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Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about Neotel’s smart material management solutions, equipment, software integration, and support services.

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Integration Q&As

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MSD 3
Service & Support 3
1What is Neo Scan?

Neo Scan is Neotel’s automatic receiving & relabeling station for SMT materials. It identifies reels and boxes, validates part data, prints a unified UID label, and updates inventory in SMF — so new materials are ready for storage in SMD BOX or for kitting.

2What is Neo Light?

Neo Light is a pick-to-light smart rack for SMT stencils and reels. It provides visual guidance and (optionally) position sensors for in/out detection to keep inventory accurate in real time.

3What is SMD BOX?

SMD BOX is Neotel’s automated storage & retrieval system (AS/RS) designed for SMT materials — primarily reels (and, in some models, boxes/containers). It stores, tracks, and dispenses parts automatically to cut kitting time, reduce errors, and raise line readiness.

Main models:

  • SMD BOX MIMO — Multi-input/multi-output, ~1,000 reel class, AGV-friendly.
  • SMD BOX DUO — Dual-module, ~2,500 reels, 1 I/O with internal sorting.
  • SMD BOX XLR — High-density large capacity (10k+ reels) with multiple shuttles/sectors.
  • SMD BOX ONE — Integrated labeling + storage for simpler setups.
  • SMD BOX Fusion — Mixed storage (reels + containers) with two “zones” (performance/density).
4What is the max capacity of SMD BOX?

A single SMD BOX XLR can be configured to store up to ~20,000 reels (exact figure depends on your reel mix and layout). For larger programs, we design multi-machine solutions — multiple XLRs orchestrated by SMF with conveyors/AGVs — which can handle far beyond 20k reels as a unified system.

5What materials can Neotel handle?
  • SMT reels (7″/13″/15″; 8–56 mm tape widths)
  • Trays (JEDEC) & sticks/tubes
  • Boxes/containers (for non-reel parts, consumables)
  • Stencils (via Neo Light Stencil)
  • Line-side items (return/leftover reels)

Not sure about a specific part or package? Send a short list (PN, form factor, dimensions) and we’ll confirm fit + best storage/kitting flow.

6What is Neo Counter?

Neo Counter is Neotel’s X-ray component counter for SMT reels. It scans reels, recognizes components with vision algorithms, and outputs an accurate piece count + trace data for inventory, receiving, and kitting.

7Can Neotel’s solution handle high-mix, low-volume production?

Yes, Neotel’s smart material handling systems are designed to support high-mix, low-volume production environments. Key capabilities include:

  • Flexible Storage — Systems like SMD BOX can store a variety of components with different reel sizes and types, making it easy to handle a wide mix of parts.
  • Fast Replenishment — SMF software ensures quick material retrieval and replenishment based on production requirements, minimizing downtime.
  • Efficient Kitting — Neo Kitter automatically sorts and prepares the required reels for feeders, enabling fast changeovers and seamless handling of small batch sizes.
  • Customizable Setup — Solutions are adaptable to changing production orders, allowing easy switching between different product types in any volume.
8Can Neotel create tailor-made machines for customers?

Yes, Neotel can design and build custom machines tailored to your specific production needs, including unique materials, reel sizes, and integration with existing systems.

1What is SMF?

SMF (Smart Material Flow) is Neotel’s centralized, web-based software that connects and orchestrates all material-handling equipment (SMD BOX, Neo Scan, Neo Counter, Neo Kitter, smart racks, conveyors). It manages IDs, inventory, receiving, kitting, replenishment, MSD control, and traceability — integrated with your ERP/MES.

2Can SMF connect to my ERP/MES/WMS?

Yes. SMF exposes APIs and supports CSV/XML/JSON mapping and custom connectors.

3Can Neotel’s system integrate with major pick-and-place vendors?

Yes. Neotel provides native integration connectors for Fuji, Panasonic, and Hanwha. We also support additional vendors via file/API mapping. Contact us to discuss your specific line software and version.

4What does “SMF integration” mean in practical terms?

SMF integration refers to the data exchange between SMF and your existing ERP, MES, or warehouse management system. It is not code merging — rather, both systems communicate through defined interfaces (APIs, CSV, or XML) to synchronize material data such as work orders, inventory status, and consumption records.

5Is integration handled entirely by Neotel?

No. Integration between SMF and your existing system (such as ERP or MES) is a two-party collaboration. Neotel provides the integration interface, API documentation, and technical support, while your internal IT or MES/ERP vendor is responsible for connecting your system to SMF using the provided interface. Successful integration requires both sides to cooperate and test together.

6What systems can SMF integrate with?

ERP (SAP, Oracle), MES, WMS, production scheduling systems, and more.

7Is the integration standard or customized?

SMF provides a standard API/CSV/XML interface; the customer adapts their system to match the defined data format.

