Patent Description:
Within the technical field of microwave frequency connectors there exist male contact pins designed to solder onto printed circuit boards (PCBs). These contact pins are metallic and are generally surrounded by a plastic insulator and a metallic housing providing a connector pin assembly. The connector pin assemblies can be coupled by various methods including a push-on design. The contact pins are a key component in the transmission of the electrical signal. There are instances where, due to tolerance stack and PCBs that are not flat, the connector needs to overcome large variable distances and still maintain good performance at high frequencies. Accordingly, efforts have been focused on developing connector pin assemblies incorporating so-called "floating" contact pins, which axially move bidirectionally to accommodate the non-uniformity of a PCB's surface flatness. However, the axial movement of the contact pins has to be restrained in both directions to allow the contact pin to be retained in the carrier or header; and to work, the restraints must be diametrically larger than the inside diameter of a passage in the carrier or header. The difficulty in assembly of the connector pin assembly involves inserting a contact pin with two restraints through a passage when the restraints are larger than the passage, and doing so without damaging the carrier or header. This is especially difficult with connector pin assemblies incorporating multiple contact pins.

Referring to <FIG>, a conventional floating pin assembly <NUM> is illustrated. A single pin arrangement is shown in <FIG>, and a multi-pin arrangement is shown in <FIG>. In <FIG>, each pin <NUM> is shown installed through a hole <NUM> in a carrier <NUM>. The pin <NUM> is typically manufactured of an electrically conductive material, for example a metal, while the carrier <NUM> is typically manufactured of a dielectric material such that the carrier <NUM> may act as an insulator to the pin <NUM>. The carrier <NUM> may also be referred to as a header. To allow the pin <NUM> to "float", the pin <NUM> has a shaft <NUM> with a smaller outside diameter than an inside diameter of the hole <NUM>. In this way, the shaft <NUM> may freely slide in the hole <NUM>, thereby allowing the pin <NUM> to axially move. However, it is necessary to limit the amount of bidirectional axial movement of the pin <NUM> to maintain the pin <NUM> within the carrier <NUM>. To provide such bidirectional limitation, the pin <NUM> has two integral restraints, a first restraint <NUM>, to limit the axial movement of the pin <NUM> in a first direction, and a second restraint <NUM> to limit the axial movement of the pin <NUM> in a second direction.

The first restraint <NUM> and the second restraint <NUM> extend radially outwardly from the surface of the shaft <NUM>. However, to be able to limit the axial movement of the pin <NUM>, both the first restraint <NUM> and the second restraint <NUM> must extend radially outwardly from the shaft <NUM> to a circumferential periphery beyond the outside diameter of the hole <NUM>. Typically, both the first restraint <NUM> and the second restraint <NUM> are formed monolithically with and as part of the pin <NUM>. Because of the requisite size and the monolithic construction of the pin <NUM>, one of the first restraint <NUM> or second restraint <NUM> must be inserted in the carrier <NUM> by forcing it through the hole <NUM> during assembly of the floating pin assembly <NUM>. Accordingly, one or both of the first restraint <NUM> and second restraint <NUM> may have a rounded or angled edge or surface to facilitate such insertion. As can be seen in <FIG>, the first restraint <NUM> has an angled surface <NUM>, indicating that the pin <NUM> was inserted in the carrier <NUM> by forcing the first restraint <NUM> through the hole <NUM>. While the angled surface <NUM> may facilitate installation of the pin <NUM> to a certain extent, such installation puts stress on the material of the carrier <NUM>, which may result in cracks or some other structural impairment physically compromising the carrier <NUM> and/or compromising its insulating integrity. Additionally, the angled surface <NUM> allows the pin <NUM> to be installed in one direction only.

The chance of such structural impact and the compromising effects are compounded with multi-pin arrangements as illustrated in <FIG>. Five pins <NUM> are shown in <FIG>, and each may have been installed by forcing the respective first restraint <NUM> through the respective hole <NUM> in the carrier <NUM>. Although the pin <NUM> may axially move bidirectionally in the hole <NUM>, such movement only occurs between the first restraint <NUM> and the second restraint <NUM>. As such, once installed, the pin <NUM> may not be removed either by continuing to force the pin <NUM> in the same direction as installed, or by forcing it back through the hole <NUM>. Accordingly, once one of the pins <NUM> is installed in the carrier <NUM>, it cannot be removed without damaging the carrier <NUM>.

In <FIG>, the second restraints <NUM> are shown engaging with a printed circuit board (PCB) <NUM>. In this regard, the second restraint <NUM> on each pin <NUM> is also used as a contact head to be connected to the PCB <NUM>, and may be soldered to a conductive trace (not shown in <FIG>) on the PCB <NUM>. The PCB <NUM> may not be perfectly flat or planar but may have surface non-uniformities, such as, for example, a bow, as is illustrated in <FIG> with regard to the PCB <NUM>. As the different second restraints <NUM> engage the PCB <NUM>, the non-uniformity in the surface of the PCB <NUM> causes the second restraints <NUM> to move, which axially moves the pins <NUM>, allowing the pins <NUM> to "float". However, because the second restraints <NUM> are also used as contact heads, the non-uniformity of the PCB <NUM> may cause the second restraints <NUM> to be forced against the carrier <NUM>. This is shown in <FIG> by the pin <NUM> installed in the middle. Not only may this installation add to the possibility of damage to the carrier <NUM>, but it may also compromise the integrity of the connection of the second restraint <NUM> to the conductive trace on the PCB <NUM>.

Consequently, there is an unresolved need for a radio frequency (RF) connector pin assembly that not only provides a pin that moves axially, or floats, to accommodate the non-uniformity of a PCB surface, but can also be installed without compromising a carrier or header, or the connection to the PCB.

<CIT> describes a connector for a light source assembly comprising a body part having multiple openings. <CIT> describes a float mount coaxial connector. <CIT> describes a connector with a movable housing.

One embodiment of the disclosure relates to a radio frequency (RF) connector block assembly. The RF connector block assembly comprises a multi-connector block comprising a plurality of housing ports, wherein the multi-connector block is attachable to an external structure. The RF connector block assembly also comprises a plurality of housings, wherein each housing of the plurality of housings is removably mounted in a housing port of the plurality of housing ports, and wherein a housing of the plurality of housings is independently removably mounted from another housing of the plurality of housings. The RF connector block assembly also comprises a contact pin movably disposed in each housing of the plurality of housings, wherein the contact pin in one housing of the plurality of housings is independently axially movable in a first direction and a second direction from the contact pin in another housing of the plurality of housings.

