Abstract: Connectors formed from long strips of pin headers, which are cut to a length equal to the desired number of connector positions. A pre-molded shroud is then press fit to each end of the cut pin header. The pre-molded shrouds include longitudinally extending arms which engage sides of the pin header in order to firmly hold the shroud in place after placement. Because none of the connector positions on the end of the cut pin header are covered by the shrouds, the completed connector includes the desired number of connector positions. As with the other embodiments of the present invention, the only items that must be inventoried are the long strips of pin headers and the pre-molded shrouds. Any desired size of connector may be formed from these two components.

Abstract: Connectors having press fit mating shrouds. The connectors are formed from long strips of pin headers, which are cut to a length equal to the desired number of connector positions plus four additional positions. A pre-molded shroud is then press fit to each end of the cut pin header. The pre-molded shrouds include vertical holes which are sized to fit snugly over the pins on the end position of the cut pin header in order to remain in place after placement. Additionally, the shrouds include vertical slots which snugly receive the pins on the second-to-last position on each end of the pin header. Because the last two positions on each end of the cut pin header are covered by the shrouds, the completed connector includes the desired number of connector positions. Furthermore, the only items that must be inventoried are the long strips of pin headers and the pre-molded shrouds. Any desired size of connector may be formed from these two components.