The carrier (30) comprises a first etch mask (14), a first metal layer
(11), an intermediate layer (12), a second metal layer (13) and a second
etch mask (17). Both the first and the second etch mask (14, 17) can be
provided in one step by means of electrochemical plating. After the first
metal layer (11) and the intermediate layer (12) have been patterned
through the first etch mask (14), an electric element (20) can be
suitably attached to the carrier (30) using conductive means. In this
patterning operation, the intermediate layer (12) is etched further so as
to create underetching below the first metal layer (11). After the
provision of an encapsulation (40), the second metal layer (13) is
patterned through the second etch mask (17). In this manner, a solderable
device (10) is obtained without a photolithographic step during the
assembly process.