Abstract: A circuit board assembly is intended for use in a computer, which computer includes a case, a motherboard, a power supply and at least one expansion slot. The circuit board assembly includes an expansion card which is operatively connected to the expansion slot and includes a connector carried on one end thereof. The end of the expansion card having the connector is located adjacent the periphery of the computer case. An extension circuit board is provided and is constructed and arranged to operatively mate with the connector on the expansion card. The extension circuit board extends beyond the periphery of the computer case, and may include multiple ports thereon for connecting peripheral devices to the computer. The extension circuit board is contained within an RF shielding container and is secured to the computer.

Abstract: A universal connector pad is intended for use on a printed circuit board and is used to connect a variety of connector types to the printed circuit board, without having to provide a specific connector pad layout which is unique to a specific connector type. The connector pad includes multiple rows and columns of solder pads, which receive a variety of connectors, wherein at least some of the solder pads are usable by more than one type of connector.