Panasonic Connect Announces the NPM-GW Modular Placement Machine ahead of IPC APEX Expo 2025: Redefining Automation in Electronics Manufacturing

New Panasonic Connect NPM machine to empower electronics manufacturing with speed, precision, and
intelligent automation

NEWARK, N.J., March 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Panasonic Connect North America has announced the launch of the NPM-GW Modular Placement Machine ahead of IPC APEX Expo 2025, March 18-20, 2025. The NPM-GW is the company's new solution designed to revolutionize production lines with unprecedented precision, efficiency, and automation.

Panasonic Connect's NPM-GW combines cutting-edge technology and intelligent design, will set new industry standards for autonomous factory operations. With advanced features, including real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and enhanced versatility in component handling, the NPM-GW ensures seamless operation and maximized overall equipment effectiveness (O.E.E.). The new technology enables:

• High-Speed Precision: Achieving a maximum speed of 104,000 components per hour (cph) with the FC16 head, the NPM-GW offers unparalleled placement accuracy (±25 µm) to meet the demands of modern electronics manufacturing.
• Enhanced Component Versatility: The system supports a wide range of component sizes, from 0201 chips to larger packages, ensuring flexibility for diverse manufacturing needs.
• Innovative Autonomous Factory Concept: The NPM-GW integrates seamlessly with Panasonic's "Autonomous Factory" initiative, utilizing AI-driven production planning, 5M (huMan, Machine, Material, Method, Measurement) process control, and predictive error correction for uninterrupted operation.
• Dual Conveyor Configuration: This innovative design supports both long and short PCB configurations, offering greater adaptability to various production requirements.
• Smart Feeder Solutions: Intelligent Tape Feeders (ITF) and Auto Setting Feeders (ASF) streamline component loading and supply, reducing downtime and enhancing productivity.

"The NPM-GW represents a major leap forward in achieving truly autonomous and intelligent manufacturing environments," said Gustavo Sepulveda, Process Automation Business Head for Panasonic Connect. "With its advanced automation capabilities and user-friendly design, this machine empowers manufacturers to respond swiftly to evolving market demands while maintaining the highest levels of quality and efficiency."

To see Panasonic Connect's entire line of smart factory solutions, visit booth #830 at the IPC Apex Expo. To learn more about the new NPM-GW Modular Placement Machine, please visit here.

About Panasonic Connect North America
Established on April 1, 2022 as part of the Panasonic Group's switch to an operating company system, Panasonic Connect North America is a B2B company offering device hardware, software and professional services to provide value to customers across the public sector, federal government, education, immersive entertainment, food services and manufacturing industries. With the mission to "Change Work, Advance Society, Connect to Tomorrow," Panasonic Connect North America works closely with its community of partners, innovators and integrators to provide the right technologies to address customers' ever-evolving needs in today's connected enterprise.

SOURCE Panasonic Corporation of North America