GJ-3 Stainless Steel Chip IC Extractor Repair Tool

Common FAQs

1. Q: Will this work on PLCC chips?

   • A: No, PLCC chips (square) require a specific PLCC extractor (tongs style). The GJ-3 is for DIP (rectangular) chips.

2. Q: Can I use it for larger chips (40-pin)?

   • A: You can, but it might be tight. The GJ-6 model is specifically wider for 24-40 pin chips (like old CPUs). The GJ-3 is optimized for narrower 14-22 pin chips.

3. Q: Is the handle insulated?

   • A: Yes, it has a PVC coating for comfort, but it is not VDE rated for high voltage live work. Always disconnect power.

4. Q: Does it damage the socket?

   • A: No, the hooks are thin enough to slip between the chip and the socket without stretching the plastic.

5. Q: Can I use it to insert chips?

   • A: No, it is for extraction only. Inserting chips is best done by hand or with a vacuum tool.

6. Q: Will it work on a breadboard?

   • A: Yes, it is excellent for pulling chips off tight breadboards.

7. Q: Is it magnetic?

   • A: The steel is usually slightly magnetic, but generally safe for standard ICs.

8. Q: Can I use it on keyboard switches?

   • A: It's not designed for that. Keycap/Switch pullers have a different hook shape.

9. Q: How do I clean it?

   • A: Wipe with Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) to remove flux or grease.

10. Q: Does it work for 8-pin chips (like 555 timers)?

    • A: Yes, though the tool is slightly wide, you can angle it to grip 8-pin DIPs effectively.

11. Q: Is it ESD safe?

    • A: Metal is conductive, so if you are grounded, the tool is grounded. The PVC handle insulates you, so touch the metal part to a ground point before grabbing sensitive CMOS chips.

12. Q: Why did my chip pins bend?

    • A: You likely pulled at an angle. Ensure you pull straight up relative to the socket.

13. Q: Can I use it for extracting fuses?

    • A: It can work for some automotive blade fuses, but a dedicated fuse puller is safer.

14. Q: What is the difference between GJ-3 and GJ-6?

    • A: GJ-3: Narrower range (14-22 pins). GJ-6: Wider range (24-40+ pins).

15. Q: Can I use it on SMD parts?

    • A: Only if you are using Hot Air to desolder them. It can act as a tweezer to lift the hot component, but vacuum pens are better for SMD.

16. Q: Does it have a spring?

    • A: The metal body itself acts as the spring (spring steel tension).

17. Q: Will it scratch the chip?

    • A: Unlikely if used correctly. The hooks grab the bottom edge.

18. Q: Can I straighten bent pins with it?

    • A: No, use pliers or a dedicated pin straightener tool for that.

19. Q: Is it rust-proof?

    • A: It is stainless steel, so it is highly rust-resistant.

20. Q: Does it work on machine-tooled (round hole) sockets?

    • A: Yes, these sockets grip very tightly, making this tool essential for removal without damage.