Low insertion force

Low insertion force (LIF) is a technology used in integrated circuit sockets that are designed so the force required to insert or remove a package is low.

Initially, the LIF connectors were designed as a cheaper alternative compared to zero insertion force (ZIF) connectors, to facilitate programming and testing of equipment. Compared with standard IC sockets, they have a lower friction force between the contacts of the device and the socket, making insertion and removal of the device easier, while at the same time eliminating the need for the complex mechanism that is used in ZIF sockets.