tools
I've designed some PCBs where I have a socket for a Teensy 3.2. The exact sockets I purchased were these turned pin open frame sockets. I also purchased these turned pin headers to solder to the Teensy.
This works great, however the Teensy is really hard to remove without bending the header pins. Obviously a certain amount of force is required to remove the Teensy. Are there any tools that would help or a particular recommended method?
If there is adequate clearance, a typical screwdriver will work very nicely for removing DIPs from sockets. Insert the blade between the socket and the chip (not under the socket!), then twist gently in alternate directions to raise the two sides of the chip. Apply gentle pressure on the side of the chip opposite the side being raised, near the corner where the screwdriver is being used, to ensure that both ends of the chip rise by about the same amount.
One "tool" that's even better than a screwdriver, though I'm not sure where you can find one, is the L-shaped metal piece from an old-style PC case which screwed in to cover up the holes where I/O cards go. Not sure how best to describe it. Old-style PC cases are a bit hard to find these days, though.
BTW, I've yet to find a chip extractor tool that worked better on DIPs than the above-mentioned PC case piece.
Just use side cutters, keep them open (no cutting involved) and rock the handles down. The angle on the cutting surface will provide the leverage needed.
Best Answer
People will probably disagree, but I just use a screwdriver, its all about going slowly. I use a flat head, slip it between the chip and the socket then twist it slightly, then change ends and do the same, if you go in small increments you will be fine. Don't just try and do it all from one end.