Abstract: A method for encapsulating a surface of an integrated circuit to protect the surface. The surface has an outer peripheral area and an inner area to be encapsulated. A frame is provided for handling an integrated circuit package. A plurality of leads are coupled between the frame and the outer peripheral area. An encapsulation material is dispensed on the outer peripheral area covering and protecting a portion of the leads and integrated circuit. A planar encapsulation material is deposited for covering and protecting the inner area. The planar encapsulation material provides a planar surface.

Abstract: A method for bonding which comprises the step of heating a bottom thermode to a temperature of approximately 150.degree. C. The bottom thermode is then pulse heated to approximately 350.degree. C. while a die and lead frame are disposed above the lower thermode. An upper thermode, which may remain unheated, is then lowered to cause contact between the lead frame and the contacts of the die. The lower thermode then returns to a temperature of approximately 150.degree. C. The pulse heating of the lower thermode lasts for approximately 1-3 seconds.