Install Feeders

Last updated: June 7, 2020

 

To load a reel of components onto an automatic feeder:

1. Hang the reel onto the shaft. It will rotate freely when you advance the component tape.
2. Peel the clear tape. The length of the clear tape has to be enough for it to at least reach the roller's slit. If you can, peel enough clear tape for it to wrap around the roller until the clear tape is secured inside the slit. An alternative would be to initially use some adhesive tape (e.g. Kapton tape) to stick the end of the clear tape onto the roller until the feeder winds the clear tape around the roller after you start pick and placing.
3. Insert the component tape into the tape channel while aligning the holes with the sprocket's teeth.
4. Slip the clear tape through the cover's slit.
5. Insert the end of the clear tape into the roller's slit with the tape passing under the roller.
6. Wind the clear tape around the roller (you can rotate the roller manually), and make sure the clear tape is taut. If the clear tape isn't taut when the automatic feeder feeds the components, you can tighten the two adjustable screws located in the center of the roller. You can use the buttons to manually move the component tape forward or backwards after installing the automatic feeder onto the machine. This is useful if you don't start off with a component in place and want to feed the tape to position the components.

To mount the automatic feeder onto the machine, insert the feeder into one of the machine’s hooks.

To install a manual feeder:

1. Remove one of the automatic feeder hooks from the machine.
2. Install the two hex standoffs that were included.
3. Install the manual tape feeder using the two screws that were included.