Abstract: A time-slot addressed, system keyed multiplex device is taught. Briefly stated, a ribbon cable provides a power and ground lead and a clock and data signal lead. A microcomputer or master controller then communicates over the ribbon cable with a plurality of intelligent connectors. Each connector is provided with a unique address such that by counting the number of clock pulses provided by the master controller the logic packages in the intelligent connector recognizes the appropriate time-slot for a response or command signal. A single one-pulse command is then presented by the master controller on the data bus which is then received by the logic circuitry followed by a time period on the data bus when the logic package may send to the master controller a single bit of data. In this manner of command and response, various devices such as relays may be turned on or off with their conditions presented to the master controller.

Abstract: A polarized ribbon cable connector which facilitates the placement of electrical or circuit components therein is taught. Briefly stated, a housing lower assembly is profiled to receive a carrier strip therein. The carrier strip has bent up portions which provide for insulation displacement connection with electrical wires. An intermediate assembly is disposed on top of the carrier strip with a channel therein to receive a ribbon cable. A housing top assembly is disposed on top of the ribbon cable and has latches which mate with tabs contained on the lower assembly thereby interlocking various components together. The carrier strip also has contact legs disposed therein which allow for electrical contact to be made with pads contained in an insertable logic package. Knockout pin apertures disposed in the lower assembly allow portions of the carrier strip to be electrically isolated from the contact legs.

Abstract: A laminated fiber optic ribbon cable, and method of manufacturing same, is disclosed. The cable comprises top and bottom sheath layers, at least two elongate reinforcement members each located along respective sides of the bottom sheath layer, and a plurality of spaced apart and parallel waveguides positioned upon the bottom sheath layer between the two reinforcement members. Subsequent to the introduction of insulary filler material between the sheath layers, longitudinal edge portions of the sheath layers are bonded together at each side of the cable, with longitudinal gaps being thereby defined along each side of the cable between the bonded sheath edge portions and the two cable reinforcement members. Preparation of the cable for termination may thereby be effectuated by cutting into the longitudinal gaps and peeling back the top sheath layer to access the waveguides and strength members therebeneath.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to electrical connectors positioned between adjacent printed circuit boards for interconnection therebetween. The terminal arrangements on each printed circuit board are predesigned for compatibility with the connector to be used.In accordance with the first embodiment of the connector, a zero insertion force connector is positioned over outwardly extending pins from the printed circuit boards and is then locked to the pins by a camming action within the connector. In accordance with the second embodiment, the connector is formed in male and female halves, contact to the board by the connector being by means of a normal force engagement against pads on the printed circuit board. Extensions of lines to further adjacent printed circuit boards is provided by way of additional connectors of the same type mounted in the same manner.