| Brand Name: | Panasonic |
| Model Number: | N610148260AA |
Panasonic 256CSN N610148260AA SMT Nozzle for NPM 12-Head
![]()
![]()
![]()
The Panasonic 256CSN N610148260AA SMT nozzle is a precision pickup component developed for compatible NPM placement machines equipped with a 12-head unit. Installed between the placement head and electronic component, the nozzle transfers vacuum pressure to the component surface, enabling controlled pickup, high-speed movement, alignment, and accurate placement onto the printed circuit board.
A worn, contaminated, bent, blocked, or incorrectly selected nozzle can cause repeated pickup errors, component drops, unstable recognition, placement offsets, and unnecessary machine stops. Replacing the affected nozzle with a correctly matched 256CSN unit helps restore the vacuum path and mechanical interface required for consistent production.
This nozzle is suitable for electronics manufacturers, SMT maintenance departments, equipment service companies, and spare-parts distributors requiring a clearly identified replacement under model 256CSN and primary part number N610148260AA. Compatibility should be confirmed according to the installed head, existing nozzle marking, component package, and machine configuration before ordering.
Quick Product Identification
| Identification Item | Product Information |
|---|---|
| Brand Reference | Panasonic |
| Nozzle Model | 256CSN |
| Primary Part Number | N610148260AA |
| Product Category | SMT Pick-and-Place Nozzle |
| Main Application | Electronic Component Pickup and Placement |
| Compatible Head | NPM 12-Head Unit |
| Compatible Platform | Properly Configured NPM Placement Machine |
| Installation Position | Placement Head Nozzle Station |
| Operating Method | Vacuum Pickup and Mechanical Placement |
| Order Unit | Piece |
| Compatibility Requirement | Confirm Before Ordering |
Why the 256CSN Nozzle Matters in SMT Production
The pickup nozzle is one of the smallest components in an SMT machine, but it directly affects placement stability. Every production cycle requires the nozzle to contact the component correctly, establish sufficient vacuum, lift the component without movement, pass the vision inspection process, and release the component at the programmed placement position.
Even minor nozzle deterioration can create repeated process losses. A nozzle may appear usable while its internal vacuum channel, tip surface, mounting interface, or concentricity has already changed. These small deviations become more noticeable during continuous high-speed production.
A properly matched 256CSN nozzle supports:
| Production Requirement | Operational Benefit |
| Stable Component Pickup | Reduces missed pickups and repeated pickup attempts |
| Reliable Vacuum Transfer | Helps maintain components during head movement |
| Accurate Mechanical Positioning | Supports repeatable pickup and placement coordinates |
| Consistent Vision Recognition | Helps keep the component stable during camera inspection |
| Controlled Component Release | Reduces movement during placement |
| Faster Maintenance Recovery | Allows technicians to replace the identified nozzle efficiently |
| Lower Unplanned Downtime | Helps prevent repeated alarms caused by damaged consumable parts |
Cause
SMT nozzle failures are not always caused by complete breakage. Many production problems begin with gradual wear, contamination, incorrect handling, unsuitable cleaning, or mismatched component selection.
