In quality control of PCBs (printed circuit boards) and other precision electronic components, highly accurate and efficient measurement is essential. Nikon’s image measuring system “NEXIV” series leverages optical technologies developed through its expertise as a camera manufacturer to deliver high-precision automated measurement—from fine patterns to large-scale boards—all in a single system. In this article, we introduce its key features and product lineup, along with the initiatives of Ryokosha Vietnam, an authorized Japanese distributor.

Automated Measurement from Fine Circuits to Large PCBs in a Single System

NEXIV is a measuring system capable of performing high-precision measurement of a large number of samples in a short time.

It is highly regarded for the following features:
• High-magnification observation using high-performance optical lenses
• Automated measurement including the height direction (Z-axis)
• A lineup capable of accommodating large workpieces
• User-friendly software that is easy to operate even for beginners

This ensures stable measurement quality even in high-mix, low-volume production environments.

Outstanding Observation Performance with a High-NA Optical Zoom Head

The key feature of NEXIV is Nikon’s proprietary high-NA (numerical aperture) optical zoom head.

NA is an indicator of lens performance; the higher the value, the greater the resolution. NEXIV is equipped with a high-NA lens, enabling high-precision observation that clearly captures even the edges of fine patterns. Furthermore, a single lens supports up to 15× optical zoom, allowing seamless switching between:

• Low magnification: an overview of the entire board
• High magnification: detailed measurement of fine circuits

▲ As shown in Types 1–3, the closer the NA value is to 1.0, the higher the resolution—at a level not found in competing products.

▲ Seamless 15× optical zoom without switching objective lenses (Types 1–4)

Improved Measurement Stability with TTL Laser AF

In addition to image AF (autofocus), NEXIV is equipped with TTL laser AF as standard.

This enables:
• High-speed measurement and shape evaluation in the height direction
• Measurement of transparent and reflective objects
• Reduction of focus errors
In particular, it significantly reduces the risk of measurement stoppages when handling complex shapes such as PCBs and FPCs.

▲ TTL laser AF mechanism

In the measurement of high-mix, low-volume parts, focus errors can lead to measurement interruptions. However, combining laser AF improves measurement stability.

▲ Enables measurement of challenging samples

▲ Compensates for positional and dimensional variations to ensure measurement accuracy

Through software improvements, the system is advancing toward a “measurement solution anyone can use”

The latest software greatly enhances usability.

【Key New Features】
・Measurement Command Suggestion： Automatically recommends the next measurement step

・Autofocus Retry：Automatically retries if a focus error occurs