Electrical Connectors Patents (Class 324/538)
  • Publication number: 20110156717
    Abstract: An electrical connection defect detection system to detect whether an electrical connection between an under-test pin of an under-test device and a signal line of a circuit board is normal is provided. The electrical connection defect detection system comprises a signal provider providing a test signal to the under-test pin through the signal line, a detection module, an electrode board and a plurality of grounding paths. The electrode board comprises a detection surface to be adapted to a surface of the under-test device opposite to the under-test pin to make the detection module detect a capacitance value associated with the electrode board, the under-test pin and the signal line larger than a threshold value when their connection is normal. The grounding paths are connected to one of not-under-test pin groups respectively to further connect to the ground potential. An electrical connection defect detection method is disclosed herein as well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventors: Su-Wei TSAI, Shang-Tsang Yeh
  • Patent number: 7965088
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for determining the type of connection of at least two electric devices (5) whereby each device comprises a similar connector arrangement. The aim of the invention is to increase the reliability during the starting up process and during the operation of a system which comprises several electric units (5). According to the invention, a first device (5) modifies the voltage on the connector arrangement (11) and the modified voltage is determined as a first voltage, such that a second device (5) determines a second voltage on at least the connector arrangement (11) and determines whether an electric connection exists or not between the connector arrangements (11) of the devices (5) by comparing the determined comparison of the voltages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: PowerLynx A/S
    Inventors: Thomas Kure Thorngreen, Christinel Dorofte, Uffe Borup
  • Patent number: 7956618
    Abstract: An electronic device includes a receptacle for communicating information via a first communication circuit and a second communication circuit different from the first communication circuit, the receptacle including a plurality of electrically conductive contacts having a predefined arrangement. The electronic device further includes a detection circuit and a configuration circuit. The detection circuit is operatively coupled to at least one of the plurality of contacts, and the detection circuit is operative to detect an electrical state of the at least one contact. The configuration circuit is operatively coupled to a first group of contacts of the plurality of contacts, and the configuration circuit is operative to communicatively couple the first group of contacts to the first communication circuit or the second communication circuit based on the detected state of the at least one contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB
    Inventors: Anders Lundquist, Markus Gustav Agevik, David Johansson, Anders Hansson
  • Patent number: 7952186
    Abstract: A semiconductor package includes a bare chip which has a plurality of external electrodes, a land grid array substrate having an edge, a first surface and a second surface. The first surface includes a first portion apart from the edge and a second portion adjacent to the edge. The first portion of the first surface mounts the bare chip and is covered with a resin to seal the bare chip with the resin. The first portion of the first surface and the second surface includes a non-sealed region which is not covered with the resin. A plurality of first electrodes are arranged on the non-sealed region and connected to the external electrodes and a plurality of second electrodes are arranged on the second surface and connected to the external electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Renesas Electronics Corporation
    Inventor: Kou Sasaki
  • Patent number: 7948226
    Abstract: An optical fiber jumper cable includes a single tracing conductor for tracing the jumper cable through a fiber cross-connect facility such as a central office. An electrical locating tone is impressed on the conductor so that the conductor radiates an electromagnetic field along the length of the fiber jumper cable. A locating tone detector is used to trace the fiber jumper cable along its length by monitoring a presence-indicating signal emitted by the locating tone detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, L.P.
