Patents Assigned to Northstar Systems, Inc.
  • Patent number: 7118414
    Abstract: A computer input/output connector assembly which uses connector port holders that can easily be snapped into a metal retaining bracket. In one preferred embodiment, the bracket of the present invention is mounted on the front of a personal computer tower. Connected to the bracket is a first connector port holder with two USB connector ports, a second connector port holder with an IEEE 1394 high speed communication port, a third connector port holder with three audio ports (e.g., audio in, audio out and microphone) and a fourth connector port holder with two video ports (e.g., RCA composite video and S-video). The connector port holder is preferably made of a durable, heat resistant plastic. This connector port holder includes movable cantilever strips with lock tabs which can firmly snap into holes in the bracket for mounting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Northstar Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Louis E. Spears, Robert G. Thunell
  • Publication number: 20050164548
    Abstract: A computer input/output connector assembly which uses connector port holders that can easily be snapped into a metal retaining bracket. In one preferred embodiment, the bracket of the present invention is mounted on the front of a personal computer tower. Connected to the bracket is a first connector port holder with two USB connector ports, a second connector port holder with an IEEE 1394 high speed communication port, a third connector port holder with three audio ports (e.g.., audio in, audio out and microphone) and a fourth connector port holder with two video ports (e.g., RCA composite video and S-video). The connector port holder is preferably made of a durable, heat resistant plastic. This connector port holder includes movable cantilever strips with lock tabs which can firmly snap into holes in the bracket for mounting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2004
    Publication date: July 28, 2005
    Applicant: Northstar Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Louis Spears, Robert Thunell
  • Patent number: 6386884
    Abstract: A connector system. In one embodiment, the connector system includes a receptacle housing with a plurality of receptacle electrical contacts fixedly attached thereto, and a plug housing comprising a plurality of plug electrical contacts fixedly attached thereto. Each of the plug electrical contacts comprises a proximal end that includes a blade in a first plane. The proximal end is connectable to a first electronic component. Each of the plug electrical contacts further comprises a distal end that includes a blade substantially in a second plane that is orthogonal to the first plane. When the plug housing is inserted in the receptacle housing, the distal end is in contact with a respective one of the plug electrical contacts, and the plug housing and the receptacle housing are rotatable with respect to each other in the second plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Northstar Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Jason S. Sloey