Count On Tools Inc., a leading provider of precision components and SMT spare parts, announces the availability of its new MYDATA ezTOOL, an assembly/disassembly fixture for MYDATA Midas Tool Tips.

With the new ezTOOL, customers are able to quickly replace tool tips with precision alignment for critical pick-and-place tooling. What sets the ezTOOL apart is that it not only works on the precision spring loaded Midas Tools (A23, A24, and C23), but with the additional tip jig, customers can quickly replace smaller tips with more accuracy with just a single tool.

The ezTOOL is compatible with MYDATA A12, A13, A14, B12 and C14 replacement tool tips. Each ezTOOL is precision machined from high quality aluminum and stainless steel to ensure durability and repeatability of use. Additionally, COT supplies all replacement tool tips for MYDATA Midas Tools as well as standard and custom nozzles for odd-form components.

Count On Tools Inc. (COT), a leading provider of precision components and SMT spare parts, introduces the next version of its award-winning StripFeeder System for loading tape-and-reel components onto compact modules for prototyping and high-mix low-volume applications. COT was awarded a 2013 NPI Award from Circuits Assembly magazine in the category of Automation Tools for its StripFeeder Modular System. Customers who have already purchased StripFeeder System can contact COT about upgrading their systems to the latest version.       

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.

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.

 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. For more information about Count On Tools’ new Modular StripFeeder, visit www.cotinc.com.