PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-8882524-B2
Application Number: US-201113704234-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: External contact plug connector

Abstract:
A dual orientation plug connector having a connector tab with first and second major opposing sides and a plurality of electrical contacts carried by the connector tab. The plurality of contacts may include a first set of external contacts formed at the first major side and a second set of external contacts formed at the second major side. The first plurality of contacts may be symmetrically spaced with the second plurality of contacts and the connector tab may be shaped to have 180 degree symmetry so that it can be inserted and operatively coupled to a corresponding receptacle connector in either of two insertion orientations. A receptacle connector corresponding to the plug connector.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A plug connector comprising:
 a body; 
 a tab connected to and extending longitudinally away from the body, the tab including first and second opposing sides; and 
 a first plurality of contacts carried by the tab on the first side and a second plurality of contacts carried by the tab on the second side, wherein each individual contact in the first plurality of contacts is positioned directly opposite of and electrically connected to a corresponding contact in the second plurality of contacts; 
 wherein the tab is shaped and the first and second plurality of contacts are arranged to have 180 degree symmetry so that the plug connector can be inserted and operatively coupled to a corresponding receptacle connector in either of two orientations. 
 
     
     
       2. The plug connector set forth in  claim 1  wherein each contact in the first plurality of contacts wraps around a distal tip of the tab to a corresponding contact in the second plurality of contacts. 
     
     
       3. The plug connector set forth in  claim 1  wherein the tab further includes third and fourth sides that extend between the first and second sides, the third and fourth sides being relatively thin compared to the first and second sides. 
     
     
       4. The plug connector set forth in  claim 3  further comprising retention features formed on the third and fourth sides near a distal end of the connector. 
     
     
       5. The plug connector set forth in  claim 4  wherein the retention features comprise ground contacts. 
     
     
       6. The plug connector set forth in  claim 4  wherein the retention features have a conical shape that extends into the tab perpendicular to the third and fourth sides. 
     
     
       7. A plug connector comprising:
 a substantially flat body having first and second major opposing sides and third and fourth opposing sides connecting the first and second major sides, the third and fourth sides being substantially thinner than the first and second sides; and 
 a plurality of contacts carried by the substantially flat body at its distal end; 
 wherein the distal end of the body is shaped to have 180 degree symmetry so that it can be inserted and operatively coupled to a corresponding receptacle connector in either of two orientations; 
 wherein the substantially flat body comprises a metal core covered with an insulator and the plurality of contacts are deposited over the insulator. 
 
     
     
       8. A plug connector comprising:
 a substantially flat body having first and second major opposing sides and third and fourth opposing sides connecting the first and second major sides, the third and fourth sides being substantially thinner than the first and second sides; and 
 a plurality of contacts carried by the substantially flat body at its distal end; 
 wherein the distal end of the body is shaped to have 180 degree symmetry so that it can be inserted and operatively coupled to a corresponding receptacle connector in either of two orientations; 
 wherein the substantially flat body comprises a ceramic core formed by ceramic injection molding and the plurality of contacts are formed on the ceramic core with a metal injection molding process. 
 
     
     
       9. A plug connector comprising:
 a substantially flat body having first and second major opposing sides and third and fourth opposing sides connecting the first and second major sides, the third and fourth sides being substantially thinner than the first and second sides; and 
 a plurality of contacts carried by the substantially flat body at its distal end; 
 wherein the distal end of the body is shaped to have 180 degree symmetry so that it can be inserted and operatively coupled to a corresponding receptacle connector in either of two orientations; 
 wherein the substantially flat body comprises an anodized aluminum core and the plurality of contacts are deposited directly over the anodized aluminum core. 
 
     
     
       10. The plug connector set forth in  claim 7  wherein the plurality of contacts comprise left and right audio contacts and a microphone contact. 
     
     
       11. The plug connector set forth in  claim 10  wherein the plurality of contacts further comprises a ground contact. 
     
     
       12. The plug connector set forth in  claim 7  wherein the plug connector further comprises retention features formed on the third and fourth sides near a distal end of the connector. 
     
     
       13. A plug connector comprising:
 a substantially flat body having first and second major opposing sides and third and fourth opposing sides connecting the first and second major sides, the third and fourth sides being substantially thinner than the first and second sides; and 
 a plurality of contacts carried by the substantially flat body at its distal end; 
 wherein the distal end of the body is shaped to have 180 degree symmetry so that it can be inserted and operatively coupled to a corresponding receptacle connector in either of two orientations; 
 wherein the plurality of contacts comprise plunger contacts set inside and biased to protrude from the distal end of the substantially flat body. 
 
     
     
       14. The plug connector set forth in  claim 13  wherein the plunger contacts protrude from a substantially flat end surface on the distal end of the body that extends between the first and second opposing major sides and is recessed along a longitudinal axis of the plug connector with respect to the third and fourth surfaces. 
     
     
       15. The plug connector set forth in  claim 13  wherein each of the plunger contacts resides within a cylindrical cavity lined with a conductive metal. 
     
     
       16. The plug connector set forth in  claim 13  wherein the plug connector further comprises notches formed on the third and fourth sides near the distal end of the connector. 
     
     
       17. The plug connector set forth in  claim 13  wherein the distal end comprises a lip for mating with a corresponding receptacle connector comprising a groove. 
     
     
       18. A receptacle connector configured to receive a corresponding plug connector, the receptacle connector comprising:
 a housing; 
 an insertion cavity formed within the housing, the insertion cavity having first and second opposing interior surfaces; 
 a plurality of contacts that extend into the cavity from the first interior surface and no contacts on the second interior surface; and 
 circuitry adapted to detect an insertion orientation of a plug connector in conjunction with a mating event and switch signals on the plurality of contacts to match the signal on the plug connector based on the insertion orientation of the plug connector. 
 
     
     
       19. The receptacle connector set forth in  claim 18  further comprising a detent having first and second projections, each having a circular cross-section, projecting into the insertion cavity, the first and second projections designed to engage with notches on a corresponding plug connector to secure the plug connector within the receptacle connector; wherein the plurality of contacts are spring contacts. 
     
     
       20. The receptacle connector of  claim 19  wherein the projections are conical shaped projections. 
     
     
       21. The receptacle connector of  claim 20  wherein the detent comprises a U-shaped frame and the first and second projections are formed on opposing ends of the frame. 
     
     
       22. The receptacle connector of  claim 19  wherein the plurality of spring contacts are biased to extend into the cavity and the detent is not included. 
     
