Abstract: A wideband signal distribution system for distributing among a plurality of outlets wideband signals modulated onto RF carrier signals within a specified frequency band. The system functions as "passive" infrastructure and includes a distribution unit having a plurality of input ports, a plurality of output ports, a transmission path, a combiner for applying signals appearing at the plurality of input ports to the transmission path, and a splitter for applying signals appearing on the transmission path to all of the plurality of output ports. The system further includes a plurality of cables selected from the class of fiber optic cables, coaxial cables, and twisted pair wire cables, each extending between a respective one of the distribution unit ports and a respective one of the plurality of outlets, and a plurality of impedance matching devices, where such devices are appropriate for the type or types of cable used. Each of the devices terminates a respective end of a respective one of the cables.

Abstract: An enabling circuit for use in a wideband signal distribution system is provided. The circuit includes a input port which receives a baseband source signal, a transmission path between the input port and the output port, an impedance matching device, and a power source connected to the impedance matching device which combines a biasing signal with the input signal in order to operate a diode switch which is connected to the output to the impedance matching device and located in a distribution unit of the system.

Abstract: An electrical connector (40) having a two part articulated housing (42) is disclosed. The connector, intended for surface mounting on a curved surface (74, 76) of a circuit board (56), includes two housing parts (44, 48) that are intercoupled by means of a flexible member (62) that permits relative movement of the two housing parts in a direction toward and away from the mounting surface but is substantially rigid in the lateral direction. The connector (40) is manufactured by stamping and forming a series of the flexible members (62) on a carrier strip (90), passing the carrier strip through a plastic injection mold machine (98) for molding the two housing parts (44, 48) insitu onto the flexible strip (62), and then passing the carrier strip (90) through a contact insertion machine (102) for inserting the contacts (46,50) into the two housing parts (44, 48).

Abstract: This invention relates to a make-before-break switch of the type for electrical connector, where the connector is intended to be mated with a complementary coaxial cable connector. The switching connector comprises a pair of spaced-apart, cantilevered switch contacts mounted within a dielectric housing, where such mating is between the pair of switch contacts. A unique feature hereof is that the shank portion of one of the switch contacts has a contact arm extending toward and in contact with the shank portion of the other switch contact in an unmated condition, and that the respective mating ends of the switch contacts are axially offset from one another. By this arrangement, upon mating by the complementary connector, contact is made sequentially with the mating ends and the contact arm is caused to wipe along the shank portion of the first switch contact to counter the effects of contaminants and oxides which may be present at the contact point.

Abstract: An electrical connector (40) having a two part articulated housing (42) is disclosed. The connector, intended for surface mounting on a curved surface (74, 76) of a circuit board (56), includes two housing parts (44, 48) that are intercoupled by means of a flexible member (62) that permits relative movement of the two housing parts in a direction toward and away from the mounting surface but is substantially rigid in the lateral direction. The connector (40) is manufactured by stamping and forming a series of the flexible members (62) on a carrier strip (90), passing the carrier strip through a plastic injection mold machine (98) for molding the two housing parts (44, 48) insitu onto the flexible strip (62), and then passing the carrier strip (90) through a contact insertion machine (102) for inserting the contacts (46,50) into the two housing parts (44, 48).

Abstract: An environmentally, sealed, feedthrough connector of the type that may be used for externally accessing an outdoor TV line amplifier. The connector includes a cylindrical housing having an insert molded contact centrally disposed therein and a deformable O-ring about the insert molded contact. The connector is assembled under an axially compressive force which deforms the O-ring into sealing engagement with the internal wall of the housing.