Small contactor for test probes, chip packaging and the like
US5973394A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 23, 1998 |
| Grant date | Oct 26, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 23, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02P70/50
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An electrical contact element that solves many problems associated with making electrical connections to integrated circuit chips. The contact element fits in small areas, but in some configurations can provide compliance in multiple directions to provide the required compliance. The contacts are shaped to provide relatively large stroke and also large force for good electrical contact. Contact elements according to the invention are incorporated into contactors for making electrical contact to Ball Grid Arrays for testing. Contact elements according to the invention are also incorporated into Ball Grid Array packages, and used as a mounting point for solder balls. The contact elements make the electrical connection withstand stress associated with differential thermal expansion.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.