Column grid array connector and a method of attaching a column of solder

摘要

An electrical connector (2) apparatus for establishing a connection between an electrical connector (2) and a substrate (20). A column of solder (7) is disposed about a tail portion (6) of a terminal (5) of the electrical connector (2) to form a solder column (8). The solder column (8) being adapted for making an electrical contact between the electrical connector (2) and the substrate (20). Increasing the height of the solder column (8) improves compliance in the connection between the terminal (5) and the substrate (20). This feature of improved compliance allows the terminal (5) to absorb higher stresses present between the substrate (20) and the connector body (35) thereby avoiding fracture of the solder (7) joint between the terminal (5) and the substrate (20). In addition, the terminal tail acts to reinforce the solder column (8) and this metal core (10) of the solder column (8) increases the mechanical properties of the attachment between the connector body (35) and the substrate (20). A method of forming the solder column (8) is also disclosed.