Patent Publication Number: US-10763601-B2

Title: Coaxial connector grounding inserts

Description:
PRIORITY CLAIM AND INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE 
     This application is a continuation of Ser. No. 15/796,828 filed Oct. 29, 2017 which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/261,926 filed Sep. 10, 2016 (now U.S. Pat. No. 9,806,439 issued Oct. 31, 2017) which claims the benefit of U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 61/920,296 filed Dec. 23, 2013 and is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/495,505 filed Sep. 24, 2014 (now U.S. Pat. No. 9,444,156 issued Sep. 13, 2016) which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/047,956 filed on Oct. 7, 2013 (now U.S. Pat. No. 9,160,083 issued Oct. 13, 2015) which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/373,782 filed Nov. 30, 2011 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,556,654 issued Oct. 15, 2013), all of which are incorporated herein in their entireties and for all purposes. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates generally to coaxial cable connectors. More particularly, the present invention relates to coaxial F-connectors adapted to insure the establishment of a proper ground during installation. Known prior art is classified in United States Patent Class 439, Subclasses 241, 247, 322, 548, 553, 554, 585, and 587. 
     Discussion of the Related Art 
     Popular cable television systems and satellite television receiving systems depend upon coaxial cable for distributing signals. As is known in the satellite TV arts, coaxial cable in such installations is terminated by F-connectors that threadably establish the necessary signal wiring connections. The F-connector forms a “male” connection portion that fits to a variety of receptacles, forming the “female” portion of the connection. 
     F-connectors include a tubular post designed to slide over coaxial cable dielectric material and under the outer conductor at the prepared end of the coaxial cable. The exposed, conductive sheath is usually folded back over the cable jacket. The cable jacket and folded-back outer conductor extend generally around the outside of the tubular post and are typically coaxially received within the tubular connector. A continuity contact between the sheath and conductive portions of the connector is needed. Moreover, electrical contact must be made with the threaded head or nut of the connector that should contact the female socket to which the connection is made. 
     F-connectors have numerous advantages over other known fittings, such as RCA, BNC, and PL-259 connectors, in that no soldering is needed for installation, and costs are reduced as parts are minimized. For example, with an F-connector, the center conductor of a properly prepared coaxial cable fitted to it forms the “male” portion of the receptacle connection, and no separate part is needed. A wide variety of F-connectors are known in the art, including the popular compression type connector that aids in rapid assembly and installation. Hundreds of such connectors are seen in U.S. Patent Class 439, particularly Subclass 548. 
     However, the extremely high bandwidths and frequencies distributed in conjunction with modern satellite installations implicates a variety of strict quality control factors. For example, the electrical connection established by the F-connector must not add electrical resistance to the circuit. It must exhibit a proper surge impedance to maintain a wide bandwidth, in the order of several Gigahertz. Numerous physical design requirements exist as well. For example, connectors must maintain a proper seal against the environment, and they must function over long time periods through extreme weather and temperature conditions. Requirements exist governing frictional insertion and disconnection or withdrawal forces as well. 
     Importantly, since a variety of coaxial cable diameters exist, it is imperative that satisfactory F-connectors function with differently sized cables, such as RG-6 and RG-59 coaxial cables that are most popular in the satellite television art. 
     It is important to establish an effective electrical connection between the F-connector, the internal coaxial cable, and the terminal socket. Proper installation techniques require adequate torqueing of the connector head. In other words, it is desired that the installer appropriately tighten the connector during installation. A dependable electrical grounding path must be established through the connector body to the grounded shield or jacket of the coaxial cable. Threaded F-connector nuts should be installed with a wrench to establish reasonable torque settings. Critical tightening of the F nut to the threaded female socket or fixture applies enough pressure to the inner conductor of the coaxial cable to establish proper electrical connections. When fully tightened, the head of the tubular post of the connector directly engages the edge of the outer conductor of the appliance port, thereby making a direct electrical ground connection between the outer conductor of the appliance port and the tubular post; in turn, the tubular post is engaged with the outer conductor of the coaxial cable. 
     Many connector installations, however, are not properly completed. It is a simple fact in the satellite and cable television industries that many F-connectors are not appropriately tightened by the installer. The common installation technique is to torque the F-connector with a small wrench during installation. In some cases installers only partially tighten the F-connector. Some installations are only hand-tightened. As a consequence, proper electrical continuity may not be achieved. Such F-connectors will not be properly “grounded,” and the electrical grounding path can be compromised and can become intermittent. An appropriate low resistance, low loss connection to the female target socket, and the equipment connected to it, will not be established. Unless an alternate ground path exists, poor signal quality, and RFI leakage, will result. This translates to signal loss or degradation to the customer. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,678,445 issued Jul. 18, 1972 discloses a shield for eliminating electromagnetic interference in an electrical connector. A conductive shielding member having a spring portion snaps into a groove for removably securing the shield. A second spring portion is yieldable to provide electrical contact between the first shell member and a second movable shell member. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,835,443 issued Sep. 10, 1974 discloses an electromagnetic interference shield for an electrical connector comprising a helically coiled conductive spring interposed between mating halves of the connector. The coiled spring has convolutions slanted at an oblique angle to the center axis of the connector. Mating of the connector members axially flattens the spring to form an almost continuous metal shield between the connector members. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 3,439,046 issued Jun. 12, 1973 discloses a coaxial connector with an internal, electrically conductive coil spring is mounted between adjacent portions of connector. As an end member is rotatably threaded toward the housing, an inwardly directed annular bevel engages the spring and moves it inwardly toward an electrically shielded portion of the cable. The spring is compressed circumferentially so that its inner periphery makes electrical grounding contact with the shielded portion of the cable. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,066,248 issued Nov. 19, 1991 discloses coaxial cable connector comprising a housing sleeve, a connector body, a locking ring, and a center post. A stepped annular collar on the connector body ensures metal-to-metal contact and grounding. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,106,839 issued Aug. 15, 1978 shows a coaxial connector with a resilient, annular insert between abutting connector pieces for grounding adjacent parts. A band having a cylindrical surface is seated against an internal surface. Folded, resilient fingers connected with the band are biased into contact. The shield has tabs for mounting, and a plurality of folded integral, resilient fingers for establishing a ground. