Patent ID: 6373719
Filing Date: 2002-04-16
Classification: H01L,H01T,H05K

Abstract:
A packaging structure for protecting an electronic circuit from voltage transients, the electronic circuit being arranged in the packaging structure for connection to a secondary circuit, the packaging structure comprising:an insulating substrate; an array of electrically conductive contact portions disposed on the substrate, wherein the contact portions are electrically connected to the electronic circuit and are arranged to confront corresponding contact regions of the secondary circuit for direct connection therewith; at least one electrically conductive ground bar disposed on the substrate, the ground bar being adapted for electrical connection to ground; and an array of microgaps each associated with a corresponding contact portion of the array of contact portions and each being defined by said corresponding contact portion, a ground bar, and a separation distance between said corresponding contact portion and the ground bar, the microgaps each operating as an electrical connection between the corresponding contact portion and the ground bar at a voltage exceeding a predetermined threshold voltage and as an electrical barrier between the corresponding contact portion and the ground bar at a voltage below the predetermined threshold voltage.