STRIPFEEDER Systems for SMT assembly equipment by Count On Tools, Inc.

Count On Tools Inc. (COT), a leading provider of precision components and SMT spare parts, introduces the revolutionary STRIPFEEDER system for loading tape-and-reel components onto compact modules for prototyping and high-mix low-volume applications.

What is it?

The new STRIPFEEDER systems are a cost effective way to load many components, including odd-form and custom components, without having to purchase expensive feeders. The quick-to-assemble, easy-to-install modules are designed for rapid loading of tape-and-reel components on existing SMT pick-and-place equipment.

Additionally, the trays enable fast changeover between product runs without unloading from the machine. The STRIPFEEDER trays are compatible with both paper and emboss tape simultaneously, and are ideal for low-volume high-mix applications and prototyping.

Why purchase expensive feeders for each component or a small strip of tape when you only need to place a few at a time?

How does it work?

Just cut, load, and place. It's as easy as 1, 2, 3!

There are three easy steps to load our STRIPFEEDER trays. Just cut a strip of components off the reel, load them in the tray (and configure the tray if using our .mod series), and place it in the machine. It is just that easy!

Other important benefits include:

Fully customizable widths & pitch based on process requirements and industry standard.
Compatible with both paper and emboss tape, simultaneously.
Load up to 11 different parts on a single tray.
Save thousands of dollars over customized feeders and feeder systems.
Absolutely non-violent for fragile components or loose packaging.
Quick to assembly & install in your machine.
Fast changeover between product runs without unloading from the machine.
Built to JEDEC specs to it is compatible with most every SMT Pick-and-Place machine on the market and most JEDEC style tray feeder systems.

How much does it cost?

STRIPFEEDER modules start at only $500 and can hold up to 11 diffent lanes* of components on a single tray.

That is like getting 11 feeders for the price of one!

Award Winning Design:

Count On Tools was awarded a 2013 NPI Award from Circuits Assembly magazine in the category of Automation Tools for its StripFeeder Modular System.

Fixed Width Series:

The new STRIPFEEDER Fixed Width System features precision machined channels designed to accomodate a specific array of tape sizes in the same feeder. Precision pins are perfectly pitched to easily locate and hold the tape securely during the assembly process. Fiducial marks allow the operator to easily teach the machine to recognize the feeder and its contents.

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The Fixed Width STRIPFEEDER Trays also features re-usable adhesive layers on the tracks to securely hold down tape-and-reel during the assembly process. This prevents components from being disturbed by the pick-and-place action of the equipment and provides a non-violent system for fragile components or loose packaging. In-house testing proved that the adhesive is effective even after hundreds of installations with the tape-and-reel components. Also, the adhesive can be removed and replaced after it is worn out.

There are many pre-designed configureations to choose from, like 6x8mm/2x12mm, 6x12mm/1x16mm, 7x12mm, and 8x8mm. Custom configurations available upon request.

General Specifications:

Overall size: 12.50" x 5.30" x 0.375" (L x W x H)
Material: Aircraft Grade Aluminum with Anodized Finish
Tape sizes: 8mm to 72mm wide

Download a product flyer here.

STRIPFEEDER .mod Ver 2 Series:

The new StripFeeder Modular (.mod) System version 2 features a mechanical lock-spring to hold the tape in place by the sprocket hole for part registration and repeatable pick-and-place applications. This means the user only has to teach the pick-up location one time and consistently reload the unit with the same parts over and over for longer runs.

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Additionally, the StripFeeder .mod System version 2 features removable rails that can be mounted to accommodate a wide array of tape sizes in the same feeder. Unlike the fixed width version, the StripFeeder .mod can be adjusted by removing the rails and re-positioning them on the base plate at the desired width (4mm pitched hole pattern). The rails align with precision pin locaters and lock down tightly with magnets to guarantee a stable, repeatable application.

The innovative design holds the components securely in the machined tracks to prevent parts from being miss-picked, flipped in the pocket, or lost. Customers also can remove rails to accommodate larger components up to 120mm tape width. The StripFeeder .mod system is built to JEDEC-standards and size specifications to allow the unit to be utilized in most types of SMT equipment or JEDEC-style tray feeder units.