Abstract: A wire bonding machine for wedge bonding fine wires to semiconductor devices is provided with a rotating bonding head which is mounted on a fixed machine frame and having a X-Y table mounted on the fixed machine frame opposite a vertically movable bonding tool mounted on the rotating bonding head. The bonding head is provided with means for articulating the bonding tool in a vertical direction and in a rotational direction. The rotational movement of the novel bonding head does not impart vertical movement to the bonding tool.

Abstract: A wire bonding machine for wedge bonding fine wires to semiconductor devices is provided with a rotating bonding head which is mounted on a fixed machine frame and having a X-Y table mounted on the fixed machine frame opposite a vertically movable bonding tool mounted on the rotating bonding head. The bonding head is provided with means for articulating the bonding tool in a vertical direction and in a rotational direction. The rotational movement of the novel bonding head does not impart vertical movement to the bonding tool.

Abstract: A bonding head of the type having a bonding tool mounted in the bonding tool holder is provided with a pivotable wire clamp which is movable toward and away from the rear of the bonding tool. The wire clamp is pivotally movable to three distinct positions by a single solenoid. The wire clamp is opened and closed by a second solenoid. The solenoids are mounted on the pivot axis of the bonding tool holder in a manner which substantially prevents the shock force of actuation of the solenoid from being imparted into the bonding tool holder or the bonding tool during a bonding operation.