    Inventors: Dale Rathbun, II, Christopher Charles Detering, Conley Miller
  • Patent number: 7928738
    Abstract: A detecting system for detecting the connection of two connectors includes a number of first and second linking lines. The detecting system includes a number of first detection switches, a number of pull-down resistors, a number of second detection switches, a number of pull-up resistors, and a detection module. Each first linking line is grounded via each first detection switch and each pull-down resistor in series. The terminals of the pull-down resistors connected to the first detection switches are defined as first detecting ends. Each second linking line is electrically coupled to a high potential via each second detection switch and each pull-up resistors in series. The detection module with a threshold value preset is configured for comparing the voltage value at the first detecting ends with the threshold value, and outputting a result to determine whether the first linking lines are electrically connected to the second linking lines respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kim-Yeung Sip
  • Publication number: 20110084704
    Abstract: A power supply device includes: a power supply; a first contactor and a second contactor that are connected between the power supply and a load; a voltage detection circuit that detects a voltage between a load side of the first contactor and a power supply side of the second contactor; and a control unit that sets the contactors to an open/closed state. In a state in which electrical power has not been supplied to the load, a voltage which is greater than zero and less than a voltage at the power supply is applied between a positive electrode and a negative electrode on the load side; and after controlling the contactors to an open state, the control unit makes a decision as to whether or not one of the contactors is welded based upon detection results of the voltage detection circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2010
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Inventors: Kohei Myoen, Hiroyuki YAMAI
  • Publication number: 20110081154
    Abstract: An apparatus detecting connection states of connectors includes plural resistors having resistance values different from each other and connected in series to each other, in which sums of at least two resistance values selected from the plural resistance values are different from each other in all combinations of the plural resistance values, and are different from the resistance value of each of the resistors, plural first connectors provided correspondingly to the respective resistors, plural second connectors connected to the first connectors and including bypass lines which bypass the respective resistors when the second connectors are connected to the first connectors, and a controller to detect connection states of the second connectors to the first connectors based on a voltage value of a detection signal flowing through the resistors and the bypass lines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Applicants: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Tec Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Motoshi UEDA
  • Publication number: 20110074438
    Abstract: A stacked semiconductor device includes a first semiconductor device equipped with a first semiconductor chip 14 having a transistor circuit and protection diodes, and a second semiconductor device equipped with a second semiconductor chip 24 having a transistor circuit and protection diodes, and stacked on the first semiconductor device via a connection portion, wherein a power supply line connected to the first and second semiconductor chips is used in common, and a forward ON voltage of the protection diodes of the first semiconductor chip is set higher than a forward ON voltage of the protection diodes of the second semiconductor chip 24. When a connection test is executed, the forward ON voltage of the protection diodes of the first semiconductor chip or the second semiconductor chip is detected and then normal/open is judged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: SHINKO ELECTRIC INDUSTRIES CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Norio YAMANISHI, Shinobu Kurosaka
  • Patent number: 7906957
    Abstract: An electrical connector adapted for staged disassembly to test for high voltage includes a plug having an enclosed electrical terminal with a first opening exposing the terminal and a socket having another enclosed electrical terminal with an opening exposing the other terminal. The socket opening is substantially complementary to the first opening to receive the plug sufficiently into the socket to electrically engage the terminals in first and second positions. A port in one of the socket or plug provides access to one of the terminals in one of the positions but is obstructed from access to a terminal in the other of the positions. The port is small enough to prevent a finger from accessing a terminal but large enough to receive an electrical meter probe for voltage testing. A latch on the box portions positions the port in each of the two positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: James E. Tarchinski, Joseph Ciagala
  • Publication number: 20110057666
    Abstract: A method includes scanning a test socket after removal of a device under test to generate scan data. The scan data is compared to reference data. A presence of at least a portion of a pin in the test socket is identified based on the comparison. A test system includes a test socket, a scanner, and a control unit. The test socket is operable to receive devices under test. The scanner is operable to scan a test socket after removal of a device under test to generate scan data. The control unit is operable to compare the scan data to reference data and identify a presence of at least a portion of a pin in the test socket based on the comparison.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventors: Matthew S. Ryskoski, Christopher L. Wooten, Song Han, Douglas C. Kimbrough
  • Publication number: 20110031975
