Abstract: The apparatus and method described herein are for coupling an integrated circuit to a circuit board, while eliminating the need for a backing plate, when a compression socket is utilized. A plurality of tension pins are coupled to an integrated circuit for engaging a plurality of corresponding barrels in a circuit board to compress a compression socket to make an electrical connection between the integrated circuit and the circuit board.

Abstract: A heat sink is disclosed for directing heat away from an electronic component dissipating heat. The heat sink includes a thermally conductive base formed of a variable density graphite foam article. This graphite foam heat sink having variable foam densities provides for higher cooling capacity than existing heat sinks.