     
       23. The receptacle connector of  claim 19  wherein the plurality of spring contacts are not included. 
     
     
       24. The receptacle connector of  claim 19  wherein the first and second projections are ground contacts.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Prov. Pat. App. No. 61/357,026, filed Jun. 21, 2010, and titled “AUDIO CONNECTOR,” which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to input/output electrical connectors such as audio connectors and data connectors. 
     Standard audio connectors or plugs are available in three sizes according to the outside diameter of the plug: a 6.35 mm (¼″) plug, a 3.5 mm (⅛″) miniature plug and a 2.5 mm ( 3/32″) subminiature plug. The plugs include multiple conductive regions that extend along the length of the connectors in distinct portions of the plug such as the tip, sleeve and one or more middle portions between the tip and sleeve resulting in the connectors often being referred to as TRS (tip, ring and sleeve) connectors. 
       FIGS. 1A and 1B  illustrate examples of audio plugs  10  and  20  having three and four conductive portions, respectfully. As shown in  FIG. 1A , plug  10  includes a conductive tip  12 , a conductive sleeve  16  and a conductive ring  14  electrically isolated from the tip  12  and the sleeve  16  by insulating rings  17  and  18 . The three conductive portions  12 ,  14 ,  16  are for left and right audio channels and a ground connection. Plug  20 , shown in  FIG. 1B , includes four conductive portions: a conductive tip  22 , a conductive sleeve  26  and two conductive rings  24 ,  25  and is thus sometimes referred to as a TRRS (tip, ring, ring, sleeve) connector. The four conductive portions are electrically isolated by insulating rings  27 ,  28  and  29  and are typically used for left and right audio, microphone and ground signals. As evident from  FIGS. 1A and 1B , each of audio plugs  10  and  20  are orientation agnostic. That is, the conductive portions completely encircle the connector forming 360 degree contacts such that there is no distinct top, bottom or side to the plug portion of the connectors. 
     When plugs  10  and  20  are 3.5 mm miniature connectors, the outer diameter of conductive sleeve  16 ,  26  and conductive rings  14 ,  24 ,  25  is 3.5 mm and the insertion length of the connector is 14 mm. For 2.5 mm subminiature connectors, the outer diameter of the conductive sleeve is 2.5 mm and the insertion length of the connector is 11 mm long. Such TRS and TRRS connectors are used in many commercially available MP3 players and smart phones as well as other electronic devices. Electronic devices such as MP3 players and smart phones are continuously being designed to be thinner and smaller and/or to include video displays with screens that are pushed out as close to the outer edge of the devices as possible. The diameter and length of current 3.5 mm and even 2.5 mm audio connectors are limiting factors in making such devices smaller and thinner and in allowing the displays to be larger for a given form factor. 
     Many standard data connectors are also only available in sizes that are limiting factors in making portable electronic devices smaller. Additionally, and in contrast to the TRS connectors discussed above, many standard data connectors require that they be mated with a corresponding connector in a single, specific orientation. Such connectors can be referred to as polarized connectors. As an example of a polarized connector,  FIGS. 2A and 2B  depict a micro-USB connector  30 , the smallest of the currently available USB connectors. Connector  30  includes a body  32  and a metallic shell  34  that extends from body  32  and can be inserted into a corresponding receptacle connector. As shown in  FIGS. 2A ,  2 B, shell  34  has angled corners  35  formed at one of its bottom plates. Similarly, the receptacle connector (not shown) with which connector  30  mates has an insertion opening with matching angled features that prevents shell  34  from being inserted into the receptacle connector the wrong way. That is, it can only be inserted one way—in an orientation where the angled portions of shell  34  align with the matching angled portions in the receptacle connector. It is sometimes difficult for the user to determine when a polarized connector, such as connector  30  is oriented in the correct insertion position. 
     Connector  30  also includes an interior cavity  38  within shell  34  along with contacts  36  formed within the cavity. Cavity  38  is prone to collecting and trapping debris within the cavity which may sometimes interfere with the signal connections to contacts  36 . Also, and in addition to the orientation issue, even when connector  30  is properly aligned, the insertion and extraction of the connector is not precise, and may have an inconsistent feel. Further, even when the connector is fully inserted, it may have an undesirable degree of wobble that may result in either a faulty connection or breakage. 
     Many other commonly used data connectors, including standard USB connectors, mini USB connectors, FireWire connectors, as well as many of the proprietary connectors used with common portable media electronics, suffer from some or all of these deficiencies or from similar deficiencies. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Various embodiments of the invention pertain to plug connectors and receptacle connectors that improve upon some or all of the above described deficiencies. Embodiments of the invention are not limited to any particular type of connector and may be used for numerous applications. Some embodiments, however, are particularly well suited for use as audio connectors and some embodiments are particularly well suited for data connectors. 
     In view of the shortcomings in currently available audio and data connectors as described above, some embodiments of the present invention relate to improved audio and/or data plug connectors that have a reduced plug length and thickness, an intuitive insertion orientation and a smooth, consistent feel when inserted and extracted from its corresponding receptacle connector. Additionally, some embodiments of plug connectors according to the present invention have external contacts instead of internal contacts and do not include a cavity that is prone to collecting and trapping debris. 
     One embodiment of the invention pertains to a plug connector having a body and a connector tab that extends longitudinally away from the body. The connector tab includes first and second major opposing sides and carries a first plurality of contacts on the first side and a second plurality of contacts on the second side. The first and second plurality of contacts each include the same number of contacts arranged in a substantially identical contact pattern. Further, each contact in the first plurality of contacts is electrically connected to a contact in the second plurality of contacts directly opposite itself. The connector tab has a 180 degree symmetrical shape so that it can be inserted and operatively coupled to a corresponding receptacle connector in either of two insertion orientations. 
     One particular embodiment of the invention pertains to a plug connector having a substantially flat body. The body can include first and second major opposing sides and third and fourth opposing sides connecting the first and second major sides, the third and fourth sides being substantially thinner than the first and second sides. A plurality of external contacts may be formed on the surface of the substantially flat body near its distal end. The contacts can be symmetrically spaced on one or both of the first and second major opposing sides. In other embodiments, the plurality of contacts are plunger contacts formed inside the body and biased to protrude from a distal end of the body. The plug connector can have a 180 degree symmetrical shape so that it can be inserted and operatively coupled to a corresponding receptacle connector in either of two insertion orientations. In some embodiments, the connector tab includes at least one retention feature, e.g., notches, adapted to engage with a retention feature, e.g., protrusions, on a corresponding receptacle connector. In some further embodiments the plug connector includes one or more ground contacts formed on the side surfaces or the retention features of the plug connector. 
