It’s not uncommon to get confused when trying to choose between an SO-8 vs. SOIC-8 Chip. This is because both chips look similar in size and shape, making it hard to tell them apart.
So what are the differences between these two chips? Let’s take a closer look at each one and find out!
What is IC Packaging?
Before we dive into the details of SO-8 vs. SOIC-8 Chips, let’s first define what IC packaging is.
The package is basically a metal or plastic material that serves as an enclosure for the IC device, protecting it from physical damage and environmental contamination. It also helps in dissipating heat generated by the chip during operation. This is why many packages come with external heat sinks to help manage temperature better. [1]
IC Package Types
One of the most important elements to consider when designing and manufacturing a circuit board is the type of package that best suits your requirements. One popular type of integrated circuit (IC) package, for example, is the Small Outline Package (SO). Depending on its size and shape, an SO package can be either an SO-8 or an SOIC-8 chip. [1]
What is the SOIC-8 Package?
The SOIC-8 (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) package is a widely used type of integrated circuit packaging. It is basically a rectangular integrated circuit that comes with eight pins and its size ranges from 4.9 x 3.9 mm to 5.3 x 4.4 mm. The legs on the bottom of the chip are bent slightly outward in order to accommodate the smaller size.
The SOIC-8 package is very popular in consumer electronics, including laptops and cell phones, as it is a cost-effective solution for integrating circuits into small spaces without increasing board sizes or compromising functionality. In addition to being more affordable than larger packages, the SOIC-8 package has several advantages over other types of packaging. [1]
What are the Advantages of the SOIC-8 package?
The SOIC-8 package offers a number of advantages over the SO-8 package. These can include:
- The ability to use more pins than the standard 8 available on the SO-8 (this allows for additional features or functions).
- A higher input/output pin count, which enables more complex hardware designs with fewer components.
- A larger and more sturdy package, which can make for easier handling and better protection of the IC itself.
- Better thermal performance due to the increased surface area of the package (this helps mitigate heat buildup).
- Easier soldering/desoldering by hand or with automated assembly equipment.
- Possibility to use lead-free solder.
- Reduced cost due to the availability of generic parts in large quantities.
- Increased product lifetime, since SOICs are better protected from external influences such as dirt and moisture.
- Additional grounding pins for noise reduction or improved power supply regulation. [2]
What are the Disadvantages of the SOIC-8 package?
The SOIC-8 package has some disadvantages that should be taken into consideration when deciding between the two chip types. The first is its larger size, which can make it difficult to fit in certain applications or circuit boards; this is especially true for more complex circuits and designs. The second disadvantage is that the SOIC-8 package requires more area on your board, which may reduce the amount of space available for other components. Finally, it’s also worth noting that SOIC-8 packages are often more expensive than SO-8 chips. [2]
Features of SOIC-8 Package
One of the key features of an SOIC-8 package is its relatively small size. Compared to other standard packages, such as DIP (Dual Inline Package) and PLCC (Plastic Leaded Chip Carrier), an SOIC-8 package occupies a much smaller PCB area. This makes it ideal for applications where space is limited, such as LED lighting systems, smart cards, and motherboards.
The SOIC-8 package also has a very low profile compared to other packages. This means it can be easily installed in tight spaces, allowing for greater flexibility with design. Additionally, the thinness of the package ensures that it is less prone to damage during handling and assembly than other chip packages. [2]
SOIC-8 Standards
The SOIC-8 package is based on the same JEDEC standard as the SO-8. The major difference between them lies in their physical dimensions. The SOIC-8 packages have longer leads and are usually wider than those of an SO-8, making them easier to solder onto a PCB board or other surfaces.
In addition, unlike its predecessor, the SOIC-8 package has a ground tab located on its outermost lead which helps in dissipating heat and makes it more reliable. The SOIC-8 also offers better mechanical strength and improved resistance to moisture, making it suitable for use in harsh environments. [2]
What is the SO-8 Package?
The SO-8 package is a small outline 8 (SO-8) integrated circuit (IC) package that operates at up to 150 volts. It’s used in a variety of applications, from automotive to consumer electronics. The pins are arranged in two rows of four pins each and it can typically be soldered by hand or using automated processes. It measures 4mm x 3mm with a body height of 1.6 mm and has an industry standard pin pitch of 0.5 mm. It is also referred to as the SOIC-8 package or small-outline integrated circuit. [1]
What are the Advantages of the SO-8 package?
The major advantage of the SO-8 package is its small size. This makes it ideal for application in portable devices or other applications that require a smaller footprint. The package also has low power consumption, making it suitable for battery-powered applications as well. It’s cost effective and versatile because it can be loaded with all sorts of components, including transistors, resistors, and capacitors.
