Abstract: A surface mount socket having a capability to permit replacing a surface mount component. The component is biased with a spring toward an area array site on a substrate. The component and spring are positioned within a base adjacent the area array site and mechanically held down with a coupler. An interconnect structure for use therewith is provided.

Abstract: A connector having a connector body with opposing end contacts. The connector also includes tabs coupled to the connector body and positioned between the opposing end contacts. Provided between the tabs and the opposing end contacts are circular stabilizers. When no force is applied to the opposing end contacts, the tabs and the circular stabilizers hold the connector in a cylindrical holder. When a compressive force is applied on each opposing end contact, the circular stabilizers pivot about an axis while maintaining the position of the connector in the holder. Further, as the opposing end contacts are compressed, they move across the connector surface of the component making contact with the connector. The movement of the opposing end contacts "wipes" across the surface and, thus, forms a good electrical connection between the connector and the surface.

Abstract: A technique for applying uniform force to an IC chip module, urging the module into electrical contact with one face of a circuit board, is provided. One face of the board has contact pads, and the module has contact members on one surface corresponding to the contact pads. A first clamping member is provided having a pressure applying section and a reaction section mounted for movement toward and away from each other. A second clamping member having a pressure applying section is provided. The module is interposed between the pressure applying element of one of the clamping members and the substrate with the contact members on the module in electrical contact with the pads on the board. Several pins interconnect the reaction section of the first clamping member and the second clamping member to restrain movement of the reaction section of the first clamping member away from the second clamping member.

Abstract: A computer system having a capability to permit replacing a surface mount component. The component is biased with a spring toward an area array site on a substrate mounted in the computer system enclosure, along with a power supply, a bus system, and connectors for communicating with units external to the enclosure. The component and spring are positioned within a base adjacent the area array site and mechanically held down with a coupler. An interconnect structure for use therewith is provided.

Abstract: A method in system for the testing of the electrical characteristics of an electronic module mounted on a printed circuit board. The method and system monitors selected signals from the Bottom Signal Pads of the electronic module. Thus, eliminating the need for a prototype or specialized printed circuit board in order to perform desired testing of signals.

Abstract: Electrical components such as IC modules and printed circuit boards, at least one of which has an array of solder balls or other protruding conductors, are connected quickly, precisely and economically with a component locator having openings adapted to capture the protruding conductors. The locator is aligned with one of the components, and the other component is pressed against the locator. The protruding conductors enter the capture openings and complete electrical circuits with contacts on the other conductor.

Abstract: An electronic package including a base member and associated cover member designed for being positioned together to compress at least two circuitized substrates (e.g., a ceramic substrate and a plurality of flexible substrates) positioned therein. One of the substrates is substantially rigid and is positively positioned in a protected, aligned manner within the base. Additionally, the flexible substrates are precisely aligned and initially secured to the rigid substrate, the invention further using yet another resilient means to act against each of the flexible substrates when the packages fully assemble. The cover is secured to the base to effect final compression of the internal elements. This package may be positioned on and electrically coupled to another circuitized substrate, e.g., PCB.

Abstract: An electronic package including a base member and associated cover member designed for being positioned together to compress at least two circuitized substrates (e.g., a ceramic substrate and a plurality of flexible substrates) positioned therein. One of the substrates is substantially rigid and is positively positioned in a protected, aligned manner within the base. Additionally, the flexible substrates are precisely aligned and initially secured to the rigid substrate, the invention further using yet another resilient means to act against each of the flexible substrates when the packages are fully assembled. The cover is secured to the base to effect final compression of the internal elements. This package may be positioned on and electrically coupled to another circuitized substrate, e.g., PCB.