Top-load socket for integrated circuit device

Claim 1

A socket assembly for use with an integrated circuit device having a plurality of leads arranged along at least one side of the device, said assembly comprising: a socket body having a generally rectangular configuration and spaced parallel openings along at least one side, a plurality of generally planar contact elements disposed in said openings in spaced parallel relationship along said at least one side of said socket body, each contact element comprising a connecting pin portion for making connection with an external electronic member, an anchor portion for anchoring each said contact element to said socket body, an arcuate resilient portion leading to a head, contacting means on said head for making resilient pressure contact with a said integrated circuit device and a lobe on said head extending in a direction away from said resilient portion, and a top plate movable in relationship to said socket body for affording movement of said contacting means from a first normal portion to an open position for receiving a said integrated circuit device and to an operative position in pressure electrical contact with a said integrated circuit device, and a cam member positioned over said lobes of said contact elements along said at least one side of said socket body, which cam member is supported by said socket body and said lobes of said contact elements, said cam member having rocker arms at each end thereof, seated in side walls which are located substantially at a bottom portion of said socket body, affording oscillatory movement of said cam member and surface means engaging each said lobe of the contact elements to urge said contacting means thereof from said normal position said open position, and said top plate has a cam surface extending along a side thereof for cooperatively engaging a cam follower extending the length of said cam member for moving said cam and contact elements to said open position upon movement of said top plate toward said socket body and to release said contact elements upon movement thereof in a direction away from said socket body.