8Who is responsible for developing the interface on the customer side?

The customer’s IT/MES team or their system integrator.

9What will Neotel provide for integration?

API documentation, data format specifications, and a test environment.

10Who validates the data accuracy during integration testing?

Both parties — Neotel validates the SMF side, and the customer validates ERP/MES data mapping.

11If our MES cannot send data in the required format, can Neotel adjust?

Possible with customization, but it is a joint engineering task that requires collaboration from both sides.

12What type of data is exchanged between SMF and other systems?

Work orders, material master data, UIDs, storage status, and production consumption records.

13Is data exchange real-time or scheduled?

Depends on the customer’s system capability; SMF supports both real-time and scheduled data exchange.

14How is data transfer handled — API or file-based?

Standard RESTful API is the primary method; CSV/XML file-based exchange is supported for simpler setups.

15Can SMF pull data directly from the customer database?

No — integration is done through defined interfaces for security and stability.

16What happens if the external system is offline?

SMF queues data and retries automatically; no data is lost.

17Does integration require internet access?

No. SMF is designed for intranet (LAN) communication. No internet connection is required for integration.

18Is integration affected by firewall or security settings?

Yes; both sides must configure proper network and port permissions for successful data exchange.

19Can SMF integrate with multiple systems at once?

Yes, with modular data connectors. SMF can communicate with ERP, MES, WMS, and other systems simultaneously.

20What programming language or protocol does SMF use?

RESTful API (JSON) is the primary protocol. CSV/XML import/export is also supported.

21How long does an integration project take?

Typically 2–4 weeks after both sides confirm the data mapping.

22What documents are required before starting integration?

System architecture documentation, data field mapping, and interface definition.

23What is the testing process for integration?

Step-by-step: simulation → dry-run → live connection → monitoring.

24Who maintains the integration after go-live?

Each side maintains their own interface; Neotel maintains SMF API stability and backward compatibility.

25What if we change our ERP/MES system in the future?

The interface needs to be revalidated; SMF API versioning supports backward compatibility, making re-integration straightforward.

26Is there any license or cost related to integration?

The integration function is included with SMF; customization may incur additional charges depending on scope.

27Does SMF store ERP data?

Only data related to materials flow; SMF is not a replacement for ERP/MES.

28Why can’t Neotel connect directly without customer IT involvement?

Because integration depends on how your system handles data — SMF cannot access external systems without cooperation. Both sides must agree on data formats, authentication, and network configuration.

29Can integration start before SMF is installed?

Data structure discussion can start early; actual testing requires a live SMF system.

30What is a typical reason integration gets delayed?

Customer side not ready with API endpoints or missing test data.

31What kind of support does Neotel offer during integration?

Technical guidance, online meetings, and test support — not development on the ERP/MES side.

1What communication protocols are used for AGV integration?

Neotel’s AGV integration supports common communication protocols such as MQTT, REST API, and Modbus, allowing smooth communication between SMF, the AGV system, and other equipment. This ensures the AGV can receive material transport instructions, report back on status, and align with production schedules.

2Can Neotel manage AGV job scheduling and routing?

Yes, SMF provides job scheduling and route management for AGVs. It can assign tasks based on material needs, prioritize transport, and optimize routes to ensure maximum efficiency. Neotel’s system integrates AGVs into the production line so they autonomously transport materials and return to designated storage areas without interruption.

1Can Neotel’s system handle MSD (Moisture Sensitive Devices)?

Yes. SMF tracks MSL levels and floor-life timers per reel, pauses timers in dry storage (SMD BOX / Neo Dryer), enforces bake/release rules, and logs everything for traceability.

2How does Neotel track MSD exposure?

Each reel/box has a UID in SMF. When a package is opened or received, a floor-life timer starts. When returned to controlled storage (SMD BOX / Neo Dryer), the timer pauses; it resumes when taken out again.

3Is Neotel’s system compliant with industry standards for MSD handling?

Yes, Neotel’s systems comply with the J-STD-033 standard for Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) management. Our software tracks and enforces floor-life control, baking procedures, and proper storage to meet the requirements of this industry standard, ensuring the integrity of your components during production.

1Where does Neotel provide service and support?

Neotel has offices in China, Malaysia, and Germany, providing direct support in these regions. We also collaborate with trusted partners globally to ensure you have access to timely service and support wherever you are located.

2What is Neotel’s warranty policy?

Neotel offers a 1-year warranty on hardware and software from the date of installation. This covers defects in materials and workmanship. Extended warranty options are available.

3Do you offer remote support?

Yes, Neotel offers remote troubleshooting, software updates, and configuration assistance. We can access systems via VPN or remote desktop tools for fast issue resolution.

Still Have Questions? We Are Here to Help

Whether you need equipment details, software integration guidance, or service information, our global team of engineers is ready to assist.

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  • Software integration planning and technical support
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