Releasable Probe Connection for High-Bandwidth Memory Testing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing test and measurement probe systems, such as solder down probes and browser probes, are difficult to use due to their small geometry and high bandwidth requirements in modern memory systems, and they require skilled handling to connect.

Innovation Solution

A test and measurement probe connection system that includes an interposer with releasably connectable probe tabs, allowing easy attachment and detachment of a connector to measure signals without the need for soldering or precise handling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If solder down probes are used to measure signals on the interposer, then measurement precision can be achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficult handling and small geometry requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesignal measurement accuracyVSAvoidprobe handling difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides the measurement interface into separate components: probe tabs integrated into the interposer and a separate connector that attaches to these tabs. This segmentation allows the interposer to provide precise signal paths while the connector handles the connection interface, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The probe tabs serve as an intermediary element between the interposer and the connector. These tabs provide a standardized interface that mediates the connection, allowing precise signal measurement while eliminating the need for difficult manual probe handling. The tabs act as a buffer that translates the precision requirements into a user-friendly connection mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If browser probes are used to measure signals on the interposer, then ease of operation improves compared to solder down probes, but bandwidth capability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprobe connection easeVSAvoidbandwidth capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

By separating the connection interface (connector) from the signal path (probe tabs integrated into interposer), the system achieves both ease of operation and high bandwidth capability. The probe tabs provide direct signal paths suitable for high bandwidth applications, while the connector provides easy attachment and detachment similar to browser probes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The probe tabs serve multiple functions: they provide mechanical support for the connector, establish electrical connections for signal measurement, and maintain signal integrity for high bandwidth applications. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by combining the ease of browser probes with the bandwidth capability needed for modern memory systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Measurement precision

If solder down probes are used for signal measurement, then measurement precision is maintained, but productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming connection processes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesignal sampling accuracyVSAvoidconnection speed

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The probe tabs are pre-integrated into the interposer during manufacturing, establishing precise signal paths in advance. This preliminary action eliminates the need for time-consuming probe attachment procedures while maintaining measurement precision, as the connection interface is already prepared and positioned correctly for accurate signal sampling.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces the manual mechanical soldering process with a simpler mechanical attachment mechanism. The connector attaches to the probe tabs through a straightforward connection process that maintains signal measurement precision while dramatically reducing connection time, thereby improving productivity without sacrificing accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Adaptability or versatility

If traditional probe systems are used on modern memory systems, then compatibility with existing tools is maintained, but adaptability deteriorates due to small geometry and high bandwidth requirements

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem compatibilityVSAvoidhandling difficulty

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The probe tabs and connector system provides a universal interface that adapts to modern memory system requirements. The standardized connection mechanism works across different memory systems and configurations, maintaining compatibility while providing the ease of operation needed for modern high-speed applications. The design is versatile enough to handle various signal types and geometries.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP2866037B1Releaseable probe connection

Publication Date: 2025.04.16 TEKTRONIX INC

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AI summary

A test and measurement probe connection system including an interposer (200) , at least one probe tab (206) connected to the interposer, and a connector that is releasably connectable to the at least one probe tab to measure signals from the interposer.