An example not forming part of the invention relates to a RF connector block assembly. The RF connector block assembly comprises a connector block comprising at least one housing port, wherein the connector block is attachable to an external structure. The RF connector block assembly also comprises at least one housing removably mounted in the at least one housing port. The RF connector block assembly also comprises at least one contact pin movably disposed in the at least one housing, wherein the at least one contact pin in the at least one housing is movable in a first direction and a second direction.

Another example not forming part of the invention relates to an RF connector pin assembly. The RF connector pin assembly comprises a first dielectric comprising a first stop surface and a first through-passage extended through the first dielectric. The RF connector pin assembly also comprises a second dielectric comprising a second stop surface positioned opposite the first stop surface, and a second through-passage extended through the second dielectric, wherein the second through-passage is aligned with the first through-passage, and wherein the first stop surface and the second stop surface define a gap between the first dielectric and the second dielectric. The RF connector pin assembly also comprises a contact pin comprising a first pin section, a second pin section, and an annular collar at a juncture of the first pin section and the second pin section. The first pin section is movably disposed in the first through-passage and the second pin section is movably disposed in the second through-passage. The annular collar is located in the gap. Axial movement of the contact pin is limited to movement of the annular collar in the gap between the first stop surface and the second stop surface. The first pin section is adapted to provide electrical continuity with an external component and the second pin section terminates distally in a connection feature.

Another example not forming part of the invention relates to an RF connector pin assembly. The RF connector pin assembly comprises a housing comprising a first segment and a second segment separated from the first segment by a partition. The partition comprises an access opening extended between the first segment and the second segment. The RF connector pin assembly also comprises a first dielectric positioned in the second segment. The first dielectric comprises a first stop service and a first through-passage extended through the first dielectric, wherein the first through-passage is aligned with the access opening. The RF connector pin assembly also comprises a second dielectric positioned in the second segment. The second dielectric comprises a second stop surface positioned opposite the first stop surface and a second through-passage extended through the second dielectric. The second through-passage is aligned with the first through-passage and with the access opening, and the first stop surface and the second stop surface define a gap between the first dielectric and the second dielectric. The first stop surface is spaced a distance "A" from the second stop surface by the gap. The RF connector pin assembly also comprises a contact pin comprising a first pin section, a second pin section, and an annular collar at a juncture of the first pin section and the second pin section. The first pin section is movably disposed in the first through-passage and the second pin section is movably disposed in the second through-passage. The contact pin is axially movable in a first direction and a second direction in the first through-passage and the second through-passage and the annular collar is located in the gap. Axial movement of the contact pin is limited to movement of the annular collar in the gap in the first direction by the first stop surface and in the second direction by the second stop surface. The first pin section is extended through the first through-passage and through the access opening into the first segment and the second pin section is distally terminated in a connection feature.

Another example not forming part of the invention relates to an RF connector pin assembly. The RF connector pin assembly comprises a housing comprising a first segment and a second segment separated from the first segment by a partition. The partition comprises an access opening extended between the first segment and the second segment. The RF connector pin assembly further comprises a dielectric positioned in the second segment. The dielectric comprises a through-passage extended through the dielectric between a first face and a second face, and wherein the through-passage comprises an inside diameter "TPID" and is aligned with the access opening. The RF connector pin assembly further comprises a contact pin comprising a shaft having a first end and a second end. The shaft is movably friction-fit in the through-passage, and the first end of the shaft is extended from the first face of the through-passage and through the access opening into the first segment. The second end of the shaft is extended from the second face of the through-passage and is terminated in a connection feature. The shaft has an outside diameter "SOD" that is larger than the inside diameter "TPID" of the through-passage. The contact pin is axially movable in a first direction and a second direction in the through-passage when the outside diameter "SOD" of the shaft is in contact with the inside diameter "TPID" of the through-passage.

Another example not forming part of the invention relates to a method for assembling an RF connector pin assembly. The method comprises providing a housing comprising a first segment, a second segment, and a partition separating the first segment from the second segment. The method also comprises inserting a first dielectric in the second segment of the housing, the first dielectric comprising a first through-passage and a first stop surface. The method also comprises inserting a second dielectric in the second segment of the housing, the second dielectric comprising a second through-passage and a second stop surface, wherein the second through-passage is aligned with the first through-passage and wherein the first stop surface and the second stop surface form a gap. The method also comprises movably disposing a contact pin in the housing, the contact pin comprising a first pin section, a second pin section, and an annular collar at a juncture of the first pin section and the second pin section. The first pin section is movably disposed in the first through-passage and the second pin section is movably disposed in the second through-passage. The contact pin is axially movable in a first direction and a second direction in the first through-passage and the second through-passage. The annular collar locates in the gap other than by passing through the first through-passage and the second through-passage.

Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the description or recognized by practicing the embodiments as described in the written description and claims hereof, as well as the appended drawings.

The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate one or more embodiment(s), and together with the description serve to explain principles and operation of the various embodiments.

One example not forming part of the invention relates to a radio frequency (RF) connector pin assembly. The RF connector pin assembly comprises a first dielectric comprising a first stop surface and a first through-passage extended through the first dielectric. The RF connector pin assembly also comprises a second dielectric comprising a second stop surface positioned opposite the first stop surface, and a second through-passage extended through the second dielectric, wherein the second through-passage is aligned with the first through-passage, and wherein the first stop surface and the second stop surface define a gap between the first dielectric and the second dielectric. The RF connector pin assembly also comprises a contact pin comprising a first pin section, a second pin section, and an annular collar at a juncture of the first pin section and the second pin section. The first pin section is movably disposed in the first through-passage and the second pin section is movably disposed in the second through-passage. The annular collar is located in the gap. Axial movement of the contact pin is limited to movement of the annular collar in the gap between the first stop surface and the second stop surface. The first pin section is adapted to provide electrical continuity with an external component and the second pin section terminates distally in a connection feature.

