Patent ID: 6155882
Filing Date: 2000-12-05
Classification: H01R

Abstract:
An expandable socket connector comprising a first section and a second section movable relative to said first section, a plurality of electrical contacts disposed within said first section, wherein the first and second sections are pivotally movable relative to each other between a closed position where the first and second sections are closed to each other for protectively shielding the contacts and an open position where the first and second sections are spaced from and substantially parallel to each other for forming a receiving channel extending in a direction substantially parallel to the first and second sections receiving a mating connector with the mating connector being guided, supported and retained by both the first and second sections to electrically engage the contacts, and wherein the first section defines a cavity therein bound by a rear wall, a slot being defined in the rear wall in communication with the cavity, the contacts being retained in a spacer, the spacer being inserted into the slot with end portions of the contacts extending into the cavity for electrically engaging with the mating connector.