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LPKF

ProtoPrint S

Assembly / SMTLPKF ProtoPrint S family
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Provisional entry — research in progress

This page was generated automatically from cited public sources and hasn't completed the full research pass yet. Every specification shown carries its source; more detail is added as research completes.

The LPKF ProtoPrint S is a manual stencil printer from LPKF that prints solder paste on SMT prototypes and small batches. The ProtoPrint S prints down to 0.3 mm (12 mil) pitch using on-contact printing with parallel stencil separation. The ProtoPrint S is available in a standard version and a ProtoPrint S RP version that adds an integrated ZelFlex clamping frame for polyimide film stencils.[1][2][3]

ProtoPrint S — Inventory photo
Fig. 01ProtoPrint SInventory photo[4]

What it is

The LPKF ProtoPrint S is a manual stencil printer for surface-mount technology (SMT) solder paste application. The machine is designed for prototyping and small-batch production of fine-pitch boards. Two configurations exist: the ProtoPrint S and the ProtoPrint S RP. The ProtoPrint S uses stainless steel stencils, while the ProtoPrint S RP includes a ZelFlex clamping frame for polyimide film stencils.[1][2]

How it works

The ProtoPrint S uses on-contact printing where the stencil contacts the PCB during the print stroke. Separation is achieved through a parallel vertical lift of the stencil from the board. The machine provides adjustment of the print table in X and Y (±10 mm) and rotation (±5°). A test print screen allows the user to print onto a film to verify setup before printing on a board.[2][1][3]

Where it fits in the process flow

The ProtoPrint S is used in the solder paste printing stage of SMT assembly, before component placement and reflow soldering. The machine can print on double-sided boards, allowing one side to be populated before printing the opposite side. A vacuum table option enables transfer of the board directly to the LPKF ProtoPlace S pick-and-place system without breaking vacuum.[2][3]

What do the numbers mean?

Performance1

Accuracy (machine)
±20 μm (±1 mil)[1]
Accurate?

Dimensions & facilities5

Max component height (double-sided)
15 mm (0.59")[1]
Accurate?
Dimensions (W x H x D)
850 mm x 180 mm x 530 mm[1]
Accurate?
Weight
30 kg (66 lbs)[1]
Accurate?
Frame width (max)
430 mm (16.9")[1]
Accurate?
Frame height adjustable
20 mm to 40 mm (0.8" to 1.6")[1]
Accurate?

Configuration & options15

Max print area (standard)
260 mm x 330 mm (10.2" x 13")[1]
Accurate?
Max print area (alternate)
300 mm x 300 mm (11.8" x 11.8")[3]
Accurate?
Print type
Manual[1]
Accurate?
Print table adjustment X,Y
±10 mm (0.4"/400 mil)[1]
Accurate?
Print table rotation
±5°[1]
Accurate?
Max PCB thickness
5 mm (0.2"), optionally thicker[1]
Accurate?
Operating temperature
15–35 °C (59–95 °F)[1]
Accurate?
Operating humidity
30–80 %[1]
Accurate?
Frame type (ProtoPrint S)
ZelFlex QR 362 mm x 480 mm (14.3" x 18.9")[1]
Accurate?
Frame type (ProtoPrint S RP)
ZelFlex QR 266 mm x 380 mm with adapter (10.5" x 15")[1]
Accurate?
Squeegee type (ProtoPrint S)
Hand squeegee, rubber, 260 mm[1]
Accurate?
Squeegee type (ProtoPrint S RP)
Hand squeegee, metal, 180 mm[1]
Accurate?
Frame length adjustable
420 mm to 520 mm (16.5" to 20.5")[1]
Accurate?
Fine-pitch capability
0.3 mm (12 mil) pitch[2]
Accurate?
Stencil materials
Kapton (polyimide) and stainless steel[5]
Accurate?

Vintage & configurations

Documented models & variants

DesignationGenerationVintageChangesSource
ProtoPrint S RP——Integrated ZelFlex clamping frame for polyimide film stencils; smaller max print area (164 mm x 230 mm); uses metal squeegee 180 mm; frame adapter for universal frames.lpkf.com[1]
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Where are the manuals?

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Not publicly documented

Field notes

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Frequently asked questions

What is the maximum printing area?

The maximum printing area is 300 mm by 300 mm.[3][5]

What is the printing accuracy?

The machine accuracy is ±0.025 mm (±1 mil).[3][5]

What stencil types are supported?

Stainless steel and polyimide (Kapton) film stencils can be used.[1][5]

What is the maximum PCB thickness?

The maximum PCB thickness is 5 mm, with an option for thicker boards.[3][5]

Not publicly documented

The following facts about the ProtoPrint S are absent from this record as of this revision. First-hand knowledge or a citation closes a gap; every submission is reviewed before publication.

  • No publicly documented production dates or lifecycle milestones (introduction, end of production, EOL) for the ProtoPrint S are on record.

    Answerable by: OEM historical records or a trade-press announcement

  • The control-system platform and OS era of the ProtoPrint S are not on record.

    Answerable by: an engineer who operated it or OEM installation records

  • No publicly documented failure modes or field errata for the ProtoPrint S are on record.

    Answerable by: a field service engineer, process engineer, or maintenance technician

  • The process node or technology generation of the ProtoPrint S is not on record.

    Answerable by: an OEM datasheet or a fab qualification report

  • No publicly documented compatible parts, consumables, or accessories for the ProtoPrint S are on record.

    Answerable by: an OEM parts catalog or a service engineer

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Sources & citations

Sources (5)Every fact above is drawn from these public sources
  1. [1]lpkf.com — lpkf.comlpkf.com
  2. [2]anglegroups.com — anglegroups.comanglegroups.com
  3. [3]4.imimg.com — 4.imimg.com4.imimg.com
  4. [4]Inventory photo
  5. [5]usherbrooke.ca — usherbrooke.causherbrooke.ca
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Last updated Sep 24, 2026.

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