Unit Includes Three Or More Diverse Types Of Coupling Parts Patents (Class 439/639)
  • Patent number: 7201610
    Abstract: A network device including a power receiving socket, a power supply, a network controller, plural connection ports and a power outputting socket is provided. The power receiving socket is for receiving an external power and outputting a supply power. The power supply is electrically connected with the power receiving socket for receiving the supply power, wherein the power supply has the received supply power rectified and voltage-reduced, then outputs a direct current power. The network controller operates according to direct current power. The plural connection ports respectively are respectively electrically connected with the network controller. The power outputting sockets is electrically connected with the power receiving socket for receiving and outputting the supply power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2007
    Assignee: Accton Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Li-Chun Chao, Hsin-Nan Kuo, Yu-Ting Lin
  • Patent number: 7134908
    Abstract: A cable assembly (100) includes a first connector (1), a number of second connectors (2) each having a serial advanced technology attachment interface, and cable means (3) connecting the first and the second connectors. The first connector includes a unitary first longitudinal insulative housing (10) having an upper and a lower elongated side walls (1040, 1041) opposite to each other in a lateral direction and respectively defining a plurality of first and second passageways therein, a number of signal contacts disposed in corresponding first passageways, and a number of power contacts disposed in corresponding second passageways. The cable means includes a plurality of sets of wires, each set electrically connecting with the first connector and a corresponding second connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jerry Wu
  • Patent number: 7136950
    Abstract: The present invention enables the use of a single passive adaptor (1500, 1800) for multiple types of flash media cards. The present invention provides this by implementing form factors with a detection scheme (1410, 1610) that notifies a host controller of the type of media card that has been inserted. The form factors and detection scheme can be designed to meet PCMCIA CardBus Plus standards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Incorporated
    Inventors: Keith Mowery, Daniel Jensen, Takeshi Sakai, Cheng-Kun Huang
  • Patent number: 7066767
    Abstract: A rotatable adapter device with multiple connectors includes a main body, a first electrical connector, a plurality of second electrical connectors and a conducting unit. The first electrical connector is disposed rotatably on the main body, the plurality of second electrical connectors are disposed fixedly on the main body and the conducting unit is electrically connected to the first electrical connector and at least one of the second electrical connectors. Therefore, it has a transforming function and is more convenient for a user. Moreover, its design avoids the signal lines becoming intertwined with each other when they are inserted into the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventor: Sheng-Hsin Liao
  • Patent number: 7062585
    Abstract: A memory card integrating functions of the USB interface includes a memory chip inside a main body. A SD or MS control interface, a USB control interface, a controller, and a storage memory are built in the memory chip. Conductive bars are electrically connected to the memory chip and stick out from one end of the main body. An adaptor for the memory card includes an insertion socket to receive a SD memory card or a MS memory card. Conductive pins are positioned inside the insertion socket to be electrically connected to the memory card. A USB connecting head is provided at the front end of the insertion socket and electrically connected to the conductive pins inside the insertion socket. The SD memory card and the MS memory card can be inserted into the USB slot through the adaptor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Altek Corporation
    Inventor: Chih-Ju Chen
  • Patent number: 7057108
    Abstract: A cord for use with duplex receptacles that have first and second receptacles. The cord includes first and second sets of prongs insertable into the duplex receptacles to receive independent low-voltage electrical signals, and first and second receptacles connected in circuit to the first and second sets of prongs to deliver the independent low-voltage signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Briggs & Stratton Power Products Group, LLC
    Inventors: Wesley C. Sodemann, Philip Gull, Kenny J. Stair, Dave Flegel
  • Patent number: 6981892
