ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Expanded Knowledge Base (Long Answers)

This expanded knowledge base preserves each existing ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Q&A entry and adds a deeper answer.

Primary source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page, ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base page, and ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING download/tutorial page.

For more information, continue to the Complete Unisoft Website. This complete website includes product information, software downloads, online demonstrations, technical support, and more. If a page appears in English, simply use the language selector at the top of the page or your browser's Translate feature to continue browsing in your preferred language.

Index

• Q: [PSS-001] Can I create selective soldering machine programs directly from CAD and BOM data?
• Q: [PSS-002] Can I create selective soldering machine programs from Gerber files and a BOM?
• Q: [PSS-003] Can I export CAD data into standard formats required by selective soldering equipment?
• Q: [PSS-004] Can I import panelized PCB data for selective soldering machine programming?
• Q: [PSS-005] Can selective soldering software generate real reference designators and component locations automatically?
• Q: [PSS-006] Can selective soldering software help reduce manual programming time?
• Q: [PSS-007] Does selective soldering programming software support ACE Production Technologies machines?
• Q: [PSS-008] Does selective soldering programming software support APS NOVASTAR equipment?
• Q: [PSS-009] Does selective soldering programming software support Pillarhouse soldering systems?
• Q: [PSS-010] Does selective soldering programming software support RPS Automation machines?
• Q: [PSS-011] Does selective soldering programming software support Vitronics Soltec machines?
• Q: [PSS-012] How can I automate the creation of selective soldering machine setup files?
• Q: [PSS-013] How can I convert CAD data into selective soldering machine programs?
• Q: [PSS-014] How can I create a selective soldering machine programming file in less time?
• Q: [PSS-015] How can I generate selective soldering machine programs without manually entering component locations?
• Q: [PSS-016] How can I program a selective soldering machine from PCB design files?
• Q: [PSS-017] How do process engineers use CAD and BOM data to program selective soldering equipment?
• Q: [PSS-018] How quickly can selective soldering machine programming files be created from CAD and Gerber data?
• Q: [PSS-019] What data is extracted from CAD files for selective soldering machine programming?
• Q: [PSS-020] What information does selective soldering programming software generate from PCB design files?
• Q: [PSS-021] What PCB file formats can be used to create selective soldering machine programs?
• Q: [PSS-022] What standard CAD formats can be exported for selective soldering machine setup?
• Q: [PSS-023] What types of electronics manufacturers use selective soldering programming software?
• Q: [PSS-024] Which PCB assembly applications can benefit from automated selective soldering machine programming?
• Q: [PSS-025] Why use automated selective soldering programming software instead of manual machine programming?

PSS-001: Can I create selective soldering machine programs directly from CAD and BOM data?

Existing Question

Can I create selective soldering machine programs directly from CAD and BOM data?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

When full CAD and BOM data are available, they are normally the preferred source because CAD can provide component locations, pin geometry, board-side information, rotations, and other board intelligence, while the BOM supplies part numbers, descriptions, and assembly identity. The product page states that ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING translates CAD or Gerber and BOM files into real reference designators, X/Y component pins, theta rotation, part numbers, and related information used by process engineers to program selective soldering equipment.

The download/tutorial page describes a practical workflow: import the CAD file, import the BOM, set Reference 1 and Reference 2 points, optionally set the 0,0 XY origin, enter part numbers into the library if needed, and then generate the selective soldering machine file. This is the customer-facing workflow to explain when someone asks how CAD and BOM data become a soldering program.

The product page highlights ACE Production Technologies support and advises checking support for RPS Automation, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, Pillarhouse Soldering Systems, and other selective soldering platforms. The tutorial specifically demonstrates creating an ACE selective soldering G-code output from PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, selecting ACE (SELECTIVE SOLDERING), choosing the bottom side, and saving a file such as SOLDERING.TXT.

The ACE sample output contains FLUX and SOLDER sections with coordinate moves, Z information, part/reference comments, and related G-code style commands. The tutorial states that the file can contain optimized fluxing and soldering path routines, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and other machine information. For other machine models listed under PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, the procedure is described as generally similar, but customers should contact Unisoft if they do not see their machine listed.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

CAD import, BOM import, reference designators, pin locations, ACE G-code, RPS Automation, Pillarhouse, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR

Keywords

Can, create, programs, directly, CAD, and, BOM, CAD/BOM import and translation, machine-specific outputs

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-002: Can I create selective soldering machine programs from Gerber files and a BOM?

Existing Question

Can I create selective soldering machine programs from Gerber files and a BOM?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

When full CAD and BOM data are available, they are normally the preferred source because CAD can provide component locations, pin geometry, board-side information, rotations, and other board intelligence, while the BOM supplies part numbers, descriptions, and assembly identity. The product page states that ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING translates CAD or Gerber and BOM files into real reference designators, X/Y component pins, theta rotation, part numbers, and related information used by process engineers to program selective soldering equipment.

The download/tutorial page describes a practical workflow: import the CAD file, import the BOM, set Reference 1 and Reference 2 points, optionally set the 0,0 XY origin, enter part numbers into the library if needed, and then generate the selective soldering machine file. This is the customer-facing workflow to explain when someone asks how CAD and BOM data become a soldering program.

Gerber-only support is important when a customer does not have the original native CAD database. In that case, Gerber files together with a BOM and any supporting files can be used to reconstruct the manufacturing information needed for the selective soldering workflow. Gerber data is not as rich as full CAD data, so the customer should be asked to provide the complete Gerber package, drill files, BOM, assembly drawings, XY or centroid files if available, and any existing selective solder requirements.

