8-Pin SOIC to DIP Adapter Hookup Guide
Byron J. 
Introduction
The SparkFun 8-Pin SOIC to DIP Adapter is a small PCB that lets you adapt SOIC packages into a DIP footprint. These are useful for modding and upgrading devices that use 8-pin DIP ICs, when the upgraded IC is only available in a SOIC footprint. You can also use it for prototyping, to make SOIC packages compatible with solderless breadboards.
The updated version of this adapter comes as a small array of PCBs -- if you're adapting one chip, you're likely to adapt more than one. The PCBs easily snap apart, resulting in four individual boards.
The SOIC land pattern on the board has also been improved from its predecessor. The pads are very long, in order to accomodate both narrow and wide packages. The SOIC lands are staked down with plated through-holes, to prevent lifting during rework. The SOIC is also contained entirely within the DIP outline, for situations with no extra clearance around the IC.
Suggested Reading
Check out any of the links below, if you are unfamiliar with a given topic.
- PCB Basics
- Integrated Circuits (ICs)
- SMD Footprint Creation Tutorial
- How To Use A Breadboard
- SMD Soldering