METHOD OF LOADING AND UNLOADING MODULE IC IN THE TEST PART OF MODULE IC HANDLER AND DEVICE THEREOF

An apparatus and method for loading/unloading module IC in a test unit of a module IC handler are provided to remarkably reduce the time required for loading and unloading of the module IC by using a gripper unit having a loading gripper and an unloading gripper. A pair of ball screws(52) are installed on brackets(51) positioned on both inner sides of a lifting member(42), and have reverse thread portions(52a) at both sides thereof. A gripper unit(53) having two grippers(54) are screwed with the thread portion of each ball screw to insert or retract a module IC into or from a socket. The gripper unit includes four sliders(56) engaged with the ball screw, coupling members(57) each fixed to the sliders, a pair of loading grippers(54) and an unloading gripper installed on the coupling members, and a pusher fixed to the unloading gripper.