Abstract: An input/output connector system with a cable assembly that routes signals over a circuit board to which a receptacle connector is attached. A cage housing the receptacle has a channel with an opening at one end for mounting in a panel opening. The cage has an opening in a top surface through which a plug may be inserted into the channel to mate with the receptacle. The cage may be formed with one or more keys that engage channels on the plug to constrain motion of a plug inserted through the top surface to a direction perpendicular with the circuit board until the plug is inserted sufficiently into the cage that it can slide towards the receptacle without damaging the plug or receptacle. The plug may have one or more latch components on the sides, which engage with corresponding latch components on the cage when the plug is slid into engagement with the receptacle connector.

Abstract: An input/output connector system with a cable assembly that routes signals over a circuit board to which a receptacle connector is attached. A cage housing the receptacle has a channel with an opening at one end for mounting in a panel opening. The cage has an opening in a top surface through which a plug may be inserted into the channel to mate with the receptacle. The cage may be formed with one or more keys that engage channels on the plug to constrain motion of a plug inserted through the top surface to a direction perpendicular with the circuit board until the plug is inserted sufficiently into the cage that it can slide towards the receptacle without damaging the plug or receptacle. The plug may have one or more latch components on the sides, which engage with corresponding latch components on the cage when the plug is slid into engagement with the receptacle connector.

Abstract: A cable connector is provided including a cable end to couple to a cable, and a mating end to couple to a corresponding connector. A latch is positioned proximate to the mating end to secure the cable connector to the corresponding connector. The latch is moveable between an open position and a closed position. An actuator is provided to move the latch between the open position and the closed position. The actuator includes a biasing end that engages the latch. The actuator also includes an operating end extending from the cable end to receive an opening force that moves the biasing end to operate the latch. The operating end has an upper tab and a lower tab. The upper tab extends along an upper portion of the cable. The lower tab extends along a lower portion of the cable.