===== What not to do ===== Don't just put the tube into the vibrator and back it off one part-length. It will result in a mess :) {{:mdcpickandplace:feederjam.jpg|}} <---- BAD! ===== Modifying the tube ===== Instead, you need to notch the end of the tube to hold the part in place. We plan to just reuse the same tube over by 'reloading it' from one end. To demonstrate, we'll use a 8 SOIC tube. {{:mdcpickandplace:soictube.jpg|}} Take one chip out and lay it on top of the tube, then notch the top with a razor blade just before the tail of the chip {{:mdcpickandplace:cuttubenotching.jpg|}} Now put the chip away {{:mdcpickandplace:cuttubenotched.jpg|}} Using sharp diagonal cutters, cut at the TOP of the tube from the end to where the notch is. Repeat on the other side {{:mdcpickandplace:cuttube.jpg|}} Bend the top flap up and cut it off so that any burr is on the top, not impeding the chip. {{:mdcpickandplace:cuttubebend.jpg|}} {{:mdcpickandplace:cuttubedetail.jpg|}} When you're done there will be a channel that keeps the chip in place and doesnt let it vibrate off to the side but has space for the nozzle to pick up the chip! {{:mdcpickandplace:cuttubedone.jpg|}} ===== Install tube ===== Install the tube so that it goes OVER the foam-padded bar and UNDER the unpadded bar Place the tube so that the Phillips head screw is underneath the tube, this will help keep it in place. Push the end of the tube all the way up to the metal stop plate. {{:mdcpickandplace:tubeinplaceside_t.jpg|}} {{:mdcpickandplace:tubeinplace_t.jpg}} ===== Program in chip feeder ===== Here is how I programmed in an 8-soic using bottom vision: Use part #41 which is an 8SOP with bottom vision test {{:mdcpickandplace:chipfeeder8soic.png|}} Using the teaching camera, do your best to center the 8-soic part outline. The chips move a bit and we use bottom vision so this isn't critically important. Have the red dot indicate pin 1 - this will make it easy to program in the PCB parts orientation {{:mdcpickandplace:feederteach.png|}} When the chip is picked up it will do a 4-point bottom vision test {{:mdcpickandplace:chpbottom.png|}}