Method needed to open the tops of large chips for viewing.

[machine]

I've got a pile of chips collected so far and I've tried to open a couple of them without success (they were just ordinary things, nothing special).

Does anyone here know of methods to get the tops off big chips like Pentiums where there's the least amount of damage?

I recognize that there are many different sealing methods.

Thanks, lads.

[mavroxur]

A hot enough heatgun will melt the solder on Pentium die caps, and let you lift them off without any damage.

[Guest]

Thank you for that reply. I've got four soldering stations here, two heat guns and a pile of electronics equipment. So I'm well equipped to get at least some of the caps off. I'll have a look at what is soldered up and what isn't.

Many of the caps have epoxy-resin.

Do you know of anything that dissolves the resin?

Robert.

[Robev]

Let them Soak in Methylated Spirits for a day or so.