4 GHz elastomer socket Introduced for BGA1440 with –1 dB insertion loss

Ironwood Electronics introduces a new elastomer-based socket solution targeting high-frequency BGA devices. The 94 GHz elastomer socket is designed for BGA1440 packages and enables signal paths with roughly –1 dB insertion loss at 94 GHz between each ball and the printed circuit board. The socket employs a swivel-lid compression mechanism to simplify device insertion and retention, and includes a heatsink and fan assembly to maintain device junction temperatures below 100 °C.

The socket’s interconnect architecture uses an elastomer matrix that provides per-signal continuity with low resistance and controlled signal integrity. Insertion loss at 94 GHz is maintained at approximately –1 dB, enabling high-bandwidth test of advanced devices. The mechanical interface consists of a swivel lid that presses the BGA into contact with the elastomer under controlled force, ensuring repeatable contact without requiring solder. The thermal management subsystem supports dissipation of up to 75 W of device heating, and the active cooling (fan plus heatsink) enforces a junction ceiling of 100 °C under expected workloads.

Assembly is facilitated by alignment features and standard mounting holes, enabling integration onto target PCBs. The swivel-lid mechanism provides quick access to the device under test, and the compression scheme applies the required contact force without subjecting the underlying board to excessive stress. In combination, the elastomer interconnect, low-loss signal path, and thermal control enable high-frequency, high-power device validation in a removable socket form rather than permanent soldered connection.

This product extends Ironwood’s capability in high-frequency elastomer sockets, complementing existing GHz series sockets that support pitches down to 0.3 mm and bandwidths beyond 40 GHz. The 94 GHz socket is aimed at advanced test and prototyping applications where access, performance, and thermal dissipation must coexist in a removable interface. Engineers working on mmWave, high-speed compute, and radar front-end devices may find the solution useful for validating device behavior across extremes of frequency and thermal load.

For additional technical details, datasheet requests, and integration support, contact Ironwood Electronics’ application engineering team.