A socket assembly (1) in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a socket body (20) holding a plurality of contacts therein, a pick up cap (22) fixed onto the socket body, and a loading plate (3) capable of moving between a closed position and a open position with regard to the socket body (20). A locking device (5) is proved to lock the loading plate (3) to a closed position. The pick up cap (22) comprises a flat suction surface (220) and at least one latch (222) for latching the loading plate (3) so that the pick up cap (22) can be attached to the loading plate (3) when the loading plate (3) is in a closed position, and detached from the socket body (20) when the loading plate (3) moves away from the socket body to an open position.