    Abstract: A combination phone and cable jack interface includes a base member, a faceplate, and a mechanism for selectively toggling a telephony jack connection between a telephony service provider and a cable service provider. The toggling mechanism includes a first port electrically coupled to a cable service provider network. A second port is electrically coupled to a telephony service provider network. The toggling mechanism further includes a jumper cable electrically coupled to the first port and removably connectable to the second port. The jumper cable includes a plurality of wires connected to a plurality of corresponding wires associated with the cable network. The jumper cable is disposed partially exterior of the base section so that a user can toggle the interface between cable and telephone modes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Inventor: Bradley D. Kostelnik
  • Patent number: 6945821
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an adapter, wherein the adapter has a housing with a rear face, a front face, an outside perimeter face. A first connector is located on the rear face. A second connector and a third connector are located on the front face. A mounting piece is located on the outside perimeter face. The first connector is designed to mate with a connector located on an interface unit coupled to a medical facility communication system. The second connector is designed to mate with a connector on a first end of a communications cable. The second end of the communications cable is connected to an interface, such as a hospital bed interface. The mounting piece has mounting holes that allow the adapter to be attached to the interface unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Crest Health Care
    Inventors: Mark Peter Stoner, John Joseph Heinsch, David Leland Osterkamp
  • Patent number: 6916208
    Abstract: A compact card reader is described. The compact card reader has a charging circuit and a cellular phone-connecting slot to enable the compact card reader to save/retrieve data to/from a memory card or a cellular phone, at the same time charge the cellular phone and the cellular phone battery in order to reduce the operation cost and this also increases the speed of the data processing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: Phison Electronics Corp.
    Inventors: Chien-An Chen, Yu-Fong Lin
  • Patent number: 6799981
    Abstract: An adapter structure for computer connector, which is connectable between a connecting port of a computer and a burglarproof lock. The adapter structure includes a main body. A front adaptation end is disposed on an end face of the main body. The front adaptation end has multiple conductive terminals for electrically connecting with the connecting port of the computer. A connecting end is disposed on a wall face of the main body and connectable with the burglarproof lock. Through holes are formed on two sides of the main body, permitting bolts or threaded sections of the burglarproof lock to pass therethrough. An electric output end is disposed on the main body and has a carrier section and locking sections on two sides thereof. The carrier section is formed with multiple sockets electrically connected with the conductive terminals of the front adaptation end. The electric output end is selectively connectable with a connector of a computer transmission system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Inventor: Chun Te Yu
  • Patent number: 6775905
    Abstract: A method provides an improved adaptor. The method involves connecting a set of conductors to (i) a set of circuit board connector contacts of a circuit board connector and (ii) a set of switchbox connector contacts of a switchbox connector. The method further involves fastening a circuit board connector housing of the circuit board connector to a switchbox connector housing of the switchbox connector, and shrink wrapping a coating over the set of conductors to physically insulate the set of conductors using the coating and the housings of the circuit board connector and the switchbox connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Assignee: EMC Corporation
    Inventor: Joel Tupper
  • Patent number: 6749438
    Abstract: An electrical interface device (210) is provided for disengageable or removable coupling with an existing master connector substantially non-removably mounted on a towing vehicle in order to allow for the connection of the electrical systems of differently configured towed vehicles without any modification of the device (210). The device (210) comprises a first end (218a) presenting a first master connector (222) and a second master connector (224), and a second end (218b) presenting a third interface connector (225). An alignment mechanism (229) ensures proper alignment, and a locking mechanism (231) avoids inadvertent uncoupling of the device (210) from the existing master connector. In use, the second end (218b) of the device (210) is coupled with the existing master connector, and an electrical connector of the towed vehicle is coupled with the first or second master connectors (222,224), thereby slaving the electrical system of the towed vehicle to that of the towing vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignee: Hopkins Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel L. Scheller, David H. Ihde