Common Causes of Nozzle-Related Production Problems
| Cause | Description | Possible Production Result |
| Tip Contamination | Flux, dust, adhesive, solder particles, or packaging residue accumulates around the nozzle tip | Weak pickup, unstable vacuum, component rotation |
| Internal Blockage | Fine particles restrict the vacuum channel | Repeated pickup errors and machine alarms |
| Mechanical Wear | Long production cycles change the contact surface or mounting accuracy | Inconsistent pickup height and placement deviation |
| Nozzle Bending | Improper storage, collision, or incorrect manual handling affects nozzle concentricity | Recognition error, offset, or component drop |
| Incorrect Nozzle Selection | Nozzle size or structure does not match the component or head configuration | Poor sealing, surface damage, or unstable pickup |
| Damaged Mounting Interface | The connection area becomes worn or deformed | Nozzle movement, unstable rotation, or installation difficulty |
| Improper Cleaning | Sharp tools, abrasive materials, or aggressive chemicals damage the nozzle | Scratches, deformation, and reduced service life |
| Head Collision | Incorrect programming, warped PCB, feeder height error, or component obstruction causes contact | Cracked tip, bent nozzle, or sudden placement failure |
| Excessive Use | Nozzle remains in production beyond its practical maintenance cycle | Increasing error frequency and unstable process performance |
| Poor Storage | Nozzle is stored loosely with other metal parts | Impact damage, contamination, and identification loss |
Typical Warning Signs
Operators and maintenance teams should inspect the nozzle when any of the following conditions appear:
| Warning Sign | Recommended Check |
| Repeated pickup failure on one nozzle station | Inspect tip condition and vacuum channel |
| Component drops during head movement | Check vacuum sealing and component contact |
| Vision recognition becomes unstable | Check component centering and nozzle concentricity |
| Placement offset occurs intermittently | Inspect mounting accuracy and nozzle movement |
| Vacuum value becomes lower than normal | Clean the nozzle and inspect for leakage or blockage |
| One component type produces frequent errors | Verify nozzle selection against the package |
| Nozzle cannot be installed smoothly | Check part number, interface, and physical damage |
| Error returns shortly after cleaning | Replace the nozzle and inspect the related head station |
| Component surface shows marks | Confirm tip condition and pickup-force settings |
| Production yield declines without program changes | Compare nozzle performance with a known qualified unit |
Solution
The appropriate solution is not simply to increase vacuum pressure or repeatedly reset the machine. The nozzle should be inspected as part of the complete pickup system.
The 256CSN N610148260AA nozzle provides a clearly identified replacement option for compatible NPM 12-head applications. When the existing nozzle is worn, blocked, bent, damaged, or no longer stable, replacement can help restore the intended vacuum transfer and mechanical positioning performance.
Recommended Troubleshooting Process
| Step | Action | Purpose |
| 1 | Record the alarm code and affected nozzle station | Identify whether the fault is isolated |
| 2 | Check the component feeder and pickup coordinates | Exclude feeder or programming errors |
| 3 | Inspect the 256CSN nozzle tip under suitable magnification | Find wear, cracks, contamination, or deformation |
| 4 | Check the internal vacuum passage | Identify blockage or restricted airflow |
| 5 | Clean the nozzle using an approved maintenance method | Remove removable contamination |
| 6 | Install a verified nozzle for comparison | Confirm whether the original nozzle caused the fault |
| 7 | Check head mounting and vacuum performance | Exclude head-side leakage or mechanical wear |
| 8 | Run a controlled placement test | Confirm pickup, recognition, movement, and release |
| 9 | Record replacement date and nozzle station | Improve preventive-maintenance traceability |
| 10 | Keep qualified spare nozzles available | Reduce downtime during future production |
Production-Oriented Advantages
1. Clear Model Identification
The 256CSN marking and primary part number N610148260AA make purchasing, inventory management, and maintenance communication more efficient. Buyers can compare the existing nozzle identification before requesting a quotation.
2. Designed for Vacuum Pickup Operations
The nozzle works as the final vacuum-contact component between the placement head and electronic component. A clean and undamaged vacuum path supports stable pickup throughout rapid head movement.
3. Suitable for NPM 12-Head Maintenance
The product is intended for compatible NPM systems using a 12-head configuration. Machine model and head configuration should always be checked because different NPM platforms may use different nozzle families.
4. Supports Placement Repeatability
A correctly installed nozzle helps maintain the relationship between the head center, nozzle center, component center, and programmed placement coordinate.
5. Efficient Spare-Part Replacement
Replacing a worn nozzle is generally faster and more economical than repeatedly stopping the line to clean or adjust a nozzle that has permanent mechanical damage.
