Abstract: SIP or ZIP packages are provided with locking elements of snap fasteners, or have package alignment tabs to combine several IC packages into an IC package assembly. Using a DIP printed circuit board socket, a high density DIP module, for example, a high capacity memory chip, is assembled. The leads of the module are inserted into a motherboard that carries the external conductors to be connected with the inner circuits of the package assembly, and soldered to the motherboard. To make the IC package assembly compatible with a conventional DIP socket, a plastic spacer can be provided between the IC packages. A retaining clip may be used to allow the IC package assembly to be repeatedly inserted and removed to and from the socket without the risk of falling apart.

Abstract: Each flat package is provided with locking elements of snap fasteners that allow several packages to be assembled into a stack so as to align the leads of each package with respect to the leads of other packages. The leads projecting from both edges of the stack package assembly are inserted into a pair of PC boards having holes arranged so as to accommodate the leads of the assembly. The leads of the PC boards are inserted into a motherboard that carries the external conductors to be connected with the inner circuits of the package assembly.

Abstract: Integrated circuit (IC) packages having leads projecting in the vertical direction are provided with male and female locking elements of snap fasteners that allow a pair of IC packages to be stacked into a module so as to align the leads of one package with the leads of another package. The leads of the packages are soldered to a PCB that carries the external conductors to be connected with the inner circuits of the packages. The male locking element on one of the IC packages is tightly engaged with the female locking element on another IC package to prevent the soldered leads of one package from touching the leads of another package. Multiple modules are positioned on the PCB to double the packaging density of the PCB.

Abstract: A multiple device carrier is designed to hold ZIP or SIP packages tightly in its cells. The cells are spaced to provide air flow for cooling the packages and allowing heat generated within the packages to dissipate. The carrier is provided with a locking strip member to prevent loosening of the packages in the cells and allow leads of the packages to be aligned. The package assembly held by the carrier can be inserted into a socket to connect the circuit packages with external circuitry.

Abstract: Each IC package carrier holds a single ZIP or SIP package between its side walls having openings to provide air flow for cooling the package and to allow heat generated within the package to dissipate. A locking strip member is provided to prevent loosening of the held package. Locking elements of snap fasteners are mounted on the side walls to allow several IC package carriers be attached to each other for producing an IC package assembly. The IC package assembly held by the several attached carriers can be inserted into a socket to connect circuits within the packages with external circuitry.