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,423,919 issued Jan. 3, 1984 discloses a connector with having a cylindrical shell with radial flange, a longitudinal key, and a shielding ring fitted over the shell and adjacent to the flange. The shielding ring comprises a detent having end faces configured to abut connector portions when the detent fits within the keyway, whereby the shell is prevented from rotating. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,330,166 issued May 18, 1982 discloses an electrical connector substantially shielded against EMP and EMI energy with an internal, conductive spring washer seated in the plug portion of the connector. A wave washer made from beryllium copper alloy is preferred. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,406,330 issued Jun. 18, 2002 employs an internal, beryllium copper clip ring for grounding. The clip ring forms a ground circuit between a male member and a female member of the electrical connector. The clip ring includes an annular body having an inner wall and an outer wall comprising a plurality of circumferentially spaced slots. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 7,114,990 issued Oct. 3, 2006 discloses a coaxial cable connector with an internal grounding clip establishing a grounding path between an internal tubular post and the connector. The grounding clip comprises a C-shaped metal clip with an arcuate curvature that is non-circular. U.S. Pat. No. 7,479,035 issued Jan. 20, 2009 shows a similar F-connector grounding arrangement. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 7,753,705 issued Jul. 13, 2010 discloses an RF seal for coaxial connectors. The seal comprises a flexible brim, a transition band, and a tubular insert with an insert chamber defined within the seal. In a first embodiment the flexible brim is angled away from the insert chamber, and in a second embodiment the flexible brim is angled inward toward the insert chamber. A flange end of the seal makes a compliant contact between the port and connector faces when the nut of a connector is partially tightened, and becomes sandwiched firmly between the ground surfaces when the nut is properly tightened. U.S. Pat. No. 7,892,024 issued Feb. 22, 2011 shows a similar grounding insert for F-connectors. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 7,824,216 issued Nov. 2, 2010 discloses a coaxial connector comprising a body, a post including a flange having a tapered surface, and a nut having an internal lip with a tapered surface which oppositely corresponds to the tapered surface of the post when is assembled, and a conductive O-ring between the post and the nut for grounding or continuity. Similar U.S. Pat. No. 7,845,976 issued Dec. 7, 2010 and U.S. Pat. No. 7,892,005 issued Feb. 22, 2011 use conductive, internal O-rings for both grounding and sealing. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,332,815 issued Dec. 25, 2001 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,406,330 issued Jun. 18, 2002 utilize clip rings made of resilient, conductive material such as beryllium copper for grounding. The clip ring forms a ground between a male member and a female member of the connector. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,716,062 issued Apr. 6, 2004 discloses a coaxial cable F connector with an internal coiled spring that establishes continuity. The spring biases the nut toward a rest position wherein not more than three revolutions of the nut are necessary to bring the post of the connector into contact. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention provides coaxial cable connectors. In an embodiment, a connector ground continuity method includes the steps of: providing a coaxial cable connector including a threaded nut; providing an elongated, hollow post, the post including a portion that abuts a nut interior for rotatably coupling said post to said nut; coaxially disposing a tubular body over said post, the body having opposed forward and trailing portions, the forward portion engaging the post; slidably coupling the body trailing portion and a tubular end cap; and, providing a continuously curved springform insert having a wall defining inner and outer surfaces; providing plural tabs extending from the insert inner surface toward an insert axis of revolution; the insert tabs engaging a periphery of the post; and, the insert outer surface engaging an interior of the nut; wherein the insert completes an electrical path between the nut and the post by simultaneously contacting and grasping the post with said inner side while contacting the nut interior with said outer side. 
     Our coaxial cable connectors are of the compressible type. The connectors comprise a rigid nut with a faceted drive head adapted to be torqued during installation of a fitting. The head has an internally threaded, tubular stem, for threadably mating with a typical socket or receptacle. An elongated post coupled to the nut includes a shank, which can be barbed, that engages the prepared end of a coaxial cable. An elongated, tubular body is coupled to the post. When the device is compressed, an end cap is press fitted to the body, coaxially engaging a body shank portion and closing the fitting. 
     In known F-connector designs the internal post establishes electrical contact between the coaxial cable sheath and metallic parts of the coaxial fitting, such as the nut. Also, the elongated, tubular shank extends from the post to engage the coaxial cable, making contact with the metallic, insulative sheath. 
     However, since improper or insufficient tightening of the nut during F-connector installation is so common, and since continuity and/or electrical grounding suffer as a result, our design includes internal grounding inserts that remedy the problem. All embodiments of our grounding insert include means for contacting and grasping the post, and means for contacting the nut, to establish a redundant grounding path between the nut, the post, and the coaxial cable to which the fitting is fastened. 
     A preferred grounding insert comprises a circular band, preferably made of beryllium copper alloy. In assembly, the grounding insert band coaxially engages the post. Multiple radially spaced spring clips defined around the band securely grasp a flange portion of the post. The band is seated within a ring groove within the nut, making electrical contact. 
     An alternative grounding insert comprises a tubular band for contacting and grasping the post flange. The band is integral with a flared, projecting skirt having a polygonal cross section. The skirt comprises a plurality of vertices and a plurality of facets therebetween. In assembly the band yieldably grasps the periphery of the post flange to establish electrical contact. Skirt vertices abut the nut&#39;s internal ring groove. Electrical contact between the insert, the post, the nut, and the coaxial cable is thus insured, despite insufficient tightening of the nut. 
     Thus the primary object of our invention is to provide suitable grounding within an F-connector to overcome electrical connection problems associated with improper installation. More particularly, an object of our invention is to provide dependable electrical connections between coaxial connectors, especially F-connectors, and female connectors or sockets. 
     Another object of the present invention is to provide internal coaxial cable structure for establishing a grounding path in an improperly-tightened coaxial cable connector. A similar object is to provide a proper ground, even though required torque settings have been ignored. 
     Another related object of the present invention to provide a reliable ground connection between a connector and a target socket or port, even if the connector is not fully tightened. 
     It is another object of the present invention to provide such a coaxial cable connector which establishes and maintains a reliable ground path. 
     It is still another object of the present invention to provide such a coaxial connector that can be manufactured economically. 
     Another object of our invention is to provide a connector of the character described that establishes satisfactory EMP, EMI, and RFI shielding. 
