Volumes are on the increase. In fact, as soon as we build what we think is a reasonable batch, they've been ordered and are then out of the door!

The problem we have, is that running smallish batches with a sub-contractor tends to cost an inordinate amount of money and there's good reason for this.

Changeover.

We make quite a few different products and because we designed them all they tend to have a big overlap between components, but even then some of the boards have a massive difference outside the core components, you can easily lose half a day simply changing components from one build to another.

If you're a subcontractor, then this means your machine is out of action and you're having to pay staff to reload the machine, if you're only running a small batch then the overheads are huge, hence high cost for doing the pick and place.

Our new P&P machine has an amazing feeder system which literally takes seconds per feeder to switch components, so even for us it represents a massive time saver. We also don't have to do kit prep, boxing, shipping etc - it's all in-house. We've got our eye on a jet stencil printer as well, would then be able to use the pick and place for prototype work!

Plus it's mesmerising to watch the machine in action!