On this week's episode we talk about the pick and place assembly process (which also served as the inspiration for our show name) - the process of placing parts onto circuit boards using automated machines. 

We recap on how we've been adjusting in the factory amidst the continuing pandemic and how we're dealing with some of the growing pains as business starts to boom again.

We discuss the steps after the parts are kitted that have to be done to get the board ready to be assembled: 

• The parts have to be loaded onto a feeder.
• Loading an 8mm MyData feeder https://youtu.be/HU88ym0sdEQ
• The feeders are placed in a magazine.

We briefly discuss the different types of feeders and magazines that are available. and the environmental impact of different types of equipment.

• MyData magazine advancement mechanism https://youtu.be/5ytCNuvdB2w

We talk about parts that don't come on tape and reel and how they are loaded differently.

Once the parts are all loaded on to the machine, we describe the steps that have to be done in order to get it ready to run. We discuss the ifferent types tools that are used to pick parts up and place them on the board and the technology that is used to make sure parts are being placed precisely and accurately.

• MyData machine in action https://youtu.be/B_bllEK55JU
• "Chip shooter" style pick and place machine: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nah4BQ9y8IY
• "Odd form" style pick and place machine: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUxBMUS45Kg

Chris gives some advice on things you can do (and things we would prefer you to avoid) in order to make the pick and place process run smoother.

On the next episode: We'll be speaking to Dugan and Nadim about their involvement with the Open Source Ventilator project.

pickplacepodcast.com