Abstract: Apparatus and a method for the packaging of semiconductor chips to simplify assembly while improving thermal dissipation from the chip and reducing stress in the chip due to differential thermal expansion between the chip and its package as they are cycled over a temperature range are disclosed. An adhesive tape covers an active area of the chip and leaving bonding pads on the chip exposed through a recess in the adhesive tape. A body with a similar recess supports the other side of the tape. Wire bonds are made in the recess to connect bonding pads on the body to the chip. A lid covers the recess to protect the wire bonds.