  • Patent number: 6712619
    Abstract: A habitable vehicle utility docking apparatus comprises a fixed-half quick connect panel fixed to a habitable vehicle such as a recreational vehicle or a boat, and a removable-half quick connect panel matable therewith. The fixed-half quick connect panel maintains a permanent connection to utilities inside the habitable vehicle. The removable-half quick connect panel is connected via commonly-used hoses and wires to external docking station utility services at a campsite, marina, etc. docking station. This avoids the time and inconvenience of having to make a multiplicity of utility connections and disconnections for each and every coming and going of the habitable vehicle to and from the docking station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Inventors: George J. Marshall, Emery M. Otruba
  • Patent number: 6568946
    Abstract: A receptacle assembly with a mobile receptacle comprises a receptacle assembly and a mobile receptacle. The receptacle assembly provides an electricity input end and upper outlet units at the upper face thereof with each upper outlet unit being composed of two contact poles and/or a ground line so as to constitute a close circuit for outputting the electricity during the outlet units being plugged in. A receiving device is a locating device with catch parts therein form an outer opening part. The mobile receptacle is received in the receiving device and provides lower outlet units at the upper face thereof with each lower outlet unit being composed of two contact poles so as to form a close circuit with the electricity input end via a lead wire and has at least an engaging part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventor: Jonie Chou
  • Patent number: 6554650
    Abstract: A connector adaptor, alone or paired with a second connector adaptor and joined by a 4-pair CAT-5 type unshielded twisted pair cable, capable of transmitting synchronous data in RS232 type format between data transmissions equipment and data communications equipment, the adaptor having an equipment interface with greater than eight active pins and an RJ45 type interface, where eight of the active pins are connected directly to the eight contacts of the RJ45 type interface and at least one of the active pins is connected directly to another of the active pins in looped or shorted manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Inventors: Andrew E. Kayworth, Thomas D. Morris, Robert F. Marnell
  • Publication number: 20030045171
    Abstract: A technique for providing an adaptor involves connecting a set of conductors to a set of circuit board connector contacts of a circuit board connector and a set of switchbox connector contacts of a switchbox connector. Additionally, the technique involves fastening a circuit board connector housing of the circuit board connector to a switchbox connector housing of the switchbox connector. Furthermore, the technique involves applying insulation against the circuit board connector housing and the switchbox connector housing such that the insulation, in combination with the circuit board connector housing and the switchbox connector housing, physically insulates the set of conductors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Applicant: EMC Corporation
    Inventor: Joel Tupper
  • Patent number: 6459590
    Abstract: A central unit for grouping electronic and electrical components of refrigerators, freezers and similar appliances, comprising a housing containing at least one electronic card provided with electrical connection means and socket means for connecting the appliance to the electrical power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventor: Roberto Malnati
  • Patent number: 6447306
    Abstract: A combination PC card for use in facilitating communication between a host computer and a remote device. The combination PC card includes two RJ-type connectors, an RJ-11 connector and an RJ-45 connector, centered at a front edge of the combination PC card. The connector bodies are integral with a housing of the combination PC card and are arranged and configured to be received in a corresponding recess defined by a Type II PC card when the combination PC card and the Type II PC card simultaneously reside in a PC card slot of the host computer. The positioning and configuration of the connector bodies permits the combination PC card to be removed from the PC card slot without also necessitating the removal of the other PC card residing in the PC card slot. The combination PC card additionally includes an analog modem connected to the RJ-11 connector, and a network interface card connected to the RJ-45 connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: 3Com Corporation
