Abstract: A printed circuit board includes at least one plated-through hole via drilled into at least one of a first layer on a first side of the printed circuit board and a second layer on a second side of the printed circuit board. The printed circuit board also includes a core section laminated between the first layer and the second layer, wherein a length of the core section is shorter than a length of the first layer and a length of the second layer. The printed circuit board further includes an open slot configured to house a connection tab of an electronic product connected to the printed circuit board, wherein the open slot is formed adjacent to the core section and between sections of the first layer and the second layer that are longer than the core section.

Abstract: A printed circuit board includes at least one plated-through hole via drilled into at least one of a first layer on a first side of the printed circuit board and a second layer on a second side of the printed circuit board. The printed circuit board also includes a core section laminated between the first layer and the second layer, wherein a length of the core section is shorter than a length of the first layer and a length of the second layer. The printed circuit board further includes an open slot configured to house a connection tab of an electronic product connected to the printed circuit board, wherein the open slot is formed adjacent to the core section and between sections of the first layer and the second layer that are longer than the core section.

Abstract: This invention includes a battery pack having an improved battery retention system for coupling to another device, like a desktop charger. The battery pack, which includes one rechargeable cell and optional circuitry, has an exterior housing that is generally rectangular in cross section. The exterior housing, which includes major faces and intersection seams, has at least two female slots that project inward at an angle that is non-orthogonal to the major faces or intersection seams. These non-orthogonal slots, when coupling to corresponding non-orthogonal rails in the pocket of a battery charger, allow batteries of various sizes to be inserted into a single charger pocket with reliable and consistent electrical connections between the electrical contacts of the pocket and the charging terminals of the battery. Electrical contacts may be disposed within the non-orthogonal slots, thereby improving both the function and aesthetic appearance of the battery pack.