    Abstract: A battery pack includes a chargeable battery, a battery voltage detecting section, and a determining section. The battery voltage detecting section is configured to detect a battery voltage output from the rechargeable battery. The determining section is configured to determine a voltage level status of the rechargeable battery based on the battery voltage detected by the battery voltage detecting section. The determining section is free from determining the voltage level status when a rate of change in the battery voltage is equal to or greater than a predetermined criteria. Such a battery pack is used for a power tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2010
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Applicant: Hitachi Koki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshikazu Kawano, Nobuhiro Takano, Eiji Nakayama, Kenro Ishimaru, Haruhisa Fujisawa, Keita Saitou
  • Publication number: 20110025342
    Abstract: A voltage indicating assembly for medium and high voltage systems includes a semiconductive cap configured for mounting on a test point, the test point including a test point terminal element configured to capacitively receive a voltage associated with a electrical component, where the electrical component is mounted in a first location. The semiconductive cap includes a contact element mounted therein configured to electrically communicate with the test point terminal element when the semiconductive cap is mounted on the test point. A cable is electrically coupled to the contact element. A remote test point assembly is electrically coupled to the cable in a second location remote from the first location, and the remote test point assembly includes a remote test point terminal element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2010
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Applicant: THOMAS & BETTS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Larry N. Siebens
  • Patent number: 7881887
    Abstract: A system and method for wireharness testing includes at least one probe attachable to a connector of a wireharness, the at least one probe in wireless communication with a controller to identify a potential lack of continuity in the wireharness therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation
    Inventor: William P. Kinahan
  • Patent number: 7880474
    Abstract: A repeater, useable for connecting switches in a data communication network, is provided in a distributed and/or modular fashion. The repeater includes a plurality of separate and distinct components or modules connected to or at least partially housed in, the various switches which the repeater modules couple. Preferably, the repeater autodetects and/or autoconfigures some or all aspects of repeater operations, such as detecting and/or configuring appropriate full/half-duplex mode operation or detecting and/or configuring in response to appropriate or approved cable-type connections. The distributed and/or modular repeater facilitates accommodating various switching or repeater needs as a network grows or contracts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Cisco Technology Inc.
    Inventor: Gordon Mackay
  • Publication number: 20110020015
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus includes a main body and an optional device detachably connected thereto via two connectors each having multiple signal terminals corresponding to various signals. The main body includes a connection confirmation unit that confirms that a specific signal terminal in the multiple signal terminals of each connector is connected; a request-signal generating unit that sends a request signal from the main body to the optional device via a signal terminal other than the specific signal terminal when connection of the specific signal terminal is confirmed by the connection confirmation unit, and requests a reply signal from the optional device; and a communication confirmation unit that determines that the two connectors of the main body and the optional device are connected when confirming that the reply signal is received via the signal terminal other than the specific signal terminal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Applicant: KYOCERA MITA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jun Nishimura, Mizue Kadobayashi
  • Publication number: 20110018142
    Abstract: An active matrix substrate is provided with first inspection wirings (70, 75) capable of inputting inspection signals to first switching wirings that are not adjacent to each other among the first switching wirings (69, 74) and to second switching wirings that are not adjacent to each other among the second switching wirings (69, 74), and second inspection wirings (72, 77) capable of inputting inspection signals to first switching wirings that are not adjacent to each other and not connected to the first inspection wirings among the first switching wirings (69, 74) and to second switching wirings that are not adjacent to each other and not connected to the first inspection wirings among the second switching wirings (69, 74).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2009
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventors: Takehiko Kawamura, Kazunori Tanimoto, Isao Ogasawara, Masahiro Yoshida, Hideaki Takizawa
  • Patent number: 7876104
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electric interface device (11) for transmitting electric power between a vehicle and an implement that can be coupled to said vehicle (42), which is especially an agricultural or industrial utility vehicle. The inventive electric interface device (11) comprises a vehicle interface (14), an implement interface (24), and electric wires (20, 22, 30, 32, 58, 62), by means of which the vehicle interface (14) can be connected to an electric power source (10) of the vehicle (42) and the implement interface (24) can be connected to an electric consumer (12). The vehicle interface (14) is embodied so as to be complementary to the implement interface (24) and can be reversibly connected to the implement interface (24). The invention further relates to a vehicle (42) and an implement encompassing an electric interface device (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Nicolai Tarasinski
  • Publication number: 20110006780