     In another embodiment, the invention pertains to a plug connector having a body and a tongue extending longitudinally out of body. The tongue includes first and second opposing sides and third and fourth opposing sides connecting the first and second opposing sides. The tongue is further divided about its length into a plurality of sections that are not in electrical contact with one another that serve as contacts. In some embodiments, there are four parallel sections each having a triangular or rectangular cross sections. In other embodiments, the tongue of the plug connector is substantially flat, the third and fourth sides are substantially thinner than the first and second sides, and there are four sections arranged side-by-side each having a generally rectangular cross section. A dielectric material may fill the spaces between the sections. The plug connector can have a 180 degree symmetrical shape so that it can be inserted and operatively coupled to a corresponding receptacle connector in either of two insertion orientations. In some embodiments, the connector tab includes at least one retention feature, e.g., notches, adapted to engage with a retention feature, e.g., protrusions, on a corresponding receptacle connector. In some further embodiments the plug connector includes one or more ground contacts formed on the retention features of the plug connector. 
     In yet another embodiment, the invention pertains to a plug connector having a plug a substantially flat body with first and second major opposing sides and third and fourth opposing sides connecting the first and second major sides, the third and fourth sides being substantially thinner than the first and second sides. A plurality of contacts and insulation rings are carried by the substantially flat body with a plurality of insulated wires connected to each of the contacts. The plug connector can have a 180 degree symmetrical shape so that it can be inserted and operatively coupled to a corresponding receptacle connector in either of two insertion orientations. In some embodiments, the connector tab includes at least one retention feature, e.g., notches, adapted to engage with a retention feature, e.g., protrusions, on a corresponding receptacle connector. In some further embodiments the plug connector includes one or more ground contacts formed on the retention features or the tip of the plug connector. 
     In still another embodiment, the invention pertains to a plug connector having a base and a plurality of coaxial protruding contacts with circular cross-sections and extending from the base. The diameters of the cross-sections of the coaxial protruding contacts may be inversely proportional to their distance from the base. An additional protruding coaxial contact may encircle the entirety of each of the plurality of contacts and may serve as a ground contact. In other embodiments, the base may have a plurality of concentric contacts formed on the face of the distal end of the base. An additional protruding contact may extend from the center of the face with a diameter smaller than any diameter of the plurality of concentric contacts and this contact may serve as a ground contact. An annular groove may be formed about the protruding contact to serve as a retention feature. 
     Other embodiments of the invention pertains to a receptacle connector configured to receive a corresponding plug connector. The receptacle connector includes a housing with an insertion cavity formed within the housing. A plurality of spring contacts extend into the cavity. The receptacle connector further includes a detent having first and second projections, each having a circular cross-section, projecting into the insertion cavity. The first and second projections are designed to engage with notches on a corresponding plug connector to secure the plug connector within the receptacle connector. In some further embodiments the receptacle connector further includes one or more ground contacts formed on its retention features. 
     In another embodiment, the invention pertains to a receptacle connector configured to receive a corresponding plug connector. The receptacle connector includes a housing with an insertion cavity formed within the housing. A plurality of block contacts may extend into the cavity. There is a groove at the opening of the cavity to make a dovetail, a sliding dovetail, a tapered sliding dovetail or another similar connection with a pin or lip corresponding connector. The groove and corresponding pin or lip serve as retention features, and may further serve as ground contacts. 
     To better understand the nature and advantages of the present invention, reference should be made to the following description and the accompanying figures. It is to be understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the scope of the present invention. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIGS. 1A and 1B  show perspective views of previously known TRS audio plug connectors; 
         FIG. 2A  shows a perspective view of a previously known micro-USB plug connector while  FIG. 2B  shows a front plan view of the micro-USB connector shown in  FIG. 2A ; 
         FIGS. 3A and 3B  are simplified perspective views of plug connector  40  according to embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIG. 4  is a simplified perspective view of the tab portion  41  of connector  40  shown in  FIG. 3  juxtaposed with a receptacle connector adapted to mate with connector  40 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a simplified perspective view of the tab portion of a connector according to another embodiment of the present invention juxtaposed with its corresponding receptacle connector; 
         FIG. 6  is a simplified perspective view of the tab portion of a connector according to another embodiment of the present invention juxtaposed with its corresponding receptacle connector; 
         FIGS. 7A-7C  are simplified perspective views of retention mechanisms according to embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 8A-8C  are a simplified perspective, front and side views, respectively, of a retention mechanism and a corresponding connector according to other embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 9A-9F  are a simplified perspective views of connectors according to additional embodiments of the present invention; 
         FIGS. 10A-10C  are a simplified perspective and side views of a connector according to yet another embodiment of the present invention; and 
         FIGS. 11A-11D  are simplified side, side, front and perspective views, respectively, of plug connectors according to other embodiments of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Embodiments of the present invention are suitable for a multiplicity of electronic devices, including any device that receives or transmits audio, video or data signals among others. In some instances, embodiments of the invention are particularly well suited for portable electronic media devices because of their potentially small form factor. As used herein, an electronic media device includes any device with at least one electronic component that may be used to present human-perceivable media. Such devices may include, for example, portable music players (e.g., MP3 devices and Apple&#39;s iPod devices), portable video players (e.g., portable DVD players), cellular telephones (e.g., smart telephones such as Apple&#39;s iPhone devices), video cameras, digital still cameras, projection systems (e.g., holographic projection systems), gaming systems, PDAs, desktop computers, as well as tablet (e.g., Apple&#39;s iPad devices), laptop or other mobile computers. Some of these devices may be configured to provide audio, video or other data or sensory output. 
     In order to better appreciate and understand the present invention, reference is first made to  FIG. 3A  which is a simplified perspective view of a first embodiment of a plug connector  40  according to the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 3A , connector  40  includes a connector tab  41  extending out of and longitudinally away from a body  45 . Connector tab  41  includes four contacts  44   a - 44   d  positioned on a front major surface  43   a  and extend to the distal end of the connector. Connector  40  also includes an opposing back major surface  43   b  (not visible in  FIG. 3 ) and two side surfaces  43   c  and  43   d , of which only side surface  43   c  is visible, that are substantially thinner than front and back major surfaces  43   a ,  43   b  and extend between the front and back major surfaces. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 3A , connector tab  41  and body  45  have essentially the same width and thickness, but in other embodiments, such as shown in  FIG. 3B , a body  48  of the connector can be wider and/or thicker than tab  41 . 
     While connector  40  can be any type of connector and include any reasonable number of contacts, in one particular embodiment, connector  40  is an audio plug connector and contact  44   a  is a left audio contact, contact  44   b  is a microphone contact, contact  44   c  is a ground contact, and contact  44   d  is a right audio contact. As shown in  FIG. 3  contacts  44   a - 44   d  are external contacts and connector  40  does not include an exposed cavity in which particles and debris may collect. To improve robustness and reliability, connector  40  may be fully sealed and include no moving parts. Furthermore, connector  40  can have a considerably reduced insertion depth, Z, and insertion width, X, as compared to commonly available TRS and TRRS connectors described above. In one particular embodiment, connector  40  has a width, X, of 2 mm; a thickness, Y, of 1 mm; and an insertion depth, Z, of 4 mm. In another embodiment, tab  41  of connector  40  has a width, X, of 4.1 mm; a thickness, Y, of 1.5 mm; and an insertion depth, Z, of 5.75 mm. 
