PLCC IC Chip Puller/Extractor

A PLCC (Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier) IC chip puller or extractor is a specialized tool used to safely remove integrated circuit (IC) chips from PLCC sockets without damaging the chip or the socket.

Here’s how it typically works:

1. Design: A PLCC extractor usually consists of a pair of handles with gripping jaws at the end. The jaws are designed to fit around the edges of the PLCC chip.
2. Insertion: The extractor is carefully inserted between the PLCC chip and the socket, ensuring that it grips the chip securely but gently.
3. Gripping: Once inserted, the handles are squeezed together, causing the gripping jaws to close around the edges of the chip.
4. Extraction: With the chip securely gripped, the extractor is gently lifted upwards, pulling the chip out of the socket.
5. Removal: After the chip has been extracted, it can be safely removed from the extractor and either replaced with a new chip or reinserted into the socket if needed.

Using a dedicated PLCC extractor minimizes the risk of damaging the chip or the socket during removal, which is particularly important for sensitive electronic components.