    Abstract: Provided is an active matrix substrate having improved display quality without forming an inspection line in a terminal arrangement region for inspecting short circuit between connection lines. Scanning lines (40) include first scanning lines having input ends for a scanning signal on one end side, and second scanning lines having input ends for a scanning signal the other end side. In a display region (4), the first scanning lines and the second scanning lines are formed alternately one by one. An active matrix substrate (2) includes a first inspection line (70) and a second inspection line (72) that cross each of a plurality of first connection lines (61), and a third inspection line (75) and a fourth inspection line (77) that cross each of a plurality of second connection lines (64). The first to the fourth inspection lines (70, 72, 75, 77) are formed in a frame-shaped wiring region (6), excluding the terminal arrangement region (5) and the display region (4).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Inventors: Kazunori Tanimoto, Isao Ogasawara, Masahiro Yoshida, Takehiko Kawamura, Hideaki Takizawa
  • Patent number: 7868608
    Abstract: A device may include a current source for connecting to a printed circuit board. The device may also include a first FET switch pack and a second FET switch pack for connecting to the surface mount connector of the printed circuit board. Additionally, the device may include a FET controller connected to the first FET switch pack and the second FET switch pack. The FET controller may be utilized for connecting a first FET and a second FET to the first region of the surface mount connector. The FET controller may be configured for supplying the current to the first region of the surface mount connector to produce at least one continuous heat signature characteristic of an improperly connected ground pin. A thermal monitoring module may be used to identify the improper physical connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Anand Haridass, Jesus Montanez, Xiaomin Shen, Sungjun Chun
  • Patent number: 7868625
    Abstract: The slot interposer probe consists of a board with a male edge connector and a female edge connector connected to its opposed edges and circuitry electrically connecting the male edge connector to the female edge connector. The female edge connector may be a straddle-mount connector. The board may have an inner layer sandwiched between two outer layers. There may be a probe having a high-speed buffer connected to a plurality of capacitors, isolation resistors, and vias that intercepts signals carried by transmission lines on the inner layer. The vias may have a length equal to the inner layer's width. The high-speed buffer receives intercepted signals from the vias, copies and amplifies the signals, and drives them through coaxial cables to an acquisition module. The invention also includes a method of intercepting signals between a first electrical device and a second electrical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Tektronix, Inc.
    Inventors: Devin G. Burt, Joshua J. O'Brien, David W. Koch, Roxann R. Jones
  • Patent number: 7863906
    Abstract: Systems and methods for determining the configuration of a connection between two devices by measuring an electrical characteristic are provided. Using the measured electrical characteristic, a device is able to select an appropriate communication interface, such as serial, Universal Serial Bus (USB), FireWire, parallel, PS/2, etc., and configure itself appropriately. Systems and methods which determine the physical orientation of a connector with respect to another connector may also be provided alone or in combination with such systems and methods for selecting communication interfaces. The physical orientation of a connector can be determined by measuring an electrical characteristic and a device can then configure itself appropriately. In accordance with the principles of the present invention, device designs can decrease in size and cost as well as simplify operation for the end-user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey J. Terlizzi, Stanley Rabu, Nicholas R. Kalayjian
  • Patent number: 7849238
    Abstract: The present invention is a multiple-apparatus connection system; the multiple-apparatus connection system comprises a USB port, a controller, and a voltage determining device. The USB port connects to a peripheral device. The voltage determining device connects to the USB port to generate a detection voltage signal. The controller receives the detection voltage signal and determines the type of the connected peripheral device according to the detection voltage signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: MediaTek Inc.
    Inventors: Tung-Yi Wang, Meng-Feng Lin, Chih-Yuan Hsu, Shih-Kuan Chang
  • Patent number: 7843198
    Abstract: An electrical connecting apparatus for use in an electrical inspection of a tester and a device under test. The electrical connecting apparatus is provided with a probe assembly to be tightened by tightening screw members toward the support member and having a wiring board interposed between itself and a support member. In order to prevent deformation of the probe board of the probe assembly due to tightening of the screw members, a spacer disposed to penetrate the wiring board is between the support member and probe board and penetrated by the screw members. Both end faces of the spacer are convex spherical surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Nihon Micronics
    Inventors: Hitoshi Sato, Kiyotoshi Miura
  • Publication number: 20100295553
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for incorporating guided network cable Move/Add/Change (MAC) work order capability into a power patch panel. MAC work orders may be controlled and monitored using in-band signaling using, e.g., standard RJ-45 patch cords. Cable detection is performed at a port level on a real-time basis. Coordination of guided MAC operations may be performed by the patch panel, independently, or in conjunction with, or under the control of, a remote Network Management System. The patch panel may be in either an interconnect or cross-connect configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2010
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Applicant: PANDUIT CORP.