Additionally, the SO-8 package is designed to be soldered onto printed circuit boards (PCBs) easily and quickly. It has a wide temperature range and can operate up to 125°C, making it suitable for use in industrial applications. Furthermore, it can withstand high shock and vibration without any damage or degradation of performance. [1]
What are the Disadvantages of the SO-8 package?
The SO-8 package, while versatile, may not be suitable for all applications. It is much larger than the SOIC-8 Chip and has more exposed pins. This can lead to susceptibility of the chip to damage due to accidental contact or wear and tear over time. Additionally, if there are limited space restrictions, then using an SO-8 package will not be feasible.
Another disadvantage is that the SO-8 package has slightly worse thermal properties than that of the SOIC-8 Chip due to its reduced size and reduced surface area. This can impact on the reliability and effective working of the chip if it is exposed to high levels of heat or extreme temperatures for extended periods of time.
Finally, the SO-8 package is not as versatile when it comes to mounting, as its pins are longer than those of the SOIC-8 Chip. This means that there may be fewer options for installing and attaching the chip during manufacturing. [1]
Features of SO-8
SO-8 chips are a very small package of integrated circuits (ICs) that have been around for a long time. They have eight leads arranged in a rectangular outline, making them ideal for surface mount applications. SO-8 ICs are often used in embedded systems or other electronics designs where space is at a premium and require the high density of components that an SO-8 chip can provide.
The main benefits of using an SO-8 chip are that they are small, lightweight, and require minimal external circuitry. They are also inexpensive and easy to work with due to their low pin count of 8 pins. Their relatively small size makes them ideal for designing circuits in tight or confined spaces. [1]
SO-8 Standards
The acronym SO stands for Small Outline, and an SO-8 chip is a very small component with eight pins. It has the same width as a standard IC but less than half its length. This makes it ideal for applications where space is limited. The problem with this style of chip is that they are often more expensive than their full-size counterparts. [2]
SOIC-8 vs SO-8 Package
The SOIC-8 and the SO-8 are two of the most widely used chip packages in the electronics industry. Although they may look similar, there are some key differences between them.
The primary difference is that the SOIC-8 has slightly longer leads than the SO-8. This makes it easier to fit into a printed circuit board (PCB). The SO-8 is narrower than the SOIC-8, which can also help with space constraints.
Another difference between the two packages is that the SOIC-8 is slightly taller than the SO-8. This may cause problems for applications where height clearance is limited, such as those used in automotive electronics or embedded systems. [2]
FAQ
What is the size of SOIC?
The size of a standard SOIC or SO-8 chip is 8.5 millimeters (mm) wide and 3.9 mm tall, with 0.05 inch lead spacing between pins and a 0.65 mm lead thickness.
What is the spacing for SOIC 8?
The lead spacing for an SOIC-8 chip is 0.05 inches between pins, with a lead thickness of 0.65 mm.
Is SOP and SOIC the same?
No, SOP (Small Outline Package) and SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) are not the same. The difference between them lies in their pin numbers and sizes. While SOP chips have fewer than 8 pins and tend to be larger, SOIC chips have 8 pins and are usually much smaller.
What does SOIC stand for?
What is the difference between SMD and SOIC?
The main difference between SMD (Surface Mount Device) and SOIC is their size. An SMD device usually has a larger form factor than an SOIC, making it more suitable for applications with more space available. Additionally, while most SOIC packages have eight pins, there are some that may have fewer or more pins depending on the application.
What is the difference between SOT and SOIC?
The main difference between SOT (Small Outline Transistor) and SOIC is their pin numbers and sizes. While SOT packages typically have two or three pins, SOIC packages usually have 8 pins and are much smaller than their SOT counterparts. Additionally, the lead spacing for an SOIC chip is 0.05 inches between pins, with a lead thickness.
What is SOIC in semiconductors?
SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) is a type of integrated circuit package with a small form factor that allows it to fit into tight spaces on printed circuit boards and other electronic devices. It typically has 8 pins, although some packages may have fewer or more depending on the application. The lead spacing for an SOIC chip is 0.05 inches between pins, with a lead thickness of 0.65 mm.
Useful Video: SOIC8 SOP8 to DIP8 EZ Programmer Adapter
Conclusion
When choosing between an SO-8 and a SOIC-8 chip, the best way to determine which is most suitable for your needs is to look at what you need the chip to do. If the application requires very high speeds or extreme temperatures, then it’s probably better to stick with an SO-8 chip. For more general purpose applications, the SOIC-8 is usually the better option.
No matter which chip you choose, it’s important to consider the cost and other factors like power consumption and compatibility with existing systems. With careful consideration, you should be able to find a chip that works best for your needs. Good luck!
References
- https://www.raypcb.com/soic-vs-ssop/
- https://www.electronicsforu.com/resources/dip-smd-qfp-bga-ic-packages
