Patent ID: 6459036
Filing Date: 2002-10-01
Classification: H05K

Abstract:
A system for protecting electronic components from contamination comprising:distribution means; a pressurized gas in fluid communication with said distribution mcans; a plurality of apparatuses each of which is capable of enclosing at least one electronic component, each one of said apparatuses individually connected to said distribution means by a conduit having a first end and a second end, wherein said first end is connected to said distribution means and said second end is connected to said apparatus, said apparatus comprising: a first enclosure for housing said at least one electronic component and having a plurality of walls having at least one vent through one of said plurality of walls, a second enclosure having a plurality of walls spaced apart from said first enclosure for surrounding said first enclosure and having a flow control means adapted to permit said pressurized gas to exit said second enclosure after the pressure inside said second enclosure exceeds a predetermined value, wherein said pressurized gas flows through said second enclosure and into said first enclosure for a positive flow of purge gas to circulate around said at least one electronic component and exit said first enclosure at said vent; and means for electrically connecting said at least one electronic component with an electronic circuit external to said first and second enclosures.