     A related object is to provide a connector of the character described that establishes a decent ground during installation of the male connector to the various types of threaded female connections even though applied torque may fail to meet specifications. 
     Another essential object is to establish a proper ground electrical path with a socket even where the male connector is not fully torqued to the proper settings. 
     Another important object is to minimize resistive losses in a coaxial cable junction. 
     A still further object is to provide a connector suitable for use with demanding large, bandwidth systems approximating three GHz. 
     A related object is to provide an F-connector ideally adapted for home satellite systems distributing multiple high definition television channels. 
     Another important object is to provide a connector of the character described that is weather proof and moisture resistant. 
     Another important object is to provide a compression F-connector of the character described that can be safely and properly installed without deformation of critical parts during final compression. 
     These and other objects and advantages of the present invention, along with features of novelty appurtenant thereto, will appear or become apparent in the course of the following descriptive sections. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The present invention is described with reference to the accompanying figures. These figures, incorporated herein and forming part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, further serve to explain its principles enabling a person skilled in the relevant art to make and use the invention. 
         FIG. 1  is a frontal isometric view of a typical coaxial connector in which grounding inserts are used. 
         FIG. 2  is a rear isometric view of the connector of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is an exploded, longitudinal sectional view of the connector of  FIGS. 1 and 2  showing the first embodiment of our grounding insert. 
         FIG. 4  is an enlarged, fragmentary assembly view of the connector of  FIGS. 1-3  showing the first embodiment of our grounding insert, with portions thereof broken away or shown in section for clarity. 
         FIG. 5  is an enlarged end view of a first embodiment of our grounding insert. 
         FIG. 6  is an enlarged, side elevational view of the grounding insert of  FIGS. 3-5 . 
         FIG. 7  is an enlarged, isometric view of the grounding insert of  FIGS. 3-6 . 
         FIG. 8  is an exploded, longitudinal sectional view of a connector such as that of  FIGS. 1-2 , showing the second embodiment of our grounding insert. 
         FIG. 9  is an enlarged, fragmentary assembly view showing the grounding insert of  FIG. 8 , with portions thereof broken away or shown in section for clarity. 
         FIG. 10  is an end view of the second embodiment of our grounding insert. 
         FIG. 11  is a side elevational view of the second embodiment of our grounding insert. 
         FIG. 12  is an isometric view of the second embodiment of out grounding insert of  FIGS. 10 and 11 . 
         FIG. 13  is an enlarged sectional view similar to  FIG. 9 , but showing the connector threadably mated to a threaded socket. 
         FIGS. 14A-D  illustrate a first polygonal grounding insert. 
         FIG. 14E  shows an enlarged view of  FIG. 14B . 
         FIGS. 15A-D  illustrate a second polygonal insert. 
         FIG. 15E  shows the grounding insert of  FIG. 15C  installed in a first connector. 
         FIG. 15F  shows the grounding insert of  FIG. 15C  installed in a second connector. 
         FIGS. 16A-D  illustrate a first transverse tab cylindrical insert. 
         FIGS. 17A-D  illustrate a second transverse tab cylindrical insert. 
         FIGS. 18A-E  illustrate transverse tab post engagements. 
         FIGS. 19A-D  illustrate a first parallel tab cylindrical insert. 
         FIGS. 20A-D  illustrate a second parallel tab cylindrical insert. 
         FIGS. 21A-E  illustrate parallel tab post engagements. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     Coaxial cable F-connectors are well known in the art. The basic constituents of the coaxial connector of  FIGS. 1 and 2  are described in detail, for example, in prior U.S. Pat. No. 7,841,896 entitled “Sealed compression type coaxial cable F-connectors”, issued Nov. 30, 2010, and in prior U.S. Pat. No. 7,513,795, entitled “Compression type coaxial cable F-connectors”, issued Apr. 7, 2009, which are both owned by the same assignee as in the instant case, and which are both hereby incorporated by reference for purposes of disclosure as if fully set forth herein. However, it will be appreciated by those with skill in the art that coaxial cable connectors of other designs may be employed with the grounding inserts described hereinafter. 
     Referring initially to  FIGS. 1-4  of the appended drawings, a coaxial F-connector has been generally designated by the reference numeral  20 . As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, connector  20  is a compressible F-connector, that is axially squeezed together longitudinally when secured to a coaxial cable. As is also recognized in the art, connector  20  is adapted to terminate an end of a properly prepared coaxial cable, which is properly inserted through the open bottom end  22  of the connector  20 . Afterwards, the connector is placed within a suitable compression hand tool for compression, assuming the closed configuration of  FIGS. 1 and 2  and making electrical contact with the cable. 
     Connector  20  comprises a rigid, tubular, metallic nut  24  with a conventional faceted, preferably hexagonal drive head  26  integral with a protruding, coaxial stem  28 . Nut  24  is torqued during installation. Conventional, internal threads  30  are defined in the stem interior for rotatably, threadably mating with a suitably-threaded socket. The open, tubular front end  21  connects through the open interior to a reduced diameter rear passageway  34  at the back of nut  24 . Circular passageway  34  concentrically borders an annular, non-threaded, internal ring groove  36  that borders an internal shoulder  37  (see  FIG. 3 ) proximate passageway  34 . 
     An elongated post  40  rotatably, coaxially passes through the hex headed nut  24 . In most F-connector designs the metallic post  40  establishes electrical contact between the braid of the coax and the metallic nut  24 . The tubular post  40  defines an elongated shank  41  with a coaxial, internal passageway  42  extending between its front  43  and rear  44 . Shank  41  may or may not have barbs formed on it for engaging coaxial cable. A front, annular flange  46  ( FIG. 3 ) is spaced apart from an integral, reduced diameter flange  48 , across a ring groove  50 . A conventional, resilient O-ring  52  is preferably seated within post groove  50  when the connector  20  is assembled. O-ring  52  is preferably made of a silicone elastomer. A barbed, collar  54  having multiple, external barbs  56  is press fitted into the plastic body  60  described below. In assembly it is noted that post flange  46  (i.e.,  FIGS. 3, 4 ) axially contacts inner shoulder  37  ( FIG. 4 ) within nut  24 . Inner post flange  48  and the O-ring  52  are coaxially, frictionally disposed within passageway  34  at the rear of nut  24 . 