    Inventors: Vladimir Paredes, Karch Polgar, Mark S. Smith
  • Patent number: 6446863
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus has an apparatus body into which one of first and second, different kinds of cards can selectively be inserted. The positions of connecting terminals of the first and second cards are different from each other. When one of the cards is inserted into said apparatus body, an electrical communication between the card and the apparatus body can be attained. The apparatus includes an apparatus body having connecting sections and an adapter which comprises a base portion, a connector member accommodated in the base portion for connecting the connecting terminals of the card to the connections sections of the apparatus body, and a unit for holding the connector member selectively at either one of two positions, in the base portion, in accordance with the kind of card.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Shinichiro Tsurumaru, Fumio Mishina
  • Patent number: 6334793
    Abstract: An enhanced Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface provides for the communication of standard USB signaling and non-standard USB signaling, which may be alternate voltage signals. The chassis within data processing devices operable for receiving such an enhanced USB connector into an enclosed enhanced USB receptacle provide a keying configuration so that the standard USB connector portion is not matable with the non-standard USB portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Sergio Amoni, Timothy Scott Brookie, Paul Daniel Kangas
  • Patent number: 6302742
    Abstract: An electrical interface panel connects plural input connectors, or jacks, to plural output connectors such as in an asynchronous signal router as used with a computer-based global information network, such as the Internet. The interface panel includes a closed housing to which are attached plural SCSI multi-port connectors and either plural RJ45 multi-port connectors or plural D-sub connectors. In one embodiment, the SCSI multi-port connectors are connected to either the RJ45 mult-port connectors or D-sub connectors by a printed circuit (PC) board having appropriate sets of pinouts. In another embodiment, the SCSI connectors are connected to either the RJ45 or D-sub connectors by a pair of electrical cables. The connectors are disposed in and mounted to opposed walls of the housing, with the PC board or cables disposed within the closed housing to provide a compact, easily installed, point-to-point asynchronous signal router.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2001
    Inventors: John Ray Berst, Kevin S. Reber
  • Patent number: 6290543
    Abstract: A computer to telephone line interface includes a housing (2) having a base, a lid (22), a plurality of braces (26) formed integrally with the base and positioned between the base and the lid, and a plurality of sides (28) positioned between the base and the lid and between adjacent braces. A socket (12), preferably an RJ-11 jack, is disposed in a first one of the plurality of sides. A plug (10) is disposed in a second one of the plurality of sides. A pair of electrical conductors disposed inside the housing connect together a pair of contacts of the socket and a pair of contacts of the plug. The base and lid are separable to permit the plurality of sides to be selectively positioned between adjacent braces. The interface can include a connector having a pair of contacts connected to the pair of electrical conductors. In one embodiment, flexible conductive wires flexibly connected the connector and the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Inventors: Lawrence L. Plummer, Jr., Paul R. Stepanoff
  • Patent number: 6183307
    Abstract: A PC Card is provided which can be inserted in the PCMCIA slot of a host system either right side up or inverted. The card includes a front portion conforming to the PCMCIA Type II thickness standard and a rear portion conforming to the PCMCIA Type III thickness standard. The card is so configured that two cards can be stacked in complementary fashion and inserted in a host system Type III slot, one card thus being connected to one of the 68-pin slot connectors and the other card being connected to the other 68-pin slot connector. Circuitry is provided for use in an invertible PC Card for electronically detecting the presence, type and orientation of the card, for managing power supply voltages and for directing, or, if the card is inverted, for redirecting the signals appearing at the various pins of the card connector as necessary.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Assignee: Xircom, Inc.
