BGA test sockets failed earlier than the expected life-time due to abnormal signal delay, shown especially at the low temperature (.50oC). Analysis of failed sockets was conducted by EDX, AES, and XRD. A SnO layer contaminated with C was found to form on the surface of socket pins. The formation of SnO layer was attributed to the repeated Sn transfer from BGA balls to pin surface and instant oxidation of fresh Sn. As a result, contact resistance increased, inducing signal delay. Abnormal signal delay at the low temperature was attributed to the increasing resistivity of Sn oxide with decreasing temperature, as manifested by the resistance measurement of SnO2.