a interconnect assembly features a prefabricated interconnect structure metallurgically bonded to a terminal of a larger structure . fabrication of the interconnect structure &# 39 ; s independently and separate from the larger structure enables the use of economic mass fabrication techniques that are well - known for miniature scale sheet metal parts . during fabrication , positioning and attachment , each interconnect structure is combined with and / or held in a carrier structure from which it is separated after attachment to the terminal . the interconnect structure is configured such that an attachment tool may be brought into close proximity to the attachment interface between the interconnect structure and the terminal for a short and direct transmission of bonding energy onto the attachment interface . the attachment interface provides for an electrically conductive and a bending stress opposing mechanical connection between the interconnect structure and the terminal . the interconnect assembly is preferably part of a probe apparatus .