     Connector tab  41  can be made from a single piece of high strength non-conductive or insulated material with contacts  44   a - 44   d  being deposited directly on the plug. In one embodiment tab  41  is made from a hardened steel core formed by a metal injection molding (MIM) process. An insulator is deposited over the core using, for example, a dielectric physical vapor deposition (PVD) process and then contact traces  44   a - 44   d  are deposited using a metal PVD process. In another embodiment, tab  41  is an anodized aluminum core with conductive traces deposited over it using PVD techniques for metal contacts  44   a - 44   d . In still another embodiment, tab  41  is formed from a toughened zirconia core faulted by ceramic injection molding (CIM) techniques and an MIM process is used to form the metal contacts within shallow grooves formed on the surface of the zirconia core. 
     In other embodiments, tab  41  can be foamed with any of the above cores and contacts  44   a - 44   d  can be formed from stamped sheet metal that is placed in matching grooves formed on the upper surface of the core. The sheet metal contacts can be made from a copper, nickel, brass, a metal alloy or any other appropriate conductive material. Also, in some embodiments, an ABS or similar shell  48  is wrapped around a proximal end of connector  40  as shown in  FIG. 3B  to provide a larger surface area for a user to grip the connector. 
     While not shown in either of  FIG. 3A  or  3 B, connector  40  can include lead-in features, e.g., a slightly rounded outer surfaces (e.g., as shown by surfaces  43   a - 43   d  near the distal end of tab  41 ) that slopes inward to guide connector tab  41  within cavity  51 , that make it easier to insert the connector into a corresponding receptacle connector (shown in  FIG. 4 ) and/or only allow the plug connector to be inserted in the correct orientation. Connector  40  may also include a retention feature (although a retention feature is not shown in  FIG. 3 , an example of a retention feature is discussed at least below with reference to  FIGS. 7A-7C ) that cooperates with a corresponding retention feature on a mating receptacle connector to secure the plug connector. In some embodiments, the retention features may also serve as ground contacts. 
     In some embodiments, connector  40  is designed with 180 degree symmetry (i.e., dual orientation design) so that plug connector  40  can be inserted into a corresponding receptacle connector in both a first orientation where surface  43   a  is facing up or a second orientation where surface  43   a  is rotated 180 degrees and facing down. In such embodiments, connector  40  may include an identical number of contacts on each of the major sides  43   a  and  43   b  that are also positioned on each side according to the same contact layout (i.e., the contacts on each of sides  43   a  and  43   b  are positioned to electrically connect to corresponding contacts in a receptacle connector regardless of which of the two orientations connector  40  is inserted into the receptacle connector). Each contact on the first side is electrically coupled to a corresponding contact on the second side that is positioned directly opposite itself. As an example, the far left contact on side  43   a  (contact  44   a ) is electrically connected to the contact on side  43   b  directly beneath it, which if the connector was flipped over 180 degrees, would be in the same location as contact  44   d . Similarly, as another example, contact  44   b  is electrically connected to the contact directly beneath it, which if the connector was flipped over 180 degrees, would be in the same location as contact  44   c . In the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 3A and 3B , a direct electrical connection between the contacts on opposing sides is made by wrapping the contacts around the tip of the connector so each contact extends from side  43   a , around the distal tip of the connector to side  43   b.    
     To allow for the dual orientation feature of connector  40 , tab  41  is not polarized. That is, tab  41  does not include a physical key that is configured to mate with a matching key in a corresponding receptacle connector designed to ensure that mating between the two connectors occurs only in a single orientation. Instead, if tab  41  is divided into top and bottom halves along a horizontal plane that bisects the center of tab  41  along its width, the physical shape of the upper half of tab  41  is substantially the same as the physical shape of the lower half. Similarly, if tab  41  is divided into left and right halves along a vertical plane that bisects the center of tab  41  along its length, the physical shape of the left half of tab  41  is substantially the same as the shape of the right half. Also, in some embodiments additional or separate ground contacts may be formed on the sides or at the distal end of connector tab  41  and can also be arranged in a symmetrical manner. 
     A sensing circuit in the receptacle or the electronic device in which the receptacle connector is housed can detect the orientation of the contacts and switch internal connections to the contacts in the connector jack as appropriate. For example, a software switch can be used to switch the receptacle jack&#39;s contacts for left and right audio depending on the insertion orientation while a hardware switch can be used to switch the connector jacks microphone and ground contacts to match the contacts of connector  40 . In other embodiments, both switches can be implemented in software or both switches can be implemented in hardware. The orientation of the connector can be detected by circuitry associated with the corresponding receptacle connector based on signals received over the contacts or based on detecting the position of the ground contact or a power contact. As one example, upon insertion of connector  40  into a receptacle connector, circuitry in the receptacle connector can detect the position of ground contact  44   c . Once the position of the ground contact is known, the circuitry can then switch the signaling on the receptacle contacts to match the signals on the plug connector. As another example, upon inserting a connector within a receptacle connector of a host device, the host device may send an Acknowledgment signal to the serial control chip over the contact in the receptacle connector designated for the specific contact and wait for a Response signal. If a Response signal is received, the contacts are aligned properly and audio and/or other signals can be transferred between the connectors. If no response is received, the host device flips the signals in the receptacle connector to correspond to the second possible orientation (i.e., flips the signals 180 degrees) and repeats the Acknowledgement/Response signal routine. In another embodiment, a physical orientation key (e.g., a unique notch or other physical features) formed on the plug connector, can be detected by an orientation contact or other appropriate mechanism in the receptacle connector to determine the orientation of the plug, and a hardware or software switch can set the receptacle connector contacts as appropriate for left and right audio or other data contacts to correspond to the plug connector contacts. 
       FIG. 4  is a simplified perspective view of tab  41  shown in  FIG. 3A  juxtaposed with a receptacle connector  50  designed to mate with connector  40 . Receptacle jack  50  has a receptacle cavity  51  into which four wire flexure contacts  54   a - 54   d  extend. Flexure contacts  54   a - 54   d  are wiping contacts that mate with contacts  44   a - 44   d  in plug connector  40 . Each of the flexure contacts  54   a - 54   d  is positioned within respective individual contact cavities  52   a - 52   d . When connector  40  is inserted within cavity  51 , upper major surface  43   a  of connector  40  forces flexure contacts  54   a - 54   d  to spring back within their respective contact cavities  52   a - 52   d , whereas contacts  54   a - 54   d  are biased to extend within cavity  51  when not subject to an external force. Hence, when connectors  40  and  50  are mated, the bias of contacts  54   a - 54   d  causes them to press against contacts  44   a - 44   d , causing contacts  54   a - 54   d  to at least partially retract into the contact cavities  52   a - 52   d , and ensures a solid electrical connection between the contacts of connectors  40  and receptacle connector  50  when mated. Because each individual contact on one side of plug connector  40  is electrically coupled to a corresponding contact on the opposing side, receptacle connector  50  can be designed to include a single set of contacts  52   a - 52   d  on one side of cavity  51  instead of having contacts formed on both top and bottom interior surfaces within cavity  51 . This in turn allows receptacle connector  50  to have a reduced height compared to a similar receptacle connector with separate sets of contacts on opposing interior surfaces as can be appreciated by reference to  FIG. 4 . 
