Package and Programming Adapters

Package adapters and programming adapters are designed to convert the pin-out of one integrated circuit (IC) package into another. They provide a socket for various IC package types and plug into a device programmer or prototype board to program specific functions of the device.

Package adapters and programming adapters are differentiated by the configuration of the device package and pins and the configuration of the programmer package socket and pins. For example, a particular device package may be configured as a single in-line memory module, or SIMM, with a specific number of pins. A programmer or integrated circuit package has a specific socket configuration that can be adapted using a package converter or package adapter. Programming adapters enable users to attach integrated chips to devices or boards without having to solder them to the board. Types of programming adapters are frequently used to test or run emulators, for prototyping, or for providing customized interconnects.

Package adapters and programming adapters come in many configurations. Some of the most popular are designed for use with small-outline integrated chips (SOIC), shrink-small outline package (SSOP), plastic leaded chip carriers (PLCC), and quad flat pack (QFP) packages. Package converters often come with a programmer board and are often compatible with a wide range of pin configurations. Package adapters may be compatible with many different microprocessors, and may also come with replaceable sockets. One type of programming adapter used with many devices includes a zero insertion force (ZIF) socket, reset switch, reset and power conditioning circuits, crystal oscillator socket, and a debug mode connector.

Package adapters and programming adapters also include components called socket modules, which differ from simple adapters that just connect a programmer to a device, or convert one package type to another. A socket module may include configurations that support multiple devices, or be designed for use specifically with flash memory devices, or may come as an adaptive model that can program many different types of devices using templates for different pin configurations.

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