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Small Outline J-Lead (SOJ): Definition, Dimensions, and How It Differs from SOIC

SOJ is a surface-mount IC package with two rows of leads that bend under the body in a J shape. Here is how it is sized, how it differs from SOIC, and what it is used for.
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A small outline J-lead package (SOJ) is a surface-mount integrated-circuit package with leads on two opposite sides. Each lead leaves the side of the body and curls underneath it in a “J” shape, so the solder contact sits under the package edge instead of on an outward-pointing gull wing. “SOJ” names a family of outlines, not a single footprint, so always check the exact component drawing and board land pattern.

What the name means

“Small Outline J-Lead” is abbreviated SOJ. Some sources also write SOIJ or “J-leaded small outline IC.” EE Semi and MADPCB describe it as a small rectangular, plastic-molded surface-mount package. Its defining geometry is two rows of leads on opposite sides, with the lead ends folded beneath the body.

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The IEC 61188-5-4:2007 land-pattern standard, read through an ITEH catalog excerpt, puts it this way: “The small-outline J (SOJ) package has leads on two sides, similar to a DIP.” The same standard treats the contact region at the underside bend as the basis for the land-pattern span. When you read a footprint drawing, the electrical contact is at that bend, not at the outer edge of the body.

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SOJ is surface mount, not through-hole

Like a DIP, an SOJ has two opposing rows of leads. Unlike a DIP, its contacts solder to pads on the board surface. A UCSB electrical and computer engineering reference also notes that SOJ packages have been used in sockets where a ROM or flash chip had to be removable for programming. That is an application example, not a promise that any socket fits any SOJ part.

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Dimensions and identification

Published figures show the family varies:

Attribute Documented value Source
Nominal lead pitch 1.27 mm (0.050 in) EE Semi; Intel 1999 Packaging Databook; IEC 61188-5-4:2007
Common body widths 7.5 mm (300 mil) and 10.2 mm (400 mil) EE Semi (publication date not stated)
Example lead counts 16 to 40 EE Semi
Body-size classes SOJ/300, SOJ/350, SOJ/400, SOJ/450 IEC 61188-5-4:2007 excerpt

These are package-reference values, not a substitute for a manufacturer’s drawing. To identify a device, compare the package code, body length and width, total lead count, pitch, overall lead span and the recommended land pattern. Do not infer compatibility from the word “SOJ” alone.

SOJ versus SOIC

Both are small-outline, two-sided surface-mount packages. The difference is the lead form: SOIC has gull-wing leads that project outward, while SOJ leads tuck under the body. The contact surfaces differ, so an SOIC footprint should not be assumed to fit an SOJ part.

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Feature SOJ SOIC
Lead direction J-shaped, folds under the body Gull wing, projects outward
Contact point Beneath the package edge, at the J bend Outward lead feet
Footprint advice Use the exact SOJ drawing and land pattern Do not reuse for SOJ
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What SOJ packages are used for

Package references generally associate SOJ with memory devices. Such an association does not make memory parts interchangeable: a matching package outline says nothing about electrical compatibility, so confirm the part number, pin count, dimensions, pitch and electrical specifications.

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How common is it today?

A package overview by Geoffrey Hunter (published 2015, updated 2024-12-13) calls SOJ uncommon among current surface-mount packages. That is a qualitative statement from a secondary source, not a market-share figure, and it does not show that no suppliers exist. No source consulted establishes present-day stock, so anyone repairing or reproducing legacy hardware should check distributor inventory for the exact part number.

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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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