     In other embodiments, connector  40  and connector receptacle  50  may each include more than four contacts total or more than four contacts on each of surfaces  43   a  and  43   b , e.g., 6, 8, 10, or more contacts and there may also be ground contacts near the distal tip of connector  40  or on side surfaces  43   c  and  43   d . Where connector  40  is a data plug connector, many different types of digital signals can be carried by four or more contacts including data signals such as, USB signals (including USB 1.0, 2.0 and/or 3.0), FireWire (also referred to as IEEE 1394) signals, SATA signals and/or any other type of data signal. Other digital signals that may be carried by the contacts of connector  40  include signals for digital video such as DVI signals, HDMI signals and Display Port signals, as well as other digital signals that perform functions that enable the detection and identification of devices, electronic media devices or accessories to connector  40 . 
       FIG. 5  is a simplified perspective view of the tab portion of a plug connector  60  according to another embodiment of the present invention juxtaposed with its corresponding receptacle connector  70 . Similar to plug connector  40 , plug connector  60  may be an audio or data plug connector and may have a 180 degree symmetrical dual orientation design. Plug connector  60  includes plunger pins  64   a - 64   d  positioned within an outer shell  62 . Shell  62  can be metallic or can be made from a non-conductive or insulative material, such as a ceramic. Behind each plunger pin  64   a - 64   d  is a corresponding spring  65   a - 65   d  that biases the plunger pins towards distal end  67  of connector  60 . As shown in  FIG. 5 , the distal end  67  of connector  60  includes substantially flat end surface  63  that extends between the upper and lower surfaces of the tab portion of connector  60  and is recessed in the longitudinal direction with respect to sidewalls  68   a  and  68   b . Plunger pins  64   a - 64   d  sit in cylindrical cavities  66   a - 66   d  formed within the tab portion of connector  60  that terminate at end surface  63 . 
     Receptacle connector  70  includes four block contacts  74   a - 74   d  positioned within individual cavities and having a contact surface that extends into a contact insertion cavity  71 . When the plug connector is inserted within cavity  71 , sidewalls  68   a  and  68   b  frame the block contacts  74   a - 74   d  which align with plunger contacts  64   a - 64   d . Plunger pins  64   a - 64   d  are forced against block contacts  74   a - 74   d  during the insertion process and springs  65   a - 65   d  retract. The springs  65   a - 65   d , plunger pins  64   a - 64   d  and block contacts  74   a - 74   d  are designed so that when plug connector  60  is fully inserted within cavity  71 , plunger contacts  64   a - 64   d  are in electrical contact with their respective block contacts. Plunger pins  64   a - 64   d  and block contacts  74   a - 74   d  can be used to carry any-appropriate data signal (e.g., the data signals mentioned with reference to connector  40 ) as well as audio signals, video signals and the like. In some embodiments, there may be more than four plunger pins within connector  60  with corresponding block contacts on receptacle connector  70 , e.g., 6, 8, 10, or more plunger pins, and there may also be ground contacts on sidewalls  68   a  and  68   b . As with receptacle connector  50 , circuitry associated with receptacle connector  70  can detect the insertion orientation of plug connector  60  and switch the signaling of contacts  74   a - 74   d  accordingly. 
     In one embodiment, plunger contacts  64   a - 64   d  are spaced at a pitch of 0.4 mm. Due in part to their small size in this embodiment, the cylindrical cavities  66   a - 66   d  that the plunger contacts  64   a - 64   d  are positioned within are formed directly in the plug structure rather than in a plug subassembly. A subassembly can be used in other embodiments, however. In one particular embodiment, the body of connector  60  is formed from a toughened zirconia CIM structure and electrical contact to plunge contacts  64   a - 64   d  relies on conductivity designed in the housing rather than the spring. In this embodiment, cylindrical cavities  66   a - 66   d  are lined with a titanium nitride coating to improve conduction to contacts within the housing. 
     Connector  60  may include a lead-in feature that allows the connector to be more easily inserted within cavity  71 . As one example, sidewalls  68   a ,  68   b  may have a slightly rounded outer surface that slopes inward to guide the tab portion of connector  61  within cavity  71 . Additionally, and although not shown in the overly simplified  FIG. 5 , connector  60  may include a retention feature (e.g., the retention features discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 7A-7C ) that secures plug connector  60  within receptacle connector  70  once it is fully inserted. 
       FIG. 6  is a simplified perspective view of the tab portion of plug connector  80  according to another embodiment of the present invention juxtaposed with its corresponding receptacle connector  90 . Plug connector  80  includes plunger pins  84   a - 84   d  positioned within cylindrical cavities  86   a - 86   d  formed within the tab portion. Behind each plunger pin  84   a - 84   d  is a corresponding spring  85   a - 85   d  that biases the plunger pins towards distal end  87 . Plunger pins  84   a - 84   d , springs  85   a - 85   d  and cylindrical cavities  86   a - 86   d  are similar to those described above with respect to  FIG. 5 . Distal end  87  of connector  80  has a pin or lip  88  formed on it that mates with groove  89  of insertion cavity  91  of receptacle connector  90  in an orthogonal sliding dovetail type connection similar to a hot shoe connection used in SLR cameras to connect an external flash or similar component to the camera. In other embodiments, a tapered sliding dovetail connection may also be used with a tapered groove  89  formed on the connector receptacle  90  and corresponding tapered pin or lip  88  formed on connector  80 . In additional embodiments, other dovetail connection may be implemented between connector  80  and connector receptacle  90 . These dovetail connections may also serve as ground contact connections wherein lip  88  and groove  89  serve as ground contacts for connector  80  and connector receptacle  90 , respectively. 
     Connector receptacle  90  includes four block contacts  94   a - 94   d  positioned within individual cavities and having a contact surface that extends into contact insertion cavity  91  similar to that of connector receptacle  70  shown in  FIG. 5 . The design of connector  80  and corresponding receptacle connector  90  allows wiping of contacts  84   a - 84   d  during the connection process even though plunger contacts are used by means of the dovetail connection. Towards this end, block contacts  94   a - 94   d  formed within the receptacle connector  90  may include an insertion feature, such as an edge surface that is angled towards the front of insertion cavity  91 , which pushes each plunger pin  84   a - 84   d  in as the pin is wiped past the particular block contact. 
       FIGS. 7A-7C  are a simplified perspective views of three different bullhorn type detent retention mechanisms according to embodiments of the present invention that can be used to secure plug connectors according to the present invention; such as connectors  40 ,  60  and others; within their corresponding receptacle connectors. In  FIG. 7A  a tall bullhorn detent  102  is shown formed within a receptacle connector  100  with a plug connector  110  positioned for insertion into the receptacle connector. Plug connector  110  includes retention features, shown as c-shaped notches  112   a ,  112   b , near its distal end that are positioned to engage with corresponding protruding retention features, shown as c-shaped projections  103   a ,  103   b , of bullhorn detent  102  that extend within an insertion cavity  101  of plug connector  110 . 
