Hewlett-packard Company

Michael J Steen

Robert H Wardwell

Thomas J Zamborelli

Joseph A McKenzie, Jr

A probe adapter providing the capability to test integrated circuit (IC) packages is presented. The probe adapter comprises a mechanical assembly and a probe wire assembly. The mechanical assembly houses the probe wire assembly and facilitates attachment of the probe adapter to the IC under test. The mechanical assembly also ensures correct alignment of the probe wire assembly with the leads of the IC package. The mechanical assembly comprises an alignment member, a guide, a frame and an adapter printed circuit board (PCB). The probe wire assembly comprises a plurality of probe wires, the plurality of probe wires being placed into a plurality of apertures along the perimeter of the guide. One end of the probe wire is placed into electrical contact with a IC package lead, the other end being electrically attached to a tester via the adapter PCB.

Probing adapter for testing IC packages

A non-invasive connector for testing an integrated circuit package has a connector housing with a substantially rectangular recess adapted to fit over the integrated circuit package. A plurality of teeth made of an insulative material extend laterally inward from the edges of the connector housing into the recess. The spacing between the teeth is predetermined to enable the teeth to be removably inserted between the integrated circuit leads as said connector housing is fitted in place. Test leads extend from the connector housing into the space between said teeth to make electrical contact with the integrated circuit leads. Electrical connections are provided through the connector housing between these test leads and external testing equipment by means of pins and a flexible circuit assembly. In addition, an elastomeric pad can be positioned between the connector housing and the test leads to exert an inward biasing force against the test leads to maintain electrical contact with the integrated circuit leads. Sliding clips retain the connector in place after it has been fitted over the integrated circuit package.

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Colorado Springs, CO, United States of America

Michael J Steen