A new machine with all the options you want, the PCB manufacturer support you expect, and a warranty that protects you is always the first choice, but there are some good reasons to consider a factory reconditioned unit vs. new:
•A factory reconditioned machine can save you up to 50%, depending on age and condition of the unit
•If you have a short-term project that you want to minimize your cost and/or loss, buying a reconditioned machine could be a good choice
•If you have a complex application that you’re not sure will even work, and you can’t afford the cost of custom equipment, you may be able to create a work-around with a reconditioned unit, along with the technical support of the OEM
Original PCB manufacturers will often take in older equipment in trade, or buy back machines that their customers have outgrown.
They will also seek to purchase back their own brands from companies going out of business.
This means you have a pretty good chance of finding a pick and place machine, reflow oven, wave soldering or other system that meets your needs direct from the manufacturer’s reconditioned inventory. They won’t always offer these machines on their websites, so you just need to remember to ask.
Sometimes a manufacturer is forced to downsize and sell off some equipment that may no longer fit what they need.
So they decide to sell it on eBay or another discount online site. It may be in perfect working order, and it may be something you want test out before investing in a full line.
I suggest contacting the manufacturer directly to see what support, warranty and training they offer even before making an offer on an online store.
You should also consider the type of equipment and its average life cycle. If you can, check to see how many miles (or years of operation) are on stencil printers, pick and place machines, reflow ovens, or soldering systems. Source: PCB007
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