Abstract: A coupler for connecting a first element to a second element includes a first connector piece securable to the first element; a second connector piece for attaching to the first connector piece; and a flexible breakaway device mounted on the second element for releasably securing the second connector piece to the second element. A method of connecting and disconnecting a first element and a second element includes the steps of providing a first connector piece on the first element; attaching a breakaway device to the second element; attaching a second connector piece to the breakaway device that is attached to the second element; securing the first connector to the second connector; releasing the second connector piece from the second element by deflecting a portion of the breakaway device when a separation force is applied between the first and second elements.

Abstract: An electrical connector includes a grounded cable joined to a coupler, with an electrically insulative casing molded around adjoining ends of the cable and coupler. The coupler is adapted to be electrically connected to an electric receptacle and includes an insulative insert containing rear electrical contacts connected to respective signal lines of the cable. The rear contacts are electrically connected to front contacts which are to receive the male contacts of the receptacle. An electrically conductive ferrule is mounted on the insert and extends rearwardly therefrom to a connection point with a ground wire of the cable. A cylindrical front portion of the ferrule extends across a gap between the casing and a threaded nut which is freely rotatably mounted on the insert, to provide ESD (electro-static filed) shielding for the cable. The nut, formed of an electrically conductive material, contacts the ferrule and maintains ground continuity between the ground wire and the receptacle.