Abstract: Methods and apparatus for determining whether a connector is properly seated are disclosed. One such apparatus is directed to a connector including a plurality of transmission lines and a plurality of contact elements. The transmission lines include functionally coupling lines that are configured to transmit data signals. In addition, the contact elements are disposed at an end of the connector and include at least one coupling contact element that is configured to couple at least one of the functionally coupling lines to a device element. The contact elements further include at least one connection sensing contact element that is disposed toward at least one side edge of the connector and is shorter than the coupling contact element. Methods include monitoring a detection signal in a global connection loop. Other methods include comparing a detection signal to a threshold to determine whether a connector is properly seated.