Abstract: An electrical connector socket in accordance with one specific embodiment of the invention has multiple beams extending forwardly from the forward edge of a barrel portion, the beams converging toward a central longitudinal axis. The beams have forward ends or tips configured to receive and grip a conductor. A shield disposed between adjacent beams and projecting forwardly from the forward edge of the barrel reduces the size of the open area between adjacent beams, thereby preventing tangling of the sockets during tumbling or other processing thereof. Pursuant to alternative embodiments, the side edges of each beam are configured to diverge from the forward edge of the barrel to an intermediate beam section. From there, the side edges converge (or diverge, in accordance with one of the alternative embodiments) toward the tip. In either case, the open area between adjacent beams is reduced sufficiently to prevent tangling of the sockets during processing thereof.

Abstract: Electrical connector pins capable of providing high Hertzian stresses are made by a progressive punch press process that forms, in two stages, opposed, substantially fully rounded contact surfaces on the pins.