    Inventor: Ronald A. Nordin
  • Patent number: 7834640
    Abstract: An electrical connection testing system for testing existence of an electrical connection between a first electronic device and a second electronic device. An electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit is provided between the first and second electronic devices. The testing system includes a comparator having a first input connected to a power for output of the first electronic device and a second input connected to an output signal from the first electronic device. The output signal is adapted to be sent to the second electronic device through the ESD protection circuit. The testing system also includes a system for determining if a comparator output from the comparator is indicative of the first and second inputs being different or if the comparator output is indicative of the first and second inputs being substantially the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Nokia Corporation
    Inventors: Juha Harri-Pekka Nurmi, Jussi Petteri Koskela
  • Publication number: 20100283478
    Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide a connector conduction check apparatus manufactured easily and inexpensively. The connector conduction check apparatus of the present invention 1 includes a main body 10 having a plate member 17, a rail part 27 formed by bending the plate member 17, an inspection part 12 having a plurality of inspection pins 19 to be connected to the connector 2 and a rail part guide 28 formed on the inspection part 12 and in which the rail part 27 is fitted so that the inspection part 12 slides along the rail part guide 28.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2008
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicant: YAZAKI CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hideyuki Katoh
  • Publication number: 20100283477
    Abstract: An assembly (1) for detecting an electric discontinuity that comprises an exciter (6) connected via at least one capacitor to two contacts (2, 3) normally connected between them by an electrically conducting member (4). The circuit outside the exciter defines a resonating circuit having an impedance that changes upon the opening of one of the contacts. The frequency of the detection circuit, which varies between two values corresponding to the two open or closed states of the contacts, is used by an electronic processing module (8) that generates a dysfunctional signal upon opening of one of the contacts. The invention can be used in numerous fields, such as transport, handling, storage, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Applicant: LOHR INDUSTRIE
    Inventor: Sebastien Vanaud
  • Patent number: 7830154
    Abstract: An electrical continuity tester adaptor for attaching to a conventional continuity tester comprising first, second and third members. The first member is operably configured to engage a female F-type connector. The second member is operably configured to engage a female RJ series type connector. The third member includes a plurality of electrical connections and a printed circuit board to facilitate the electrical connectivity between the first and second members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Inventor: Robert D. Gale
  • Publication number: 20100271043
    Abstract: In order to smoothly advance and retreat a protection board without inclining the protection board, and to surely perform conduction check without an unfavorable bending force or the like to act upon the protection board at the conduction check of a connector, the present invention provides a conduction check apparatus as follow. A conduction check apparatus of the present invention 1 is that includes an inspection part 4 having a main body 22 having a surface 23a, a plurality of inspection pins 21 protruded from the surface 23a, a guide pin 8 provided on the surface 23a; and a protection board 6 sliding along the guide pin 8 from a first position to a. second position and having a plurality of holes 28. At the first position, the protection board 6 covers a tip of each of the inspection pins 21 and, at the second position, each of the inspection pins 21 jut out from the respective one of the holes 28.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2008
    Publication date: October 28, 2010
    Applicant: YAZAKI CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hideyuki Katoh
  • Publication number: 20100264936
    Abstract: A compact and easy to use female connector testing tool includes an outer housing containing a movable plunger. A male connection end is attached to one end of the movable plunger. A predetermined resistive force is provided between the outer housing and the plunger to provide adequate resistance against movement between them. As the tool is pulled away from the female connector, in which the male connection end is inserted, the plunger moves with respect to the outer housing. An indicator indicates if the female connector has passed (and is good) or has failed. The indicator may be used to provide measurements of the pullout or push-in force required to remove or insert the male connector from the female connector. The indicator may include a pass/fail indicator, a graded scale, an electronic display or audible display. A mechanical pullout mechanism may be used to provide a fast test of the holding resistance of the female connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2010
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Applicant: GENERAL INSTRUMENT CORPORATION
    Inventor: Robert J. Tarone
  • Publication number: 20100259279
    Abstract: An integrated circuit comprises at least one pin and has at least one resistor connected between a reference voltage and the at least one pin. Current measurement circuitry applies a voltage across the at least one resistor and measures a current at the at least one pin responsive to the applied voltage in a first mode of operation. The measured current enables determination of a current limit set point for the integrated circuit. In a second mode of operation, the at least one resistor comprises a pull up resistor and the at least one pin that is connected to the at least one resistor comprises an open-drain output.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2009
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Applicant: INTERSIL AMERICAS INC.
