Abstract: An applicator (300) provides a tool for depositing processing media (510), such as a tacky flux agent, on predetermined surface areas (715) of a circuit substrate (705). The applicator (300) has a portion formed from a flexible compressible material with a surface (302, 325) patterned to have projections (325) that correspond in location to the predetermined surface areas (715) of the circuit substrate (705). The applicator (300) is preferably formed by polymerizing resin material using an image that corresponds to the circuit substrate (410, 420, 430).

Abstract: A method for depositing a tacking agent (18) onto a circuit-carrying substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board) (22) such that a regulated volume is simultaneously deposited at multiple substrate sites (24). A first input pressure, P1, introduced through a bladder inlet (12), is supplied to a compliant bladder (14) which is in contact with a plurality of transfer pins (16). The compliant bladder imparts a substantially equal force to each of the transfer pins. The pins are then dipped into a thin film of tacking agent and removed. Subsequently, the first input pressure, P1, is adjusted to a second input pressure, P2, sufficient to force the pins to a uniform maximum extension. Finally, the second input pressure, P2, is adjusted to a third input pressure, P3, which imparts a predetermined uniform force on each of the pins, and the pins are brought in contact with the printed circuit substrate deposition sites.

Abstract: A method of mounting an integrated circuit carrier (10) having a plurality of straight leads (12) retained by an integral frame (16) is provided. The plurality of straight leads (12) of the carrier (10) is bent to form a plurality of bent leads (12) still retained by the frame (16). The plurality of bent leads are then scored to form a notch (32) on each bent lead. Solder fluxing, placing, and reflowing the plurality of bent leads of the integrated circuit carrier against corresponding printed lines of the printed circuit (26) surface before each notch follow. Finally, a remainder portion of the plurality of leads from and including the frame (16) to the notch (32) on each lead (12) is removed.