Abstract: Methods for creating a ground path between a stainless steel suspension and a copper trace layer in an integrated lead assembly of a disk drive suspension. The invention prevents electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage by providing a means for grounding a lead to a controlled ground potential. Although the lead and suspension are generally separated by an insulating layer such as a polymide layer, connection between the lead and suspension can be made by, for example, creating an opening in the insulation layer and depositing a conductive material such an electrically conductive glue, solder or some other material through the opening to connect the two electrically conductive layers. A rivet may also be used to connect the two electrically conductive layers through a through hole that extends through both electrically conductive layers and the electrically insulating layer.

Abstract: A connector assembly comprising includes a housing with a wall and a plurality of connector units. The wall includes a plurality of openings having the same size and shape. Each of the connector units has a base plate, electrical connectors mounted in and projecting from the base plate, a hollow shroud surrounding the electrical connectors and extending away from the base plate, and a skirt surrounding the shroud. The skirt projects radially outwardly from the base plate. All of the skirts have the same outer peripheral size and shape. The shrouds may have a variety of different outer peripheral shapes and sizes corresponding to unique connector functions. Each of the skirts sealingly engage with a portion of the wall surrounding a corresponding opening. Each opening is surrounded by a groove, and each skirt overlaps and covers a corresponding one of the grooves.

Abstract: In an Integrated Lead Suspension system, it is desired that the stainless steel suspension is grounded to a controlled ground potential. This requires creating a grounding path between the stainless steel suspension and a copper trace layer through a layer of dielectric material that separates the stainless steel suspension and the copper layer. The copper trace layer and subsequently the stainless steel suspension can then be grounded to a controlled ground potential.

Abstract: In an Integrated Lead Suspension system, it is desired that the stainless steel suspension is grounded to a controlled ground potential. This requires creating a grounding path between the stainless steel suspension and a copper trace layer through a layer of dielectric material that separates the stainless steel suspension and the copper layer. The copper trace layer and subsequently the stainless steel suspension can then be grounded to a controlled ground potential. This invention proposes several methods of creating a ground path between the stainless steel suspension and the copper trace layer.