Patent ID: 6414478
Filing Date: 2002-07-02
Classification: G01R

Abstract:
A probe card transfer mechanism comprising:a probe card attachment mechanism, provided in a probe chamber, for detachably holding a probe card having a plurality of probe needles and a card holder; a chuck top, provided in the probe chamber and movable in directions X, Y, Z and &thgr;, the chuck top having a function of bringing an object to be tested into contact with the probe needles of the probe card in a state where the object is mounted thereon, and a function of transferring the probe card to and from the probe card attachment mechanism in a state where the probe card is mounted thereon; a probe card supporting member, attached to a side surface of the chuck top, for detachably supporting the probe card separated from the chuck top, so that the probe needles may not be in contact with a main surface of the chuck top; and a passing and receiving mechanism, including at least one stopper located in the probe chamber, for passing or receiving the probe card between the probe card supporting member and outside of the probe chamber at a predetermined position determined by the stopper.