6. Useful for Preventive Maintenance
Keeping identified nozzle models in organized spare-parts inventory allows technicians to replace suspicious units during scheduled maintenance instead of waiting for a serious production interruption.
Specifications
| Specification | Description |
| Product Name | SMT Pick-and-Place Nozzle |
| Nozzle Model | 256CSN |
| Primary Part Number | N610148260AA |
| Brand Identification | Panasonic |
| Main Machine Series | NPM |
| Recommended Head Configuration | Compatible 12-Head Unit |
| Main Function | Pickup, Transfer, Alignment, and Placement of Electronic Components |
| Operating Principle | Vacuum-Based Component Holding |
| Installation Type | Detachable Placement-Head Nozzle |
| Application Industry | Electronics Manufacturing and SMT Assembly |
| Component Compatibility | Determined by Package Dimensions, Surface, Weight, and Machine Program |
| Inspection Requirement | Visual, Vacuum, Concentricity, and Installation Check |
| Maintenance Method | Controlled Cleaning and Periodic Inspection |
| Packaging | Protective Individual or Batch Packaging |
| Order Unit | One Piece |
| Part-Number Confirmation | Required Before Shipment |
| Custom Requirement | Confirm with Sample, Drawing, Photo, or Existing Nozzle Marking |
Part-Number Verification Table
N610148260AA is commonly used as the primary ordering reference for the 256CSN nozzle. Some spare-parts catalogs may display additional numbers in connection with 256CSN or 203ZSN configurations. These numbers should not be treated as automatically interchangeable without verification.
| Reference Number | Catalog Association | Ordering Recommendation |
| N610148260AA | Primary 256CSN reference | Preferred reference when matching the same installed part number |
| N610136384AA | Listed in some catalogs with 256CSN identification | Verify nozzle marking and machine head |
| N610136831AA | Listed by some aftermarket parts databases | Confirm physical interface before ordering |
| N610038265AA | Sometimes associated with 203ZSN or related configuration | Do not substitute without technical confirmation |
| N610038265AB | Revision-style reference in some catalogs | Compare installed part and machine documentation |
For accurate supply, provide the complete machine model, head type, nozzle marking, old part number, and clear product photographs.
Application
The 256CSN nozzle is used in automated surface-mount production where the placement machine must pick electronic components from feeders, inspect their position, and place them accurately onto solder-paste-printed circuit boards.
Typical Application Scenarios
| Application Scenario | Role of the 256CSN Nozzle |
| NPM Production-Line Maintenance | Replaces a worn or damaged nozzle on a compatible 12-head unit |
| High-Mix Electronics Assembly | Supports scheduled nozzle changes between product programs |
| Automotive Electronics Production | Helps maintain stable component handling in controlled SMT processes |
| Industrial Control Board Assembly | Supports repeatable pickup and placement of programmed components |
| Consumer Electronics Manufacturing | Helps maintain continuous placement during high-volume production |
| Communication Equipment Assembly | Supports accurate component transfer on densely populated PCBs |
| LED and Power-Control Board Production | Provides a replacement nozzle option where the model is specified |
| Contract Electronics Manufacturing | Simplifies spare-part management across multiple production orders |
| SMT Equipment Refurbishment | Replaces missing or unusable nozzle units during machine preparation |
| Technical Service Operations | Enables service teams to diagnose nozzle-related pickup problems |
Suitable Buyers
| Buyer Type | Purchasing Purpose |
| SMT Factory | Daily maintenance and emergency replacement |
| Equipment Maintenance Department | Preventive-maintenance inventory |
| Electronics Contract Manufacturer | Multi-line nozzle management |
| SMT Machine Service Company | Customer repair and troubleshooting |
| Spare-Parts Distributor | Model-specific inventory supply |
| Used Equipment Refurbisher | Machine inspection and restoration |
| Engineering Department | Process testing and nozzle evaluation |
| Overseas Purchasing Team | Centralized procurement for multiple plants |
![]()
![]()
![]()
How It Works
The 256CSN nozzle operates through a combination of mechanical positioning, vacuum pressure, machine control, and vision correction.
