Receptacles facilitate the replacement of worn or damaged test probes in fixtures. They feature a collar that controls installation height and can be mounted either collar-up (controlling probe height) or press-fit directly into the probe plate.
Key Parameters#
Three characteristics define receptacle selection:
Pitch#
The distance between the centers of two adjacent pins, matched to DUT test point spacing.
| Pitch | Metric | Durability | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 mil | 1.27mm | Lower | High-density boards |
| 75 mil | 1.91mm | Medium | Standard applications |
| 100 mil | 2.54mm | Higher | Wide-spacing, robust |
Larger pitches provide more durable receptacles. Smaller pitches are more fragile and require careful handling.
Collar Height#
The distance from the receptacle top to the collar bottom. Combined with probe working stroke, this determines the installed probe height above the plate surface.
Standard collar heights are matched to fixture types—consult the specific fixture guidelines for recommended configurations.
Connector Type#
How receptacles connect to instrumentation:
| Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Wire-wrap posts | Square posts for wire wrapping | Field modifications |
| Solder cup | Cup terminations for soldering | Permanent connections |
| Wired | Crimped wire (32AWG) | Direct instrumentation |
| Wireless | Spring-loaded contact pins | TPCB integration |
Connection Options Detail#
Wire-Wrap Posts#
Compatible with standard Dupont connectors. Enable field modifications without soldering, producing gas-tight, corrosion-resistant connections. Ideal when fixture wiring may need changes.
Solder Cup#
Provide permanent, vibration-resistant connections. Require soldering iron and solder for assembly. Best for production fixtures that won't need modification.
Wired Receptacles#
Feature crimped wire connections using 32AWG wire wrap wire. Provide direct connection to instrumentation. Suitable for simple fixtures with low test point counts.
Wireless Receptacles#
Include spring-loaded contact pins that interface directly with Test Point Carrier Boards (TPCBs). Eliminate individual wire connections. Standard for production fixtures with high test point counts.
Drill Size Reference#
Generic Receptacles#
| Model | Collar Mount (G10/FR4) | Press-Fit Mount |
|---|---|---|
| R50 | 1.0mm | 0.95mm |
| R75 | 1.2mm | 1.15mm |
| R100 | 1.4mm | 1.35mm |
Centalic Receptacles#
Consult Centalic datasheets for specific drill sizes based on receptacle model and mounting method.
Ingun Receptacles#
| Series | Collar Mount | Press-Fit Mount |
|---|---|---|
| KS-050 | Per datasheet | Per datasheet |
| KS-075 | Per datasheet | Per datasheet |
| KS-100 | Per datasheet | Per datasheet |
Ingun receptacles have specific drill size requirements—always reference the manufacturer datasheet for exact dimensions.
Mounting Methods#
Collar Mount#
Receptacle collar sits on the plate surface, controlling probe height. Collar mount is self-fixturing during assembly.
Press-Fit Mount#
Receptacle presses directly into the plate with interference fit. Requires tighter hole tolerance but provides compact installation.
Selection Guidelines#
- Match pitch to test point spacing on the DUT
- Choose connection type based on fixture complexity and modification needs
- Specify drill sizes based on mounting method and plate material
- Consider probe compatibility — receptacles must match probe series
Related Documentation#
- Selecting Probes — Probe types and tip selection
- TPCB Guide — Wireless receptacle integration
- Manufacturing Guide — Drill specifications