Pick up mode
This mode allows you to pick up SMD components for an easier assembly of your boards.
With an empty syringe the piston can be quickly pulled back to create a small vacuum that lifts them up.
NOTE: Red piston (included) is recommended for better performance.
Before you start, you’ll need to add a couple of drops of general purpose oil into your syringe, you only need to do this once. This is important for a number of reasons:
– Reduces friction, preventing the motor from missing steps at high speed.
– Creates a better seal for the vacuum.
– Reduces wear on the walls of the barrel.
Start by adding a couple of drops of 3 in 1 oil (or similar) on the edge of the syringe before inserting the piston.
Don’t put too much, you don’t want oil to come out when you move the piston all the way forward.
Without the cap on, move the piston back and forward by hand until you feel there’s less resistance.
Useful tip: Choose one syringe for picking components and don’t reuse it for anything else to prevent contamination.
To get a more comfortable grip you can use the included 45° angled tips:
Attach the syringe to the motor and press the left knob to push the piston all the way to the end until it touches the bottom:
To get into picking mode, simply go to menu screen #6, as long as you remain in this screen you’re in this mode.
To pick a part, place the tip level with the component and then press and hold the Start button, you should be able to lift it right away. Keep pressing the button for 1 or 2 seconds to create a strong enough vacuum. You can sometimes hear the pitch of the motor change when the vacuum has been created properly. Now you can release the button, the piston will stop moving and the part will be held in the tip.
Place your component in the pad and press the Start button again just once. The piston will return releasing the part and stop automatically at the end of the syringe.
That’s all, repeat as many times as necessary.
If you feel that you need more vacuum increase the speed in +1 increments, typical speeds range from 25 to 30.
Small passive components can be lifted using the pink or blue steel tips.
For large ICs remember to use the rubber suction cup-shaped accessory on the largest tip.