In customer communication, position Gerber support as a practical recovery or alternate workflow. If CAD is available, use CAD first. If only Gerbers are available, Unisoft can review the package and determine the fastest path to build the required soldering output.

The product page highlights ACE Production Technologies support and advises checking support for RPS Automation, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, Pillarhouse Soldering Systems, and other selective soldering platforms. The tutorial specifically demonstrates creating an ACE selective soldering G-code output from PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, selecting ACE (SELECTIVE SOLDERING), choosing the bottom side, and saving a file such as SOLDERING.TXT.

The ACE sample output contains FLUX and SOLDER sections with coordinate moves, Z information, part/reference comments, and related G-code style commands. The tutorial states that the file can contain optimized fluxing and soldering path routines, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and other machine information. For other machine models listed under PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, the procedure is described as generally similar, but customers should contact Unisoft if they do not see their machine listed.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

CAD import, BOM import, reference designators, pin locations, Gerber import, BOM merge, legacy data recovery, ProntoGERBER-CONNECTION, ACE G-code, RPS Automation, Pillarhouse, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR

Keywords

Can, create, programs, Gerber, files, and, BOM, CAD/BOM import and translation, Gerber-only workflow, machine-specific outputs

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-003: Can I export CAD data into standard formats required by selective soldering equipment?

Existing Question

Can I export CAD data into standard formats required by selective soldering equipment?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

When full CAD and BOM data are available, they are normally the preferred source because CAD can provide component locations, pin geometry, board-side information, rotations, and other board intelligence, while the BOM supplies part numbers, descriptions, and assembly identity. The product page states that ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING translates CAD or Gerber and BOM files into real reference designators, X/Y component pins, theta rotation, part numbers, and related information used by process engineers to program selective soldering equipment.

The download/tutorial page describes a practical workflow: import the CAD file, import the BOM, set Reference 1 and Reference 2 points, optionally set the 0,0 XY origin, enter part numbers into the library if needed, and then generate the selective soldering machine file. This is the customer-facing workflow to explain when someone asks how CAD and BOM data become a soldering program.

Some selective soldering machines or related programming tools do not require a proprietary direct output file and can instead use a standard manufacturing exchange format. The product page notes that Unisoft can input one CAD file format and export standard formats such as GENCAD, IPC-D-356, IPC-2581, Mentor Neutral, PADS, Fabmaster, XML, and similar formats. This can be useful when the machine vendor software has an importer for one of these standard formats but cannot directly read the customer's original CAD data.

For support use, confirm which standard format the machine or vendor software expects. A standard file-format route can be the best path when the selective soldering software performs the final vendor-specific path generation but needs clean component, pin, and board data from Unisoft.

The source-file concept is broad: the product page refers to CAD files, Gerber-only data, XY rotation data, and BOM files. These data sources can combine in many ways for each PCB design, and Unisoft's role is to bring them together into complete component placement and manufacturing information. When a customer's available data is unclear, request all related files rather than only the file they think is important.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

CAD import, BOM import, reference designators, pin locations, GENCAD, IPC-D-356, IPC-2581, XML

Keywords

Can, export, CAD, into, standard, formats, required, equipment, CAD/BOM import and translation, standard CAD export, source file formats

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-004: Can I import panelized PCB data for selective soldering machine programming?

Existing Question

Can I import panelized PCB data for selective soldering machine programming?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

Panelized PCB data is important because selective soldering often runs production panels rather than single boards. The download/tutorial page states that the generated SOLDERING.TXT output can contain optimized fluxing and soldering path routines, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and related machine information. If the customer uses panels, the panel Gerber layers, fiducials, offsets, and top/bottom-side requirements should be reviewed before output generation.

Customer response should clarify whether the customer is programming a single board, a panel, top side, bottom side, or multiple board images. Those details affect fiducials, offsets, origin, and final machine output.

The product page highlights ACE Production Technologies support and advises checking support for RPS Automation, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, Pillarhouse Soldering Systems, and other selective soldering platforms. The tutorial specifically demonstrates creating an ACE selective soldering G-code output from PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, selecting ACE (SELECTIVE SOLDERING), choosing the bottom side, and saving a file such as SOLDERING.TXT.

The ACE sample output contains FLUX and SOLDER sections with coordinate moves, Z information, part/reference comments, and related G-code style commands. The tutorial states that the file can contain optimized fluxing and soldering path routines, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and other machine information. For other machine models listed under PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, the procedure is described as generally similar, but customers should contact Unisoft if they do not see their machine listed.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

panelized offsets, panel Gerbers, fiducials, top/bottom output, ACE G-code, RPS Automation, Pillarhouse, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR

Keywords

Can, import, panelized, PCB, for, panelization and offsets, machine-specific outputs

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-005: Can selective soldering software generate real reference designators and component locations automatically?

Existing Question

Can selective soldering software generate real reference designators and component locations automatically?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

Selective soldering is driven by component and pin-level information rather than only by a component center point. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING extracts reference designators, X/Y component pin locations, component locations, theta rotation values, part numbers, package/shape information, and related manufacturing data. This allows the process engineer to identify the soldering locations and prepare flux and solder path routines more efficiently.

