US Patent 9466900 Circuit board socket with rail frame

Various apparatus and methods of electrically connecting a packaged integrated circuit to a circuit board are disclosed. In one aspect, an apparatus includes a first frame to be mounted on the circuit board and having a first end. An insulating housing is adapted to be mounted on the circuit board and positioned in the first frame. A second frame is pivotally coupled to the first frame. The second frame includes two spaced-apart rail members and a cross member coupled to and between the rail members opposite the first end of the second frame. The rail members are operable to receive the packaged integrated circuit. The second frame has at least one engagement member to engage a first portion of the insulating housing when the second frame is pivoted toward the insulating housing. A third frame is pivotally coupled to the first frame to apply force to the packaged integrated circuit.