     The rear tapered end  44  of post shank  41  penetrates the prepared end of the coaxial cable, such that the inner, insulated coaxial cable conductor penetrates passageway  42  and enters the front  21  of the nut  24 . Also, the braided shield of the coax is positioned around the exterior of post shank  41 , making electrical contact, and hopefully establishing a good ground, or continuity between the coaxial cable sheath, the post  40 , and the nut  24 . 
     An elongated, hollow, tubular body  60 , normally molded from plastic, is coupled to the post  40 . Body  60  preferably comprises a tubular stop ring  62  that is integral with a reduced diameter body shank  64 . The elongated, outer periphery  66  of shank  64  is smooth and cylindrical. The larger diameter stop ring  62  has an annular, rear wall  68  that is coaxial with shank  64 . Ring  62  defines an internal passageway  70  through which the post  40  is inserted. In assembly, the barbed post collar  54  is frictionally seated within body passageway  70 . 
     An end cap  76  is pressed unto body  60 , coaxially engaging the body shank  64 . The rigid, preferably metallic end cap  76  smoothly, frictionally grips body shank  64 , with maximum travel or displacement limited by stop ring  62 . In other words, when the end cap  76  is compressed unto the body  60 , and the connector  20  assumes a closed position (i.e.,  FIG. 2 ), annular wall  63  on the body stop ring  62  will limit deflection or travel of the end cap  76 . Preferably the open end  78  of the end cap includes internally barbed region  79  that couples to the shank  64  of the body  60 . When the body  60  and the cap  76  are compressed together, body travel is limited within cap passageway  82  by contact with internal cap shoulder  85 . The reduced diameter passageway  88  is sized to receive coaxial cable, which is inserted through the flared opening  89 . An outer ring groove  90  at the cap rear can seat a desired 0-ring. 
     In most F-connectors, grounding or continuity is established by mechanical and electrical contact points between abutting, conductive, metallic parts. Noting  FIGS. 3 and 4 , for example, normal grounding should occur between nut shoulder  37  and post flange  46 . The coaxial cable sheath bearing against the post shank  41  would thus electrically interconnect with the post and the nut  24 , which would in turn establish electrical contact with the socket to which nut  24  is attached. However, grounding or continuity depend on proper tightening of the nut  24 . In the real world, installers often neglect to properly tighten the nut, so less internal, mechanical pressure is available within the F-connector to urge the parts discussed above into abutting, conductive contact. 
     Therefore our electrical grounding inserts have been proposed. The first embodiment of our insert is generally designated by the reference numeral  100  ( FIGS. 5-7 .) 
     Ground insert  100  comprises an annular, circular band  102  of beryllium copper alloy. Means are provided for contacting and grasping the post flange, and for contacting the nut interior. Insert ends  103  and  104  border one another across a gap  105 . As best viewed in  FIG. 6 , the band midsection  108  is substantially equal in diameter to the opposite, integral spaced apart band edges  109  and  111 . It will be noted that a plurality of radially, spaced apart clips  112  are formed at regular intervals along the circumference of the band  102 . Preferably clips  112  project inwardly towards the center of the band  102 . 
     In assembly, the grounding insert  100  coaxially surmounts the post  40 . Specifically, the band  102  coaxially seats upon post flange  46  which is securely grasped at multiple points by the clips  112 . Insert resilience is provided by a combination of the natural “springiness” of the beryllium copper alloy, the gap  105 , and the multiple clips  112  that yieldably grasp the periphery of post flange  46 . Electrical contact between the insert and the post is thus insured by clips  112 . Electric contact between the insert  100  and the nut  24  is insured by the band  102  coaxially seated within annular ring groove  36  ( FIG. 3 ) and the clip end  111  ( FIG. 6 ) that internally abuts nut shoulder  37  (i.e.,  FIGS. 3, 4 ). 
     The alternative embodiment is seen in  FIGS. 8-12 . Alternative F-connector  23 , is externally identical with connector  20 , discussed above. However, connector  23  includes a modified grounding insert  130  described hereinafter. Like connector  20 , the alternative connector  23  comprises a nut  24 , a post  40 , a body  60  and an end cap  76 , all of which are described above. 
     Ground insert  130  comprises means for contacting and grasping the post flange, and for contacting the nut interior. Insert  130  comprises a tubular band  132  of beryllium copper alloy for contacting and grasping the post flange. The cross section of insert  130  is circular. Ends  133  and  134  border one another across a gap  135 . Band  132  is integral with a flared, skirt  138  characterized by a polygonal cross section ( FIG. 10 ). Like a regular polygon, skirt  138  comprises a plurality of vertices  140  and a plurality of facets  142 . The diameter of skirt  138  is maximum, and equal to the diameter of band  132 , between opposed vertices (i.e., between vertices  140  and  140 A in  FIG. 10 ). The gently curved facets establish a smaller internal diameter. For example, the distance between opposite facets  142  and  142 A in  FIG. 10 , corresponding to minimal skirt diameter, is less than the distance between vertices  140  and  140 A. 
     Preferably, band  132  is provided with a plurality of radially, spaced apart clips  112 B like clips  112  previously described that are defined around insert  100 . In assembly, clips  112 B make contact with the post flange  46  within the ring groove  36 B. 
     In assembly ( FIG. 9 ), the front  145  of grounding insert  130  points exteriorly of the connector  23  towards nut  24 . The insert rear  146  ( FIG. 11 ) points inwardly. Band  132  coaxially seats upon a post flange  46  and yieldably grasps the periphery of the flange to establish electrical contact with the post. In assembly, band  132  occupies space between flange post  46  and internal annular ring groove  36  in nut  24 . Skirt vertices  140  abut the annular ring groove  36 B (i.e.,  FIGS. 8, 9 ) in the nut. It is to be noted that ring groove  36 B is longer than similar groove  36  in connector  20 , as the insert  130  is longer than insert  100 . 
     Further electrical continuity is established by skirt contact with the socket or terminal to which the connector is coupled. Referencing  FIG. 13 , the connector has engaged a conventional socket  150  that includes the typical external threads  152 . When the connector is attached, the skirt facets, such as facets  142 ,  142 A will externally contact a portion of the socket threads to help establish continuity between the socket  152  and the connector. 
