems
Koh Young’s Zenith Alpha system tackles the increasing complexity of PCB inspection using advanced True 3D measurement technology and AI defect detection.
Its widespread adoption is evident in over 20,000 global installations, establishing it as a proven industry standard.
The system excels at inspecting ultra-fine pitch components and complex solder joints, proving particularly valuable in high-density automotive and telecommunications PCB manufacturing.
Zenith Alpha sets new standards for tall component inspection, handling parts up to 25mm tall with shadow-free measurements. Furthermore, AI auto-programming significantly reduces setup time—a 70% improvement over traditional methods.
Features
Pros:
Cons:
Score
3. Saki Corporation 3Di Series
Saki’s 3Di Series stands out for its comprehensive inspection capabilities across SMT, THT, Press-fit, and IGBT technologies—all within a single platform.
Developed in 1994, this system uniquely addresses the challenges of mixed-technology board inspection using advanced imaging and AI.
The 3Di’s ability to reliably detect even subtle defects, such as solder spots on gold contacts (a challenge for older AOI systems), is demonstrated by its success at Smart Modular Technologies, a leading memory module manufacturer.
There, the system dramatically increased quality assurance and productivity in a high-volume, high-mix production setting.
For manufacturers needing flexible, high-accuracy inspection across multiple assembly technologies, the 3Di Series eliminates the need for separate systems, simplifying operations and boosting efficiency.
Features
Pros:
Cons:
Score
4. Test Research, Inc. (TRI) TR77000 Series
The TR7700 Series sets new standards through its adaptive height resolution technology, automatically optimizing inspection parameters based on PCBA characteristics while maintaining speeds up to 80 cm²/sec.
TRI’s latest generation AOI System combines this dynamic measurement capability with multi-phase lighting and AI-assisted programming to deliver precise inspection across varying board complexities.
For manufacturers in automotive and consumer electronics where both speed and measurement precision directly impact quality, the TR7700 offers superior height measurement accuracy without creating production bottlenecks.
The system’s ability to adjust measurement parameters in real time makes it particularly effective for manufacturers handling diverse product lines with varying component heights and densities.
Features
Pros:
Cons:
Score
5. Mirtec MV-6 Series
Mirtec’s MV-6 OMNI Series tackles high-volume inspection challenges through patented Blue DLP Moiré technology and a powerful 15 MP camera system.
This combination enables noise-free 3D measurements on reflective surfaces while maintaining production speeds.
The system’s 45% speed increase in Turbo mode, coupled with its ability to handle both 2D and full 3D inspections simultaneously, makes it particularly effective for automotive and consumer electronics manufacturing, where throughput and precision are equally critical.
Features
Pros:
Cons:
Score
Comparison: 5 Most Advanced AI Semiconductor Companies
What To Avoid
Outdated Optical Technology
Many manufacturers make the mistake of selecting AOI systems with older-generation optical engines that rely solely on 2D imaging.
These systems often struggle with modern manufacturing challenges:
Oversized Systems for Current Needs
A common and costly mistake is purchasing AOI systems with capabilities far beyond current production requirements.
While future-proofing is important, oversized systems often result in:
This is particularly true for manufacturers who could achieve their quality goals by upgrading existing inspection hardware with advanced software solutions.
Insufficient Support Infrastructure
Some manufacturers focus solely on system specifications while overlooking critical support requirements:
These support limitations often lead to:
Tired Of Complex AOI Programming And False Calls?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can AI AOI systems completely eliminate the need for human inspection?
While AI AOI systems significantly reduce human intervention, they cannot completely eliminate the need for human oversight. Human operators remain essential for verifying complex defects, training AI models on new defect types, and making final decisions on borderline cases.
What impact does board warpage have on AOI inspection accuracy?
Board warpage can significantly affect inspection accuracy, but modern AOI systems incorporate automatic compensation features.
Systems like the TRI TR77000 and Koh Young Zenith use dynamic height adjustment and multiple reference points to maintain measurement accuracy even with warped boards. However, severe warpage beyond system specifications may still require additional handling solutions.
How do AOI systems handle conformal-coated boards?
AOI inspection should generally occur before conformal coating application, as the coating can mask defects and affect measurement accuracy.
For post-coating inspection, specialized systems with specific illumination techniques and programming parameters are required. Standard AOI systems typically struggle with the reflective and transparent nature of conformal coatings.
Conclusion
The latest AOI systems showcase significant technological advances: Saki 3Di Series excels with multi-technology inspection capabilities across SMT and THT, TRI TR7700’s adaptive height resolution technology maintains precision at 80 cm²/sec, Koh Young’s Zenith handles components up to 25mm tall without shadowing issues, and Mirtec MV-6’s Blue DLP technology enables noise-free 3D measurements on reflective surfaces.
Yet manufacturers still face persistent challenges: substantial hardware investments, programming complexity, and extended integration periods.
Averroes.ai addresses these challenges by transforming existing inspection hardware into AI-powered systems. Our solution delivers 97% accuracy without new equipment purchases or complex programming while automatically adapting to new defect types.
Ready to improve your inspection accuracy without purchasing new hardware? Request a free demo to see how we can upgrade your current inspection capabilities.