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Looking Ahead: X‑Ray Inspected Picking
Introducing X‑ray capability into our picking processes has transformed the way we verify kits before they leave our warehouse. Installed in December 2024, the Seamark XC1000 X‑ray component counter has revolutionised both our surface‑mount inventory management and our picking operation. This article explores how this advanced technology is used and the tangible improvements it has delivered across our processes.
Raising the Standard of Quality
The most immediate impact of X‑ray inspection has been within our quality processes. Manual verification of component quantities is no longer required; instead, the X‑ray system accurately counts components across a wide range of SMT packaging formats without removing them from their sealed packaging.
Smarter Goods‑In Verification
Historically, we relied on supplier‑labelled quantities, only identifying discrepancies when components were picked for a kit. X‑ray inspection has transformed our goods‑in process by allowing us to confirm that quantity ordered equals quantity received as soon as parts arrive.
Crucially, this verification can be carried out without disturbing protective packaging, including moisture‑sensitive components. Any discrepancies are identified immediately and resolved before stock enters circulation, ensuring smoother operations and guaranteeing kits leave our warehouse on time and accurate.
Streamlined Inventory Management
Inventory management was once a resource‑intensive challenge, with stock checks dependent on time‑consuming manual counting. With X‑ray technology, this process has been reduced from minute for each location to seconds.
Accurate, rapid stock verification prevents wastage of usable component strips while supporting first‑in, first‑out (FIFO) stock control all while ensuring reliable, real‑time inventory visibility.
The result is a streamlined, data‑driven inventory process that supports operational efficiency and reduces unnecessary loss.
Optimised Resource Use, Increased Capacity
The benefits extend beyond accuracy and speed. With far less time required for quantity verification, during quality inspection, goods‑in, and routine stock checks, our warehouse resources can be reallocated more effectively.
This allows our team to focus on perfecting kits, while increasing throughput and capacity to meet the growing demand for high‑precision, tailored kitting solutions
All without compromising quality.
Ready to benefit from the latest in intelligent kitting technology?
Contact us today to find out how our X‑ray inspected, line‑ready kits can support your production requirements.
FAQ- Frequently Asked Questions @ Diamond
Below – with a little help from Co-Pilot (with suggested answers)
Supply Chain, Components & Sourcing
- Q: Can you help source hard‑to‑find or long lead‑time components?
Yes – we proactively monitor lead times, market shifts, and lifecycle risks to help secure alternatives and prevent delays.
- Q: Do you offer component kitting or BOM validation?
Yes – we provide full kitting, BOM checks, and part‑number validation to prevent errors and streamline builds.
- Q: How do you ensure component authenticity and traceability?
All parts are sourced from trusted, audited suppliers with full traceability, lot control and documentation.
- Q: What happens if a component becomes obsolete?
We offer lifecycle monitoring, form‑fit‑function alternatives, and long‑term stock planning for critical parts.
- Q: Can you support multi‑source or low‑risk sourcing strategies?
Yes – we build resilience into every BOM and work with customers to reduce single‑supplier dependency.
Quality Assurance & Compliance
- Q: What certifications do you hold?
Diamond Electronics Group companies are typically:
JOSCAR Registered (defence/aerospace)
Cyber Essentials Plus certified
Working to ISO 9001 quality standards
Using fully audited suppliers and processes
- Q: How do you maintain consistency in builds?
We use controlled processes, component‑literate staff, and automated inspection (e.g., AOI on PCB assemblies).
- Q: Do you provide full documentation packs?
Yes – including CoCs, batch traceability, test data, build records, and inspection reports.
Engineering & Technical Capability
- Q: Can you help with design support or DFM?
Yes – we support design reviews, manufacturability checks, product selection and engineering guidance.
- Q: Do you offer custom HMI solutions?
Yes – Diamond HMI provides custom keypads, membrane switches, TFT displays, and bespoke interface solutions.
- Q: Can you manufacture prototypes as well as full production?
Absolutely – from low‑volume development builds to high‑volume production runs.
- Q: What industries do you specialise in?
Defence, aerospace, medical, industrial automation, automotive, motorsport/F1, instrumentation, communications and more.
PCB Assembly (Facet Manufacturing)
- Q: What PCB assembly capabilities do you offer?
SMT, PTH, AOI, reflow, selective solder, conformal coating, and full product build.
- Q: What file formats and data do you need for a PCB assembly quote?
Gerbers, BOM, pick‑and‑place data, assembly drawings and any special instructions.
- Q: How fast can you turn around a prototype or small batch?
Typical timelines vary, but we’ve delivered urgent builds in days when supply allows.
HMI, Displays & Control Panels (Diamond HMI)
- Q: Can you supply rugged displays for harsh environments?
Yes – including sunlight‑readable, extended‑temperature and high‑reliability TFTs.
- Q: Do you offer customised panel assemblies?
Yes – we design and manufacture custom HMIs, overlays, backlighting solutions and integrated assemblies.
- Q: Can you meet military or aerospace requirements?
Yes – we support MIL‑spec design considerations, ruggedisation and assured supply chains.
Lead Times & Delivery
- Q: What are your typical lead times?
Lead times vary by service, complexity and component availability, but we offer clear schedules and proactive communication.
