Abstract: A tool 2 used to position a socket 100 on a printed circuit board 200 includes an insertion head 10 and an inertial impact mechanism. A socket, such as SIMM socket 100, is mounted on the insertion head with the lower surface of arms 14 on the insertion head conforming to the upper surface of the socket. A shaft 42 connects the insertion head to the inertial impact mechanism and the shaft is positioned in alignment with a mechanical retention post 110 on the socket. The impact delivered by the tool pushes the retention post 110 into an interference fit with a corresponding hole 204 on the printed circuit board. The insertion head arms 14 includes a rib 34 that overlaps contact terminals 130 in the socket to prevent the terminals 130 from being forced out of the socket when the socket is secured to the printed circuit board. The inertial impact mechanism includes a spring loaded hammer mass 48 of the type used for a center punch.