A finite element thermal analysis program for square shaped packages and subsequent experimental comparisons

A finite-element thermal analysis program is presented. A description of the finite element used in the program is provided along with an explanation of the matrix storage scheme and simultaneous equation solution which significantly reduces memory requirements. A specific model of a real package is given along with a discussion of the development of realistic convection boundary conditions. A comparison with subsequent experimental results shows that this simple-to-use program, which can run on a personal computer, can predict junction-to-air resistances within 10% of the measured value