Abstract: A method and apparatus for bending a plurality of leads of a component, in order to straighten and/or repair damaged or misaligned leads, is disclosed. The apparatus includes: a securing structure for receiving and holding the component; a first member for engaging the plurality of leads of the component; and a second member for engaging the plurality of leads of the component, wherein the first and second dowels cooperate with one another so as to form the plurality of leads into a desired configuration.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the rapid switchover between different height modules in an automatic module testing and handling machine. The multi-chip module (MCM) handling apparatus comprises a bottom rail and a guide rail which has an upwardly extending wall and an outwardly extending flange which form a channel. This channel provides a passageway through which a MCM of a first thickness can pass laterally such that the first MCM is in contact with the top surface which positions contact nodes provided on the first MCM at a predetermined vertical position with respect to the top surface. This handling apparatus further comprises a removable justifying plate (RJP) which is removably attached within the first channel, thereby forming a second channel. This second channel provides a passage way through which a MCM of a second thickness, which is less than the first thickness of the first MCM, can pass laterally.

Abstract: A salvage device facilitates detaching a plurality of components soldered to a plurality of modules used in printed circuit board assemblies. In one embodiment, a salvage device has a component receptacle with a component receiver that is adapted to hold a plurality of detached components. The salvage device also has a module holder attached to the component receptacle. In operation, the module holder suspends a plurality of modules over the component receiver to space the components attached to the modules apart from the component receiver. The salvage device is then placed in an oven to melt the solder contacts that bond the components to the modules. After the solder contacts reach a molten state, the components are preferably separated from the module by vibrating the components and the modules to break the surface tension of the molten solder. The components then fall into the component receiver and are removed from the oven.

Abstract: A method of providing electrical contact between an external contact element and an electrical lead of a component includes the act of inserting the electrical component into a carrier socket having a housing and a cavity within the housing for receiving the electrical component. The method further includes electrically connecting the electrical lead and a first electrically conductive member, wherein the first conductive member includes a portion which extends into the cavity so as to make electrical contact with the electrical lead; securing the electrical component within the cavity; and electrically connecting the first conductive member to a second electrically conductive member, wherein the second conductive member includes a portion which extends outwardly from the housing so as to make electrical contact with the external contact element.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the rapid switchover between different height modules in an automatic module testing and handling machine. The multi-chip module (MCM) handling apparatus comprises a bottom rail and a guide rail which has an upwardly extending wall and an outwardly extending flange which form a channel. This channel provides a passageway through which a MCM of a first thickness can pass laterally such that the first MCM is in contact with the top surface which positions contact nodes provided on the first MCM at a predetermined vertical position with respect to the top surface. This handling apparatus further comprises a removable justifying plate (RJP) which is removably attached within the first channel, thereby forming a second channel. This second channel provides a passage way through which a MCM of a second thickness, which is less than the first thickness of the first MCM, can pass laterally.