IC Sockets

[DDad]

They are splayed that way to allow the spring tension to hold them in place before soldering. Mostly for benefiting automatic processes. Most ICs globally are not socketed.

Oh I get most aren't socketed, but the hole spacing is the same, socket or through hole on PCB.

 

[OD is Glorious]

I have been using the leaf type without issues. It seems to me that the IC is leaf, and it fits the leaf socket as it should. The machined type is a round hole which does not seem ideal for a leaf type IC leg.

 

[OD is Glorious]

I pretty sure there is no one smashing an IC down in machined sockets as well.. You absolutely have to bend them to fit either type.. The IC legs are always a bit splayed out... I have a 3d printed jig I slide them down and it bends them perfectly square..

Such a great idea

 

[Nic]

Oh I get most aren't socketed, but the hole spacing is the same, socket or through hole on PCB.

To hold them in place before soldering, as in, you insert it through the holes, flip the board over to solder, and they stay in there instead of falling on your bench or floor (where they would hide with their legs up until you finally find it using your bare foot).