The product page also emphasizes that Unisoft has broader CAD data than many machine-specific importers, including component pin information, netlist data, and trace runs. That additional intelligence can help with other shop-floor operations such as documentation, inspection, repair, test, and process planning.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

X/Y component pins, theta rotation, part numbers, package shapes

Keywords

Can, generate, real, reference, designators, and, component, locations, automatically, component/pin-level extraction

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-006: Can selective soldering software help reduce manual programming time?

Existing Question

Can selective soldering software help reduce manual programming time?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

The product page states that a PCB assembly selective soldering machine can be programmed in about 10 minutes, and the download/tutorial says that in minutes the software translates CAD or Gerber and BOM files and creates optimized fluxing and soldering path routines. In practice, the exact time depends on the quality and completeness of the customer's data, whether the machine output already exists, and whether rotations, fiducials, panelization, keep-outs, or library information need review.

The practical benefit is reduced manual coordinate entry, less repetitive setup work, fewer transcription errors, and more machine time available for production instead of programming.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

10-minute programming, manual entry reduction, offline setup, ROI

Keywords

Can, help, reduce, manual, time, automation and time savings

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-007: Does selective soldering programming software support ACE Production Technologies machines?

Existing Question

Does selective soldering programming software support ACE Production Technologies machines?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

The product page highlights ACE Production Technologies support and advises checking support for RPS Automation, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, Pillarhouse Soldering Systems, and other selective soldering platforms. The tutorial specifically demonstrates creating an ACE selective soldering G-code output from PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, selecting ACE (SELECTIVE SOLDERING), choosing the bottom side, and saving a file such as SOLDERING.TXT.

The ACE sample output contains FLUX and SOLDER sections with coordinate moves, Z information, part/reference comments, and related G-code style commands. The tutorial states that the file can contain optimized fluxing and soldering path routines, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and other machine information. For other machine models listed under PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, the procedure is described as generally similar, but customers should contact Unisoft if they do not see their machine listed.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

ACE G-code, RPS Automation, Pillarhouse, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR

Keywords

support, ACE, Production, Technologies, machines, machine-specific outputs

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-008: Does selective soldering programming software support APS NOVASTAR equipment?

Existing Question

Does selective soldering programming software support APS NOVASTAR equipment?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

The product page highlights ACE Production Technologies support and advises checking support for RPS Automation, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, Pillarhouse Soldering Systems, and other selective soldering platforms. The tutorial specifically demonstrates creating an ACE selective soldering G-code output from PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, selecting ACE (SELECTIVE SOLDERING), choosing the bottom side, and saving a file such as SOLDERING.TXT.

The ACE sample output contains FLUX and SOLDER sections with coordinate moves, Z information, part/reference comments, and related G-code style commands. The tutorial states that the file can contain optimized fluxing and soldering path routines, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and other machine information. For other machine models listed under PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, the procedure is described as generally similar, but customers should contact Unisoft if they do not see their machine listed.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

ACE G-code, RPS Automation, Pillarhouse, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR

Keywords

support, APS, NOVASTAR, equipment, machine-specific outputs

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-009: Does selective soldering programming software support Pillarhouse soldering systems?

Existing Question

Does selective soldering programming software support Pillarhouse soldering systems?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

The product page highlights ACE Production Technologies support and advises checking support for RPS Automation, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, Pillarhouse Soldering Systems, and other selective soldering platforms. The tutorial specifically demonstrates creating an ACE selective soldering G-code output from PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, selecting ACE (SELECTIVE SOLDERING), choosing the bottom side, and saving a file such as SOLDERING.TXT.

The ACE sample output contains FLUX and SOLDER sections with coordinate moves, Z information, part/reference comments, and related G-code style commands. The tutorial states that the file can contain optimized fluxing and soldering path routines, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and other machine information. For other machine models listed under PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, the procedure is described as generally similar, but customers should contact Unisoft if they do not see their machine listed.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

ACE G-code, RPS Automation, Pillarhouse, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR

Keywords

support, Pillarhouse, systems, machine-specific outputs

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-010: Does selective soldering programming software support RPS Automation machines?

Existing Question

Does selective soldering programming software support RPS Automation machines?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

The product page highlights ACE Production Technologies support and advises checking support for RPS Automation, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, Pillarhouse Soldering Systems, and other selective soldering platforms. The tutorial specifically demonstrates creating an ACE selective soldering G-code output from PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, selecting ACE (SELECTIVE SOLDERING), choosing the bottom side, and saving a file such as SOLDERING.TXT.

The ACE sample output contains FLUX and SOLDER sections with coordinate moves, Z information, part/reference comments, and related G-code style commands. The tutorial states that the file can contain optimized fluxing and soldering path routines, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and other machine information. For other machine models listed under PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, the procedure is described as generally similar, but customers should contact Unisoft if they do not see their machine listed.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

ACE G-code, RPS Automation, Pillarhouse, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR

Keywords

support, RPS, Automation, machines, machine-specific outputs

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-011: Does selective soldering programming software support Vitronics Soltec machines?

Existing Question

Does selective soldering programming software support Vitronics Soltec machines?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

The product page highlights ACE Production Technologies support and advises checking support for RPS Automation, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, Pillarhouse Soldering Systems, and other selective soldering platforms. The tutorial specifically demonstrates creating an ACE selective soldering G-code output from PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, selecting ACE (SELECTIVE SOLDERING), choosing the bottom side, and saving a file such as SOLDERING.TXT.

