A universal cradle apparatus having a pair of substantially rigid jaw structures each configured with a flange structure having a substantially planar mounting surface adapted for being secured to respective cooperating male and female portions of a spring-return clamping mechanism formed of telescoping male linear drive shaft and mating female linear drive channel. The end walls and side walls are tethered or hingedly connected to the central mattress section and are moveable from an upright position to an open position. A photon absorbing wire bond pad is provided on the first contact. Processing of the second workpiece is begun as soon as the laser beam is available for processing.