This slide show will help you to understand Pin Grid Array (PGA) Sockets.

1. PGA SOCKETS

2. PGA SOCKETS:
• A pin grid array, often abbreviated PGA, is a type of integrated circuit
packaging. In a PGA, the package is square or rectangular, and the pins
are arranged in a regular array on the underside of the package. The
pins are commonly spaced 2.54 mm (0.1") apart, but available in
different pitches like 1.27mm which are called as interstitial PGA
• PGAs are often mounted on printed circuit boards using the through
hole method. PGAs allow for more pins per integrated circuit than
packages such as DIP package.
• Pin Grid Array Sockets are perfect for high pin count microprocessors.
• Sockets are assembled with precision-machined receptacles with multi-
finger contact clip.

3. MACHINED PIN:
• Machined pin sockets are made with two-piece construction.
Shell or sleeve is made of brass alloy 360 ½ hard, an alloy
known for its strength, conductive, and thermal properties.
• Press-fit assembled inside each shell is a highly reliable,
four-finger beryllium copper contact clip, which scores the
mating device lead, forming a gas-tight electrical and
mechanical connection.
• Multi-finger contact clips are superior to stamped pin wiping
connector blades because they provide multiple points of
contact to the mating pin, resulting in providing better
power and force distribution.
• Two-piece receptacle construction (shell and contact clip)
allows for cost-efficient plating combinations. Receptacle
shells can be plated with tin for solderability. Contact clips

4. ADVANTAGES:
• Protects IC’s and other PCB component from damage
• Provides easy handling during replacement.
• Reduce Lead time while assembling on PCB
• Cost-effective connection for industrial & commercial
environments
• Good for rugged environments, industrial controls and other
critical applications

5. APPLICATIONS:
• In medical equipment’s
• For aerospace applications
• In consumer electronics
• In automotive industries
• For military applications

6. TABLE:
• Normal sizes available are:
For PGA For Interstitials
No. of Rows 3 to 26 3 to 25
No. of Columns 3 to 26 3 to 25
Window Size 0 to 21 0 to 21
Foot Prints More than 1000 More than 72

7. • Author Nalin P. Sheth, MBA Harvard, is Managing Director of
Champion Electronics Pvt. Ltd., Pune, 411026, India.
• Champion Electronics is serving electronics industry all over the
world from 1975.
• Contact Details:
• Email: sales@champelec.com
• Ph: +91-8928502180.
• Website: www.champelec.com