    Inventors: Ian A. Laity, Gerald Pepper, James G. Hughes, Donald C. Barrett, Frank McLinn
  • Patent number: 6113433
    Abstract: An universal electrical lamp socket adapter for connecting multiple light bulbs to a single electrical socket. The universal electrical lamp socket adapter includes a central section and an adapter extending from an underside of the adapter for mating with the electrical socket. A first device for receiving an Edison type light bulb therein is positioned on the central section and a second device for receiving a Bayonet type light bulb therein is also positioned on the central section. The adapter and both the first and second receiving devices are electrically connected through the central section. When the adapter is coupled to a socket and at least one of an Edison type bulb is received within the first receiving device and a bayonet type light bulb is received within the second receiving device, power is provided to the at least one of the Edison type bulb and the Bayonet type light bulb allowing the at least one of the Edison type bulb and the Bayonet type light bulb to illuminate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Ali Al-Turki
  • Patent number: 6097883
    Abstract: A printed circuit card having first and second circuit units mounted thereon in connection to terminal pads adjacent two card edges, with the first and second circuit units being in connection to each other and to select pads of a first edge such that upon insertion of that edge into a given card socket, both circuit units are enabled, and the circuit units also being in connection to the pads of a second edge such that upon insertion of that edge into a second card socket, only the second circuit unit is enabled. In the preferred embodiment, the card is a memory module card having buffer and memory circuit units designed to cooperate with each other and with either of standard, buffered or unbuffered memory card sockets in a system board in accordance with insertion of a first or second pad edge in one of the card sockets to automatically provide, either combined circuit unit operation, or single circuit operation. The invention is also applicable to clocked register circuits and series pass devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Timothy Jay Dell, Mark William Kellogg, Bruce Gerard Hazelzet
  • Patent number: 6086430
    Abstract: An enhanced Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface provides for the communication of standard USB signalling and non-standard USB signalling, which may be alternate voltage signals. The chassis within data processing devices operable for receiving such an enhanced USB connector into an enclosed enhanced USB receptacle provide a keying configuration so that the standard USB connector portion is not matable with the non-standard USB portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Sergio Amoni, Timothy Scott Brookie, Paul Daniel Kangas
  • Patent number: 6024607
    Abstract: A female combination connector for connecting a computer storage drive to a printed circuit board includes a plurality of female connector elements affixed to a base. The plurality of female connector elements correspond to a plurality of male connectors on the computer storage drive. The female combination connector also includes a printed circuit board connector. The printed circuit board connector includes a plurality of conductors, each of which is supported by the base, and each of which is electrically coupled to one of the plurality of female connector elements. The female connector elements may be elements such as a data connector (e.g., an IDE or SCSI data connector), a power connector, a digital audio connector, an analog audio connector, or a select connector (e.g., an IDE master/slave cable select connector or a SCSI identification select connector).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Company
    Inventor: Mark A Wahl
  • Patent number: 5990788
    Abstract: The tester includes mating electrical connectors which permit the tester to be positioned between the respective plugs of the respective electrical cables running between a towing vehicle and from a trailer. The container for the tester preferably has magnetic strips along its bottom surface to permit temporary attachment to either the tongue of the trailer or the rear of the towing vehicle. The essential features of the tester are limited to only two simple single-pole/double-throw switches, positioned in tandem, and three diodes arranged as a simple "OR" gate in combination with an audio signal device. This simple circuitry permits a single operator to check (a) the integrity of the wiring harness connected to the towing vehicle's lighting circuits, without leaving the driver's seat of the towing vehicle, and (b) the integrity of the trailer lighting with two simple switch adjustments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Inventor: Carmelo R. Syracuse
  • Patent number: 5909359
    Abstract: An apparatus to extend printed circuit board length allows for secure mounting of the printed circuit boards. More particularly, the extender bracket apparatus (30) is for stabilizing small or short, commercial off the shelf (COTS) circuit boards (20) for personal computers (PC). The apparatus will aid in operation of small circuit boards for rugged applications such as high vibration conditions in vehicles. The extender bracket apparatus (30) is first fastened to an adjustable clamp (60), which is then fastened to a COTS circuit board. The adjustable clamp has holes that facilitate attaching to slots in the extender bracket apparatus. The clamp and extender board may have a dielectric surface to prevent electrical conduction. The dielectric can be an adhesive to hold the printed circuit board. The apparatus can then be fastened to a computer chassis (40) for rigidly mounting the circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1999
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark David Summers, Ronald Newell Hamilton, Craig Bayman McIntosh
  • Patent number: 5807139
    Abstract: A surface mount multimedia connector housing is disclosed. The housing is both a functional and aesthetically pleasing arrangement which is beneficial for visible placement. The housing is configured in alternate embodiments of two or six ports wherein anywhere from one through six ports may be operable. More specifically, one or two ports may be operable in the two port housing and one through six ports may operate in the six port housing, as desired. Identification of each port is provided for both, by the inclusion of colored tabs with Icons and by write-on labels oriented on the cover of the housing. The unit provides storage for excess cable, and segmented knockouts for cable/raceway entry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: The Siemon Company
    Inventors: Edward J. Volansky, John A. Siemon, Randy J. Below
  • Patent number: 5807140
    Abstract: A novel coupler for coupling electrical signals from a multiplicity of electrical connector interfaces to another group of electrical connector interfaces. The coupler advantageously utilizes a flexible printed circuit board of a mylar construction to pass the electrical signals and consequently is inexpensive to manufacture while exhibiting increased reliability. The coupler includes a common ground plane to provide a uniform reference to ground for electrical devices connected to the coupler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Assignee: Metrovideo, Inc.