     In operation, when plug connector  110  is inserted into cavity  101 , protruding retention features  103   a ,  103   b  (e.g., c-shaped projections) come in contact with the sidewalls of plug connector  110  and are pressed outward until connector  110  is inserted fully into cavity  101  and protruding retention features  103   a ,  103   b  (c-shaped projections) align with notches  112   a ,  112   b  at which time they spring inward to latch with the notches. Once latched, in order to disengage plug connector  110  from receptacle connector  100  by pulling connector  110  out of cavity  101 , the pull force applied to remove the connector  110  must overcome the spring force applied by detent  102 . In addition to holding connector  110  in an engaged position with receptacle connector  100 , all or some of retention features  112   a ,  112   b  and  103   a ,  103   b  may also serve as ground contacts. 
       FIG. 7B  shows a flat bullhorn detent  104  formed within the receptacle connector that includes retention features, shown as flat c-shaped projections  105   a  and  105   b , and  FIG. 7C  shows a folded bullhorn detent  106  formed within the receptacle connector that includes retention features, shown as flat c-shaped projections  107   a ,  107   b . In some embodiments of the invention, detent travel (i.e., the distance that c-shaped projections  103   a ,  103   b  or  105   a ,  105   b  or  107   a ,  107   b  move laterally) is between about 0.5 mm and about 1.2 mm per side. 
       FIGS. 8A-8C  are a simplified perspective, front and side views, respectively, of an audio or data plug connector  120  and corresponding receptacle connector  130  according to another embodiment of the present invention. Plug connector  120  includes contacts  124   a - 124   d  that extend from the upper surface of the connector to its distal end. As shown in  FIGS. 8A-8C  contacts  124   a - 124   d  are external contacts and connector  120  does not include an exposed cavity in which particles and debris may collect. To improve robustness and reliability, connector  120  may be fully sealed and include no moving parts. In some embodiments, contacts  124   a - 124   d  wrap around the tip of the connector to be present on both major surfaces and connector  120  has a dual orientation design similar to connector  40  described above. Plug connector  120  also includes indented retention features  123   a  and  123   b , which may have circular cross-sections and be formed on the sidewalls of the connector near its distal end. In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 8A-8C , indented retention features  123   a ,  123   b  are conical indents. 
     Receptacle connector  130  includes flexure contacts  134   a - 134   d  that extend into an insertion cavity  131  and spring backward within cavity  131  under force when plug connector  120  is inserted within cavity  131 . Receptacle connector  130  also includes a u-shaped retention mechanism  132  that has two protruding retention features  133   a ,  133   b  positioned in an opposing relationship to each other. Protruding retention features  133   a ,  133   b  have circular cross-sections and are designed to engage with indented retention features  123   a ,  123   b  of plug connector  120  when the plug connector mates with the receptacle connector. In the embodiments shown in  FIGS. 8A-8C , protruding retention features  133   a ,  133   b  are conical tips but they may be spherically shaped in other embodiments. In addition to holding connector  120  in an engaged position with receptacle connector  130 , all or some of retention features  123   a ,  123   b  and  133   a ,  133   b  may also serve as ground contacts. 
     As shown in  FIG. 8C , insertion cavity  131  has an opening along its width that is considerably wider than the thickness of plug connector  120 . The extra width in the opening of cavity  131 , combined with the manner in which protruding retention features  133   a ,  133   b  mate with indented retention features  123   a ,  123   b  allows plug connector  120  to pivot around the protruding retention features  133   a ,  133   b  so that connectors  120 ,  130  are less likely to break when subject to lateral forces applied to the front or back of connector  120 , e.g., force applied in direction  138   a  or  138   b . When plug connector  120  is mated with receptacle connector  130 , contacts  134   a - 134   d  are spring biased towards the plug connector  120  so that an electrical connection between contacts  134   a - 134   d  and corresponding contacts  124   a - 124   d  is maintained while the plug connector pivots. 
     In operation, when plug connector  120  is inserted into cavity  131 , protruding retention features  133   a ,  133   b  come in contact with the sidewalls of the plug connector and are pressed outward until connector  120  is inserted fully into cavity  131  and protruding retention features  133   a ,  133   b  align with and latch into indented retention features  123   a ,  123   b . Once latched, in order to disengage plug connector  120  from receptacle connector  130  by pulling connector  120  out of cavity  131 , the pull force applied to remove connector  120  must overcome the spring force applied by retention mechanism  132 . Connector  120  can also be removed from receptacle  130  by pressing laterally on connector  120  in either direction  138   a  or  138   b . Movement of plug connector  120  in either direction  138   a  or  138   b  back drives protruding retention features  133   a ,  133   b  (e.g., conical projections) allowing plug connector  120  to resist breakage and disengage from the receptacle connector. 
     In some embodiments, contacts  124   a - 124   d  and flexure contacts  134   a - 134   d  can be used to carry any appropriate data signal (e.g., the data signals mentioned with reference to connector  40 ) as well as audio signals, video signals and the like. In some embodiments, there may be more than four contacts on connector  120  with corresponding flexure contacts on connector receptacle  130 , e.g., 6, 8, 10, or more contacts, and there may also be ground contacts in the retention features as discussed with reference to previous embodiments. 
       FIGS. 9A-9F  are a simplified perspective views of audio or data plug connectors according to additional embodiments of the present invention that can also have 180 degree dual orientation design. Each of the connectors shown in  FIGS. 9A-9F  include four contacts arranged in various ways. For example, connector  140  shown in  FIG. 9A  has four contacts arranged on four different outer surfaces of a connector tab or tongue  141  (only two contacts are visible). As shown in  FIG. 9A , connector  140  may also includes retention features. These retention features may function in a manner similar to the retention features discussed with reference to the aforementioned connectors  110  and  120 , including the ability to also serve as ground contacts. Plug connector  145  shown in  FIG. 9B  has four contacts  146   a - 146   d  projecting out from a base in a quadrant arrangement where each of the contacts is physically spaced apart and separated from the others. In  FIG. 9C , a connector  150  is shown that employs a similar quadrant type arrangement of four connectors  151   a - 151   d  but separates the connectors with a plastic or similar dielectric material  152  to make a single robust plug as opposed to individual pins. 
     In  FIG. 9D  four pins  156   a - 156   d  are spaced apart laterally along the width of a plug connector  155  and a plastic or similar dielectric material  152  is formed between the pins to make a single robust plug.  FIGS. 9E and 9F  show plug connectors  160  and  165  that are similar to plug connectors  145  and  150 , respectively, except that the cross-sectional shape of the connector pins or contacts are rectangular rather than triangular. In some embodiments, the contacts shown in the connectors of  FIGS. 9A-9F , as well as with other connectors according to the present invention, are made from a conductive elastomer that provides compliance for connection while the dielectric material  152  between the pins is made from a high strength insulator. In other embodiments, the connector pins of the connector of  FIGS. 9A-9F  are made from a dielectric material coated with a conductive layer. 
     The contacts of connectors  140 ,  145 ,  150 ,  155 ,  160  and  165  can be used to carry any appropriate data signal (e.g., the data signals mentioned with reference to connector  40 ) as well as audio signals, video signals and the like. In some embodiments, there may be more than four contacts on connectors  140 ,  145 ,  150 ,  155 ,  160  and  165  with corresponding contacts on a corresponding connector receptacle, e.g., 6, 8, 10, or more contacts, and there may also be ground contacts near the distal tip or on the sidewalls of these connectors. Also,  FIG. 9A-9F  show that at least the contacts of connectors  140 ,  152 ,  155 , and  160  are external contacts and these connectors do not include an exposed cavity in which particles and debris may collect. To improve robustness and reliability, connectors  140 ,  152 ,  155 , and  160  may be fully sealed and include no moving parts. 
