Exatron – Frequently Asked Questions
Exatron will be continually adding to this list of questions. If you have a question you would like to see answered here, please let us know.

CAN I UPGRADE MY 3000B-L TO USE THE NEW PICKUP HEAD WITHOUT A LABEL QUEUE?

Yes. In order to improve the operation of the label application system, Exatron has developed a new label pick up system which takes labels directly off the Zebra printer, rather than from a peel bar separate from the printer. This upgrade does away with the traditional “label queue” found on earlier Exatron systems. This significantly improves the system operations and makes serialization easier to accomplish (no need to reprint the entire queue if a label is missed). Exatron supplies an upgrade kit for the 3000B-L, including a longer pick-up arm, new motor housing/cover, and new pickup heads. This kit comes pre-assembled and can be field-installed with three bolts, and two snap-in electrical connectors. Please contact your local sales representative or Exatron (1-800-EXATRON) for more information or to place orders for this upgrade kit.

IF I HAVE TOO MUCH AIR PRESSURE IN MY AIR LINES, WILL THAT DAMAGE THE SYSTEM?

Yes, eventually. Increased pressure makes air cylinders work “too hard” and will eventually shorten the life of the cylinder. Other collateral problems may arise as well; increased moving force may cause cylinder mounts and wear parts near the cylinder to wear out too soon.

THE RETURN SPRING ON MY SOIC GATE BREAKS MORE OFTEN THAN I WOULD LIKE. HOW CAN I FIX IT?

Some Exatron customers have reported premature breakdowns on their SOIC Plunge-to-board kits. These break-downs are related to the type and installation of the torsion spring used to return the plunge gate to its upright (closed) position.

Exatron has performed extensive testing on a new mounting/spring design, which has been very successful. In three tests, our new torsion springs have survived over one million of cycles while still fully closing the gate. In addition, the new mounting design greatly reduces wear on the gate itself and on the dowel-pin in the change-over kit.

Customers with SOIC Plunge-to-board kits who are experiencing this problem are encouraged to contact Dave Ledezma in the Exatron service department for prints and supplies to implement the new design on existing kits. In some cases, it will be necessary to rebuild the kits entirely. Ken will assist you in determining which parts and/or what service you will need.

Exatron will rebuild/repair existing kits at the Exatron factory for no charge if the kit is in the warranty period of twelve months. If the kit is out of warranty, we will charge labor only for the rebuilding service at the factory.

HOW DO I SET UP THE BINNING INFORMATION FOR MY HANDLER?

Exatron has prepared a set of instructions and worksheets for setting up the binning information in Model 5000 and 3000B handlers. Call Exatron and ask us to fax the “Handler Binning Setup” instructions directly to you. If you have a SIP/Power Transistor handler, ask for the “Handler Binning Setup – SIP Device Handler” Instructions.