Instruction Manual

8-12 Beginning Programming
Valve-On Time
This parameter controls the time the valve is on while positioned over the dispensing location. The time
interval affects dot size. The longer the Valve-On Time, the larger the dot. The units are in seconds. The
typical value is 30 ms. However, the Valve-On time can be as long as 6 seconds, depending on the
desired dot size and fluid properties.
Dispense Gap
The Dispense Gap is the distance between the substrate you are dispensing on and the needle tip during
dispensing. This distance is one of the more common adjustments to optimize dispensing programs. The
units are in inches. Typically, the Dispense Gap is set to half the dot diameter.
Number of Shots
This parameter controls how many shots of fluid will be dispensed at a single location. When making
larger dots, it is desirable to move the needle up between shots at the same location. This parameter is set
>1 for more than one dot at the same location, and the Multi-shot Delta is the vertical retract distance of
the needle between each shot. The units are in shots. Typically, this is set to 1 unless you are dispensing
as described above.
Multi-Shot Delta
This is the height that the dispensing head retracts between multiple shots at the same location. It is used
in conjunction with Number of Shots. The units are in inches. If using with Number of Shots, a typical
value is 0.010 inches.
Dwell Time
Dwell Time is how long the dispensing head stays at the final position of a move before retracting. This
gives the fluid a chance to attach to the substrate. Increasing the Dwell can reduce “stringing” of
material. The units are seconds. For most solder pastes and adhesives, 30 ms is sufficient. However, the
Dwell can also be set as long as 6 seconds for very elastic fluids.
Retract Distance
This is a vertical distance that the dispensing head moves after dispensing. The Retract Distance must be
within the Safe-Z Height defined in Initial Setup. The Retract Distance can be reduced to increase
dispensing speed. However, the dot quality will be affected in viscous fluids. The units are inches.
Typically, 100 mils (0.1 in) is sufficient.
Retract Speed
This is the speed of the dispensing head while moving the Retract Distance. This parameter affects when
the dispensing head moves to do the next dot. The units are in inches/second. Typically, 2 in/sec is
sufficient.
Retract Acceleration
This is the parameter that controls how fast the dispensing head comes up to the Retract Speed. You may
need to set this high for small dispensing moves. The units are inches/second squared. Typically, 300
in/sec
2
is sufficient.