A socket is a female connector permanently soldered to a printed circuit board that allows a chip, display, or module to be inserted and removed without desoldering. Sockets are heavily used for expensive microprocessors, memory modules, and test fixtures where parts must be swapped frequently. They rely on spring-loaded pins or friction contacts to maintain a reliable electrical connection.
Make sure you align the notch on the microcontroller with the mark on the socket before pressing it in.
Related terms
Connector
An electromechanical device used to join electrical terminations and create an electrical circuit.
Motherboard
The main printed circuit board in a computer or complex electronic system routes power and data between major components.
Pinout
A diagram or table detailing the purpose of each electrical contact on a connector or chip.