Stage 1: Nozzle Selection
The machine program assigns a nozzle according to the electronic component package and production parameters. The selected nozzle is installed on the compatible placement-head station.
Stage 2: Movement to the Pickup Position
The placement head moves toward the feeder pickup coordinate. Correct feeder setup, component position, pickup height, and nozzle selection are necessary at this stage.
Stage 3: Vacuum Activation
When the nozzle contacts or approaches the component surface, the machine activates vacuum pressure. Air is drawn through the nozzle passage, creating holding force between the nozzle tip and component.
Stage 4: Component Lifting
The head moves upward while the component remains attached to the nozzle. If the nozzle is blocked, worn, bent, or incorrectly sized, the component may shift or remain in the feeder.
Stage 5: Vision Recognition
The machine camera inspects the component position and orientation. The control system calculates correction values before placement. Stable component holding is important for reliable recognition.
Stage 6: High-Speed Transfer
The head moves from the feeder area to the programmed PCB coordinate. The nozzle must maintain sufficient holding force during acceleration, rotation, and deceleration.
Stage 7: Placement
The component is lowered to the specified placement height. The machine releases the vacuum or applies the appropriate release process, allowing the component to remain on the solder paste.
Stage 8: Repeated Production Cycle
The nozzle returns to the next pickup position and repeats the cycle. In volume production, this process may occur continuously, making nozzle condition important for line stability.
Operating Sequence Summary
| Production Stage | Nozzle Function | Possible Failure if Nozzle Is Defective |
| Pickup Approach | Aligns with component surface | Off-center contact |
| Vacuum Activation | Creates component-holding force | Weak or failed pickup |
| Component Lift | Removes component from feeder | Component remains in pocket |
| Vision Inspection | Holds component steadily | Unstable recognition |
| Head Movement | Retains component during transfer | Component drop or rotation |
| Placement | Positions component on PCB | Offset or height error |
| Vacuum Release | Separates nozzle from component | Component movement or sticking |
How to Choose
Selecting the correct SMT nozzle requires more than matching the visible model name. Confirm the full machine and application information before placing an order.
Selection Factor 1: Existing Part Number
Check the marking on the currently installed nozzle, machine spare-parts list, maintenance record, or original packaging. N610148260AA should be matched exactly when it is the required part number.
Selection Factor 2: Nozzle Model
Confirm that the required nozzle model is 256CSN. Similar model names can represent different tip structures, interfaces, revisions, or component applications.
Selection Factor 3: Machine Platform
Provide the complete NPM machine model rather than only stating “NPM machine.” Machine generation and installed options can affect nozzle compatibility.
Selection Factor 4: Head Configuration
Confirm that the machine uses the compatible 12-head unit. A nozzle used on one head configuration may not fit or function correctly on another head type.
Selection Factor 5: Component Package
Provide the component length, width, height, weight, surface shape, and package type. The nozzle contact area should support the component without covering sensitive structures or causing surface damage.
Selection Factor 6: Existing Nozzle Photograph
Clear photographs of the old nozzle are useful when the printed identification is incomplete. Recommended photographs include the full nozzle, tip, mounting side, side profile, and visible marking.
Selection Factor 7: Supply Condition
State whether the project requires a specific supply condition. The quoted condition, inspection standard, packaging, and warranty terms should be confirmed before payment.