- Q: Can you support urgent or time‑critical projects?
Yes – we often build accelerated schedules for defence and medical programmes.
- Q: Do you hold buffer stock or consigned inventory?
Yes – we support customer‑owned stock, bonded stock, and long‑term stocking agreements.
Pricing & Quotes
- Q: What information do you need to provide an accurate quote?
Depending on the service: BOM, drawings, dimensions, target volumes, lifecycle expectations and required standards.
- Q: Can you quote alternatives or cost‑reduced options?
Yes – we regularly suggest cost‑effective or more robust alternatives when appropriate.
Security, Confidentiality & Programme Support
- Q: How do you handle sensitive or classified projects?
We follow strict security protocols, secure data handling, controlled access and industry‑aligned compliance frameworks.
- Q: Do you support long‑term programmes?
Yes – we work with many customers on multi‑year defence, medical and industrial programmes.
General Business Questions
- Q: Can you work with both large OEMs and smaller companies?
Yes – we support everything from startups to major prime contractors.
- Q: Do you have minimum order quantities?
No strict MOQs – we work flexibly based on customer needs.
- Q: Where are you based?
Across the Diamond Electronics Group, UK‑based teams support customers nationwide.
We know that you have lots of questions when considering a new supplier, in this article we look at some of the most asked questions and help you feel at ease to choose Diamond to simplify complexity in your supply chain.
Supply Chain, Components & Sourcing
How do you help with sourcing hard to find or long lead time components?
At Diamond we proactively monitor lead times, market shifts and lifecycle risks for you, ensuring we can secure alternatives, alterative supply channels and prevent delays in your production schedule.
How does kitting and BOM validation work?
Our kitting service helps to ensure that your production line works to your production schedule. All BOMs are validated with our multistep checking process to prevent errors and streamline builds.
How do you ensure component authenticity and traceability?
All our components are sourced from our trusted and approved suppliers. We have full traceability back to the PO, delivery note and paperwork. We operate an approved distributor first supply model and will only use alternative supply sources with your permission. All our alternative suppliers are subject to enhanced goods in inspection so you can be confident that your components are authentically sourced.
How do you handle obsolete components?
We proactively monitor lifecycles for projects so we can offer form-fit function alternatives or long-term stock planning for critical parts. Our trusted alternative supply channels can assist in ensuring quality obsolete components for projects which can’t use alternative components.
Do you operate multi-source and low-risk sourcing strategies?
Diamond’s sourcing philosophy ensures that multi-sourcing and low-risk strategies is at the heart of every project we do. We ensure that reliance on single suppliers is reduced to a minimum and constantly assess delivery dates, prices and production schedules. We remove risk from the heart of your supply chain and work with you to reduce single-supplier dependency.
Quality Assurance & Compliance
What certifications do you hold?
- ISO9001 and ISO14001 accreditation
- JOSCAR registration
- Cyber Essentials Plus certificated
All the Diamond Electronics Group companies are ISO9001 accreditated.
How do you ensure consistent quality?
All our processes are controlled with a thorough quality management system, with many of our staff having 10+ years of experience in the electronics industry we have the expertise to ensure high quality electronic and HMI components, kits and assemblies. We also use automatic x-ray inspection to ensure quantities.
Can you provide full documentation packs?
Working with Diamond is a full tailored process, whatever you require in documentation we can provide, this can include CofC’s, batch traceability and inspection reports.
Technical Capabilities
Can you help with Design for Manufacturing?
While we don’t assist with PCB design, our expert staff are used to assisting you in ensuring your board is best optimised for manufacturing, suggesting part alternatives to enable multi-sourcing or preventing end of life components being used in long life projects.
Can you manufacture prototypes?
Diamond specialises in a completely tailored solution, we can take you from prototypes all the way to full manufacturing, with our group partners having both prototyping and automated lines.
I need a custom HMI solution can you help?
Our HMI division specialises in custom keypads and bespoke interface solutions which can be integrated into wider Diamond projects or standalone.
Security, Confidentiality & Project support
How do you handle sensitive or classified projects?
Our team is used to dealing with sensitive projects and we follow strict security and data handling protocols, with industry aligned compliance.
Do you support long-term projects?
Diamond works with many of our customers on multi-year projects, so you can be confident for multi-year support no matter your project.
Lead Times, Delivery, Pricing & Quotes
What information do you need to provide an accurate quote?
For all our kitting projects we require the lead times, required standards and expected volumes and BOM.
What additional information do you require for a PCB assembly quote?
To best tailor your assembly quote we require the Gerber data, BOM, pick and place data, any assembly drawings and special instructions.
What are your typical lead times?
We don’t work to typical lead times, due to the different services, complexity of projects and component availability, however we will do our best to work to your production requirements and ensure proactive communication. This includes supporting urgent and time critical projects.
Can you handle buffer stocks and consigned inventory?
We can support buffer stocking, long-term stocking agreements and for critical or custom components support customer owned/free issue stocks.
Do you have minimum order values?
We work flexibility based on our customers needs, however our single line component distribution does have a £50 minimum order value.
For more information on Looking Ahead: X‑Ray Inspected Picking talk to Diamond Electronics Ltd