Abstract: A new socket is provided for testing an IC package whereby the contact parts of the contacts are moved outward to be able to conduct attachment and detachment of an IC package without a load, the oxide film formed on the contacts of the IC package is removed to acquire a reliable conductivity, and a stress to deform the contacts of the IC package cannot be exerted. In the socket, the contact parts of the contacts come into contact with the contacts of the IC package while sliding outward (in the opposite direction to the receiving space for the IC package), and remove the oxide films on the surfaces of the IC contacts to secure a reliable conductivity. When the IC package is taken out, the contact parts of the contacts move outward, the supporting point moves inward by the swing of the engaging member; and thereby, the contact parts of the contacts go up virtually vertically in the initial state of the movement, and afterward, move oblique outward to come off from the contacts of the IC package.

Abstract: A receiving tray 6 is disposed on a pedestal surface 1a of a base member 1 vertically and movably, while below the pedestal surface 1a are disposed a push-up member 7 interlocked with the receiving tray and a spring 8 for urging the push-up member 7 downwards. A seating surface if for package leads P2 is formed along side portions of the pedestal surface 1a, and a large number of contacts 2 are arranged side by side, the contacts 2 having respective contact portions 2a for contact with the leads P2 which contact portions 2a are urged inwards to obtain a predetermined contact pressure for the leads. There are used movable cams 4 adapted to rotate upon depression of a cover 5 which covers the base member, to displace the contact portions 2a of the contacts 2 outwards away from the package leads P2. The movable cams 4 are each provided with an actuating arm 4c which comes into abutment with the push-up member 7 upon depression of the cover 5 and consequent rotation of the cam 4 to push up the receiving tray 6.