Flexible Temperature Control Solution for Integrated Circuits Testing—Silicon Creations Thermal Elephant

Abstract

Both scientific and industrial applications require temperature stabilization and enforcement for testing purposes. In this study, we present a solution capable of handling socket-based IC test systems enabling packages from QFN up to FCBGA, or even COB solutions. The temperature range covers the full-range industrial temperature range (−40 °C to +125 °C). The extended temperature range of −55 °C to +150 °C is conditionally possible. Solution supports dry-air installation, safety mechanisms and flexible thermal head assemblies. We present the key features and architecture of the solution named “Thermal Elephant” that found applications in the industrial (characterization of the IP hard macros) and scientific applications (radiation imaging ICs).