Abstract: A backplane system for a high-speed network element includes a main backplane including a plurality of traces for data and control connectivity, high-speed data connectors, and a power connector, wherein the high-speed data connectors and the power connector are configured to engage one or more modules; and a power backplane for power connectivity separate from the main backplane connected to the power connector, wherein the power backplane is coupled to a power source to provide supply and return current to the one or more modules through the power connector.

Abstract: A backplane system for a high-speed network element includes a main backplane including a plurality of traces for data and control connectivity, high-speed data connectors, and a power connector, wherein the high-speed data connectors and the power connector are configured to engage one or more modules; and a power backplane for power connectivity separate from the main backplane connected to the power connector, wherein the power backplane is coupled to a power source to provide supply and return current to the one or more modules through the power connector.

Abstract: Electronic unit in which a printed circuit board is located within a housing which includes a heat sink. The board is normally urged out of heat conductive relationship with the heat sink. As temperature increases the circuit board and heat sink are caused to move relatively so as to bring the board into heat conductive relationship with the heat sink so as to remove heat from the board. As temperature decreases the board and heat sink are again moved out of heat conductive relationship. Preferably a heat conduction element is provided to conduct heat from the board. This comprises at least one compressible member, e.g. compressible cellular material, which is progressively compressed as temperature increases. Preferably the heat conductive efficiency of the compressible member increases as compression increases.

Abstract: An environmental protector for electronics devices in outside terminal boxes. The protector has a laminate wall which provides a moisture barrier, penetration resistant surface and EMI shield. The protector may be flexible or substantially rigid and is in the form of an open-ended container for receiving an electronics device. The container is sealed at the open end around a connector unit of the device with outgoing terminals accessible for connection purposes. The device may be potted within the container. Conveniently, the EMI shield is connected to ground by a ground element in the connector unit.

Abstract: A telecommunications shelf module is provided having electronic circuit packs and conductors extending from the circuit packs to an interface station for connection to conductors exterior of the pack, the module detachably mountable in a frame. The module preferably has a cooling arrangement included in its structure.

Abstract: Electronic circuit pack and mounting frame combination in which a mating connector joined to conductors coming in for connection to the circuit pack, is held within a connector holder for protection and connection purposes. Straight line action of the connector holder is ensured to ensure proper alignment of the mating connector with the circuit pack connector. It is preferable for the connector holder to be permanently attached to the frame to support the weight of the holder and minimize strain upon the incoming conductors.

Abstract: The invention provides an articulated latch for use with the faceplate of a printed circuit board (PCB) adapted to be inserted into and removed from its functional location on a mounting frame. The latch comprises an actuating member pivotally secured to a latching member adapted to be pivotally attached to the faceplate of a PCB. The actuating and latching members have an interface mechanism comprised of cooperating tab, slots, and wells for allowing the actuating member to lock at at least two positions into the latching member. With the PCB positioned in its functional location, the actuating member of the latch may be stored in an approximately horizontal position.