Device Interface with Heater, Temperature Sensor and Controller

To characterize the IC device at a certain temperature, a Compression plate (interfaces with the IC device) is used with an integrated heater and thermocouple that are connected to the PID controller. This unique compression plate can be used with any socket that connects the IC device to the PCB electrically. Once the temperature or profile is set in the controller, the appropriate drive current is sent to the heater element. In this closed-loop system, the thermocouple provides temperature feedback to the controller to increase or decrease current to reach a set point quickly. Thereby, the IC device is maintained at a specific temperature while electrical testing is performed.