The operation of the MSOP handler is similar to and substantially different from a standard Exatron Model 3000 or Model 5000 gravity feed handler.

The input of the MSOP handler is a removable "input tray" with trackwork machined into the plate. Thin metal plates then bolt onto the input tray plate to cover the tracks and create the "tube" through which the devices will flow.

The input plate is designed to be removed from the handler and loaded off-line at an operators station. Due to their almost square aspect ratio, the MSOP devices have a very bad habit of turning in their tubes (this is particularly true of plastic shipping tubes). The input tray is designed for the operators to have access to the trackwork so that any device which may have turned can be coaxed back into position with a pair of tweezers or other appropriate probe.

The operator loads the input tray into the system, and closes the safety cover which encloses the entire mechanism of the handler. Handler controls are similar to those found on Exatron Model 5000 and Model 3000 handlers.