    Inventors: WILLIAM BRANDES SHEARON, LAWRENCE GILBERT GOUGH
  • Publication number: 20100253363
    Abstract: There are provided systems and methods for cable detection, such as a video cable. There is provided a device including an output stage, a comparator, a reference selector, a peak detector, and logic gates, which may be arranged to optimize power consumption of the output stage while the cable is unplugged. A method is also provided for such a device, the method comprising detecting whether the cable is unplugged using a cable detector after a first duration of time, turning off the output stage for a second duration of time in response to the cable detector detecting the cable is unplugged, turning on the output stage after the second duration of time, and proceeding to transmit data if the cable detector detects the cable is plugged in for a third period of time, or otherwise repeating the detection, turning off, and turning on steps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2010
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Applicant: MINDSPEED TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Jerome Garez
  • Publication number: 20100201374
    Abstract: The current invention provides a shunt defect detection device that includes a device under test (DUT) that is fixedly held by a thermally isolating mount, a power source disposed to provide a directional bias condition to the DUT, a probe disposed to provide a localized power to the DUT from the power source, an emission detector disposed to measure a temporal emission from the DUT when in the directional bias condition, where the measured temporal emission is output as temporal data from the emission detector to a suitably programmed computer that uses the temporal data to determine a heating rate of the DUT and is disposed to estimate an overheat risk level of the DUT, where an output from the computer designates the DUT a pass status, an uncertain status, a fail status or a process to bin status according to the overheat risk level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventors: Leonid A. Vasilyev, John M. Schmidt, James E. Hudson, Gregory S. Horner
  • Publication number: 20100203756
    Abstract: A joint connector capable of mutually short-circuiting wires reliably without an increase in the number of components and size thereof. The joint connector (JC) comprises a joint terminal for short-circuiting and a connector housing. The joint terminal includes a plurality of electric contact portions and a short-circuiting portion connecting the electric contact portions. The connector housing has a bottom wall and other walls surrounding a terminal insertion space into which each of the wire-side terminal is inserted, and a lance for locking the inserted wire-side terminal. The lance adapted to be deflected so as to project outwardly from the bottom wall, until the wire-side terminal reaches a proper insertion depth position, to be retracted from the wire-side terminal, and elastically return into the bottom wall, when the wire-side terminal reaches the position. The deflection of the lance allows the insertion of the wire-side terminal to be checked.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Applicants: AUTONETWORKS TECHNOLOGIES, LTD., SUMITOMO WIRING SYSTEMS, LTD, SUMITOMO ELECTRIC INDUSTRIES LTD.
