Method and article for attaching high-operating-temperature electronic component

A method for attaching an electronic component to a substrate for subsequent use at a temperature not to exceed a maximum operating temperature, the method comprising the steps of:

• applying a quantity of a first thermally conductive die attach material to the substrate such that the applied first material defines a lateral periphery having a nominal thickness, the first material being characterized by one of the group consisting of softening and at least partial liquefaction at a first temperature less than the maximum operating temperature;
• applying a quantity of a second relatively compliant die attach material proximate to the periphery in an amount sufficient to substantially contain the applied first material and bridge the gap between the component and the substrate upon a subsequent collapse of the applied first material along its thickness dimension;
• placing the electronic component atop the first material so as to overlie at least a portion of the applied first material;
• and heating the first material to a second temperature above the maximum operating temperature to collapse the applied first material, whereby the first material forms a thermal couple between the component and the substrate.