zero insertion force

Zero Insertion Force
ZIF

   <hardware> (ZIF) A kind of socket for {integrated circuits}.
   A ZIF socket can be opened and closed by means of a lever or
   screw.  When open, there the chip may be placed in the socket
   without any pressure at all, the socket is then closed,
   causing its contacts to grip the pins of the chip.  Such
   sockets are used where chips must be inserted and removed
   frequently, such as in test equipment.  They are more
   expensive and usually take up more space than conventional IC
   sockets.

   (1994-12-05)