In this regard, <FIG> illustrate an exemplary RF connector pin assembly <NUM> engaged with an external structure <NUM>, which may be a printed circuit board (PCB). In <FIG>, the RF connector pin assembly <NUM> is not shown with any housing or other enclosure to facilitate the discussion of certain components of the RF connector pin assembly <NUM>. In <FIG>, the RF connector pin assembly <NUM> is illustrated with a single pin arrangement, while in <FIG>, a multi-pin arrangement is illustrated. The RF connector pin assembly <NUM> has a first dielectric <NUM> with a first stop surface <NUM>. A first through-passage <NUM>, shown in dotted lines in <FIG>, extends through the first dielectric <NUM> from and through the first stop surface <NUM> to and through an upper face <NUM>. A second dielectric <NUM> has a second stop surface <NUM> positioned opposite the first stop surface <NUM>. A second through-passage <NUM>, shown in dotted lines in <FIG>, extends through the second dielectric <NUM> from and through the second stop surface <NUM> to and through a lower face <NUM>. The second through-passage <NUM> is aligned with the first through-passage <NUM>. The first stop surface <NUM> and the second stop surface <NUM> define a gap <NUM> therebetween. The first dielectric <NUM> and the second dielectric <NUM> may be manufactured of any suitable material, such as the non-limiting examples of PTFE or Torlon (Polyimide-imide).

A contact pin <NUM> having a first pin section <NUM>, a second pin section <NUM> and an annular collar <NUM> at a juncture <NUM> of the first pin section <NUM> and the second pin section <NUM> is shown. The first pin section <NUM> is movably disposed in the first through-passage <NUM> and the second pin section <NUM> is movably disposed in the second through-passage <NUM>, with the annular collar <NUM> located in the gap <NUM>. In this way, axial movement of the contact pin <NUM> is limited to movement of the annular collar <NUM> in the gap <NUM> between the first stop surface <NUM> and the second stop surface <NUM>. Additionally, the first pin section <NUM> is adapted to provide electrical continuity with an external component, which may be a connector (not shown in <FIG>). The second pin section <NUM> may terminate distally in a connection feature <NUM>.

With particular reference to <FIG>, the annular collar <NUM> radially extends from the contact pin <NUM>, so that an outside diameter "AOD" of the annular collar <NUM> is greater than an inside diameter "FID" of the first through-passage <NUM> and an inside diameter "SID" of the second through-passage <NUM>. A first side <NUM> of the annular collar <NUM> contacts the first stop surface <NUM> to limit the axial movement of the contact pin <NUM> in a first direction <NUM> to a first direction travel limit <NUM>. A second side <NUM> of the annular collar <NUM> contacts the second stop surface <NUM> to limit the axial movement of the contact pin <NUM> in a second direction <NUM> to a second direction travel limit <NUM>.

The connection feature <NUM> may be adapted for connection to the external structure <NUM>, which, as mentioned above, may be a PCB <NUM>. As such, the connection feature <NUM> may be soldered to the PCB <NUM>, including to a conductive trace (not shown in <FIG>) of the PCB <NUM>. With particular reference to <FIG>, the RF connector pin assembly <NUM> may include a plurality of contact pins <NUM>, wherein each contact pin <NUM> includes the first dielectric <NUM> and the second dielectric <NUM>, as discussed above. In this regard, multiple connection features <NUM> from multiple contact pins <NUM> may engage the PCB <NUM>. As described previously, the PCB <NUM> may not be perfectly flat or planar but instead may have surface non-uniformities, for example, a bow, as illustrated in <FIG>. As the connection features <NUM> engage the PCB <NUM>, the non-uniformity in the surface of the PCB <NUM> causes the connection features <NUM>, and thereby, the respective contact pins <NUM>, to axially move or "float". As a result, the annular collar <NUM> moves in the gap <NUM> between the first stop surface <NUM> and the second stop surface <NUM>. This is illustrated in <FIG> by the annular collars <NUM> of the contact pins <NUM> being located in different portions of the respective gaps <NUM>. Since the connection feature <NUM> is not used as a restraint, as discussed above with respect to the conventional floating pin assembly <NUM>, there is no issue regarding a contact head being forced against a carrier or header and compromising the connection of the contact pin <NUM> to the PCB <NUM>. The contact pin <NUM> may be manufactured of any suitable conductive material, such as the non-limiting example of brass plated gold over nickel.

Referring now to <FIG>, an exemplary RF connector pin assembly <NUM>' is illustrated. RF connector pin assembly <NUM>' is the same as the RF connector pin assembly <NUM> discussed with respect to <FIG>, except with the addition of housing <NUM>. <FIG> is an exploded cross-sectional view of the RF connector pin assembly <NUM>' illustrating the housing <NUM>, the first dielectric <NUM>, the second dielectric <NUM>, and the contact pin <NUM> aligned along the same axis "X<NUM>". <FIG> is a detailed cross-sectional view of the assembled RF connector pin assembly <NUM>' with the contact pin <NUM> at the second direction travel limit <NUM>. <FIG> is a detailed cross-sectional view of the assembled RF connector pin assembly <NUM>' with the contact pin <NUM> at the first direction travel limit <NUM>. <FIG> is a top perspective view of the RF connector pin assembly <NUM>'.

Continuing with reference to <FIG>, <FIG>, the housing <NUM> includes a first segment <NUM> and a second segment <NUM>, with the second segment <NUM> separated from the first segment <NUM> by a partition <NUM>. The partition <NUM> has an access opening <NUM> which extends between the first segment <NUM> and the second segment <NUM>. The first dielectric <NUM> is positioned in the second segment <NUM>. Similarly, the second dielectric <NUM> is positioned in the second segment <NUM>. The first dielectric <NUM> and the second dielectric <NUM> may be positioned in the second segment <NUM> so that the first through-passage <NUM>, the second through-passage <NUM> and the access opening <NUM> are aligned. The first stop surface <NUM> and the second stop surface <NUM> define the gap <NUM> between the first dielectric <NUM> and the second dielectric <NUM> with the first stop surface <NUM> spaced a distance "A" from the second stop surface <NUM> by the gap <NUM>.

As discussed above, the contact pin <NUM> includes the first pin section <NUM>, the second pin section <NUM> and the annular collar <NUM> at the juncture <NUM> of the first pin section <NUM> and the second pin section <NUM>. The RF connector pin assembly <NUM>' may be assembled by friction fitting the first dielectric <NUM> in the second segment <NUM>; inserting the first pin section <NUM> in the first through-passage <NUM> of the first dielectric <NUM>; and friction fitting the second dielectric <NUM> in the second segment <NUM> so that the second pin section <NUM> inserts in the second through-passage <NUM> of the second dielectric <NUM>. In this way, the annular collar <NUM> does not have to be forced through either the first through-passage <NUM> or the second through-passage <NUM> to assemble the RF connector pin assembly <NUM>'.

