Ironwood Electronics recently introduced a BGA socket addressing high performance requirements for micro controller unit - CBT-BGA-6084. The contactor is a stamped spring pin with 31 gram actuation force per ball and cycle life of 125,000 insertions.

Key specifications:

• self inductance of the contactor is 0.88 nH
• insertion loss < 1 dB at 15.7 GHz and contact resistance is <30mOhms
• current capacity of each contactor is 4 amps at 60C temperature rise
• Socket temperature range is -55C to +180C 

The socket also features a floating guide for precise ball to pin alignment. The specific configuration of the package to be tested in the CBT-BGA-6084 is a BGA, 17x17mm, 0.8mm pitch, 320 position, 20x20 ball array. The socket is mounted using supplied hardware on the target PCB with no soldering, and uses smallest footprint for nearby passive components. Socket uses stiffener plate to support back side of the PCB and allows passive components to be placed via customized pockets. This socket utilizes clamshell lid with integrated compression mechanism. The socket is constructed with cam actuated lever lid with central opening for direct thermal characterization of silicon. To use, place the device inside the socket, close the clamshell lid by latching and apply downward pressure by turning lever. This socket can be used for hand test and temperature cycling as well as debugging application in development and device characterization. 

Pricing for the CBT-BGA-6084 is $1123 at qty 1 with reduced pricing available depending on quantity required.