     Insert resilience is provided by a combination of the natural “springiness” of the beryllium copper alloy, the gap  135 , and the multiple facets  142  and vertices  140  of the skirt configuration. Electrical contact between the insert  130  and the post  40  is thus insured. Electric contact between the insert  130  and the nut  24  is also maintained. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 14A-E , use of a first polygonal grounding insert  1400 A-E is shown. Similar to the connector parts described above, parts of a connector such as an F-Type coaxial cable connector include a nut  241 , a post  401 , and grounding member  1402 . In some embodiments, first and second post flanges  461 ,  481  define a ring groove therebetween  501  near a post front end  431 . When assembled, the nut encircles the post flanges and the grounding insert is interposed between the post and the nut. 
       FIGS. 14C and 14D  show insert end and side views respectively  1400 C,  1400 D. As shown in the end view, the insert  1402  has a generally polygonal cross-section and as shown in the side view, the insert has a width “w 1 ” and a height “h 1 .” In various embodiments w 1  is selected such that the insert is accommodated by the nut internal ring groove  361 . 
     This first polygonal grounding insert  1402  has three (3) or more sides (six are shown), each side being formed between adjacent corners such as rounded or angular corners. For example, a side  1410  is located between adjacent corners  1405 ,  1407  and each side includes outer and inner side surface  1404 ,  1406 . In some embodiments, the insert cross-section is broken  1408 , for example broken at a corner (as shown). And, in some embodiments the insert cross-section is continuous with no break (not shown). 
       FIG. 14B  shows an end view of the assembled connector parts  1400 B. Here, the insert  1402  encircles a post flange such as the forward post flange  461 . In various embodiments, the insert is configured to grasp a post flange periphery such as a radial periphery  471  of the forward post flange  461 . And, in various embodiments, the insert conforms to a portion of the post  463 . 
     Referring also to  FIG. 14E , a six sided insert  1400 E has six sides  1410  and six corners  1405  forming substantially a six sided polygon with a break in the insert at one of the corners  1408 . Post chamfering and/or insert flaring may be used to ease assembly of the insert onto the radial periphery  471  of the forward post flange  461 . In various embodiments, the insert break  1408  opens up as the insert is fitted to the post flange and central portions  1423  of insert sides bulge from force exerted by a mating arc-shaped segment of the post  1422  indicated by an angle  1421 . 
     As skilled artisans will appreciate, electrically conductive inserts provide a ground path between the post and the nut when portion(s) of the insert contact the nut and the post. For example, one or more of insert inner surfaces  1406  and edges  1441 ,  1451  contact the post  401  and one or more of insert outer surfaces  1404  and edges  1441 ,  1451  contact the nut  241  completing an electrical circuit between the post and the nut. In various embodiments, insert corners  1405  contact the nut such as contact with a nut cylindrical inner face  361  adjacent to a nut inner annular shoulder  371 . As shown, some embodiments provide for insert end  1431 ,  1432  contact with the nut, for example at the nut groove  361 . 
     In another embodiment,  FIGS. 15A-F  include use of a second polygonal grounding insert  1500 A-F. Similar to the connector parts described above, parts of a connector such as an F-Type coaxial cable connector include a nut  241 , a post  401 , and grounding member  1502 . In some embodiments, first and second post flanges  461 ,  481  define a ring groove therebetween  501  near a post front end  431 . When assembled, the nut encircles the post flanges and the grounding insert is interposed between the post and the nut. 
       FIGS. 15C and 15D  show insert end and side views respectively  1500 C,  1500 D. As shown in the end view, the insert  1502  has a generally polygonal cross-section and as shown in the side view, the insert has a width “w 2 ” and a height “h 2 .” In various embodiments w 2  is selected such that the insert is accommodated by the nut internal ring groove  361 . 
     This first polygonal grounding insert  1502  has three (3) or more sides together with an open side  1508  (five sides plus an open side are shown). Each side is formed between adjacent corners such as rounded or angular corners. For example, a side  1510  is located between adjacent corners  1505 ,  1507  and each side includes outer and inner side surface  1504 ,  1506 . 
       FIG. 15B  shows an end view of the assembled connector parts  1500 B. Here, the insert  1502  encircles a post flange such as the forward post flange  461 . In various embodiments, the insert is configured to grasp a post flange periphery such as a radial periphery  471  of the forward post flange  461 . And, in various embodiments, the insert conforms to a portion of the post  463  in a manner similar to that described in connection with  FIG. 14E . 
     As skilled artisans will appreciate, electrically conductive inserts provide a ground path between the post and the nut when portion(s) of the insert contact the nut and the post. For example, one or more of insert inner surfaces  1506  and edges  1541 ,  1551  contact the post  401  and one or more of insert outer surfaces  1504  and edges  1541 ,  1551  contact the nut  241  completing an electrical circuit between the post and the nut. In various embodiments, insert corners  1505  contact the nut such as contact with a nut cylindrical inner face  361  adjacent to a nut inner annular shoulder  371 . As shown, some embodiments provide for insert end  1531 ,  1532  contact with the nut, for example at the nut groove  361 . 
       FIG. 15E  shows a second polygonal grounding insert installed in a male F-Type connector  1500 E. The connector includes a fastener or nut  1560 , a post  1562 , a body  1561 , an outer shell  1563 , and a cable fixation plug  1565 . The grounding insert  1502  is located by a ring groove  1566  of the nut. 
     As shown, a forward end of the post includes a first stepped flange  1572  and a spaced apart second flange  1570 , and a post groove  1571  therebetween. A nut rear annular wall  1568  engages the stepped flange and spans across the post groove. In some embodiments, a leading right angle corner of the nut annular wall  1575  is adjacent to and/or abuts a sloped flange step  1573 . Electrical conductivity between the nut and the post is enhanced by use of an electrically conductive grounding insert that contacts both the nut and the post. For example, as described in connection with  FIGS. 15A-D  above and/or when corners of the insert contact the nut ring groove  1566  while inside surfaces of the insert  1579  contact a radial periphery  1577  of the post flange  1572 . 
       FIG. 15F  shows a second polygonal grounding insert installed in another male F-Type connector  1500 F. The connector includes a fastener or nut  1580 , a post  1582 , a body  1581 , an outer shell  1583 , and a cable fixation plug  1585 . The grounding insert  1502  is located by a ring groove  1586  of the nut. 