In this regard, the first pin section <NUM> is movably disposed in the first through-passage <NUM> and the second pin section <NUM> is movably disposed in the second through-passage <NUM>, so that the contact pin <NUM> is axially movable in the first direction <NUM> and the second direction <NUM> in the first through-passage <NUM> and the second through-passage <NUM>. Additionally, the first pin section <NUM> may extend through the first through-passage <NUM> and through the access opening <NUM> into the first segment <NUM>. The first segment <NUM> may include a socket <NUM> with a receiving port <NUM> adapted to receive a connector (see, e.g., <FIG>). The first pin section <NUM> may provide electrical continuity with the connector received by the receiving port <NUM> of the socket <NUM>.

The second segment <NUM> includes an open distal end <NUM> opposite the partition <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, when axial movement of the contact pin <NUM> is at the first direction travel limit <NUM>, the connection feature <NUM> may be in the housing <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, when axial movement of the contact pin <NUM> is at the second direction travel limit <NUM>, the connection feature <NUM> may extend through the open distal end <NUM> of the housing <NUM> by a distance "B". The distance "B" may not exceed the distance "A", which is the dimension of the gap <NUM>. In this way, sufficient distance may be provided to allow the contact pin <NUM> to axially move in response to movement of the connection feature <NUM> by its engagement with the external structure <NUM>, such as, for example, the PCB <NUM> (not shown). Moreover, the distance "B" may allow the housing <NUM> to contact the PCB <NUM>, so that the housing <NUM> may be adapted to provide grounding continuity between the external component, for example, the connector received by the receiving port <NUM> of the socket <NUM> and the PCB <NUM>. The housing <NUM> may be manufactured of any suitable material, such as the non-limiting example of brass plated gold over nickel.

<FIG> illustrates a top perspective view of the RF connector pin assembly <NUM>' looking into the first segment <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The contact pin <NUM>, partition <NUM> and access opening <NUM> are visible, as well as the socket <NUM> and receiving port <NUM>. As will be discussed in more detail below, when the RF connector pin assembly <NUM>' is installed, i.e., connected to a PCB <NUM>, the top of the RF connector pin assembly <NUM>' may be exposed and accessible to allow for connecting an external component, such as, for example, a connector.

Referring now to <FIG>, an exemplary RF connector pin assembly <NUM> is illustrated. RF connector pin assembly <NUM> includes certain aspects similar to those of RF connector pin assemblies <NUM> and <NUM>' as discussed above with respect to <FIG>. Therefore, except for any substantive differences, the discussion of such similar aspects of the RF connector pin assemblies <NUM> and <NUM>' will not be repeated here with respect to RF connector pin assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> is an exploded cross-sectional view of the RF connector pin assembly <NUM> illustrating a housing <NUM>, first dielectric <NUM>, second dielectric <NUM>, bushing <NUM> and contact pin <NUM> aligned along the same axis "X<NUM>". <FIG> is a detailed cross-sectional view of the assembled RF connector pin assembly <NUM> with the contact pin <NUM> at a first direction travel limit <NUM>. Continuing now with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the housing <NUM> includes a first segment <NUM> and a second segment <NUM>, with the second segment <NUM> separated from the first segment <NUM> by a partition <NUM>. An access opening <NUM> in the partition <NUM> extends between the first segment <NUM> and the second segment <NUM>. The first dielectric <NUM>, the second dielectric <NUM> and the bushing <NUM> are positioned in the second segment <NUM> so that a first through-passage <NUM> in the first dielectric <NUM>, a second through-passage <NUM> in the second dielectric <NUM> and a bushing opening <NUM> in the bushing <NUM> are all aligned. The second segment <NUM> includes an open distal end <NUM> opposite the partition <NUM>. A first stop surface <NUM> on the first dielectric <NUM> and a second stop surface <NUM> on the second dielectric <NUM> define a gap <NUM> with the first stop surface <NUM> spaced a distance "A" from the second stop surface <NUM> by the gap <NUM>. Although a side <NUM> of the first dielectric <NUM> is shown abutting the second dielectric <NUM> in <FIG>, the gap <NUM> remains formed between the first stop surface <NUM> and the second stop surface <NUM> bounded by the side <NUM>. The first dielectric <NUM> and second dielectric <NUM> may be manufactured of any suitable material, such as the non-limiting examples of PTFE or Torlon (Polyimide-imide).

The contact pin <NUM> includes a first pin section <NUM>, a second pin section <NUM> and an annular collar <NUM> at a juncture <NUM> of the first pin section <NUM> and the second pin section <NUM>. The second pin section <NUM> may distally terminate in a connection feature <NUM>. The RF connector pin assembly <NUM> may be assembled by friction fitting the second dielectric <NUM> in the second segment <NUM>; inserting the second pin section <NUM> in the second through-passage <NUM> of the second dielectric <NUM>; positioning the first dielectric <NUM> in the second segment <NUM> so that the first pin section <NUM> inserts in the first through-passage <NUM> of the first dielectric <NUM> and the annular collar <NUM> positions in the gap <NUM>; and friction fitting the bushing <NUM> in the second segment <NUM> over the first dielectric <NUM> so that the first pin section <NUM> extends through the bushing opening <NUM>. In this way, the annular collar <NUM> does not have to be forced through the first through-passage <NUM>, the second through-passage <NUM> or the bushing opening <NUM> to assemble the RF connector pin assembly <NUM>. The contact pin <NUM> and bushing <NUM> may be manufactured of any suitable material, such as the non-limiting example of brass plated gold over nickel.

In this regard, the first pin section <NUM> is movably disposed in the first through-passage <NUM> and the second pin section <NUM> is movably disposed in the second through-passage <NUM>, so that the contact pin <NUM> may be axially movable in the first direction <NUM> and the second direction <NUM> in the first through-passage <NUM> and the second through-passage <NUM>. Additionally, the first pin section <NUM> may extend through the first through-passage <NUM>, the bushing opening <NUM> and through the access opening <NUM> into the first segment <NUM>. The first segment <NUM> may include a socket <NUM> with a receiving port <NUM> adapted to receive a connector (see, e.g., <FIG>). The first pin section <NUM> may provide electrical continuity with the connector received by the receiving port <NUM> of the socket <NUM>.