The ACE sample output contains FLUX and SOLDER sections with coordinate moves, Z information, part/reference comments, and related G-code style commands. The tutorial states that the file can contain optimized fluxing and soldering path routines, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and other machine information. For other machine models listed under PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, the procedure is described as generally similar, but customers should contact Unisoft if they do not see their machine listed.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

ACE G-code, RPS Automation, Pillarhouse, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR

Keywords

support, Vitronics, Soltec, machines, machine-specific outputs

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-012: How can I automate the creation of selective soldering machine setup files?

Existing Question

How can I automate the creation of selective soldering machine setup files?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

The product page highlights ACE Production Technologies support and advises checking support for RPS Automation, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, Pillarhouse Soldering Systems, and other selective soldering platforms. The tutorial specifically demonstrates creating an ACE selective soldering G-code output from PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, selecting ACE (SELECTIVE SOLDERING), choosing the bottom side, and saving a file such as SOLDERING.TXT.

The ACE sample output contains FLUX and SOLDER sections with coordinate moves, Z information, part/reference comments, and related G-code style commands. The tutorial states that the file can contain optimized fluxing and soldering path routines, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and other machine information. For other machine models listed under PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, the procedure is described as generally similar, but customers should contact Unisoft if they do not see their machine listed.

The output workflow is not just a file save. The data must first be imported, matched to the BOM, checked for reference information, and aligned using Reference 1/Reference 2 and optional origin settings. Then the selective soldering model is selected from the machine-output menu and the side/output file is generated. The result may include fluxing and soldering paths, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and machine-specific commands or records.

A good customer answer should emphasize that the goal is to do the work offline, verify the output and source data, and reduce valuable machine time consumed by manual programming.

The product page states that a PCB assembly selective soldering machine can be programmed in about 10 minutes, and the download/tutorial says that in minutes the software translates CAD or Gerber and BOM files and creates optimized fluxing and soldering path routines. In practice, the exact time depends on the quality and completeness of the customer's data, whether the machine output already exists, and whether rotations, fiducials, panelization, keep-outs, or library information need review.

The practical benefit is reduced manual coordinate entry, less repetitive setup work, fewer transcription errors, and more machine time available for production instead of programming.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

ACE G-code, RPS Automation, Pillarhouse, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, flux paths, solder paths, keep-out areas, SOLDERING.TXT, 10-minute programming, manual entry reduction, offline setup, ROI

Keywords

How, can, automate, the, creation, setup, files, machine-specific outputs, selective soldering output workflow, automation and time savings

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-013: How can I convert CAD data into selective soldering machine programs?

Existing Question

How can I convert CAD data into selective soldering machine programs?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

When full CAD and BOM data are available, they are normally the preferred source because CAD can provide component locations, pin geometry, board-side information, rotations, and other board intelligence, while the BOM supplies part numbers, descriptions, and assembly identity. The product page states that ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING translates CAD or Gerber and BOM files into real reference designators, X/Y component pins, theta rotation, part numbers, and related information used by process engineers to program selective soldering equipment.

The download/tutorial page describes a practical workflow: import the CAD file, import the BOM, set Reference 1 and Reference 2 points, optionally set the 0,0 XY origin, enter part numbers into the library if needed, and then generate the selective soldering machine file. This is the customer-facing workflow to explain when someone asks how CAD and BOM data become a soldering program.

The product page highlights ACE Production Technologies support and advises checking support for RPS Automation, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, Pillarhouse Soldering Systems, and other selective soldering platforms. The tutorial specifically demonstrates creating an ACE selective soldering G-code output from PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, selecting ACE (SELECTIVE SOLDERING), choosing the bottom side, and saving a file such as SOLDERING.TXT.

The ACE sample output contains FLUX and SOLDER sections with coordinate moves, Z information, part/reference comments, and related G-code style commands. The tutorial states that the file can contain optimized fluxing and soldering path routines, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and other machine information. For other machine models listed under PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, the procedure is described as generally similar, but customers should contact Unisoft if they do not see their machine listed.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

CAD import, BOM import, reference designators, pin locations, ACE G-code, RPS Automation, Pillarhouse, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR

Keywords

How, can, convert, CAD, into, programs, CAD/BOM import and translation, machine-specific outputs

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-014: How can I create a selective soldering machine programming file in less time?

Existing Question

How can I create a selective soldering machine programming file in less time?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

The product page highlights ACE Production Technologies support and advises checking support for RPS Automation, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, Pillarhouse Soldering Systems, and other selective soldering platforms. The tutorial specifically demonstrates creating an ACE selective soldering G-code output from PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, selecting ACE (SELECTIVE SOLDERING), choosing the bottom side, and saving a file such as SOLDERING.TXT.

The ACE sample output contains FLUX and SOLDER sections with coordinate moves, Z information, part/reference comments, and related G-code style commands. The tutorial states that the file can contain optimized fluxing and soldering path routines, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and other machine information. For other machine models listed under PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, the procedure is described as generally similar, but customers should contact Unisoft if they do not see their machine listed.

The output workflow is not just a file save. The data must first be imported, matched to the BOM, checked for reference information, and aligned using Reference 1/Reference 2 and optional origin settings. Then the selective soldering model is selected from the machine-output menu and the side/output file is generated. The result may include fluxing and soldering paths, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and machine-specific commands or records.

A good customer answer should emphasize that the goal is to do the work offline, verify the output and source data, and reduce valuable machine time consumed by manual programming.

The product page states that a PCB assembly selective soldering machine can be programmed in about 10 minutes, and the download/tutorial says that in minutes the software translates CAD or Gerber and BOM files and creates optimized fluxing and soldering path routines. In practice, the exact time depends on the quality and completeness of the customer's data, whether the machine output already exists, and whether rotations, fiducials, panelization, keep-outs, or library information need review.

