Loading Tapes and Reels

When setting up your YY1 machine, you will need to load the tapes and reels into the feeders. The YY1 uses various feeder types and there are three software settings to configure the machine for these feeder types: Tape Feeders, Flexible Feeders, and Bulk Feeders.

For the purpose of this document, only the Tape Reel feeder type is discussed here. The Tape Reel feeder type comprises numbers 1-52, which is where you will install your tapes and reels.

Tape Feeders: A Checklist for Success

When loading tapes and reels into your YY1 machine, it is essential that you follow these guidelines to ensure a smooth process.

1. Placement: You can choose where to place the tapes and reels according to your personal preference.
2. Documentation: Make sure to document the feeder number and the type of component loaded into that tape feeder. This number will be needed for inputting data in later sections.
   1. It is recommended that you label the feeder using the component’s footprint and value.
3. Adjustment:  Different types of tape may need adjustment depending on their material. For example, black plastic tape tends to have less friction than white paper tape. Ensure the friction and tension are tightened properly according to the type of tape you are using to prevent errors when feeding the tape.

Installing Tapes and Reels: Steps for Success

Follow these steps to set up your YY1 machine by installing tapes and reels into the tape feeders: 

1. Power Off and Prepare: Ensure the machine is powered off and remove the safety coverings on either side of the YY1 machine. Open the peeler for the feeder you are loading. 

   

2. Prepare the Tape: Take the end of your tape by hand and peel back the plastic strip covering the components until the tape is long enough to reach the peeler. You may wish to extend the cover tape to avoid loss of parts.
3. Position the Tape: With the component side facing up, slide the exposed end of the tape under the white reel holders and through the opening of the black feeders. 

4. Feed the Tape: There are two rectangular openings on top of the feeders separated by a solid part in the middle. Continue sliding the tape through the feeder until the cover tape becomes exposed in the second opening. Pull the cover tape up and out through this opening.

5. Secure the Tape: Pull the tape back towards the white reel holders and under the gantry rail until it is flush with the top of the feeder. Take the end of the cover tape and slide it through the opening under the raised part from step one. Push the part down until it clicks back into place.

6. Load the Reel: Ensure the tape is not twisted. Pull the reel holder bar out, position your tape reel under the machine, and slide the bar back through the middle opening until it locks back into place. 

7. Finalize Setup: Place the safety coverings back into place and power on the machine.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to successfully load the tapes and reels into your YY1 machine for efficient component placement.