The second segment <NUM> includes the open distal end <NUM> opposite the partition <NUM>. In <FIG>, the contact pin <NUM> is at the first direction travel limit <NUM> with the connection feature <NUM> positioned in the housing <NUM>. In a similar manner to that of RF connector pin assembly <NUM>', as shown in <FIG>, when axial movement of the contact pin <NUM> is at a second direction travel limit <NUM>, the connection feature <NUM> may extend through the open distal end <NUM> of the housing <NUM> by the distance "B", which may be less than or equal to the distance "A", the dimension of the gap <NUM>. In this way, sufficient distance may be provided to allow the contact pin <NUM> to axially move in response to movement of the connection feature <NUM> by its engagement with an external structure, such as, for example, a PCB. Moreover, the distance "B" may allow the housing <NUM> to contact the PCB, so that the housing <NUM> may be adapted to provide grounding continuity between the external component, for example, the connector received by the receiving port <NUM> of the socket <NUM> and the PCB. The housing <NUM> may be manufactured of any suitable material, such as the non-limiting example of brass plated gold over nickel.

<FIG> is a top perspective view of the RF connector pin assembly <NUM> looking into the first segment <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The contact pin <NUM>, partition <NUM>, bushing <NUM> and access opening <NUM> are visible, as well as the socket <NUM> and receiving port <NUM>. As will be discussed in more detail below, the top of the RF connector pin assembly <NUM> may be exposed and accessible to allow for connecting an external component, such as, for example, a connector.

Referring now to <FIG>, an exemplary RF connector pin assembly <NUM> is illustrated. RF connector pin assembly <NUM> includes certain aspects similar to those of RF connector pin assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>' as discussed above with respect to <FIG>. Therefore, except for any substantive differences, the discussion of such similar aspects of the RF connector pin assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>' will not be repeated here with respect to RF connector pin assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> are detailed cross-sectional views of the assembled RF connector pin assembly <NUM>, illustrating a housing <NUM>, first dielectric <NUM>, second dielectric <NUM>, and right-angle contact pin <NUM> (also referred to as a right-angle connector pin) aligned along the same axis "X3". <FIG> is a detailed cross-sectional view of the assembled RF connector pin assembly <NUM> with the right-angle contact pin <NUM> at a second direction travel limit <NUM>. <FIG> is a detailed cross-sectional view of the assembled RF connector pin assembly <NUM> with the right-angle contact pin <NUM> at a first direction travel limit <NUM>.

Continuing now with reference to <FIG>, the housing <NUM> includes a first segment <NUM> and a second segment <NUM>, with the second segment <NUM> separated from the first segment <NUM> by a partition <NUM>. An access opening <NUM> in the partition <NUM> extends between the first segment <NUM> and the second segment <NUM>. The first dielectric <NUM> is positioned in the second segment <NUM>. Similarly, the second dielectric <NUM> is positioned in the second segment <NUM>. The first dielectric <NUM> and the second dielectric <NUM> may be positioned in the second segment <NUM> so that a first through-passage <NUM> in the first dielectric <NUM>, a second through-passage <NUM> and the access opening <NUM> are aligned. A first stop surface <NUM> and a second stop surface <NUM> define a gap <NUM> between the first dielectric <NUM> and the second dielectric <NUM> with the first stop surface <NUM> spaced a distance "A" from the second stop surface <NUM> by the gap <NUM>. The first dielectric <NUM> and second dielectric <NUM> may be manufactured of any suitable material, such as the non-limiting examples of PTFE or Torlon (Polyimide-imide).

The right-angle contact pin <NUM> includes a first pin section <NUM>, a second pin section <NUM>, an annular collar <NUM> at a juncture <NUM> of the first pin section <NUM> and the second pin section <NUM>, and a third pin section <NUM> extending from the second pin section <NUM> at an angle thereto. Specifically, the third pin section <NUM> is approximately perpendicular (i.e., at an approximate right angle) to the second pin section <NUM>. The third pin section <NUM> is integrally connected to the second pin section <NUM>. The third pin section <NUM> may distally terminate in a connection feature <NUM>.

The RF connector pin assembly <NUM> may be assembled by friction fitting the first dielectric <NUM> in the second segment <NUM>; inserting the third pin section <NUM> through the second through-passage <NUM> of the second dielectric <NUM>; inserting the second pin section <NUM> in the second through-passage <NUM> of the second dielectric <NUM>; and friction fitting the second dielectric <NUM> in the second segment <NUM> so that the first pin section <NUM> inserts in the first through-passage <NUM> of the first dielectric <NUM>. In this way, the annular collar <NUM> does not have to be forced through either the first through-passage <NUM> or the second through-passage <NUM> to assemble the RF connector pin assembly <NUM>. The right-angle contact pin <NUM> may be manufactured of any suitable material, such as the non-limiting example of brass plated gold over nickel.

In this regard, the first pin section <NUM> is movably disposed in the first through-passage <NUM> and the second pin section <NUM> is movably disposed in the second through-passage <NUM>, so that the right-angle contact pin <NUM> may be axially movable in a first direction <NUM> and a second direction <NUM> in the first through-passage <NUM> and the second through-passage <NUM>. Additionally, the first pin section <NUM> may extend through the first through-passage <NUM> and through the access opening <NUM> into the first segment <NUM>. The first segment <NUM> may include a socket <NUM> with a receiving port <NUM> adapted to receive a connector (see, e.g., <FIG>). The first pin section <NUM> may provide electrical continuity with the connector received by the receiving port <NUM> of the socket <NUM>.

