Automated Optical Inspection which refers to equipment based on optical principles to detect common defects encountered in soldering production. During automated inspection, the machine automatically scans the PCB through a camera, captures images, and compares the tested solder joints with qualified parameters in the database. Through image processing, it identifies defects on the PCB and displays/marks them via a monitor or automatic labeling system for repair personnel to address.

Utilizing high-speed, high-precision visual processing technology, it automatically detects various placement errors and soldering defects on PCBs. The range of PCB boards can vary from fine-pitch, high-density boards to low-density, large-sized boards. By identifying and eliminating errors early in the assembly process, it ensures effective process control. Early defect detection prevents faulty boards from advancing to subsequent assembly stages, reducing repair costs and avoiding the scrapping of irreparable circuit boards.

Optical inspection equipment can be divided into two types: **inline AOI** and **offline AOI**.