Abstract: A socket (100) for the temporary mounting of an electric part such as an IC package (130) for burn-in testing and the like is shown in which a plurality of contact elements (10, 10') are mounted in the socket each having a stationary part (10a), a spring cantilever arm part (10b) and a contact edge part (10e). The contact elements (10, 10') are mounted so that the leads (130a) of an IC package (130) are each received on a respective contact edge part (10e). When the cover (102) of the socket is closed, wall member (105a) engages the top portion of the leads (130a) and exerts a generally vertical downward force on the contact edges (10e) causing them to be depressed to effect electrical connection between leads (130a) and respective contact elements (10, 10').