In a message dated 07/05/2000 4:03:04 PM Central Daylight Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:

> Hi TechNet
>
>  What is the purpose of the hole on the bottom of the carrier tape for SMT
>  components? Is there any advantage having it there?
>
>  Harold Papazian

Hi Harold!

Your question prompts another question; why are you asking the question? ;^}
I have never thought about it before...it must be an issue for you, or you
wouldn't be asking why. Can I ask why?

I can only guess, since I'm not involved in the design of carrier tapes...I'm
just trying to think logically...so here is my best guesses:

1. The holes are from the tooling used during the embossing process of the
tape to ensure that the plastic pockets are positionally accurate in relation
to the sprocket holes of the tape.

2. The holes are a means to prevent any low pressure or suction force being
generated when the component is being picked from the pocket by the pick and
place machine...the machines snatch the components pretty darn quick! I could
envision that there could be a suction generated if there wasn't a hole there
on some components...

3. The hole may be there to prevent equalize pressure...say if the components
were taped at sea-level, and then shipped to Denver being sealed, the seal of
the cover tape could rupture...

4. You might smother the components and suffocate them..;^}

5. The components need a place to take leak too...;^}

Forgive my bizarre humor...I must say though, a very intriguing question!

-Steve Gregory-

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