    Inventors: Yasuo Omori, Hiroki Hirai, Tetsuji Tanaka, Tatsuo Tamagawa
  • Patent number: 7772853
    Abstract: Provided is a semiconductor device determining connection status between an output terminal connected to an output buffer and an external device, the semiconductor device including a test voltage generating circuit to generate test voltage for changing voltage of the output terminal, a connection detection determining circuit to compare voltage of the output terminal with reference voltage and to determine connection status of the external device based on the comparing result, and a compensation circuit generating simulation current where leak current generated at the output buffer is reproduced in a simulatory manner and compensating voltage change of the output terminal by the simulation current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: NEC Electronics Corporation
    Inventor: Toshifumi Shimizu
  • Publication number: 20100164509
    Abstract: A detecting system for detecting the connection of two connectors includes a number of first and second linking lines. The detecting system includes a number of first detection switches, a number of pull-down resistors, a number of second detection switches, a number of pull-up resistors, and a detection module. Each first linking line is grounded via each first detection switch and each pull-down resistor in series. The terminals of the pull-down resistors connected to the first detection switches are defined as first detecting ends. Each second linking line is electrically coupled to a high potential via each second detection switch and each pull-up resistors in series. The detection module with a threshold value preset is configured for comparing the voltage value at the first detecting ends with the threshold value, and outputting a result to determine whether the first linking lines are electrically connected to the second linking lines respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2009
    Publication date: July 1, 2010
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD, HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: KIM-YEUNG SIP
  • Patent number: 7746083
    Abstract: A communications connector tester for quickly and accurately analyzing communications connectors at production to determine whether the connectors are fit for use in certain communications applications is disclosed. Test signals at several discrete frequencies are sequentially inputted into pairs of conductors in the communications connector under test, and output signals are detected for the pairs under test. The output signals are compared to acceptable ranges for certain applications of the communications connector and the connector is passed or failed for certain applications based on the output signal values. Near-end crosstalk, far-end crosstalk, return loss, insertion loss, and other communications connector qualities may be measured using the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Panduit Corp.
    Inventors: Masud Bolouri-Saransar, Michael V. Doorhy
  • Patent number: 7746090
    Abstract: A system for testing connections of two connectors, each of which includes a pair of verification pins and a number of signal pins, includes a verification testing module, a controlling module, a signal testing module, and a reporting module. The verification testing module is configured for detecting whether each pair of verification pins are electrically connected. The controlling module is configured for allowing communication between each pair of signal pins if the pair of verification pins is detected to be electrically connected. The signal testing module is configured for testing whether each pair of signal pins are electrically connected. The reporting module is configured for reporting the results of the verification testing module and the signal testing module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignees: Hong Gu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kim-Yeung Sip
  • Publication number: 20100156435
    Abstract: A method and an arrangement are disclosed for monitoring connections of a switch intended for activating a safety function, the switch having at least two poles. The arrangement can supply voltages to first sides of two poles of the switch through first connections, and monitor the voltages supplied through the switch and further from second sides of the two poles of the switch to a device through second connections. The arrangement can form a voltage difference between the voltages to be supplied to the first sides of the two poles of the switch, and detect a connection failure when the difference between the voltages supplied to the device does not correspond with the formed voltage difference or when the difference between the voltages supplied to the device is substantially zero.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Applicant: ABB Oy
    Inventor: Jani KANGAS
  • Publication number: 20100148796
    Abstract: A device for checking the attachment of a circuit board on a carrier, in particular a housing, has on each attachment point a pair of mutually associated electrically conductive contact surfaces and an electrically conductive connecting arrangement, which connects the circuit board mechanically to the carrier and at the same time connects the electrically conductive contact surfaces of the respective pair electrically to each other. At least one of the electrically conductive contact surfaces of a pair is situated on the circuit board. The other contact surface may likewise be situated on the circuit board or, for an electrically conductive carrier, even on the carrier. The respective pairs of conductive contact surfaces and the electrically conductive connecting arrangement form an electric circuit, which may be connected in a series circuit or a parallel circuit. An evaluation circuit checks whether the electric circuit thus formed is closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Inventors: Thomas Feucht, Andreas Arlt
  • Patent number: 7737701