     As shown, a forward end of the post includes a stepped flange  1592 . A nut internal annular wall  1588  engages the stepped flange and a nut trailing hood  1589  overhangs a body end shoulder  1591  to form a cavity  1590 , for example a cavity for locating a seal such as an O-Ring seal  1587  that seals between the nut hood and the body shoulder. In some embodiments, a leading right angle corner of the nut annular wall  1595  is adjacent to and/or abuts a sloped flange step  1593 . Embodiments enhance electrical conductivity between the nut and the post using an electrically conductive grounding insert that contacts both the nut and the post. For example, as described in connection with  FIGS. 15A-D  above and/or when corners of the insert contact the nut ring groove  1586  while inside surfaces  1599  of the insert contact a radial periphery  1597  of the post flange  1592 . 
     As skilled artisans will appreciate, the connectors of  FIGS. 15E-F  may, in other embodiments, incorporate other ones of the grounding inserts described herein. 
     In another embodiment,  FIGS. 16A-D  use of a first cylindrical grounding insert with transverse tabs  1600 A-D. Similar to the connector parts described above, parts of a connector such as an F-Type coaxial cable connector include a nut  241 , a post  401 , and grounding member  1602 . In some embodiments, first and second post flanges  461 ,  481  define a ring groove therebetween  501  near a post front end  431 . When assembled, the nut encircles the post flanges and the grounding insert is interposed between the post and the nut. 
       FIGS. 16C and 16D  show insert end and side views respectively  1600 C,  1600 D. In the end view, outer and inner band sides  1684 ,  1686  are shown. And, as shown in the end view, the insert  1602  has a generally circular cross-section and as shown in the side view, the insert has a width “w 3 ” defined by edges  1641  and  1651  and a height “h 3 .” In various embodiments w 3  is selected such that the insert is accommodated by the nut internal ring groove  361 . In some embodiments, the insert cross-section is broken  1608  (as shown). And, in some embodiments the insert cross-section is continuous with no break (not shown). 
     This first cylindrical grounding insert  1602  has a width w 3  a height h 3 , and includes a plurality of transverse tabs  1660  (four shown). As shown in  FIGS. 16C-D , the tabs are transverse with respect to adjacent grounding insert edges  1641 ,  1651  of the grounding insert and transverse with respect to a connector radial or y-y axis. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 16C-D , the tabs are transverse with respect to grounding insert edges  1641 ,  1651  and are evenly spaced around an insert circumference. In various embodiments, the tabs extend toward the axis and in various embodiments the tabs extend away from the axis. 
     As shown, the insert tabs  1660  extend toward the x-x axis. While generally rectangular tabs are shown, any suitable shape may be selected. For example, a tab shape may be selected to mate with a particular post shape such as a generally cylindrical post flange peripheral face  471 . As shown, a rectangular tab  1660  shape is formed when the rectangular tab is severed from adjacent material along three sides leaving a fourth un-severed side or bend line  1669  that supports the tab. 
     Tabs  1660  may be evenly spaced or irregularly spaced around the insert  1602  circumference. Tab width w 4  is limited by insert width w 3  while tab height h 4  is influenced by required tab deflection  1671  and resilience given insert material geometry and properties. In the embodiment of  FIG. 16C , tabs have a circumferential measure indicated by angle “a 1 ” and tabs are separated by an angle “a 2 ” such that four tabs are evenly arranged around the circumference of the insert. 
       FIG. 16B  shows an end view of the assembled connector parts  1600 B. Here, the insert  1602  encircles a post flange such as the forward post flange  461 . In various embodiments, the insert is configured to grasp a post flange periphery such as a radial periphery  471  of the forward post flange  461 . And, in various embodiments, the tabs conform with a portion of the post  1675 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 16C , the circular insert  1600 C provides a means for a somewhat circular engagement and is severed along a transverse line to create a break  1608 . The break enables the band to resiliently open and close about a mating object encircled by the insert. Post chamfering and/or insert flaring may be used to ease assembly of the insert onto the radial periphery  471  of the forward post flange  461 . In various embodiments, the insert break  1608  opens up as the insert is fitted to the post flange and the insert tabs contact and exert a force on post portions such as the radial periphery of the forward post flange  471 . 
     As skilled artisans will appreciate, electrically conductive inserts provide a ground path between the post and the nut when portion(s) of the insert contact the nut and the post. For example, one or more of tabs  1660  contact the post  401  and while insert outer surface(s)  1684  contact the nut  241  and complete an electrical circuit between the post and the nut. In some embodiments, insert edges  1641 ,  1651  contact one or more parts of the connector such as the nut inner shoulder  371  adjacent to the nut inner groove  361 . And, in some embodiments, insert ends  1631  and  1632  contact the nut as shown in  FIG. 16B . In various exemplary embodiments, the tabs  1660  may be termed fingers. In various exemplary embodiments, the nut inner shoulder  371  may be termed a fastener backwall. 
     In another embodiment,  FIGS. 17A-D  show a second cylindrical grounding insert with transverse tabs  1700 A-D. Similar to the connector parts described above, parts of a connector such as an F-Type coaxial cable connector include a nut  241 , a post  401 , and grounding member  1702 . In some embodiments, first and second post flanges  461 ,  481  define a ring groove therebetween  501  near a post front end  431 . When assembled, the nut encircles the post flanges and the grounding insert is interposed between the post and the nut. 
       FIGS. 17C and 17D  show insert end and side views respectively  1700 C,  1700 D. As shown in the end view, the insert  1702  has a generally circular cross-section and as shown in the side view, the insert has a width “w 5 ” defined by edges  1741  and  1751  and a height “h 5 .” In various embodiments w 5  is selected such that the insert is accommodated by the nut internal ring groove  361 . In some embodiments, the insert cross-section is broken  1708 , for example broken at a corner exposing opposed insert ends  1731 ,  1732  (as shown). And, in some embodiments the insert cross-section is continuous with no break (not shown). 
     This first cylindrical grounding insert  1702  has outer and inner sides  1784 ,  1786 , a width w 5 , a height h 5 , and includes a plurality of transverse tabs  1760  (four shown). As shown in  FIGS. 17C-D , the tabs are transverse with respect to the edges  1741 ,  1751  of the grounding insert and transverse with respect to a connector radial or y-y axis. In various embodiments, the tabs extend toward the x-x axis and in various embodiments the tabs extend away from the x-x axis. 
