Finally complete traceability in manual soldering!
With the i-CON TRACE, Ersa presents the world´s first IoT soldering station that enables seamless traceability during manual soldering. With integrated WLAN, Bluetooth and network card on board, the i-CON TRACE already offers 100% connectivity in digitally networked manufacturing processes when delivered. This means that tasks that previously could only be reworked by machine can now be processed by hand. Every single soldering process is recorded and documented electronically: Circuit board, component to be processed, soldering tip used, process temperature, soldering duration.
Unlike before, the i-CON TRACE software does not have to be installed on each station, but is available as a download and only needs to be installed once on the customer´s server. Once a soldering station is integrated into the company network, all authorized terminals can access it via web browser. Specific soldering tasks can be assigned centrally to each soldering station – via MES, PC or mobile device. All essential parameters are preset centrally so that each workpiece is soldered according to its exact specifications. The operator concentrates on soldering, and the susceptibility to errors is reduced. Device management also becomes much easier: firmware updates, calibration intervals, soldering tip wear – everything remains in view thanks to connectivity and can be adjusted centrally.
The possible MES connection allows the integration and storage of soldering parameters used in complex, networked manufacturing processes that already run via an MES. Thus, a recording of the entire soldering task can already be downloaded via a desired file format and stored in a higher-level control system. Real-time communication between the soldering stations in production and the customer´s MES is also possible via gateway. Via a mobile app, the i-CON TRACE can also be used like a conventional stand-alone soldering station without being connected to the company network.
Easy to operate via on/off switch
With an on/off switch and three LEDs, the i-CON TRACE operating concept is clearly different from other industrial soldering stations. The user initially scans the assembly, soldering tip used, solder wire and flux. This way, the system “knows” that all conditions for the assigned soldering task are met. The LED interface literally gives the user the green light as soon as the predefined temperature at the soldering tip is reached. This ensures that each solder joint is soldered with exact temperature and suitable material. Any malfunctions (e.g. incorrect soldering tip) are detected by the system and reported to the operator. Only when all parameters are correct, soldering can be performed.
The i-CON TRACE impresses with maximum performance and minimum operating costs. With 150 watts of power, it heats up quickly, reheats even faster and can be controlled extremely precisely. Proven technologies have been further developed – the heating element and soldering tip can still be changed separately without sacrificing soldering performance. By changing the soldering tips independently of the heating element, each wear part only needs to be replaced when it is really necessary.
The patented Tip´n´Turn concept of the matching i-CON TRACE soldering tips allows tips to be changed in record time and without the risk of burns. Each soldering tip has a bayonet lock which, in conjunction with the multifunctional storage stand, allows a safe change. To do this, the soldering iron including tip only needs to be placed in one of the openings provided for this purpose and rotated by approx. 10°. The powerful soldering iron itself delivers the energy to the soldering point with pinpoint accuracy using the soldering tips, which have been redesigned from the ground up.
The i-CON TRACE soldering station closes the gap in terms of Industry 4.0 and traceability in industrial electronics production – as a “missing link”, it now also enables complete traceability in the manual soldering process. With a unique software concept and intuitive user interface, the manual soldering process is safer than ever before!
Premium performance. Minimal costs. Sustainable into the future.
To mark the 100th anniversary, we are donating the proceeds of the "Rainforest Edition", limited to 300 i-CON TRACE® stations, to a sustainable rainforest project run by a major international aid organization. More under www.i-con-trace.com