The chip sorting handler is an essential piece of equipment in semiconductor testing, especially in design verification and final testing of packaged devices. Its performance depends heavily on precision mechanical structures, positioning components, and test interface parts. Hansheng Automation provides custom machining of these critical components to support sorting handler manufacturers and packaging/testing houses in prototyping and small-batch production.
Functions of Sorting Handlers
Wafer sorters are used in wafer fabs for wafer transfer and sorting. Through load ports, robotic arms, and pre-aligners, they handle wafer loading and unloading, pre-process batching, post-process merging, inter-process wafer flipping control, outgoing verification, sorting, and cassette exchange. We machine pre-aligner brackets, robotic arm end effectors, cassette positioning blocks, and vacuum pick-up parts to meet cleanliness and repeatability requirements in these operations.
Application Areas
Sorting handlers are mainly used in IC design and packaging/testing, working together with testers. In front-end design verification, they test packaged chips. In back-end final testing, they work with testers to evaluate function and stability, select qualified devices, and record performance data. Critical components include test sockets, fixture plates, and alignment pins. Hansheng Automation can machine test sockets, floating locating pins, and load board support plates from customer drawings, with close control of flatness and hole position to ensure stable electrical contact.
Classification of Sorting Handlers
Sorting handlers can be divided into gravity-feed, pick-and-place, turret, and test-and-tape integrated types.
Gravity-feed: simple structure and low investment.
Pick-and-place: broad applicability, especially for long test times or advanced packages.
Turret: suitable for small, lightweight chips with short test times.
Test-and-tape integrated: combines testing, vision measurement, laser marking, and taping; complex structure with high technical barriers.
From a machining perspective, turret machines require lightweight rotary parts, pick-and-place machines require long-travel guide rails and slides, and integrated machines require multi-station precision mounting plates. We support custom machining of these non-standard structural parts in small batches.
Role in Final Test
Final test is typically performed in packaging and testing plants. After packaging, the handler transfers each chip into a test socket. The socket and load board connect the chip pins to the tester boards. The test socket is a critical interface; its dimensional accuracy directly affects test yield and contact stability. Hansheng Automation can customize test sockets, socket housings, and insulating spacers according to package size and pin layout. Common materials include engineering plastics, ceramics, and aluminum alloys, with key dimensions controlled to ±0.01mm or tighter.
Overall, stable and accurate operation of sorting handlers relies on precision machined parts. Hansheng Automation focuses on custom machining of test sockets, pre-aligner brackets, end effectors, guide rails, and mounting plates, with support for prototype and small-batch production.