The second segment <NUM> includes an open distal end <NUM> opposite the partition <NUM>. Further, the second segment <NUM> includes one or more sidewall channels <NUM> upwardly extending from the open distal end <NUM>. In particular, the third pin section <NUM> is positioned through at least one of the one or more sidewall channels <NUM>, with the connection feature <NUM> extending past the second segment <NUM> to an exterior of the housing <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, when axial movement of the right-angle contact pin <NUM> is at the first direction travel limit <NUM>, the connection feature <NUM> is exterior to the housing <NUM>, at least a portion of the third pin section <NUM> is positioned within the one or more sidewall channels <NUM>, and at least a portion of a distal end <NUM> of the third pin section <NUM> may be in the housing <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, when axial movement of the right-angle contact pin <NUM> is at the second direction travel limit <NUM>, the connection feature <NUM> remains exterior to the housing <NUM>, the third pin section <NUM> is at least partially positioned within the one or more sidewall channels <NUM>, and at least a portion of the distal end <NUM> of the third pin section <NUM> extends through the open distal end <NUM> of the housing <NUM> by a distance "B". The distance "B" may be less than or equal to the distance "A", which is the dimension of the gap <NUM>. In this way, sufficient distance may be provided to allow the right-angle contact pin <NUM> to axially move in response to movement of the third pin section <NUM> (and connection feature <NUM>) by its engagement with an external structure, such as, for example, a PCB <NUM> (see <FIG>). Moreover, the distance "B" may allow the housing <NUM> to contact the PCB <NUM>, so that the housing <NUM> may be adapted to provide grounding continuity between the external component, for example, the connector received by the receiving port <NUM> of the socket <NUM> and the PCB <NUM>. The housing <NUM> may be manufactured of any suitable material, such as the non-limiting example of brass plated gold over nickel.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the RF connector pin assembly <NUM> connected to the PCB <NUM> and with a connector <NUM> inserted in the receiving port <NUM>. The RF connector pin assembly <NUM> is aligned with connector <NUM> along the same axis "X<NUM>". The second segment <NUM> of housing <NUM> contacts the PCB <NUM> and, thereby, establishes ground continuity with a body <NUM> of the connector <NUM> through the first segment <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The connection feature <NUM> of the contact pin <NUM> is shown connected to a conductor of the PCB <NUM>, which may be accomplished by soldering the connection feature <NUM> to a conductive trace (not shown in <FIG>) on the PCB <NUM>. The annular collar <NUM> is shown located at the first direction travel limit <NUM> of the gap <NUM>. The first pin section <NUM> is shown inserted in the connector <NUM> and providing continuity with an inner conductor <NUM> of the connector <NUM> to establish continuity from the PCB <NUM> through the contact pin <NUM> to the inner conductor <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, an exemplary RF connector pin assembly <NUM> is illustrated. RF connector pin assembly <NUM> includes certain aspects similar to those of RF connector pin assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG>. Therefore, except for any substantive differences, the discussion of such similar aspects of the RF connector pin assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>, <NUM> will not be repeated here with respect to RF connector pin assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> is an exploded cross-sectional view of the RF connector pin assembly <NUM> illustrating a housing <NUM>, dielectric <NUM>, bushing <NUM>, and contact pin <NUM> aligned along the same axis "X<NUM>" (also shown in <FIG> is a detailed cross-sectional view of the assembled RF connector pin assembly <NUM> with the contact pin <NUM> at a first position. <FIG> is a detailed cross-sectional view of the assembled RF connector pin assembly <NUM> with the contact pin <NUM> at a second position.

Continuing now with reference to <FIG>, the housing <NUM> includes a first segment <NUM> and a second segment <NUM>, with the second segment <NUM> separated from the first segment <NUM> by a partition <NUM>. An access opening <NUM> in the partition <NUM> extends between the first segment <NUM> and the second segment <NUM>. The dielectric <NUM> and the bushing <NUM> are positioned in the second segment <NUM> so that a through-passage <NUM> in the dielectric <NUM> and a bushing opening <NUM> in the bushing <NUM> are all aligned. The through-passage <NUM> includes an inside diameter TPID and extends between a first face 615A and a second face 615B of the dielectric <NUM>. The second segment <NUM> includes an open distal end <NUM> opposite the partition <NUM>. The dielectric <NUM> may be manufactured of any suitable material, such as the non-limiting examples of PTFE or Torlon (Polyimide-imide).

The contact pin <NUM> (also referred to as a shaft) may distally terminate in a connection feature <NUM>. The contact pin <NUM> includes a shaft outer diameter SOD. The RF connector pin assembly <NUM> may be assembled by friction fitting the dielectric <NUM> with the bushing <NUM> (e.g., an outer surface of the dielectric <NUM> frictionally engages an inner surface of the bushing <NUM>); friction fitting the bushing <NUM> in the second segment <NUM> (e.g., an outer surface of the bushing <NUM> frictionally engages an inner surface of the second segment <NUM>) so that the dielectric <NUM> is inserted in the second segment <NUM>; and friction fitting the contact pin <NUM> in the through-passage <NUM> of the dielectric <NUM> so that at least a portion of the contact pin <NUM> (and the connection feature <NUM>) extends past the open distal end <NUM>. In this way, the contact pin <NUM> does not have to be forced through the through-passage <NUM> to assemble the RF connector pin assembly <NUM>. The contact pin <NUM> and bushing <NUM> may be manufactured of any suitable material, such as the non-limiting example of brass plated gold over nickel.

In this regard, when assembled, the bushing <NUM> mounts the dielectric <NUM> and contact pin <NUM> within the housing <NUM> and also provides a distance "A" between an outer surface of the dielectric <NUM> and an inner surface of the second segment <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The distance "A" reduces stress on the contact pin <NUM> during assembly of the dielectric <NUM> and contact pin <NUM> within the second segment <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. Additionally, the dielectric <NUM> may expand due to heat when the RF connector pin assembly <NUM> is mounted to a PCB. The distance "A" allows for radial expansion of the dielectric <NUM>, further reducing stress on the contact pin <NUM>. Further, the distance "A" prevents axial expansion of the dielectric <NUM>, which is important for maintaining reliability and electric performance characteristics, as electrical features of the RF connector pin assembly <NUM> may depend on the distance between the dielectric <NUM> and the open distal end <NUM> of the housing <NUM>.

The contact pin <NUM> is movably disposed in the through-passage <NUM>, so that the contact pin <NUM> may be axially movable in a first direction <NUM> and a second direction <NUM> in the through-passage <NUM>. Additionally, a proximal end <NUM> of the contact pin <NUM> may extend past the through-passage <NUM> and through the access opening <NUM> into the first segment <NUM>. The first segment <NUM> may include a socket <NUM> with a receiving port <NUM> adapted to receive a connector (see, e.g., <FIG>). The contact pin <NUM> may provide electrical continuity with the connector received by the receiving port <NUM> of the socket <NUM>.