     As shown, the insert tabs  1760  extend toward the x-x axis. While generally rectangular tabs are shown, any suitable shape may be selected. For example, a tab shape may be selected to mate with a particular post shape such as a generally cylindrical post flange peripheral face  471 . As shown, a rectangular tab  1760  shape is formed when the rectangular tab is severed from adjacent material along three sides leaving a fourth un-severed side or bend line  1769  that supports the tab. 
     Tabs  1760  may be evenly spaced or irregularly spaced around the insert  1702  circumference. Tab width w 6  is limited by insert width w 5  while tab height h 6  is influenced by required tab deflection  1771  and resilience given insert material geometry and properties. In the embodiment of  FIG. 17C , tabs have a circumferential measure indicated by angle “a 3 ” and tabs are separated by an angle approximated as “a 4 ” such that four tabs are evenly arranged around the circumference of the insert. 
       FIG. 17B  shows an end view of the assembled connector parts  1700 B. Here, the insert  1702  encircles a post flange such as the forward post flange  461 . In various embodiments, the insert is configured to grasp a post flange periphery such as a radial periphery  471  of the forward post flange  461 . And, in various embodiments, the tabs contact a portion of the post  1775 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 17C , the circular insert  1700 C provides a means for a somewhat circular engagement and is severed along a transverse line to create a gap  1708 . As shown, a measure of the gap is approximated by angle a 4  measured between adjacent tabs. This gap enables the band to resiliently expand and contract about a mating object encircled by the insert. Post chamfering and/or insert flaring may be used to ease assembly of the insert onto the radial periphery  471  of the forward post flange  461 . In various embodiments, the insert gap  1708  opens up as the insert is fitted to the post flange and the insert tabs contact and exert a force on post portions such as the radial periphery of the forward post flange  471 . 
     As skilled artisans will appreciate, electrically conductive inserts provide a ground path between the post and the nut when portion(s) of the insert contact the nut and the post. For example, one or more of tabs  1760  contact the post  401  and while insert outer surface(s)  1784  contact the nut  241  and complete an electrical circuit between the post and the nut. In some embodiments, insert edges  1741 ,  1751  contact one or more parts of the connector such as the nut inner shoulder  371  adjacent to the nut inner groove  361 . 
       FIGS. 18A-E  show alternative transverse grounding insert tab designs  1800 A-E. In each figure, a nut  241  encircles a grounding insert  1811 - 1815  and a post  1831 - 1835 . Each grounding insert includes a respective transverse tab  1871 - 1875  and a respective tab wiper  1851 - 1855 . 
     As the figures show, the tab wipers  1851 - 1855  slidingly engage flanges of respective posts  1831 - 1835 . In particular, the wipers  1851 - 1855  engage respective post radial peripheries  1821 - 1825 . 
       FIG. 18A  shows a radial post periphery that singly sloped rearwardly  1821  and which is engaged by a “v” shaped tab wiper  1851 .  FIG. 18B  shows a radial post periphery that is singly sloped forwardly  1822  and which is engaged by a “v” shaped tab wiper  1852 .  FIG. 18C  shows a radial post periphery that is doubly sloped to form a peak  1823  and which is engaged by an “n” shaped (rotated “v”) tab wiper  1853 .  FIG. 18D  shows a radial post periphery that is notched  1824  and which is engaged by a “v” shaped tab wiper  1854 .  FIG. 18E  shows a radial post periphery that is grooved  1825  and which is engaged by a “u” shaped tab wiper  1855 . 
     As skilled artisans will appreciate, the post engagement designs of  FIG. 18A-E  provide improved grounding performance. In particular, the grounding insert tab wipers and mating radial post peripheries enhance grounding using enlarged post flange contact zones and biased engagements. 
     In another embodiment,  FIGS. 19A-D  show a first cylindrical grounding insert with parallel tabs  1900 A-D. Similar to the connector parts described above, parts of a connector such as an F-Type coaxial cable connector include a nut  241 , a post  401 , and grounding insert member  1902 . In some embodiments, first and second post flanges  461 ,  481  define a ring groove therebetween  501  near a post front end  431 . When assembled, the nut encircles the post flange(s) and the grounding insert is interposed between the post and the nut. 
       FIGS. 19C and 19D  show insert end and side views respectively  1900 C,  1900 D. As shown in the end view, the insert  1902  has a generally circular cross-section with generally opposed ends  1931 ,  1932 . In the side view, the insert has a width “w 7 ” defined by edges  1941  and  1951  and a height “h 7 ” In various embodiments w 7  is selected such that the insert is accommodated by the nut internal ring groove  361 . In some embodiments, the insert cross-section is broken  1908  (as shown). And, in some embodiments the insert cross-section is continuous with no break (not shown). 
     This first cylindrical grounding insert  1902  has a width w 7  a height h 7 , and includes a plurality of parallel tabs  1960 . As shown in  FIGS. 19C-D , the tabs are parallel to the edges  1941 ,  1951  of the grounding insert and parallel to a connector radial or y-y axis. In various embodiments, the tabs extend toward the x-x axis and in various embodiments the tabs extend away from the x-x axis. 
     As shown, the insert tabs  1960  extend toward the x-x axis. While generally rectangular tabs are shown, any suitable shape may be selected. For example, a tab shape may be selected to mate with a particular post shape such as a generally cylindrical post flange peripheral face  471 . As shown, a rectangular tab  1960  shape is formed when the rectangular tab is severed from adjacent material along three sides leaving a fourth un-severed side or bend line  1969  that supports the tab. 
     Tabs  1960  may be evenly spaced or irregularly spaced around the insert  1902  circumference. Tab width w 8  is limited by insert width w 7  while tab height h 8  is influenced by required tab deflection  1971  and resilience given insert material geometry and properties. In the embodiment of  FIG. 19C , tabs have a circumferential measure indicated by angle “a 5 ” and tabs are separated by an angle “a 6 ” such that four tabs are evenly arranged around the circumference of the insert. 