The practical benefit is reduced manual coordinate entry, less repetitive setup work, fewer transcription errors, and more machine time available for production instead of programming.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

ACE G-code, RPS Automation, Pillarhouse, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, flux paths, solder paths, keep-out areas, SOLDERING.TXT, 10-minute programming, manual entry reduction, offline setup, ROI

Keywords

How, can, create, file, less, time, machine-specific outputs, selective soldering output workflow, automation and time savings

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-015: How can I generate selective soldering machine programs without manually entering component locations?

Existing Question

How can I generate selective soldering machine programs without manually entering component locations?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

Selective soldering is driven by component and pin-level information rather than only by a component center point. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING extracts reference designators, X/Y component pin locations, component locations, theta rotation values, part numbers, package/shape information, and related manufacturing data. This allows the process engineer to identify the soldering locations and prepare flux and solder path routines more efficiently.

The product page also emphasizes that Unisoft has broader CAD data than many machine-specific importers, including component pin information, netlist data, and trace runs. That additional intelligence can help with other shop-floor operations such as documentation, inspection, repair, test, and process planning.

The product page highlights ACE Production Technologies support and advises checking support for RPS Automation, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, Pillarhouse Soldering Systems, and other selective soldering platforms. The tutorial specifically demonstrates creating an ACE selective soldering G-code output from PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, selecting ACE (SELECTIVE SOLDERING), choosing the bottom side, and saving a file such as SOLDERING.TXT.

The ACE sample output contains FLUX and SOLDER sections with coordinate moves, Z information, part/reference comments, and related G-code style commands. The tutorial states that the file can contain optimized fluxing and soldering path routines, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and other machine information. For other machine models listed under PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, the procedure is described as generally similar, but customers should contact Unisoft if they do not see their machine listed.

The product page states that a PCB assembly selective soldering machine can be programmed in about 10 minutes, and the download/tutorial says that in minutes the software translates CAD or Gerber and BOM files and creates optimized fluxing and soldering path routines. In practice, the exact time depends on the quality and completeness of the customer's data, whether the machine output already exists, and whether rotations, fiducials, panelization, keep-outs, or library information need review.

The practical benefit is reduced manual coordinate entry, less repetitive setup work, fewer transcription errors, and more machine time available for production instead of programming.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

X/Y component pins, theta rotation, part numbers, package shapes, ACE G-code, RPS Automation, Pillarhouse, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, 10-minute programming, manual entry reduction, offline setup, ROI

Keywords

How, can, generate, programs, without, manually, entering, component, locations, component/pin-level extraction, machine-specific outputs, automation and time savings

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-016: How can I program a selective soldering machine from PCB design files?

Existing Question

How can I program a selective soldering machine from PCB design files?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

The product page highlights ACE Production Technologies support and advises checking support for RPS Automation, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, Pillarhouse Soldering Systems, and other selective soldering platforms. The tutorial specifically demonstrates creating an ACE selective soldering G-code output from PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, selecting ACE (SELECTIVE SOLDERING), choosing the bottom side, and saving a file such as SOLDERING.TXT.

The ACE sample output contains FLUX and SOLDER sections with coordinate moves, Z information, part/reference comments, and related G-code style commands. The tutorial states that the file can contain optimized fluxing and soldering path routines, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and other machine information. For other machine models listed under PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, the procedure is described as generally similar, but customers should contact Unisoft if they do not see their machine listed.

The output workflow is not just a file save. The data must first be imported, matched to the BOM, checked for reference information, and aligned using Reference 1/Reference 2 and optional origin settings. Then the selective soldering model is selected from the machine-output menu and the side/output file is generated. The result may include fluxing and soldering paths, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and machine-specific commands or records.

A good customer answer should emphasize that the goal is to do the work offline, verify the output and source data, and reduce valuable machine time consumed by manual programming.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

ACE G-code, RPS Automation, Pillarhouse, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, flux paths, solder paths, keep-out areas, SOLDERING.TXT

Keywords

How, can, program, PCB, design, files, machine-specific outputs, selective soldering output workflow

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-017: How do process engineers use CAD and BOM data to program selective soldering equipment?

Existing Question

How do process engineers use CAD and BOM data to program selective soldering equipment?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

When full CAD and BOM data are available, they are normally the preferred source because CAD can provide component locations, pin geometry, board-side information, rotations, and other board intelligence, while the BOM supplies part numbers, descriptions, and assembly identity. The product page states that ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING translates CAD or Gerber and BOM files into real reference designators, X/Y component pins, theta rotation, part numbers, and related information used by process engineers to program selective soldering equipment.

The download/tutorial page describes a practical workflow: import the CAD file, import the BOM, set Reference 1 and Reference 2 points, optionally set the 0,0 XY origin, enter part numbers into the library if needed, and then generate the selective soldering machine file. This is the customer-facing workflow to explain when someone asks how CAD and BOM data become a soldering program.

Process engineers use ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING as the bridge between engineering release data and the selective soldering equipment. They import CAD/Gerber/XY/BOM data, define references and origin, verify component and pin information, select the machine output, and then use the generated file or standard export inside the machine programming workflow. This lets Unisoft handle the CAD translation and data preparation while the machine software or machine controller handles final vendor-specific execution where appropriate.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

CAD import, BOM import, reference designators, pin locations, offline programming, machine setup, verification, production readiness

Keywords

How, process, engineers, use, CAD, and, BOM, program, equipment, CAD/BOM import and translation, process engineering workflow

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-018: How quickly can selective soldering machine programming files be created from CAD and Gerber data?

