Machined-Pin IC Sockets

[toneburst]

Another newbie question, I'm afraid: what are the advantages and disadvantages of machined-pin DIL IC sockets vs. standard (cheaper) alternatives (other than that they look cooler)?

Alex

http://www.toneburst.net

[moebius]

Hi.

Machined-pin sockets should offer better reliability over the time (better contact with IC pins).

And You can (usually) solder these from both sides of the PCB, which is extremely useful feature for those DIYers making double-sided boards for home ecthing (You can use IC socket pins as vias between the sides).

(Uh, and I have also suggested using the extra space under the machined sockets for adding small axial capacitors between ICs power pins for bypass duties)

Moebius

[toneburst]

I see,

thanks for that very clear explanation moebius.

Alex

http://www.toneburst.net

[doc]

... but also mention:

The "drilled" sockets hold the IC very strong. That's very good for mostly all purposes.

But if you often remove your ICs out of the sockets. It is F**king hard to get them out again.

I think, for digital applications the normal sockets are as good as the drilled ones. For audio applications I'll prefer the drilled IC sockets.

greets

Doc

[toneburst]

Cheers Doc!

I've jusy bought myself an IC extraction tool. It was very cheap, but I can tell it's going to save me a lot of trouble in the future!

Alex

http://www.toneburst.net

[doc]

Hey...

I also have these tools, but:

- if I need it ....I will never find it (yeah, thats my fault, I know ... what a mess...)

- even with these tools it's sometimes pretty hard to get the ICs out .

greets

Doc