This test procedure details the methods for determining the porosity of contact finishes used in electrical connector, contacts and sockets.

Object

The object of this procedure is to determine the magnitude of porosity as well as other surface defects inherent in the application of noble metal contact finishes. Porosity tests are an indication of the completeness of protection or coverage offered by the finish. It is the intent that the defined methods be used as an evaluation technique for the acceptability of noble metal contact finishes. This procedure applies to noble metal finishes with or without underplates applied to copper or nickel base alloy contacts. Noble metal platings include gold, gold alloys, palladium and palladium alloys with and without gold flash overplate.