Resources
Photo Protocol
A photo protocol for South African electronics sites, so machine condition, damage, labels and floor access are captured properly.
Where Photo Protocol helps in a working week
The Photo Protocol sets out the images we need before we advise on an SMT machine, feeder setup or site condition. Capture machine condition, damage, serial labels, access around the line and any blocked floor space that affects handling or install work.
Begin with wide shots of the full SMT line, then move in to the exact machine or feeder position linked to the fault. Include one image of the board at input and another at output so orientation, support rails, and handling marks are visible. In Gauteng sites, dust on covers and sensors should show clearly, while coastal sites should capture any corrosion around metalwork and connectors.
Photograph the equipment before covers are opened, trolleys are moved, or labels are removed. Add a handwritten date and line name in one frame if the machine clock is unreliable after load-shedding or battery loss. That record helps separate an old dent, missing guard, or cable issue from a current production problem.
Images required before advice
Collect a usable photo set rather than a general site summary. We need machine condition, damage points, serial plates, feeder positions, nozzle area views, and clear access around the line. Good photos reduce back-and-forth when the issue involves placement accuracy, handling space, or install planning.
Send the photo set with the machine model, board code, and the fault seen on site. If there is a related process note, mention it along with the reflow or inspection stage where the SMT issue showed. Use the contact form when files are small enough to upload, and keep filenames matched to machine position or section.
- Wide shot of full line layout
- Close-up of labels and damage
- Board entry and exit orientation photos
Site conditions worth showing
Capture aisles around the machine, pallet positions, and anything blocking service access or board handling. A photo from the operator side and another from the rear often shows cable routing, air supply, extractor position, and whether feeders can be loaded safely. This matters on older industrial sites where line spacing is tight and added equipment has changed movement around the bay.
For Durban and other coastal areas, include any rust, white residue, or staining on exposed metal parts. For Johannesburg and inland workshops, show dust build-up on covers, fans, and sensor windows if that may affect readings. After power interruptions, photograph alarms, UPS units, and machine time settings before they are reset.
Operated by Astros Marketing (Pty) Ltd from 2 Makro Place, Sunnyrock 1401.
How to label the set
Use this Photo Protocol to capture clear board, nozzle, feeder, and line photos, together with timing and faults already seen. Keep the subject line plain and accurate.
Name each image by machine and viewpoint, such as printer-front, placer-left, or reflow-nameplate. Keep the file group in shooting order so the line can be reviewed from incoming board to finished output. If faults appear only at certain times, add the shift window and whether the board was first-off, mid-run, or after a stoppage.