Existing Question

How quickly can selective soldering machine programming files be created from CAD and Gerber data?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

When full CAD and BOM data are available, they are normally the preferred source because CAD can provide component locations, pin geometry, board-side information, rotations, and other board intelligence, while the BOM supplies part numbers, descriptions, and assembly identity. The product page states that ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING translates CAD or Gerber and BOM files into real reference designators, X/Y component pins, theta rotation, part numbers, and related information used by process engineers to program selective soldering equipment.

The download/tutorial page describes a practical workflow: import the CAD file, import the BOM, set Reference 1 and Reference 2 points, optionally set the 0,0 XY origin, enter part numbers into the library if needed, and then generate the selective soldering machine file. This is the customer-facing workflow to explain when someone asks how CAD and BOM data become a soldering program.

Gerber-only support is important when a customer does not have the original native CAD database. In that case, Gerber files together with a BOM and any supporting files can be used to reconstruct the manufacturing information needed for the selective soldering workflow. Gerber data is not as rich as full CAD data, so the customer should be asked to provide the complete Gerber package, drill files, BOM, assembly drawings, XY or centroid files if available, and any existing selective solder requirements.

In customer communication, position Gerber support as a practical recovery or alternate workflow. If CAD is available, use CAD first. If only Gerbers are available, Unisoft can review the package and determine the fastest path to build the required soldering output.

The product page highlights ACE Production Technologies support and advises checking support for RPS Automation, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, Pillarhouse Soldering Systems, and other selective soldering platforms. The tutorial specifically demonstrates creating an ACE selective soldering G-code output from PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, selecting ACE (SELECTIVE SOLDERING), choosing the bottom side, and saving a file such as SOLDERING.TXT.

The ACE sample output contains FLUX and SOLDER sections with coordinate moves, Z information, part/reference comments, and related G-code style commands. The tutorial states that the file can contain optimized fluxing and soldering path routines, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and other machine information. For other machine models listed under PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, the procedure is described as generally similar, but customers should contact Unisoft if they do not see their machine listed.

The output workflow is not just a file save. The data must first be imported, matched to the BOM, checked for reference information, and aligned using Reference 1/Reference 2 and optional origin settings. Then the selective soldering model is selected from the machine-output menu and the side/output file is generated. The result may include fluxing and soldering paths, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and machine-specific commands or records.

A good customer answer should emphasize that the goal is to do the work offline, verify the output and source data, and reduce valuable machine time consumed by manual programming.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

CAD import, BOM import, reference designators, pin locations, Gerber import, BOM merge, legacy data recovery, ProntoGERBER-CONNECTION, ACE G-code, RPS Automation, Pillarhouse, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, flux paths, solder paths, keep-out areas, SOLDERING.TXT

Keywords

How, quickly, can, files, created, CAD, and, Gerber, CAD/BOM import and translation, Gerber-only workflow, machine-specific outputs, selective soldering output workflow

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-019: What data is extracted from CAD files for selective soldering machine programming?

Existing Question

What data is extracted from CAD files for selective soldering machine programming?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

When full CAD and BOM data are available, they are normally the preferred source because CAD can provide component locations, pin geometry, board-side information, rotations, and other board intelligence, while the BOM supplies part numbers, descriptions, and assembly identity. The product page states that ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING translates CAD or Gerber and BOM files into real reference designators, X/Y component pins, theta rotation, part numbers, and related information used by process engineers to program selective soldering equipment.

The download/tutorial page describes a practical workflow: import the CAD file, import the BOM, set Reference 1 and Reference 2 points, optionally set the 0,0 XY origin, enter part numbers into the library if needed, and then generate the selective soldering machine file. This is the customer-facing workflow to explain when someone asks how CAD and BOM data become a soldering program.

The product page highlights ACE Production Technologies support and advises checking support for RPS Automation, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, Pillarhouse Soldering Systems, and other selective soldering platforms. The tutorial specifically demonstrates creating an ACE selective soldering G-code output from PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, selecting ACE (SELECTIVE SOLDERING), choosing the bottom side, and saving a file such as SOLDERING.TXT.

The ACE sample output contains FLUX and SOLDER sections with coordinate moves, Z information, part/reference comments, and related G-code style commands. The tutorial states that the file can contain optimized fluxing and soldering path routines, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and other machine information. For other machine models listed under PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, the procedure is described as generally similar, but customers should contact Unisoft if they do not see their machine listed.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

CAD import, BOM import, reference designators, pin locations, ACE G-code, RPS Automation, Pillarhouse, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR

Keywords

extracted, CAD, files, for, CAD/BOM import and translation, machine-specific outputs

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-020: What information does selective soldering programming software generate from PCB design files?

Existing Question

What information does selective soldering programming software generate from PCB design files?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

The general workflow is to import the best available PCB source data, import or merge the BOM, set reference points and origin, verify the manufacturing data, choose the proper selective soldering machine model or standard output format, and generate the output file. The same data can also support assembly process sheets, kitting labels, first article inspection, reports, and ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functions included with the product.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

CAD/Gerber/BOM import, selective soldering output, fiducials/origin, process documentation

Keywords

information, generate, PCB, design, files, general ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING workflow

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-021: What PCB file formats can be used to create selective soldering machine programs?