In <FIG>, the contact pin <NUM> is at the first position with the connection feature <NUM> extending through the open distal end <NUM> of the housing <NUM> by the distance "B". In this way, sufficient distance may be provided to allow the contact pin <NUM> to axially move in response to movement of the connection feature <NUM> by its engagement with an external structure, such as, for example, a PCB. Moreover, the distance "B" may allow the housing <NUM> to contact the PCB, so that the housing <NUM> may be adapted to provide grounding continuity between the external component, for example, the connector received by the receiving port <NUM> of the socket <NUM> and the PCB. The housing <NUM> may be manufactured of any suitable material, such as the non-limiting example of brass plated gold over nickel.

The frictional engagement of the contact pin <NUM> with the dielectric <NUM> is enough that the contact pin <NUM> does not move in the first direction <NUM> as the RF connector pin assembly <NUM> engages or disengages a connector (see, e.g., <FIG>). However, this frictional engagement may be purposefully or intentionally overcome to alter the position of the contact pin <NUM> relative to the dielectric <NUM> and the housing <NUM>. In this way, the distance of the connection feature <NUM> of the contact pin <NUM> relative to the open distal end <NUM> of the housing <NUM> allows for intentional movement, but prevents accidental movement.

Referring now to <FIG>, an exemplary RF connector pin assembly <NUM> is illustrated. RF connector pin assembly <NUM> includes certain aspects similar to those of RF connector pin assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG>. Therefore, except for any substantive differences, the discussion of such similar aspects of the RF connector pin assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> will not be repeated here with respect to RF connector pin assembly <NUM>.

<FIG> is a detailed cross-sectional view of the assembled RF connector pin assembly <NUM> illustrating a housing <NUM>, dielectric <NUM>, bushing <NUM>, and contact pin <NUM> aligned along the same axis "X<NUM>" and with the contact pin <NUM> at a first position. <FIG> is a detailed cross-sectional view of the assembled RF connector pin assembly <NUM> with the contact pin <NUM> at a second position.

Continuing now with reference to <FIG>, the housing <NUM> includes a first segment <NUM> and a second segment <NUM>, with the second segment <NUM> separated from the first segment <NUM> by a partition <NUM>. An access opening <NUM> in the partition <NUM> extends between the first segment <NUM> and the second segment <NUM>. The dielectric <NUM> and the bushing <NUM> are positioned in the second segment <NUM> so that a through-passage <NUM> in the dielectric <NUM> and a bushing opening <NUM> in the bushing <NUM> are all aligned. The through-passage <NUM> includes an inside diameter TPID and extends between a first face 715A and a second face 715B of the dielectric <NUM>. The second segment <NUM> includes an open distal end <NUM> opposite the partition <NUM>. The dielectric <NUM> may be manufactured of any suitable material, such as the non-limiting examples of PTFE or Torlon (Polyimide-imide).

The contact pin <NUM> includes a first pin section 709A (also referred to as a shaft) and a second pin section 709B (also referred to as a shaft). Each of the first pin section 709A and the second pin section 709B include a shaft outer diameter SOD. The second pin section 709B extends from the first pin section 709A at an angle thereto. Specifically, the second pin section 709B is approximately perpendicular (i.e., at an approximate right angle) to the first pin section 709A. The second pin section 709B is integrally connected to the first pin section 709A. The second pin section 709B may distally terminate in a connection feature <NUM>.

The RF connector pin assembly <NUM> may be assembled by friction fitting the dielectric <NUM> with the bushing <NUM> (e.g., an outer surface of the dielectric <NUM> frictionally engages an inner surface of the bushing <NUM>); friction fitting the bushing <NUM> in the second segment <NUM> (e.g., an outer surface of the bushing <NUM> frictionally engages an inner surface of the second segment <NUM>) so that the dielectric <NUM> is inserted in the second segment <NUM>; and friction fitting the first pin section 709A of the contact pin <NUM> in the through-passage <NUM> of the dielectric <NUM> so that at least a portion of the first pin section 709A of the contact pin <NUM> (and the connection feature <NUM>) extends past the open distal end <NUM>. In this way, the contact pin <NUM> does not have to be forced through the through-passage <NUM> to assemble the RF connector pin assembly <NUM>. The contact pin <NUM> and bushing <NUM> may be manufactured of any suitable material, such as the non-limiting example of brass plated gold over nickel.

In this regard, when assembled, the bushing <NUM> mounts the dielectric <NUM> and contact pin <NUM> within the housing <NUM> and also provides a distance "A" between an outer surface of the dielectric <NUM> and an inner surface of the second segment <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The distance "A" reduces stress on the contact pin <NUM> during assembly of the dielectric <NUM> and contact pin <NUM> within the second segment <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. Additionally, the dielectric <NUM> may expand due to heat when the RF connector pin assembly <NUM> is mounted to a PCB. The distance "A" allows for radial expansion of the dielectric <NUM>, further reducing stress on the first pin section 709A of the contact pin <NUM>. Further, the distance "A" prevents axial expansion of the dielectric <NUM>, which is important for maintaining reliability and electric performance characteristics, as electrical features of the RF connector pin assembly <NUM> may depend on the distance between the dielectric <NUM> and the open distal end <NUM> of the housing <NUM>.

The first pin section 709A of the contact pin <NUM> is movably disposed in the through-passage <NUM>, so that the first pin section 709A of the contact pin <NUM> may be axially movable in a first direction <NUM> and a second direction <NUM> in the through-passage <NUM>. Additionally, a proximal end <NUM> of the first pin section 709A of the contact pin <NUM> may extend past the through-passage <NUM> and through the access opening <NUM> into the first segment <NUM>. The first segment <NUM> may include a socket <NUM> with a receiving port <NUM> adapted to receive a connector (see, e.g., <FIG>). The first pin section 709A of the contact pin <NUM> may provide electrical continuity with the connector received by the receiving port <NUM> of the socket <NUM>.

The second segment <NUM> includes the open distal end <NUM> opposite the partition <NUM>. Further, the second segment <NUM> includes one or more sidewall channels <NUM> upwardly extending from the open distal end <NUM>. In particular, the second pin section 709B is positioned through at least one of the one or more sidewall channels <NUM>, with the connection feature <NUM> extending past the second segment <NUM> to an exterior of the housing <NUM>.