    Inventor: T. Eric Hopkins
  • Patent number: 5788521
    Abstract: A modular surge protection system is provided having interchangeable power supply and surge protection modules connectable to a power distribution module the power distribution module provides surge protection for the power supply modules while independent surge protection is provided in the surge protection modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Inventor: Henry Milan
  • Patent number: 5748443
    Abstract: A computer system includes a chassis having an internal connector with a first portion in electrical contact with a first external peripheral device, and second portion in electrical contact with a second external peripheral device. An adapter is coupled between an internal device and the internal connector. The internal device is associated with either the first or second external peripheral devices. The adapter has either a first portion that connects the internal device to the first portion of the internal connector or a second portion that connects the internal device to the second portion of the internal connector in order to couple the internal device to its associated external peripheral device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Ephraim Bemis Flint, John Peter Karidis, Gerard McVicker, William Edward Pence
  • Patent number: 5735710
    Abstract: A system for connecting modular electrical components, like switches and wall outlets, into electrical wall boxes. There are electrical connections on the side of each electrical component to form a series of side-by-side electrical components that are to be placed into the electrical box without having to use multiple short wires between the components. There is a common power, neutral, and ground bus plane running through each electrical component which eliminates the need to manually connect each electrical component in a daisy chain. The electrical box is accessible from the rear for wiring the modular electrical components. The electrical box also has two separate cavities, one for placing the modular electrical components into, and the other for housing and attaching the electrical wiring leading to and from the electrical box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Inventors: Wayne A. Blaauboer, Richard D. Scheufler, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5681183
    Abstract: An accessible jack assembly for a video cassette recorder (VCR), allowing access to audio/video jacks located in the rear panel of the VCR from the front of the VCR. In preferred embodiments, the jack assembly comprises a mounting frame having jacks for audio and video output cables, at least one plug for insertion in the jacks in the rear panel of the VCR, and at least one cable connecting the mounting frame with said plug. The mounting frame may be attached to the front upper surface of the VCR to allow easy access. The jacks on the mounting frame may be color-coded by the user with circular stick-on labels. The invention may also be used with types of electronic equipment other than VCRs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 28, 1997
    Inventor: Paul A. Dzmura
  • Patent number: 5658158
    Abstract: A modular surge protection system is provided having interchangeable power supply and surge protection modules connectable to a power distribution module the power distribution module provides surge protection for the power supply modules while independent surge protection is provided in the surge protection modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Inventor: Henry Milan
  • Patent number: 5601451
    Abstract: In order to save space and reduce the number of parts needed to mount a plurality of connector types on a circuit board, the different connector types share a common molded housing. In addition, at least one indicator light is included in the molded housing, and is arranged adjacent the lower surface of the housing in a way which minimizes the indicator light contact lengths and facilitates insertion and removal of the indicator light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 11, 1997
    Assignee: Amphenol Corporation
    Inventors: Francisco R. Driones, Kamal S. Boutros
  • Patent number: 5564943
    Abstract: An electric socket convertor comprises a convertor plug receivable into a conventional electric light bulb socket. An electric convertor socket is connectable with a conventional electric cigarette lighter. A connecting mechanism electrically connects the convertor plug to the convertor socket, such that electric current at the conventional electric light bulb socket is conducted through the convertor plug to the convertor socket. An electric cigarette lighter is inserted into the convertor socket, and is thereby provided with a source of 12-volt D.C. Other portable electric devices similarly can be provided with 12-volt D.C. The electric socket convertor provides convenient access to 12-volt D.C. for numerous electrical devices, and obviates permanent electric socket installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1996