Existing Question

What PCB file formats can be used to create selective soldering machine programs?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

The product page highlights ACE Production Technologies support and advises checking support for RPS Automation, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, Pillarhouse Soldering Systems, and other selective soldering platforms. The tutorial specifically demonstrates creating an ACE selective soldering G-code output from PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, selecting ACE (SELECTIVE SOLDERING), choosing the bottom side, and saving a file such as SOLDERING.TXT.

The ACE sample output contains FLUX and SOLDER sections with coordinate moves, Z information, part/reference comments, and related G-code style commands. The tutorial states that the file can contain optimized fluxing and soldering path routines, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and other machine information. For other machine models listed under PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, the procedure is described as generally similar, but customers should contact Unisoft if they do not see their machine listed.

The source-file concept is broad: the product page refers to CAD files, Gerber-only data, XY rotation data, and BOM files. These data sources can combine in many ways for each PCB design, and Unisoft's role is to bring them together into complete component placement and manufacturing information. When a customer's available data is unclear, request all related files rather than only the file they think is important.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

ACE G-code, RPS Automation, Pillarhouse, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR

Keywords

PCB, file, formats, can, used, create, programs, machine-specific outputs, source file formats

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-022: What standard CAD formats can be exported for selective soldering machine setup?

Existing Question

What standard CAD formats can be exported for selective soldering machine setup?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

When full CAD and BOM data are available, they are normally the preferred source because CAD can provide component locations, pin geometry, board-side information, rotations, and other board intelligence, while the BOM supplies part numbers, descriptions, and assembly identity. The product page states that ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING translates CAD or Gerber and BOM files into real reference designators, X/Y component pins, theta rotation, part numbers, and related information used by process engineers to program selective soldering equipment.

The download/tutorial page describes a practical workflow: import the CAD file, import the BOM, set Reference 1 and Reference 2 points, optionally set the 0,0 XY origin, enter part numbers into the library if needed, and then generate the selective soldering machine file. This is the customer-facing workflow to explain when someone asks how CAD and BOM data become a soldering program.

Some selective soldering machines or related programming tools do not require a proprietary direct output file and can instead use a standard manufacturing exchange format. The product page notes that Unisoft can input one CAD file format and export standard formats such as GENCAD, IPC-D-356, IPC-2581, Mentor Neutral, PADS, Fabmaster, XML, and similar formats. This can be useful when the machine vendor software has an importer for one of these standard formats but cannot directly read the customer's original CAD data.

For support use, confirm which standard format the machine or vendor software expects. A standard file-format route can be the best path when the selective soldering software performs the final vendor-specific path generation but needs clean component, pin, and board data from Unisoft.

The product page highlights ACE Production Technologies support and advises checking support for RPS Automation, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, Pillarhouse Soldering Systems, and other selective soldering platforms. The tutorial specifically demonstrates creating an ACE selective soldering G-code output from PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, selecting ACE (SELECTIVE SOLDERING), choosing the bottom side, and saving a file such as SOLDERING.TXT.

The ACE sample output contains FLUX and SOLDER sections with coordinate moves, Z information, part/reference comments, and related G-code style commands. The tutorial states that the file can contain optimized fluxing and soldering path routines, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and other machine information. For other machine models listed under PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, the procedure is described as generally similar, but customers should contact Unisoft if they do not see their machine listed.

The source-file concept is broad: the product page refers to CAD files, Gerber-only data, XY rotation data, and BOM files. These data sources can combine in many ways for each PCB design, and Unisoft's role is to bring them together into complete component placement and manufacturing information. When a customer's available data is unclear, request all related files rather than only the file they think is important.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

CAD import, BOM import, reference designators, pin locations, GENCAD, IPC-D-356, IPC-2581, XML, ACE G-code, RPS Automation, Pillarhouse, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR

Keywords

standard, CAD, formats, can, exported, for, setup, CAD/BOM import and translation, standard CAD export, machine-specific outputs, source file formats

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-023: What types of electronics manufacturers use selective soldering programming software?

Existing Question

What types of electronics manufacturers use selective soldering programming software?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

This workflow is valuable for EMS, CEM, OEM, ODM, and other PCB assembly manufacturers that need to program selective soldering equipment efficiently. It is especially useful for high-mix production, customer-supplied data packages, legacy boards, production panels, and environments with multiple machine models or multiple Unisoft-supported manufacturing processes such as placement, AOI, test, and selective soldering.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

EMS/CEM/OEM/ODM, high-mix production, legacy boards, multi-machine support

Keywords

types, electronics, manufacturers, use, manufacturing use cases

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-024: Which PCB assembly applications can benefit from automated selective soldering machine programming?

Existing Question

Which PCB assembly applications can benefit from automated selective soldering machine programming?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

The product page highlights ACE Production Technologies support and advises checking support for RPS Automation, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, Pillarhouse Soldering Systems, and other selective soldering platforms. The tutorial specifically demonstrates creating an ACE selective soldering G-code output from PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, selecting ACE (SELECTIVE SOLDERING), choosing the bottom side, and saving a file such as SOLDERING.TXT.

The ACE sample output contains FLUX and SOLDER sections with coordinate moves, Z information, part/reference comments, and related G-code style commands. The tutorial states that the file can contain optimized fluxing and soldering path routines, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and other machine information. For other machine models listed under PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, the procedure is described as generally similar, but customers should contact Unisoft if they do not see their machine listed.

