Patent ID: 6617865
Filing Date: 2003-09-09
Classification: G01R

Abstract:
A socket for operating microelectronic devices, each device having a substantially planar surface with an array of contact pads disposed thereon, said socket comprising:(a) a substrate with a top surface and a bottom surface; (b) a plurality of compliant probes for making electrical connections to said contact pads, wherein the compliant probes are disposed in an array on the top surface of said substrate; (c) circuit means connected to said compliant probes whereby said microelectronic devices are operative when the compliant probes are connected to said contact pads; (d) wherein each of said compliant probes comprises an elongated sheet of conductive material with a first end supported by a first rigid post and a second end supported by a second rigid post, said elongated sheet acting primarily as a torsional spring; and (e) wherein a probe tip is disposed on the elongated sheet at a predetermined distance from an axis connecting the center of said first rigid post to the center of said second rigid post.