Abstract: A method for assembling an electrical connector (10) to the edge (18) of a printed circuit board (12). A machine (50) incorporates an actuating mechanism that requires only a single input motion to achieve a variety of functional motions within the machine. The machine includes a carriage assembly (54) that moves substantially vertically within the frame of the machine to sense the thickness of the circuit board and then to align the centerline of the connector held on fixture (280) with the exact center plane (44) of the board. A slide member (140) then moves toward the connector, causing a pair of comb members (252,254) to close into position in front of the moving connector. The solder tails (38,40) of the connector (10) then enter spaced slots (260) in the edges of the comb members for support and the connector housing engages the face (272) of the combs, pushing them toward the circuit board.

Abstract: A machine (50) is disclosed that assembles an electrical connector (10) to the edge (18) of a printed circuit board (12). The machine incorporates an actuating mechanism that requires only a single input motion to achieve a Variety of functional motions within the machine. The machine includes a carriage assembly (54) that moves substantially vertically within the frame of the machine to sense the thickness of the circuit board and then to align the centerline of the connector held on fixture (280) with the exact center plane (44) of the board. A slide member (140) then moves toward the connector, causing a pair of comb members (252, 254) to close into position in front of the moving connector. The solder tails (38,40) of the connector (10) then enter spaced slots (260) in the edges of the comb members for support and the connector housing engages the face (272) of the combs, pushing them toward the circuit board.

Abstract: A circuit board (12) and electrical connector (10) mounted to an edge (18) thereof is disclosed. The circuit board (12) includes an edge (18) and two major surfaces (14, 16) extending therefrom having circuitry (20). Plated through holes (24) are arranged adjacent the edge and are interconnected to circuitry on the circuit board. Each plated through hole (24) is associated with an opening such as a slot (26) or partial slot (27) that is formed in the edge (18) of the board so that it intersects the hole. The posts (32) of the connector (10) extend into the openings (26, 27) preferably in interference fit therewith whereafter soldering completes the electrical connections of the posts to the through holes.