How do you create ultra-low profile socket locations on a PCB?

Socket receptacle carriers are probably one of the least known, least understood methods of creating ultra-low profile socket locations onto a PCB. A socket carrier looks just like a single-in-line or dual-in-line device, however closer inspection finds the individual receptacles are temporarily being held in position for PCB placement and soldering. Typically tail-less socket receptacles are used because only their very thin shoulder sits above the PCB profile.

Probably the hardest concept for users to understand is that the carrier frame is intended to be disposable. The only function of the frame is to hold the loose receptacles in place. The advantages of socket receptacle carriers are many:

1. They create an ultra-low socket location on the PCB.
2. Inspection between socket receptacles is easy because there is no insulator remaining.
3. They offer faster socket assembly because the users is not trying to place one receptacle at a time.
4. Carriers can be designed for any device, such as for a DC-to-DC converter. Receptacles which can accept 0.040-, 0.060- and 0.080-in. diameter leads can be packaged together in a carrier socket device.

Martin Houlroyd is Principal Engineer/Marketing Specialist at Preci-Dip. He has worked in the interconnect industry for 35 years. Email him at m.houlroyd@precidip.com.