Buyer Information Checklist
| Required Information | Example |
| Machine Model | Complete NPM machine designation |
| Head Type | 12-head unit |
| Nozzle Model | 256CSN |
| Required Part Number | N610148260AA |
| Quantity | Number of pieces required |
| Existing Nozzle Marking | Photograph or written marking |
| Component Package | Dimensions or package name |
| Required Condition | Confirmed during quotation |
| Delivery Country | Destination for freight calculation |
| Required Delivery Date | Planned maintenance or production date |
Comparison With Common Nozzle Conditions
| Nozzle Condition | Production Risk | Recommended Action |
| Clean and Correctly Installed | Low when other settings are correct | Continue routine inspection |
| Light Surface Contamination | Increasing pickup instability | Clean using an approved method |
| Internal Vacuum Blockage | Missed pickups and alarms | Clean and test airflow |
| Worn Tip Surface | Poor sealing and unstable holding | Replace the nozzle |
| Bent Nozzle Body | Recognition and placement errors | Remove from production immediately |
| Cracked or Chipped Tip | Component damage or sudden failure | Replace immediately |
| Unknown Part Number | Compatibility and installation risk | Verify before use |
| Incorrect Head Interface | Installation damage | Do not force installation |
| Repeated Failure After Cleaning | Likely permanent wear or related head issue | Replace and inspect head station |
Installation Recommendations
Maintenance Recommendations
| Maintenance Item | Recommended Practice |
| Visual Inspection | Check the tip and body regularly under suitable lighting |
| Vacuum Passage | Inspect for dust, flux residue, and component fragments |
| Cleaning | Use approved tools and non-damaging cleaning materials |
| Handling | Hold the nozzle body carefully and avoid touching the tip |
| Storage | Use a labeled protective tray or individual container |
| Identification | Record model, part number, station, and replacement date |
| Performance Check | Compare pickup performance after cleaning or replacement |
| Inventory Control | Separate qualified, untested, and rejected nozzles |
| Damage Control | Remove bent or cracked nozzles from usable inventory |
| Preventive Replacement | Replace before repeated failures affect production output |
Do not use sharp metal objects to clear the nozzle passage. Do not grind, polish, bend, or manually reshape the nozzle tip. These actions can permanently alter pickup performance.
Quality Inspection Before Shipment or Installation
| Inspection Point | Inspection Purpose |
| Model and Part-Number Check | Prevents incorrect supply |
| External Surface Inspection | Identifies visible scratches or deformation |
| Tip Condition Check | Confirms there is no obvious damage |
| Vacuum-Passage Inspection | Detects visible contamination or obstruction |
| Mounting Interface Check | Supports proper head installation |
| Dimensional Comparison | Confirms consistency with the approved reference |
| Packaging Check | Prevents movement and impact during transportation |
| Quantity Verification | Confirms the ordered shipment amount |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the primary part number for the 256CSN SMT nozzle?
The primary ordering reference is N610148260AA. Because some spare-parts catalogs show additional numbers connected with 256CSN or 203ZSN, buyers should provide the old nozzle marking and machine-head information before confirming an order.
2. Is the 256CSN nozzle suitable for every NPM machine?
Not automatically. It is mainly identified for compatible NPM placement systems using a 12-head unit. The complete machine model, installed head, nozzle interface, and existing part number should be checked before purchase.
3. What information is required for an accurate quotation?
Please provide the nozzle model, exact part number, machine model, head type, required quantity, delivery destination, and clear photographs of the existing nozzle. Component-package information is also recommended when compatibility is uncertain.
4. When should the nozzle be replaced instead of cleaned?
Replacement is recommended when the nozzle is bent, cracked, chipped, heavily worn, unable to maintain stable vacuum, or repeatedly causes pickup errors after correct cleaning and machine checks.
5. Can different catalog part numbers be used interchangeably?
They should not be treated as interchangeable without verification. Similar nozzle names may represent different revisions, head configurations, or machine applications. Confirm the physical interface, machine documentation, and existing nozzle identification before substitution.
Contact Us
Contact us for pricing, availability, delivery options, and technical confirmation for the Panasonic 256CSN N610148260AA SMT nozzle.
To receive an accurate quotation, please include:
Our team can help verify the supplied information, prepare a clear quotation, and recommend appropriate packaging for international shipment.
Brand names, machine names, and part numbers are used only to identify product compatibility and customer requirements.