    Inventor: Alan Weiss
  • Patent number: 5547399
    Abstract: A universal AC adaptor has a transformer unit for converting standard AC line voltage to DC voltage and a plurality of plugs. Each plug has a flexible lead coupled to an output cord from the transformer unit at a coupler box. The leads allow the plugs to move independently of one another. Each plug also has a socket having a particular configuration which is different from the sockets of all the other plugs. Each socket is configured to mate with a particular receiving socket of a DC or an AC electrical appliance. The AC adaptor has enough plugs so as to be useable with most of the models of electrical appliance of a particular consumer electronic market, for example, video game units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Inventors: Herschel Naghi, David E. Naghi
  • Patent number: 5531611
    Abstract: A connector module for use in a local area network having a plurality of workstations in connection with a hub, wherein each workstation is hard wired to a printed circuit board mounted in the module. The module further includes a wiring assembly connected to the board and a cable leading from the hub. The face of the panel includes a plurality of jacks mounted therein, which are also electrically connected to the printed circuit board. Initially, workstations are electrically connected to the hub through the wiring assembly, which is preferably a twisted pair flat cable. Alternately, the wiring assembly may be disconnected from the board, and an upgraded hub interconnected with the workstations through the jacks in the face of the module with minimal re-wiring required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1996
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts Corporation
    Inventors: Steven J. Reed, Scott T. Davies, Robert L. Wallgren, George R. Wojtan
  • Patent number: 5470239
    Abstract: A power connector in accordance with IEC320 for providing common connections for individual male and female connectors and a ground lead, for example, to a anti-glare filter. The power connector device includes an insulating body which houses male ground and power plugs and female ground and power receptacles which are joined within the body to the male plugs; a common ground connector adapted for external connection to a ground lead as well as to the electrically common male and female ground connectors; and preferably a shroud surrounding the external sections of the male plugs for preventing accidental human contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Assignee: Optical Coating Laboratory, Inc.
    Inventor: James D. Rancourt
  • Patent number: 5411416
    Abstract: A docking connector unit for connecting portable personal computers to various peripheral input/output (I/O) devices such as keyboard, monitor, printer, modem and mouse, comprises, in a first mode, two docking unit assemblies, one of which connects to the I/O ports of a computer, and comprises matching I/O ports and one component of a two-component consolidated electrical connector; the other of which comprises the other component of a two-component consolidated electrical connector, and I/O ports which duplicate the I/O ports of the computer. In a second mode, the first docking unit assembly is in effect permanently installed in the computer, so that the I/O ports of the computer are consolidated as one component of a two-component consolidated electrical connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Assignee: The Whitaker Corporation
    Inventors: Gary D. Balon, Ira J. Wells
  • Patent number: 5407366
    Abstract: In order to save space and reduce the number of parts needed to mount a plurality of connector types on a circuit board, the different connector types share a common molded housing, and at least two of the connector types share a common shield which may include an integral board lock and which can also be arranged to facilitate mounting filter components in one or more of the connector types. The connector types may include a BNC coaxial cable connector, a modular phone jack connector, and a multiple pin D-sub connector, with the BNC and modular jack connector sharing the common shield. In the case of the BNC connector, both the inner and outer insulators are integrally molded with the one-piece housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1995
    Assignee: Amphenol Corporation
    Inventors: Francisco R. Briones, Kamal S. Boutros
  • Patent number: 5401192
    Abstract: In order to save space and reduce the number of parts needed to mount a plurality of connector types on a circuit board, the different connector type share a common molded housing, and at least two of the connector types share a common shield which includes an integral board lock and which can also be arranged to facilitate mounting filter components in one, or more of the connector types. The connector types may include a BNC coaxial cable connector, a modular phone jack connector, and a multiple pin D-sub connector, with the BNC and modular jack connector sharing the common shield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1995
