Abstract: A tray mapper uses an optical sensing array to detect if a head gimbal assembly suspension is located in each of the available positions in a shipping tray. Each tray to be inspected is placed on the mapper and located in a scanning position. A pair of electro-mechanical switches send a signal to a microprocessor indicating that the next tray is ready to be processed. A bar code reader mounted on the mapper reads a label on the tray to access information regarding the tray and its contents from a central database. After the tray label is read, an optical sensor located beneath each position on the tray detects the presence or absence of a part. The microprocessor reads the status of each of the sensors against the values associated with the tray label. This information is used by the operator's data terminal software to decide if the tray should be accepted or rejected. The operator is informed of the proper action via a text message on his terminal. The operator then handles the tray accordingly.