We are considering replacing our present pick and place machine (10 yrs old) with a modern system. My management is concerned that whatever we purchase today might be obsolete in 3-5 years. The system which I have in mind has the capability of placing 15 mil pitch leaded components, 0402s, and BGAs, pretty much the latest technologies. My question is this, does anyone have a grasp on where component trends are leading? Is component packaging going to be smaller still (than 0402s) or a different technology altogether which will render my state-of-the-art placement system obsolete? What does the future hold for components and placement systems?