How to consider a used machine for a small PCB manufacturer?

Used SMT assembly equipment can be found all over the Internet.
In most cases it's “buyer beware,” but there are some cases where you can get a good deal and save some money over a new machine.
This chapter will help guide you in your search and give you some tips to avoid getting a raw deal or actually spending more than new by the time you get that bargain acquisition in good working order.

The “re” words—rebuilt, reconditioned, recycled, recertified, remanufactured, or refurbished—are intended to describe the various conditions you can expect to find in the used market; however, you really need to look deeper.
Many times the wording is used interchangeably to mean the same thing.
The kind of description you want to avoid is simply “used” or “as-is,” because you have no idea how much work (and dollars) it will take to get it in good working order and registered by the manufacturer.


The best situation, if you can find it, is to buy a factory reconditioned machine from a respectable manufacturer.
Here’s the distinction I make between “factory reconditioned” and “refurbished”:
A refurbished machine is one that may have been damaged and repaired, while a factory reconditioned unit has had all its worn parts replaced, outdated components updated with new, everything tested to be in good working order, and a factory warranty applied by the manufacturer.

There are quite a few resellers who say they recondition used machines, but it’s always a risk.
Here’s why: Most SMT assembly equipment is initially licensed and registered with the OEM PCB manufacturer, similar to a title on a car. So, to get instructions, support and access to spare parts, you’ll need to register your used machine with the OEM, and that can cost between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on the manufacturer.
Not doing so would be taking a big financial and implementation risk, and if you bought from someone other than the manufacturer you could be paying for support they might not be able to deliver. Source: PCB007