Abstract: The invention enables a true quick-release connection to a completely standard threaded electrical plug (or receptacle). The mating connector engages the standard threads with a group of radial pins, rather than with conventional, circumferential mating threads. Preferably each pin is generally cylindrical, but has one part (ordinarily a tip) shaped for best engagement with the threads; and another part shaped for engagement with a pin-retracting cam. Most commonly the threads and the thread-engaging part of each pin are complementarily tapered. The connectors are screwed together in a conventional way; but for quick release the cam radially retracts all the pins from the threads simultaneously.

Abstract: Method as well as apparatus makes and breaks electrical connections between at least one electrical cable connector and an electronics module that has at least one corresponding panel connector. A rack receives and holds the module. A cable-connector holder, formed in the rack, receives and holds the cable connector(s) in positions aligned with the panel connector(s) when the electronics module is held in the rack. Each cable-connector holder easily and quickly engages, or disengages from, a corresponding cable connector. The rack itself provides only a mechanical intermediary, not an electrical intermediary, between the panel connectors and cable connectors. Preferably there are numerous cable connectors, with corresponding cable-connector holders and panel connectors. In this case the rack includes a device for quickly and easily disengaging the electronics module from the rack, and all the cable connectors from panel connectors, essentially simultaneously.

Abstract: Method as well as apparatus makes and breaks electrical connections between at least one electrical cable connector and an electronics module that has at least one corresponding panel connector. A rack receives and holds the module. A cable-connector holder, formed in the rack, receives and holds the cable connector(s) in positions aligned with the panel connector(s) when the electronics module is held in the rack. Each cable-connector holder easily and quickly engages, or disengages from, a corresponding cable connector. The rack itself provides only a mechanical intermediary, not an electrical intermediary, between the panel connectors and cable connectors. Preferably there are numerous cable connectors, with corresponding cable-connector holders and panel connectors. In this case the rack includes a device for quickly and easily disengaging the electronics module from the rack, and all the cable connectors from panel connectors, essentially simultaneously.

Abstract: The invention facilitates individual selection and even field replacement of individual component-carrying contacts in a multicontact electrical connector. On a modular circuit-by-circuit basis, each circuit can be individually guarded against overvoltages, undesired frequencies, etc.; and in event of damage to a protection component, the protection can be easily renewed for any individual circuit in just a few minutes. An overvoltage-bypassing diode or other electrical component is positioned within a central cavity that extends axially within the body of a cylindrical contact--i.e., either a male pin or female receptacle. The component is oriented axially in the cavity. Because the bypassing component is physically protected within the cavity, it is much less vulnerable to physical and electrical damage in installation and service than in prior component-carrying contacts.

Abstract: A molded chip carrier includes an integral carrier body made from a first molded section having a predetermined shape and a second molded section having a second predetermined shape. One of the first and second molded sections is made from a non-conductive material and the other section is made from a non-conductive material that is capable of receiving a deposit of conductive material. A conductive material is deposited on the outer exposed surface of the molded section capable of receiving the deposit. This particular molded section has an outer surface that defines a plurality of non-intersecting, continuous paths that form the input/output leads on the carrier body. The chip carrier includes a protective cap that can be placed over an electronic chip mounted within the carrier body.