Question: Why would one want to put ziff(sic) sockets on the ram chip?

In the case of really wanting 'zero insertion force' sockets, Textool have ones that will do both the 0.3" and 0.6" spacing - be sure to check before ordering 'cos these aren't exactly cheap.

It's good to see that Paul has decided to purchase a ready made board rather than make his own. Better to start with something that works rather than battle with a million unknowns.