    Abstract: A method for verifying the integrity of the electrical connection between at least one signal path of a substrate and at least one respective contact of a component mounted on the substrate is disclosed. The method includes generating a step signal on one of the at least one signal path connected to a respective contact, and capturing a capacitively coupled signal due to the step signal at the contact. The method further includes determining the integrity of the electrical connection from a characteristic of the capacitively coupled signal or a response signal obtained from the capacitively coupled signal. A tester in which the method is implemented is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Eddie L Williamson, Tak Yee Kwan
  • Publication number: 20100141266
    Abstract: A universal serial bus (USB) component tester for testing a USB component that has a plug and a USB port includes a connector, a USB port, and a first indicator. The connector includes a first power pin, a first data pin connected to the first power pin, a second data pin, and a first ground pin connected to the second data pin and also connected to the first data pin via a first resistor. The USB port includes a power terminal connected to a power supply, a first data terminal, a second data terminal, and a grounded ground terminal, and the first data terminal is connected to the second data terminal via a second resistor. The first indicator includes a first terminal connected to the first data terminal via the second resistor, and a second terminal connected to the second data terminal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen)CO., LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: ZHEN-SHAN CUI, LIAN-ZHONG GONG
  • Publication number: 20100134121
    Abstract: An electrical connecting apparatus for use in an electrical inspection of a tester and a device under test. The electrical connecting apparatus is provided with a probe assembly to be tightened by tightening screw members toward the support member and having a wiring board interposed between itself and a support member. In order to prevent deformation of the probe board of the probe assembly due to tightening of the screw members, a spacer disposed to penetrate the wiring board is between the support member and probe board and penetrated by the screw members. Both end faces of the spacer are convex spherical surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2005
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA NIHON MICRONICS
    Inventors: Hitoshi Sato, Kiyotoshi Miura
  • Patent number: 7710382
    Abstract: A driving circuit according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an input terminal, unit circuits connected to the input terminal, and output terminals electrically connected to the input terminals. Each of the unit circuits is enabled in response to a control signal inputted via the input terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jheen-Hyeok Park, Sun-Kyu Son
  • Patent number: 7702982
    Abstract: The invention provides a testing system and method suitable for determining whether a pin-out of an electrical component is properly connected to a PCB. The testing system includes a testing signal source, a signal detector, a signal processor, an analysis unit and an integrated circuit having boundary-scan test function to provide testing signals to the device under test (DUT) whose signal traces are passing through inner layer of PCB in order to detect whether the sensed signal is an error signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: Test Research, Inc.
    Inventors: Chia-Ming Chen, Su-Wei Tsai
  • Patent number: 7696759
    Abstract: An alternator and starter motor tester system having alternator cable check. The alternator cable connector is specific to an alternator type. The cable connector is monitored so that if it fails a certain alternator type for a predetermined number of times in a row, the cable will be locked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: SPX Corporation
    Inventors: Kurt Raichle, Scott Krampitz, Weixing Xia
  • Patent number: 7696760
    Abstract: A wire harness testing system is disclosed. The wire harness testing system includes a voltage sensor configured to measure a voltage at a location associated with an electric load, wherein the electric load is connected with at least one wire harness. The wire harness testing system also includes a controller electrically coupled to the voltage sensor. The controller is configured to receive a wire harness test request. The controller is further configured to determine a voltage drop based on a voltage sensor measurement and a reference voltage and compare the voltage drop with a threshold. The controller is also configured to adaptively update the reference voltage with the voltage measurement responsive to a voltage drop below the threshold, and generate a fault notice responsive to a voltage drop above the threshold. The wire harness testing system further includes at least one indication device configured to provide a warning signal based on the fault notice generated by the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Robert W. Lindsey, Curtis Brian Johnson, Rex Aaron Glover
  • Patent number: 7684949
    Abstract: In an embodiment, an integrated circuit or chip is supplied to its intended application and a measurement quantity representing the state of one or a plurality of electrical connections in the chip is determined within the application environment of the chip and, if the measurement quantity determined does not correspond to predefined criteria, a corresponding signal is output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventor: Henrich Koerner
  • Patent number: 7671608
    Abstract: An electrical junction box is adapted to be set in a conductivity inspection device. The conductivity inspection device includes a sensing pin assembly and guide pins, the guide pins extending beyond the sensing pin assembly. The electrical junction box includes a casing including a containing section and at least two guide holes formed in a surface wall of the casing, the guide holes being spaced away from each other by a given distance. The casing is shaped such that when the electric junction box is set in the conductivity inspection device, the guide pins are inserted into the guide holes before the sensing pin assembly is inserted into the containing section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventor: Akihiro Oda