       FIGS. 10A-10B  are simplified perspective and side views of an audio or data plug connector  180  according to yet another embodiment of the present invention that also has a 180 degree dual insertion orientation design. Connector  180  has a substantially flat tab  181  that carries four sleeve contacts  184   a - 184   d  that encircle tab  181  and are electrically isolated from each other by insulation rings  185   a - 185   d . As shown illustratively in  FIG. 10C , four insulated wires  186   a - 186   d  run side-by-side within tab  181  and are joined to their respective contacts  184   a - 184   d  at an internal contact point in a section of the tip corresponding to the particular contact. As shown in  FIGS. 10A-10C , contacts  184   a - 184   d  are external contacts and connector  180  does not include an exposed cavity in which particles and debris may collect. To improve robustness and reliability, connector  180  may be fully sealed and include no moving parts. 
     The contacts of connectors  180  can be used to carry any appropriate data signal (e.g., the data signals mentioned with reference to connector  40 ) as well as audio signals, video signals and the like. In some embodiments, there may be more than four sleeve contacts on connector  180 , e.g., 6, 8, 10, or more contacts, and there may also be ground contacts near the distal tip or on the sidewalls of connector  180 . 
     In other embodiments of the invention, an audio or data coaxial connector can be employed that does not require axial spacers (e.g., insulation rings  185   a - 185   d  shown in  FIGS. 10A-10C ) and thus enables a reduced length connector.  FIG. 11A  is a simplified side view of one such connector  200  according to one embodiment of the present invention. Connector  200  includes four contacts  204   a - 204   d  that decrease in diameter from contact  204   a  at the distal end of the connector to contact  204   d  at its base. A retention feature  205 , shown as an annular groove, formed around connector  204   d  acts as part of a retention mechanism when connector  200  is inserted into a corresponding receptacle connector having a detent or similar retention feature positioned to align with retention feature  205 . 
       FIG. 11B  is a simplified side view of connector  210  according to another embodiment. Connector  210  has contacts  204   a - 204   d  similar to those of connector  200  and further includes a ground contact  204   e  that encircles the entirety of each of contacts  204   a - 204   d . In another embodiment, a connector  220  includes multiple contacts formed on the face of concentric sleeves as shown in  FIGS. 11C and 11D . Specifically, connector  220  includes a center contact  224   a  that is surrounded by three concentric rings  224   b - 224   d  of increasing diameter. Each ring  224   b - 224   d  includes contacts formed on its interior surface that mate with contacts formed on an exterior surface of matching concentric rings in a receptacle connector. The design of center contact  224   a  may be similar to standard TRS and TRRS connectors mentioned previously, including a bulbous head retention feature and, in some embodiments, additional ring contacts formed about its length. In other embodiments, the surface area of the cross section of center contact  224   a  may be much smaller than that of standard TRS and TRRS connectors. 
     The contacts of connectors  200 ,  210  and  220  can be used to carry any appropriate data signal (e.g., the data signals mentioned with reference to connector  40 ) as well as audio signals, video signals and the like. In some embodiments, there may be more than the four contacts shown in  FIGS. 11A-11B  ( 204   a - 204   d  and  224   a - 224   d ) carried by connectors  200 ,  210  and  220 , e.g., 6, 8, 10, or more contacts. 
     Some embodiments of the present invention are described using claims:
         1. A plug connector comprising:   a body;   a tongue extending longitudinally away from the body, the tongue having first and second opposing sides and third and fourth opposing sides connecting the first and second sides;   retention features formed on the third and fourth sides near a distal end of the tongue; and   at least one contact carried by the tongue on each of the first, second, third and fourth sides;   wherein the tongue is shaped and the contacts are arranged to have 180 degree symmetry so that the plug connector can be inserted and operatively coupled to a corresponding receptacle connector in either of two orientations.   2. The plug connector set forth in claim  1  wherein the retention features are notches.   3. The plug connector set forth in claim  2  wherein the notches are v-shaped indentations.   4. A plug connector comprising:   a body;   a tongue extending longitudinally away from the body, the tongue being divided about its length into a plurality of sections that are not in electrical contact with one another, each of the plurality of sections including at least one contact; and   wherein the tongue is shaped and the contacts are arranged to have 180 degree symmetry so that the plug connector can be inserted and operatively coupled to a corresponding receptacle connector in either of two orientations.   5. The plug connector set forth in claim  4  wherein the tongue includes four sections each having a triangular cross section arranged to provide the tongue with a generally rectangular cross section.   6. The plug connector set forth in claim  4  wherein the tongue includes four sections, arranged in a two-by-two matrix pattern.   7. The plug connector set forth in claim  6  wherein the tongue is substantially flat.   8. The plug connector set forth in claim  7  wherein the tongue includes four sections, each having a generally rectangular cross section, arranged side-by-side.   9. The plug connector set forth in claim  4  wherein a dielectric material fills spaces between the plurality of sections.   10. A plug connector comprising:   a substantially flat body having first and second major opposing sides and third and fourth opposing sides connecting the first and second major sides, the third and fourth sides being substantially thinner than the first and second sides;   a plurality of contacts carried by the substantially flat body;   a plurality of insulation rings separating each of the contacts; and   a plurality of insulated wires connected to each of the contacts.   11. A plug connector comprising:   a base,   a plurality of coaxial protruding contacts having circular cross-sections and extending from the base, wherein the diameters of the cross-sections of the coaxial protruding contacts are inversely proportional to their distance from the base.   12. The plug connector set forth in claim  11  wherein an annular groove is formed about the protruding contact with the largest diameter cross-section.   13. The plug connector set forth in claim  11  wherein an additional coaxial protruding contact with a circular cross-section protrudes from the base and extends a length about equal to the length of the protruding contact that extends furthest from the base, wherein the additional coaxial protrusion contact is hollow having a first outer diameter and a second inner diameter, wherein the second inner diameter is greater than the diameter of any of the cross sections of the plurality of coaxial protruding contacts.   14. The plug connector set forth in claim  13  wherein the additional coaxial protruding contact is a ground contact.   15. A plug connector comprising:   a base,   a plurality of concentric contacts formed on a face of a distal end of the base,   a protruding contact extending from a center of the face having a circular cross section with a diameter smaller than any diameter of the plurality of concentric contacts.   16. The plug connector set forth in claim  15  wherein an annular groove is formed about the protruding contact.   17. A receptacle connector configured to receive a corresponding plug connector, the receptacle connector comprising:   a housing;   an insertion cavity formed within the housing, the insertion cavity having first and second opposing interior surfaces;   a plurality of contacts that extend into the cavity from the first interior surface and no contacts on the second interior surface;   circuitry adapted to detect an insertion orientation of a plug connector in conjunction with a mating event and switch signals on the plurality of contacts to match the signal on the plug connector based on the insertion orientation of the plug connector.   18. A receptacle connector configured to receive a corresponding plug connector, the receptacle connector comprising:   a housing;   an insertion cavity formed within the housing;   a plurality of block contacts that extend into the cavity;   a groove at an opening of the cavity.   19. The receptacle connector of claim  18  wherein the groove is a sliding dovetail groove.       