       FIG. 19B  shows an end view of the assembled connector parts  1900 B. Here, the insert  1902  encircles a post flange such as the forward post flange  461 . In various embodiments, the insert is configured to grasp a post flange periphery such as a radial periphery  471  of the forward post flange  461 . And, in various embodiments, the tabs contact a portion of the post  1975 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 19C , the circular insert  1902  provides a means for a somewhat circular engagement and is severed along a transverse line to create a break  1908 . This break enables the band to resiliently expand and contract about a mating object encircled by the insert. Post chamfering and/or insert flaring may be used to ease assembly of the insert onto the radial periphery  471  of the forward post flange  461 . In various embodiments, the insert break  1908  opens up as the insert is fitted to the post flange and the insert tabs contact and exert a force on post portions such as the radial periphery of the forward post flange  471 . 
     As skilled artisans will appreciate, electrically conductive inserts provide a ground path between the post and the nut when portion(s) of the insert contact the nut and the post. For example, one or more of tabs  1960  contact the post  401  and while insert outer surface(s)  1984  contact the nut  241  and complete an electrical circuit between the post and the nut. In some embodiments, insert edges  1941 ,  1951  contact one or more parts of the connector such as the nut inner shoulder  371  adjacent to the nut inner groove  361 . 
     In another embodiment,  FIGS. 20A-D  show a second cylindrical grounding insert with parallel tabs  2000 A-D. Similar to the connector parts described above, parts of a connector such as an F-Type coaxial cable connector include a nut  241 , a post  401 , and grounding insert member  2002 . In some embodiments, first and second post flanges  461 ,  481  define a ring groove therebetween  501  near a post front end  431 . When assembled, the nut encircles the post flange(s) and the grounding insert is interposed between the post and the nut. 
       FIGS. 20C and 20D  show insert end and side views respectively  2000 C,  2000 D. As shown in the end view, the insert  2002  has a generally circular cross-section with outer  2084  and inner  2086  sides. As shown in the side view, the insert has a width “w 9 ” defined by edges  2041  and  2051  and a height “h 9 .” In various embodiments w 9  is selected such that the insert is accommodated by the nut internal ring groove  361 . In some embodiments, the insert cross-section is open with a gap  2008  (as shown) with ends  2031 ,  2032 . And, in some embodiments the insert cross-section is continuous with no gap (not shown). 
     This first cylindrical grounding insert  2002  has a width w 9  a height h 9 , and includes a plurality of parallel tabs  2060 . As shown in  FIGS. 20C-D , the tabs are parallel to the edges  2041 ,  2051  of the grounding insert and parallel to a connector radial or y-y axis. In various embodiments, the tabs extend toward the x-x axis and in various embodiments the tabs extend away from the x-x axis. 
     As shown, the insert tabs  2060  extend toward the x-x axis. While generally rectangular tabs are shown, any suitable shape may be selected. For example, a tab shape may be selected to mate with a particular post shape such as a generally cylindrical post flange peripheral face  471 . As shown, a rectangular tab  2060  shape is formed when the rectangular tab is severed from adjacent material along three sides leaving a fourth un-severed side or bend line  2069  that supports the tab. 
     Tabs  2060  may be evenly spaced or irregularly spaced around the insert  2002  circumference. Tab width w 10  is limited by insert width w 9  while tab height h 10  is influenced by required tab deflection  2071  and resilience given insert material geometry and properties. In the embodiment of  FIG. 20C , tabs have a circumferential measure indicated by angle “a 7 ” and tabs are separated by an angle “a 8 ” such that four tabs are evenly arranged around the circumference of the insert. 
       FIG. 20B  shows an end view of the assembled connector parts  2000 B. Here, the insert  2002  encircles a post flange such as the forward post flange  461 . In various embodiments, the insert is configured to grasp a post flange periphery such as a radial periphery  471  of the forward post flange  461 . And, in various embodiments, the tabs conform with a portion of the post  2075 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 20C , the circular insert  2002  provides a means for a somewhat circular engagement and is open with a gap  2008 . As shown, a measure of the gap is approximated by an angle a 8  measured between adjacent tabs. This gap enables the band to resiliently expand and contract about a mating object encircled by the insert. Post chamfering and/or insert flaring may be used to ease assembly of the insert onto the radial periphery  471  of the forward post flange  461 . In various embodiments, the insert gap  2008  opens up as the insert is fitted to the post flange and the insert tabs contact and exert a force on post portions such as the radial periphery of the forward post flange  471 . 
     As skilled artisans will appreciate, electrically conductive inserts provide a ground path between the post and the nut when portion(s) of the insert contact the nut and the post. For example, one or more of tabs  2060  contact the post  401  and while insert outer surface(s)  2084  contact the nut  241  and complete an electrical circuit between the post and the nut. In some embodiments, insert edges  2041 ,  2051  contact one or more parts of the connector such as the nut inner shoulder  371  adjacent to the nut inner groove  361 . 
       FIGS. 21A-E  show alternative transverse grounding insert tab designs  2100 A-E. In each figure, a nut  241  encircles a grounding insert  2111 - 2115  and a post  2131 - 2135 . Each grounding insert includes a respective parallel tab  2171 - 2175  and a respective tab wiper  2151 - 2155 . 
     As the figures show, tab wipers  2151 - 2155  slidingly engage respective post flanges  2131 - 2135 . In particular, the wipers  2151 - 2155  engage respective post flange radial peripheries  2121 - 2125 . 
       FIG. 21A  shows a radial post periphery that is singly sloped rearwardly  2121  and which is engaged by a mating rearwardly sloped tab wiper  2151 .  FIG. 21B  shows a radial post periphery that is singly sloped forwardly  2122  and which is engaged by a mating forwardly sloped tab wiper  2152 .  FIG. 21C  shows a radial post periphery that is doubly sloped to form a peak  2123  and which is engaged by a mating doubly sloped or somewhat “n” shaped tab wiper  2153 .  FIG. 21D  shows a radial post periphery that is notched or grooved  2124  and which is engaged by a mating “v” shaped tab wiper  2154 .  FIG. 21E  shows a radial post periphery that is notched or grooved  2125  and which is engaged by a mating “u” shaped tab wiper  2155 . 
     As skilled artisans will appreciate, the post engagement designs of  FIG. 21A-E  provide improved grounding performance. In particular, the grounding insert tab wipers and mating radial post peripheries enhance grounding using, for example, enlarged post flange contact zones and biased engagements. 
     While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in the form and details can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. As such, the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and equivalents thereof.