A method and apparatus for the decapsulation of integrated circuit packages. The apparatus includes a support member, the support member having an open region and an adjustable device coupled to the support member. The adjustable device can be adapted to hold a BGA package such that a surface region of the BGA package is spatially disposed to face a decapsulation source and a plurality of balls on the BGA package remain free from contact from the decapsulation source and free from contact from a thermal source capable of causing damage to one or more of the balls. The decapsulation source is provided to subject a portion of the surface region of the BGA package for removal of the portion of the BGA package.