Panasonic Auto Setting Feeder (ASF) is an automated tape feeder for surface mount technology (SMT) component mounting lines, designed to greatly reduce the working time involved in parts supply setup. It automates the process of setting new tape components, cutting setup time from approximately 90 seconds with a current feeder (ITF) to approximately 30 seconds with ASF.
Panasonic Auto Setting Feeder (ASF) Features
- Reduces tape component setup time by approximately 60 seconds, including pre-processing
- Automatic tape peeling and loading, completed by simply inserting pre-processed tape and pressing a button
- Supports 8–104 mm width tape components in paper and emboss materials
- Enables skillless component supply, with setup completed through simple button presses and lever operations
- Easy attachment by inserting to depth, and easy removal by pulling a lever
- Dramatically reduces short-time line breakdowns caused by tape supply issues
- Retrofit compatible with existing Panasonic NPM series mounting equipment
- Optional Loading Unit enables automatic loading of the next components, eliminating manual splicing work
Before use, the Panasonic Auto Setting Feeder (ASF) requires the cover tape to protrude 8mm beyond the carrier tape tip. This pre-processing step can be carried out using either the Automatic Half-Cut Jig or the Manual Half-Cut Jig, both offered as accessories to simplify preparation.
Applications
- Component feeder setup and changeover on SMT mounting lines
- Retrofitting onto existing Panasonic NPM series equipment
- Production environments seeking to reduce reliance on skilled operators for feeder setup
- Lines aiming to reduce short-stop breakdowns caused by tape supply issues
The optional Loading Unit extends the Auto Setting Feeder’s automation further, enabling automatic loading of the next tape components without manual splicing, supporting continuous, unattended operation on the mounting line.
Product Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Tape width range | 8–104 mm |
| Tape materials supported | Paper, Emboss |
| Setup time (current ITF feeder) | Approximately 90 seconds |
| Setup time (ASF) | Approximately 30 seconds |
| Pre-processing requirement | Cover tape must protrude 8mm beyond carrier tape tip |
| Equipment compatibility | Panasonic NPM series (retrofit) |
| Available accessories | Loading Unit, Automatic Half-Cut Jig, Manual Half-Cut Jig |
Further technical details on the Panasonic Auto Setting Feeder (ASF) and its options are available on request through Panasonic’s contact form.
