Abstract: This invention relates to a low-insertion-force electrical connector of the type in which a pair of matable housings (10,110), containing complementary matable contacts or terminals (30,150), are matable by the lateral movement of one housing (10) relative to the other (110). Sufficient safeguards are designed in the system hereof to insure a state of positive mating, or in the alternative, a state of non-mating. The contacts (150) of housing (110) are solder contacts having a first leg (162) for mounting engagement with a circuit board, and a pair of diverging arms (164) projecting in a plane above said first leg, with portions (166) thereof turned inwardly and downwardly and that the endmost portions (168) are bent normal thereto for laterally receiving a male pin member (30) mounted in housing (10). Leverage means (124,126) are provided on housing (110) to effect such lateral movement.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a connector support system which utilizes an interlocking mechanism. More particularly, such connector support has, along one surface thereof, a plurality of parallel ribs which are adapted to slidably engage a plurality of parallel slots in the side of a connector housing, and means for latching same to the housing. This system allows for the flexibility of interchangeability between the connector housing and support. For example, one side of said support is identical for all embodiments thereof, while the opposite side is unique by means which permit joining of said support to a board or other connection means.