Mechanical Insertion and Reliability Testing of Thermal Interface Materials for Semiconductor Test and Burn-in Applications
Abstract Very challenging requirements exist for thermal interface materials (TIMs) for demanding applications I semiconductor testing. Reliability requirements and multiple contact cycling requirements are substantially different and do not exist in traditional applications for TIMs. Developing new material types to meet these very exacting and unusual requirements has been a long-term goal and requires development of an unusual series of test procedures to demonstrate whether the desired reliability goals have been met. Use of a servo-driven, commercial test stand that has unique features for operation and control is described as the basis for a reliability and performance test program developed for these new materials in three phases, with new data for a fourth test phase added, and comparative values for material performance.