Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A multi-way connector incorporating an integral filter array and comprising a metal outer casing; an inner housing in the form of a solid block of an electrically insulating material disposed within the outer casing; and a plurality of electrical contacts (plugs or sockets) having lead-through terminations which extend through the housing block, the free ends of said terminations extending from the block carrying respective filter capacitors whose outer electrodes are connected electrically to a metal ground plane which is itself connected electrically to the metal outer casing. Disposed around each lead-through termination is a respective collet which is received within a respective recess in the housing block so as to firmly grip that termination (100) to relieve same of mechanical stresses during connection of a mating connector part with said contacts. The free ends of the lead-through terminations, outboard of the filter capacitors, extend through respective holes in a rigid plate of electrically insulating material in such a manner as to prevent mechanical stresses in said terminations during the soldering of components thereto and/or during handling of the connector. The outer periphery of the plate is not connected rigidly to the outer casing. The exposed surfaces are provided with a conformal coating of a flexible protective layer, such as polyurethane or an epoxy.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim