Sample testing is most useful when the trial answers a defined engineering question. Sending a few parts without packaging, PCB context or a target process may allow a basic handling observation, but it is not enough to define a production configuration. Preparation should connect the samples to the intended insertion task.
Assemble representative component samples
Identify each part number and supplier condition. Include normal incoming packaging and samples that represent expected variation in leads, housings and orientation. Note any surfaces that must not be contacted and any known damage or deformation risks. If several part numbers are expected to share a process, list them separately so the common and different requirements can be reviewed.
Provide PCB and product information
Useful inputs include PCB photos, board dimensions and thickness, hole or footprint data, nearby components, underside clearance and the planned support area. A bare board and an assembled reference board can answer different questions. Mark the intended insertion position and orientation so the review does not rely on assumptions from a general photo.
Describe the current process and target
Explain how the component is handled and inserted today, where variation or manual effort occurs, and what the proposed trial should evaluate. Share the target capacity as a project input, not as a promised machine result. Also identify product mix, changeover expectations and any upstream or downstream interfaces that affect the task.
Agree the trial record and decision point
Define what evidence will be recorded during the trial and who will review it. Depending on the scope, observations may cover component presentation, pickup, lead condition, PCB positioning, insertion condition and repeatability under the agreed sample conditions. Record open issues as well as successful steps, and separate an initial engineering trial from later FAT or production acceptance.
The Odd-Form Insertion Machine page describes the wider document-review, sample-review and acceptance-planning path.
Engineering-feasibility boundary
A sample trial provides evidence only for the reviewed parts, boards, conditions and criteria. It does not by itself confirm final feasibility, capacity, changeover scope, FAT or production acceptance. Use Contact to share the component list, packaging, PCB information, current process, target, sample availability and timeline for an engineering review.