DIP chip clip

thingiverse

Those clips that clip onto DIP chips are very convenient for debugging and logic analyzing. Unfortunately, they are really expensive for the hobbyist, especially when you need to buy so many different sizes. SO....make your own. Sorry, I did not use SCAD, so I can't offer a customizer compatible version. I did make all the usual sizes for DIP chips, but if you need me to make more, let me know. Revision June 22, 2016: I removed the little dividers on the top and reworked the model for a clean mesh. Print Settings Rafts: Doesn't Matter Supports: No Resolution: as high as you can! Notes: Print two of these to make one clip! These need to be printed cleanly with maximum detail -- no warping or stringing. Use a small nozzle (0.4mm or less) and thin layers (0.15mm or less). Use a strong plastic without too much flex. ABS or PLA probably better than nylon here. You shouldn't need supports. Brim or raft may be useful if you experience warping or the part pulls off the bed. Post-Printing After printing and cleaning the print.... Push a 2mm rod or long finish nail through the hinges to join the two clip halves. It should be a tight fit, but drill out if necessary. Install a spring (or two) in the circular spots on the insides of the clip. Make sure you can still open the clip wide enough to get around a chip. After 2mm rod and spring.... Slide in pins. I used gold plated 21 gauge brass 2" Head Pins: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B006Q2YZ52 Push them into so they extend out the bottom and top. Secure with glue if needed. Or heat the pin with a torch and let it melt its way through. the pins bend easily -- use the straight ones! Trim the bottom of the pins so they are flush with the bottom edge of the clip. The tips of the pins "float" a little bit in the gaps -- this lets them flex when the push against the chip leads. Trim the tops of the pins to the desired length. You might want to keep the pin heads as they help grabbers stay in place....(as long as they do not short pins) Attach your test leads and clamp it onto a chip!