EIA Standard Semi-Pocket™- Mechanically Interlocking Carrier Tape

Semi-Pocket: A precision embossed carrier for SMT or through-hole components. Parts are acquired using vacuum nozzles or grippers. Vision assist is necessary.

Low cost...

• Shallow pockets cost less to produce. They require almost no draft angle and can utilize narrower and thinner carrier compared to full height pockets. Forming time is also reduced.
• Depth of Semi-Pocket is usually only 25% of full height pocket depth, creating four times more empty pockets on a 24" (610mm) supply reel. This results in significantly lower cost to handle, ship, inventory, use and dispose of tape.
• Package offers multiple parts per pitch capability which maximizes utilization of tape, and line inventory.
• No peel force testing required for mechanically interlocking tapes. Tapes are mechanically unlocked by GPAX UltraFlex Feeders.

Robust...

• Semi-Pocket carrier and looping StitchLock™ cover tape mechanically interlock at each pitch across the carier tape width for highest durability.
• Handles heavy parts such as magnetics, ceramic filters, connectors and mechanical parts.
• Tapes can be repeatedly unlocked and reinterlocked without degradation for QA part inspection or removal.
• Mechanically interlocking tapes are unaffected by storage temperatures and humidity - long shelf life.

Recyclable...

• Tapes are made of PET, the most recycled plastic in the world.
• Tapes can have static dissipative or conductive properties for ESD sensitive parts.

Compact...

• Semi-Pocket carrier generates less scrap volume due to a low pocket to part volume ratio.
• More packaged parts on a reel because less air is in the package.

Process Proven-Automation Package...

• Semi-Pocket carrier and StitchLock tapes can be staple spliced, for uninterrupted feeding, without purging or removing feeder for workcell - provides maximum up-time and line thru-put with GPAX UltraFlex Feeders.
• Lower portion of component is in the pocket, protecting leads and coplanarity. Upper portion extends above the carrier tape surface providing easy access for robot or pick and place grippers.
• Semi-Pocket carrier is available for both surface mount and thru-hole components.
• Narrow width tapes mean narrow feeders and optimized work space around placement equipment. Several hundred GPAX machines are in operation worldwide.