Universal IC test sockets suit different package types

Therefore components manufacturers are forced to look for custom solutions in order to test their devices.

To solve this problem Yamaichi Electronics has developed a new set of universal test sockets as reliable as custom ones. The test sockets are extraordinarily versatile, making them usable for different package types having different dimensions, thickness and pitches. They simply offer a 'semi-custom' solution at standard prices. They are a universal solution applicable to all QFN (Quad Flat No Leads), SON (Small Outline No Leads), BGA (Ball Grid Array), CSP (Chip Scale Package) and LGA (Land Grid Array) packages.

The clam shell type series IC561, together with its smaller 'twin sister' IC564, and in parallel the open top version NP584, are made of different preprocessed parts designed to be easily assembled. Before the assembly these parts are modified (milling process) according to the specific package the socket will be housing. This gives the sockets a semi-custom feature.

The IC561 series is available for packages whose dimensions are ranging from 10.0 to 18.0mm², with thickness ranging from 0.5 to 1.3mm, and with regular, irregular or even staggered pitch type of 0.3mm or higher. The IC561 has an outline of 38.0x35.0mm.

When smaller dimensions are needed, the IC564 series is designed for reduced dimensions of maximum 20.5x28.8mm. This series is available for packages ranging from 2.0 to 10.0mm², with thickness ranging from 0.50 to 1.30mm, with regular, irregular or even staggered pitch of 0.3mm or higher.

The lid is designed to push the package onto the contacts due to a spring-loaded system fitting different package thicknesses. A custom-sized hole in the centre of the lid can convey an airflow directly onto the package. It is also possible to mount onto or to integrate into the lid a cooling element simply by implementing few lid structure changes. This gives the customer the option of either active or passive thermal management control.

The NP584 series is similar to the IC564 series, but designed for customers oriented to an open top solution. Most of the parts of the IC564 series can also be used for the NP584 series. This concept is an extraordinary feature keeping the production costs near standard solution level and giving the advantage of a semi-custom socket.

The contact pin used for all the IC561, IC564 and NP584 series is an extraordinarily reliable and simple probe pin, made of two single parts one inserted into the other. It has all the benefits of a compression mount technology solution and is available in two versions depending on the contact type (pad or ball) of the package. This type of pin ensures high performance over a wide operating temperature range from -55 to +150°C.