Several embodiments of massively parallel interface structures are disclosed,
which may be used in a wide variety of permanent or temporary applications, such
as for interconnecting integrated circuits (ICs) to test and burn-in equipment,
for interconnecting modules within electronic devices, for interconnecting computers
and other peripheral devices within a network, or for interconnecting other electronic
circuitry. Preferred embodiments of the massively parallel interface structures
provide massively parallel integrated circuit test assemblies. The massively parallel
interface structures preferably use one or more substrates to establish connections
between one or more integrated circuits on a semiconductor wafer, and one or more
test modules. One or more layers on the intermediate substrates preferably include
MEMS and/or thin-film fabricated spring probes. The parallel interface assemblies
provide tight signal pad pitch and compliance, and preferably enable the parallel
testing or burn-in of multiple ICs, using commercial wafer probing equipment. In
some preferred embodiments, the parallel interface assembly structures include
separable standard electrical connector components, which reduces assembly manufacturing
cost and manufacturing time. These structures and assemblies enable high speed
testing in wafer form.