    Assignee: Amphenol Corporation
    Inventors: Francisco R. Briones, Kamal S. Boutros
  • Patent number: 5192226
    Abstract: A cable assembly comprised of a connector assembly having a male D-miniature connector, an output adapter having two female D-miniature connectors, and a coaxial cable connected between said connector assembly and said output adapter to electrically connect said female D-miniature connectors to said male D-miniature connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1993
    Inventor: Tsan-Chi Wang
  • Patent number: 5186659
    Abstract: An adapter structure includes a central socket formed with a lower body arranged for threaded engagement with a conventional first socket, and includes a unitary body formed with a polymeric upper housing coaxially aligned with a second socket, with the upper housing including an abutment flange for limiting projection into the first socket. The invention may further be arranged to include a plurality of radially projecting further socket members, each adjustably mounted utilizing telescoping legs to effect electrical communication and junction between the further socket members and the first and second sockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1993
    Inventor: George F. Hefner
  • Patent number: 5154618
    Abstract: An electrical assembly removably and blindly matable to a second assembly includes upper and lower subassemblies and an electrical subassembly connected therewith. Each of the upper and lower subassemblies has a cover and a circuit board with an electrical connector mounted thereto for releasably connecting to respective first and second ends of the electrical subassembly. The electrical subassembly includes first and second flexible connection means extending from the first and second ends to respective connections with a third electrical connector, the first and second flexible connection means interconnecting selected electrical contact means of the third connector to corresponding contact means in respective connectors of the upper and lower subassemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1992
    Assignee: AMP Incorporated
    Inventors: Christo S. Nikoloff, James P. Scholz
  • Patent number: 5108315
    Abstract: An adapter permits a telephone repair technician to attach his data communications equipment to a C-set or D-set pay telephone station without alligator clips by a direct connection with the RJ11 connectors of a data terminal or the like. The adapter can be in the form of a housing having different corner radii and two jacks, one of which is wired in the C-set mode and the other of which is wired in the D-set mode, or one jack and a switch for achieving the C- and D-set modes. The adapter has pins arranged to plug into a standard 11-pin connector in the telephone station lower housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1992
    Assignee: International Teleservice Corporation
    Inventors: Allen W. Vogl, Douglas J. Buron
  • Patent number: 5030128
    Abstract: A docking module facilitates conversion of a portable computer between a lap-top mode of operation and a desk-top mode of operation by permitting simultaneous attachment of the computer to a plurality of electrical connectors thereby eliminating the need for individual cable connections between the computer and the respective individual apparatus. Toggle latches that attach the docking module to the computer chassis contain spring biased latches designed to emit an audible signal indicating proper alignment between the complementary connectors on the facing surfaces of the docking module and the computer chassis, whereby toggling of the latches can be undertaken without danger of damaging the connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1991
    Assignee: Dynabook Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Matthew A. Herron, Dan H. Wilkie
  • Patent number: 5022865
    Abstract: A connector device and method of use thereof provide positioning and hermetic sealing of electrical contacts in protective housings. The housings protect wires which connect the speed sensor of a turbine engine to a display. The connector supports the electrical contacts in an electrical insulator. The connector includes a malleable flange which is adapted to be hermetically sealed between two housings which protect wires connected to the speed sensor in the turbine engine. The flange is hermetically sealed between a tongue on one housing and a groove in the other housing. The sealing flange extends radially from the central axis of the connector and is compressed by the tongue of a releasable housing into the groove of a permanent housing to form a hermetic seal. The flange supports the electrical insulator which holds electrically conducting inner contacts in position to be slideably mounted into outer contacts which are supported by the connector housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1991
    Assignee: Simmonds Precision Products, Inc.
    Inventors: James R. Wright, James R. Hall, Keith D. Theobald