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?