The product page states that a PCB assembly selective soldering machine can be programmed in about 10 minutes, and the download/tutorial says that in minutes the software translates CAD or Gerber and BOM files and creates optimized fluxing and soldering path routines. In practice, the exact time depends on the quality and completeness of the customer's data, whether the machine output already exists, and whether rotations, fiducials, panelization, keep-outs, or library information need review.

The practical benefit is reduced manual coordinate entry, less repetitive setup work, fewer transcription errors, and more machine time available for production instead of programming.

This workflow is valuable for EMS, CEM, OEM, ODM, and other PCB assembly manufacturers that need to program selective soldering equipment efficiently. It is especially useful for high-mix production, customer-supplied data packages, legacy boards, production panels, and environments with multiple machine models or multiple Unisoft-supported manufacturing processes such as placement, AOI, test, and selective soldering.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

ACE G-code, RPS Automation, Pillarhouse, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, 10-minute programming, manual entry reduction, offline setup, ROI, EMS/CEM/OEM/ODM, high-mix production, legacy boards, multi-machine support

Keywords

Which, PCB, assembly, applications, can, benefit, automated, machine-specific outputs, automation and time savings, manufacturing use cases

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

PSS-025: Why use automated selective soldering programming software instead of manual machine programming?

Existing Question

Why use automated selective soldering programming software instead of manual machine programming?

Existing Short Answer

Expanded Answer

This entry expands the short website answer into the practical explanation a customer, process engineer, or internal support person normally needs. ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING should be understood as a selective-solder programming preparation environment. It imports available PCB manufacturing data, combines CAD or Gerber information with BOM data, prepares component and pin-level manufacturing information, and generates selective soldering outputs and related assembly/process documentation.

The product page highlights ACE Production Technologies support and advises checking support for RPS Automation, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, Pillarhouse Soldering Systems, and other selective soldering platforms. The tutorial specifically demonstrates creating an ACE selective soldering G-code output from PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, selecting ACE (SELECTIVE SOLDERING), choosing the bottom side, and saving a file such as SOLDERING.TXT.

The ACE sample output contains FLUX and SOLDER sections with coordinate moves, Z information, part/reference comments, and related G-code style commands. The tutorial states that the file can contain optimized fluxing and soldering path routines, keep-out areas, panelized offsets, and other machine information. For other machine models listed under PLACE/AOI/X-Ray MODELS, the procedure is described as generally similar, but customers should contact Unisoft if they do not see their machine listed.

The product page states that a PCB assembly selective soldering machine can be programmed in about 10 minutes, and the download/tutorial says that in minutes the software translates CAD or Gerber and BOM files and creates optimized fluxing and soldering path routines. In practice, the exact time depends on the quality and completeness of the customer's data, whether the machine output already exists, and whether rotations, fiducials, panelization, keep-outs, or library information need review.

The practical benefit is reduced manual coordinate entry, less repetitive setup work, fewer transcription errors, and more machine time available for production instead of programming.

Because ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING includes basic ProntoVIEW-MARKUP functionality, the same data can also be used to create assembly process sheets, annotation overlays, kitting labels, first article inspection views, component/part-number search, cost/cycle-time reports, solder joint count reports, and viewer files for production-floor communication. This makes the product more than a machine-file generator; it can also help organize and communicate the surrounding manufacturing information.

Customer-response guidance: answer positively when the requested workflow is supported, but request sample files and the exact selective soldering machine model/output requirement whenever the customer’s data or equipment is unclear. Selective soldering outputs are machine- and process-specific, and a file review prevents overpromising on unknown file variants, origins, panel offsets, or machine requirements.

Notes/additions: add exact menu paths, screenshots, sample outputs, supported machine details, customer-specific caveats, soldering path rules, keep-out examples, internal support history, and machine-vendor feedback here.

Typical Customer Situation

A customer may ask this because they need to convert CAD, Gerber, BOM, XY, panel, fiducial, or legacy manufacturing data into selective soldering setup information, flux/solder path routines, machine output files, process documentation, or shop-floor support information.

Response Start

Related Knowledge Topics

ACE G-code, RPS Automation, Pillarhouse, Vitronics Soltec, APS NOVASTAR, 10-minute programming, manual entry reduction, offline setup, ROI

Keywords

Why, use, automated, instead, manual, machine-specific outputs, automation and time savings

Notes / Additions

Source set: ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING product page; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING Knowledge Base; ProntoSELECTIVE-SOLDERING software installation/tutorial page.

Knowledge base (short answers) for this product

Knowledge base general

For more information, continue to the Complete Unisoft Website. This complete website includes product information, software downloads, online demonstrations, technical support, and more. If a page appears in English, simply use the language selector at the top of the page or your browser's Translate feature to continue browsing in your preferred language.


Disclaimer: This Knowledge Base is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. While Unisoft makes reasonable efforts to maintain accurate and current information, product features, specifications, supported equipment, workflows, and implementation details are subject to change without notice. The information presented herein should not be construed as a guarantee, warranty, commitment, or professional engineering recommendation. Users are encouraged to verify specific requirements, compatibility, and operational details with Unisoft before making business, engineering, manufacturing, or purchasing decisions.

All trademarks, service marks, registered trademarks, product names, company names, and trade names referenced herein are the property of their respective owners. References to third-party products, equipment, manufacturers, or companies are provided for informational and identification purposes only and do not imply any affiliation, endorsement, sponsorship, or other relationship with Unisoft unless expressly stated.