"Hardhat" Test Sockets Maintenance and Handling Procedures

Congratulations 1.) You have purchased a Custom Interconnects high performance "Hardhat" test socket which will provide virtually invisible interconnection between your BGA, LGA, or PGA device, and printed circuit test board.

Clear Plastic Cover 2.) Always handle Custom Interconnects high performance sockets carefully upon receipt! All sockets feature a clear removable plastic cover to protect the "Hardhat" and Fuzz Button contact combination. The clear cover also retains the "Hardhat" and Fuzz Button in the socket. Do not remove this cover until it is time to mount the socket to the PC test board. Always Remember, the "Hardhats" and Fuzz Buttons can only be removed from the same side as the clear plastic cover.

Never touch the "Hardhats" or Fuzz Buttons! 3.) Never touch the "Hardhats" or Fuzz Buttons intentionally when they are in the socket. Although both "Hardhats" and Fuzz Buttons are gold plated and do not readily oxidize in the air, oils from the skin can cause electrical resistance problems.
All contact components should be handled only with a pair of light forceps.

4.) To remove dust and lint from the socket surfaces, use a fine artist brush and or a mild air blast. This should only be done once the socket is mounted to the PC Test Board. 5.) It is recommended that every 25,000 insertions, the socket be cleaned to remove all foreign matter and solder build up. This is best accomplished by scrubbing the "Hardhat" contacts with a firm brush, followed by a mild blast of air. Be sure to scrub in numerous directions, to ensure that all areas of each contact are cleaned. This should only be done when the socket is mounted to the PC test board. Use of additional cleaning solvents is not recommended.

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Mounting the Socket to the PC Test Board

Removing the clear plastic cover 1.) Remove the clear plastic protective cover from the back of the socket. Be sure never to turn the socket over once the clear plastic cover is removed, as this will cause the "Hardhat" contacts and Fuzz Buttons to fall out.

Mounting the Socket to PC board 2.) Turn the PC Test Board upside down and align the socket location "A" pins to the PC test board alignment through holes. Press the socket pins into the PC Test Board closing slowly and perpendicular to the PC Board plane. 3.) The socket mounting "C" holes should be aligned to the mounting through holes in the PC board. Secure the socket using the supplied 2-56 screws through the PC Test Board and into the sockets 2-56 brass inserts. Keep the socket flush to the PC Board at all times during mounting.

Mounted Test Socket

Use manually first with a hand test clamp 4.) Custom Interconnects sockets should be used manually first with a hand test clamp.
For more information contact Custom Interconnects