Integrated Chip Testing Hardware
Signal Probe specializes in the manufacture and supply of hardware associated with integrated chips. The chips are mass produced, and must be tested before they can be packaged and sold. Testing the chips involves running a test program through the chips via a circuit board, and is most commonly achieved through specialized hardware called sockets. These sockets vary depending on the type of chip used, the conditions of the testing, and whether or not the chip will be placed on the board by an automated robotic handler or a human. We constructed a customized socket designed for use at high temperatures- you can learn more about that project here.
Physical contact between the chip and the PCB board must be attained by a small, conductive part. That part must maintain contact with the leads on the chip during tests, and generally require some spring force to return to its original position when the chip is removed after testing. We were also commissioned to design and prototype next generation contacts. The industry standard, a gold plated pogo pin, is shown below in comparison with some of our projects, and a dime.
