Abstract: A corrosion resistant, multi-layer structure on a substrate including an adhesion metallic layer on the substrate, a cushion metallic layer on the adhesion layer, a diffusion barrier layer on the cushion layer, and an impermeable gold layer that encapsulates all the layers, is substantially even on all sides of the layers, and contacts a region on the substrate adjacent the layers to prevent oxidation and corrosion.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for loading solder balls into a mold. Solder balls are loaded into a reservoir having multiple exit ports. A removable mold is fitted into the apparatus and the reservoir is passed across the top of the mold while solder balls are fed into cavities in the mold. After the reservoir has advanced across the mold and the mold cavities are filled with solder balls, the reservoir is reset as a roller is simultaneously guided across the mold to seat the solder balls firmly within the mold. Alternatively, the roller may be applied to the solder balls while the reservoir advances across the mold, or both as the the reservoir is advanced and when it is returned to its original position.