Abstract: A connector for optical fibres comprises two subassemblies, one subassembly comprising at least one tubular member the rear part of which fits on a coated fibre and the front part of which receives a connector element. The other subassembly includes at least one tubular connector element, the rear part of which fits on a coated fibre and the front part of which is a close fit on an uncoated fibre. On assembly of the two subassemblies, the connector element slides into the front part of the tubular member of the first subassembly. The ends of the uncoated fibres abut at about a mid position in the connector element. For a connector for multiple pairs of fibres, a plurality of tubular members are provided in one subassembly and a plurality of connector elements in the other assembly. Means can be provided for resiliently positioning one or the other or both of the tubular members and connector elements axially to permit axial movement on assembly to allow for manufacturing tolerances.

Abstract: A connector for electrically connecting electrical conductors having a housing within which is a holding member containing a preloaded spring, with an insulating cutting edge on the spring and an insulation cutting edge on the holding member, the cutting members acting in opposition on a conductor. Release of the spring, as by flexing the housing causes the cutting edges to cut through the insulation, into electrical contact with the conductor. A similar arrangement of cutting edges is provided for each conductor and a conductive path from one conductor to another is via the spring and/or holding member.