A ZIF (Zero Insertion Force) socket is the physical way that Intel's 486 and Pentium microprocessors up to Pentium II connect on the computer motherboard to the data bus. As its name implies, the ZIF socket is designed for ease of manufacture and so that the average computer owner will be able to upgrade the microprocessor. The ZIF socket contains a lever that opens and closes, securing the microprocessor in place.
The ZIF interface evolved through eight variations, each with a differing number of pins and pin layout arrangements. Currently, the best-known is Socket 7, the configuration used in the Pentium microprocessor. (However, the Pentium Pro uses Socket 8.) With the Pentium II microprocessor, which is based on Intel's new P6 micro architecture, Intel has changed to a new connection configuration called Slot 1. In this configuration, the microprocessor comes packaged in a cartridge that fits into a 242-contact or 330-contact slot in the motherboard.
Mating with Zero Insertion Force (ZIF) connectors is an increasingly popular termination for flexible printed circuits.
Use of a ZIF connector eliminates the need for a mating connector. The flex end “mates” into the connector, usually located on a rigid board.
Several issues should be addressed with a ZIF termination:
With a ZIF connector, registration between the cutline of the circuit and the center of the conductors must be closely controlled. All Flex has developed a robust manufacturing process for optimum control of this feature. The process capability profile can be viewed in the attached pdf file.
Material thickness in ZIF mating areas is critical. .012” is common.
This can easily be accomplished by the addition of a polyimide stiffener in the mating area.