Removable Contactor Pad Assembly for Reliable ATE Socket Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Testing semiconductor devices using automated test equipment (ATE) is complex due to the need for reliable and low-resistance contact with small and closely spaced contacts, which can lead to failed or erroneous tests if proper contact is not made, and maintaining socket assemblies is time-consuming and costly.
Innovation Solution
A contactor pad assembly with removable socket assemblies secured by retaining members and tamper-proof screws, allowing uniform tracking and servicing of socket assemblies, ensuring consistent contact and reducing maintenance downtime.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If socket assemblies are made removable for ease of maintenance, then maintenance time and costs are reduced, but contact reliability and testing accuracy may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The socket assembly is segmented into a socket body and a separate contactor pad assembly. The contactor pad assembly can be independently removed and replaced without replacing the entire socket assembly, enabling targeted maintenance of worn contact surfaces while preserving the socket body structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The contactor pad assembly is designed as a replaceable component that can be discarded when worn and recovered/reused with new contactor pads. This allows the valuable socket body to be retained while only the consumable contactor pads are replaced, reducing overall maintenance costs.
2Reliability
If retaining members are added to secure socket assemblies, then contact consistency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retaining members are merged with the contactor pad assembly as an integrated unit. The retaining members are positioned to engage with corresponding features on the socket body, providing secure mechanical retention while maintaining alignment and contact consistency during testing operations.
3Reliability
If tamper-proof securing mechanisms are implemented, then equipment security is improved, but ease of maintenance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
A specialized tool acts as an intermediary between the maintenance personnel and the tamper-proof securing mechanisms. The tool enables authorized personnel to operate the security features while preventing unauthorized access, balancing security requirements with legitimate maintenance needs.
Data Source
AI summary
A device may include a contactor pad having a first side and a second side. A device may include an opening extending through the contactor pad from the first side to the second side, the opening being configured to receive at least a portion of a socket assembly associated with automated test equipment (ATE) for a semiconductor device. A device may include retaining members disposed on the first side and adjacent to respective edges of the opening, the retaining members being configured to removably secure the socket assembly in the opening.