Abstract: A method for fabricating a connector for coupling with a counter connector having an array of pairs of contacts therein includes providing an insulated housing having an array of openings receiving a plurality of first contact modules each having first and second isolated contacts and a second contact module having isolated first and second conducting members respectively having first and second contacts and a terminal, and a third contact and a second terminal, selectively inserted into corresponding openings of the insulating housing such that each of the respective first and second contacts of the first contact modules are connected with the corresponding contact of the counter connector while maintaining the first and second contacts electrically isolated from each other.

Abstract: A connector is moveable between a coupled state and an uncoupled state with respect to a counter connector. Plural contact members of the connector individually contact respective, plural contacts of the counter connector when coupled together. A contact module of the connector has a pair of contacts individually contacting and short circuiting a corresponding pair of respective contacts of the counter connector, in a selected one of the coupled and uncoupled states thereof. The contact module may include a pair of output terminals corresponding to the pair of contacts and a switch, actuated between first and second states in accordance with the coupled and uncoupled states of the connector, a selected one of the coupled and uncoupled states producing short circuiting of the pair of output terminals.