Abstract: A method and system for synchronizing a laser marking device with a lead scanner is disclosed. The laser marking device includes an unloader coupled to the lead scanner and is for marking each of a plurality of semiconductor packages including a plurality of leads. The lead scanner performs a test on the plurality of leads for the plurality of semiconductor packages. The unloader is for containing a portion of the plurality of semiconductor packages that passed the test. The method and system include providing an input receiving circuit, a reset circuit and an output relay. The input receiving circuit is coupled with the unloader and is for receiving an indication of a particular number of the plurality of semiconductor packages received by the unloader.

Abstract: Aspects for detecting integrated circuit package orientation in carrier tape packing are described. In accordance with these aspects, a digital circuit is provided over a carrier rail of a tape and reel system. The digital circuit detects package orientation based on a chamfer side of packages within a tape on the carrier rail. The digital circuit further includes at least two optical sensors, where the optical sensors emit a light beam and sense reflection of the light beam for each package within the tape for use in determining package orientation in an automated manner.

Abstract: Aspects for dust and fume removal for a laser marking machine are presented. In a system aspect, the system includes a vacuum assembly operating in accordance with the Coanda Effect to remove dust and fumes from a laser marking machine through suction. The system further includes a control mechanism coupled to the vacuum assembly for turning the vacuum assembly on and off. A drainage system, coupled to the vacuum assembly, discards the dust and fumes from the vacuum assembly away from a facility housing the laser marking machine.

Abstract: Aspects for package orientation checking in a laser marking machine are provided. In a system aspect, the system includes a handler, the handler including a unit loader. A laser mark chamber receives units from the handler for laser marking. A package orientation checking mechanism is positioned between the unit loader and the laser mark chamber for detecting an orientation of each unit passing to the laser mark chamber based on a chamfer side of each unit.

Abstract: A system and method for laser marking integrated circuit packages is provided. The integrated circuit packages to be marked are positioned within trays. The trays have pockets into which the integrated circuit packages fit. If an integrated circuit package is not properly positioned within a tray pocket, it will stick up. This condition is detected by an electric eye. In a method of the invention, trays loaded with integrated circuit packages are placed on a conveyor. The trays are conveyed under an electric eye the beam of which is broken if, but only if, an integrated circuit package is improperly positioned within a tray pocket. If the beam is broken, a controller stops the conveyor, permitting an operator to deal with the problem. If the beam is not broken, the conveyor takes the tray onward to a laser marking area where all the integrated circuit packages within the tray can be consistently marked.