     As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the essential characteristics thereof. For example, while embodiments of the invention were mostly discussed above with respect to audio plugs having four contacts, the invention is not limited to any particular number of contacts. Some embodiments of the invention may have as few as two contacts while other embodiments can have thirty or even more contacts. As another example, all the embodiments of the invention described herein having contacts on a single side of the connector can be modified to have contacts on at least opposing sides of the connector. In many of these embodiments, the contacts can be arranged to have 180 degree symmetry so that the connector can be inserted into a receptacle connector in either of two different orientations. 
     Additionally, while the invention was described with respect to an audio connector in some cases, it is not limited to any particular type of signal and can be used to carry video and/or other signals instead of audio-related signals or in addition to audio-related signals. Also, in some embodiments, connectors according to the present invention can carry both analog and digital signals. As an example, connectors according to the present invention can be modified to include one or more fiber optic cables that extend through the connector and can be operatively coupled to receive or transmit optical signals between a mating connector jack. Fiber optic cables allow for high data rate transmissions and can be used for USB 4.0 compatibility (e.g., 10 GB/second data transfer). Connectors according to the present invention may include power, audio and data connections and can be used to charge a device while simultaneously providing data and audio functions. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific embodiments of the invention described herein. Such equivalents are intended to be encompassed by the following claims.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20110621
Publication Date: 20141111
Grant Date: 20141111
Priority Date: 20100621
Inventors: GOLKO ALBERT J.
BRIGHAM ARTHUR STANLEY
MCDONALD ANWYL MYRON
LEE DANIEL ZISUK
CARTER TROY ALEXANDER
MARIN JOSE A.
KOH PAUL BONGKYU
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "H01R13/642", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/055", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R2201/06", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6275", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6683", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/642", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6582", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R29/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/24", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/24", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R29/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R27/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6582", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6275", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K1/117", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K1/117", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R27/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6273", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R2201/06", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/035", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6683", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/035", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R29/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R2201/06", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6582", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K1/117", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/24", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R27/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/055", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6273", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/035", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6275", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/642", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6683", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H01R13/6273", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 44318215