In <FIG>, the contact pin <NUM> is at the first position with a distal end <NUM> of the second pin section 709B extending through the open distal end <NUM> of the housing <NUM> by the distance "B", and the connection feature <NUM> exterior to the housing <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, when axial movement of the contact pin <NUM> is moved in the first direction <NUM>, the connection feature <NUM> remains exterior to the housing <NUM>, and the second pin section 709B is at least partially positioned within the one or more sidewall channels <NUM>. In this way, sufficient distance may be provided to allow the contact pin <NUM> to axially move in response to movement of the connection feature <NUM> by its engagement with an external structure, such as, for example, a PCB. Moreover, the distance "B" may allow the housing <NUM> to contact the PCB, so that the housing <NUM> may be adapted to provide grounding continuity between the external component, for example, the connector received by the receiving port <NUM> of the socket <NUM> and the PCB. The housing <NUM> may be manufactured of any suitable material, such as the non-limiting example of brass plated gold over nickel.

<FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the RF connector pin assembly <NUM> connected to PCB <NUM> and with connector <NUM> inserted in the receiving port <NUM>. The RF connector pin assembly <NUM> aligned with the connector <NUM> along the same axis "X<NUM>". The second segment <NUM> of the housing <NUM> contacts the PCB <NUM> and thereby establishes ground continuity with the body <NUM> of the connector <NUM> through the first segment <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The connection feature <NUM> of the contact pin <NUM> is shown connected to a conductor of the PCB <NUM>, which may be accomplished by soldering the connection feature <NUM> to a conductive trace (not shown in <FIG>) on the PCB <NUM>. The proximal end <NUM> of the contact pin <NUM> is inserted in the connector <NUM> and provides continuity with the inner conductor <NUM> of the connector <NUM> to establish continuity from the PCB <NUM> through the contact pin <NUM> to the inner conductor <NUM>.

<FIG> are views of a multi-pin RF connector block assembly <NUM> according to the invention. RF connector block assembly <NUM> includes a plurality of RF connector pin assemblies <NUM> (see <FIG> and <FIG>) removably mounted in a connector block <NUM>. <FIG> is a top view of the multi-pin RF connector block assembly <NUM> having multiple RF connector pin assemblies <NUM> disposed therein. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the connector block <NUM> with the connector pin assemblies <NUM> disposed therein. <FIG> is a top view of the connector block <NUM> without the RF connector pin assemblies <NUM>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the connector block <NUM> without the RF connector pin assemblies <NUM>. <FIG> is a top view of the multi-pin RF connector block assembly <NUM> connected to a PCB <NUM>. <FIG> is a side view of the multi-pin RF connector block assembly <NUM> connected to the PCB <NUM>.

Each of the RF connector pin assemblies <NUM> removably mount in the connector block <NUM> by removably mounting a plurality of the housings <NUM> in respective housing ports of a plurality of housing ports <NUM>. It should be noted that although <FIG> illustrate RF connector pin assemblies <NUM>, RF connector pin assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may also be removably mounted in connector block <NUM>, and the discussion of <FIG> also applies to RF connector pin assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. As can be seen in <FIG>, connector block <NUM> mounts to the external structure <NUM>, for example, the PCB <NUM>. The housings <NUM> removably mount in the housing ports <NUM> so that the second segment <NUM> of housing <NUM> contacts the PCB <NUM> and thereby establishes ground continuity with the body <NUM> of the connector <NUM> (see, e.g. <FIG>) through the first segment <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. In this manner, one of the housings <NUM> is independently removably mounted from another one of the housings <NUM>. Additionally, the contact pin <NUM> in one of the housings <NUM> is independently axially movable in a first direction <NUM> and a second direction <NUM> (see <FIG>) from the contact pin <NUM> in another one of the housings <NUM>. The connection feature <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) of each contact pin <NUM> is connected to a conductive trace <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) of the PCB <NUM>, which may be accomplished by soldering the connection feature <NUM> to the conductive trace <NUM>. Moreover, each of the second segments <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) of housings <NUM> contact the PCB <NUM> and thereby establish ground continuity between the housings <NUM> and the PCB <NUM>. In this manner, RF connector pin assembly <NUM> may include a plurality of housings <NUM> and a plurality of contact pins <NUM> connected to the PCB <NUM> using connector block <NUM>. The connector block <NUM> may be manufactured of any suitable plastic material and may be mounted to the external structure <NUM> using any suitable fastener <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a method for assembling an RF connector pin assembly <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>, <NUM>, the method comprising providing a housing <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> comprising a first segment <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, a second segment <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and a partition <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> separating the first segment <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, from the second segment <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> (block <NUM>); inserting a first dielectric <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> in the second segment <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the housing <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, the first dielectric <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> comprising a first through-passage <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and a first stop surface <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> (block <NUM>); inserting a second dielectric <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> in the second segment <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the housing <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, the second dielectric <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> comprising a second through-passage <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and a second stop surface <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> wherein the second through-passage <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is aligned with the first through-passage <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and wherein the first stop surface <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and the second stop surface <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> form a gap <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> (block <NUM>); movably positioning a contact pin <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> in the housing <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, the contact pin <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> comprising a first pin section <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, a second pin section <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and an annular collar <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> at a juncture <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of the first pin section <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and the second pin section <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, wherein the first pin section <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is movably disposed in the first through-passage <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and the second pin section <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is movably disposed in the second through-passage <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and wherein the contact pin <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is axially movable in a first direction <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and a second direction <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> in the first through-passage <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and the second through-passage <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and wherein the annular collar <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> locates in the gap <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> other than by passing through the first through-passage <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and the second through-passage <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> (block <NUM>).

Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any method set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a specific order. Accordingly, where a method claim does not actually recite an order to be followed by its steps or it is not otherwise specifically stated in the claims or descriptions that the steps are to be limited to a specific order, it is no way intended that any particular order be inferred.

Claim 1:
A radio frequency (RF) connector block assembly (<NUM>), comprising:
a multi-connector block (<NUM>) comprising a plurality of housing ports (<NUM>), wherein the multi-connector block is attachable to an external structure (<NUM>);
a plurality of housings (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), wherein each of the plurality of housings is removably mounted in one of the plurality of housing ports (<NUM>), and wherein a housing (<NUM>, <NUM>) of the plurality of housings is independently removably mounted from another housing of the plurality of housings; characterised by further comprising
a contact pin (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) movably disposed in each of the plurality of housings (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), wherein the contact pin in a housing of the plurality of housings is independently axially movable in a first direction and a second direction from the contact pin in another housing of the plurality of housings.