Contact assembly

Abstract

A contact assembly (202) includes a contact holder (430) having a central wall separating a wall (432, 442, 452) extending from a surface of the central wall, thereby defining a contact track (444, 454) along the surface. A contact array (418) is coupled to the surface and includes inner contacts (412) arranged in pairs with contact dielectrics encapsulating portions of corresponding contact pairs. Each pair of contacts and a corresponding contact dielectric form a contact set (417, 419). The contact dielectrics of each contact set are spaced apart from each other and received in a respective contact track, with a partition wall separating the contact sets from each other. The shields are coupled to the contact holders to cover the contact rails and form shield recesses (700, 750) around the respective contact rails to provide circumferential shielding for the respective sets of contacts.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The subject matter herein relates generally to contact assemblies and, more particularly, to contact assemblies for card edge connectors of communication systems. Background Art

[0002] Some communication systems utilize communication connectors, such as card edge connectors, to interconnect various components of the system for data communication. Some known communication systems use pluggable modules, such as I / O modules or circuit cards, which are electrically connected to the card edge connector. The pluggable module has a module circuit board having a card edge that mates with the card edge connector during a mating operation. Each card edge connector typically has an upper row of contacts and a lower row of contacts for mating with a corresponding circuit board. It is desirable that the connectors and circuit boards of the communication system have greater contact density and / or data throughput. Known card edge connectors are not without disadvantages. For example, a large portion of the contacts are typically rigidly fixed within the connector housing, such as using contact overmolds to hold the contacts relative to each other and relative to the housing. Overmolds may negatively affect the electrical characteristics of signal transmission lines. For example, the plastic material of the overmold creates a path for crosstalk between signal contacts. Proper shielding of signal transmission lines is problematic. In addition, it is difficult to control the correct positioning of the mating ends and the termination ends of all contacts.

[0003] There remains a need for a reliable card edge connector that can carry high-speed signals. Summary of the invention

[0004] According to the present invention, a contact assembly is provided, which includes a contact holder having a central wall having an inner surface and an outer surface. The central wall has a front edge between the inner surface and the outer surface. The central wall has a plate end between the inner surface and the outer surface, and the plate end is configured to face the circuit board. The contact holder includes an inner partition wall extending from the inner surface of the central wall and defining an inner contact track along the inner surface. The contact holder includes an outer partition wall extending from the outer surface of the central wall and defining an outer contact track along the outer surface. The contact holder is conductive to provide electrical shielding between the inner contact track and the outer contact track. The contact assembly includes an inner contact array coupled to the inner surface of the contact holder. The inner contact array includes inner contacts arranged in pairs. The inner contact array includes an inner contact dielectric that encapsulates a portion of a corresponding inner contact pair. Each pair of inner contacts and the corresponding inner contact dielectric form an inner contact group. The inner contact dielectrics of each inner contact group are spaced apart from each other. The inner contact group is received in the corresponding inner contact track, and the inner partition wall separates the inner contact group from the other inner contact groups. The contact assembly includes an outer contact array connected to the outer surface of the contact holder. The outer contact array includes outer contacts arranged in pairs. The outer contact array includes an outer contact dielectric, and the outer contact dielectric encapsulates the corresponding outer contact pair. Each pair of outer contacts and the corresponding outer contact dielectric form an outer contact group. The outer contact dielectrics of each outer contact group are spaced apart from each other. The outer contact group is received in the corresponding outer contact track, wherein the outer partition wall separates the outer contact group from the other outer contact groups. The contact assembly includes an inner shield, which is connected to the contact holder to cover the inner contact track. The central wall, the partition wall and the inner shield form a shield recess around the corresponding inner contact track to provide circumferential shielding for the corresponding inner contact group. The contact assembly includes an outer shield coupled to the contact holder to cover the outer contact tracks. The central wall, the partition wall and the outer shield form a shield recess surrounding the corresponding outer contact track to provide circumferential shielding for the corresponding outer contact group. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0006] Figure 2 is a front perspective view of a portion of a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0007] Figure 3 is a front perspective view of a card edge connector according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0008] Figure 4 is a rear perspective view of a card edge connector according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0009] Figure 5is a bottom perspective view of a card edge connector according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0010] Figure 6 is a rear perspective view of a contact assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0011] Figure 7 is a rear perspective view of a contact retainer according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0012] Figure 8 is an exploded view of a portion of a contact assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0013] Fig. 9 is a rear perspective assembly view of a portion of a contact assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0014] Fig.10 is a top view of a portion of a contact assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0015] Fig.11 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a contact assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0016] Fig.12 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a contact assembly according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0017] Fig.13 is a diagram of a portion of a communication system showing a pluggable module coupled to a receptacle connector assembly according to an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a communication system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 1 is a front perspective view of a portion of a communication system 100 according to an exemplary embodiment. The communication system 100 includes a circuit board 102 and a socket connector assembly 104 mounted on the circuit board 102. A pluggable module 106 ( Figure 1 ) is configured to be electrically connected to the socket connector assembly 104. The pluggable module 106 is Figure 2 1 is removed to show components of the socket connector assembly 104. The pluggable module 106 is electrically connected to the circuit board 102 through the socket connector assembly 104.

[0019] In an exemplary embodiment, the socket connector assembly 104 includes a socket cage 110 and an electrical connector assembly 112 adjacent to the socket cage 110. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the electrical connector assembly 112 is received in the socket cage 110. In other various embodiments, the electrical connector assembly 112 may be located behind the socket cage 110. In various embodiments, the electrical connector assembly 112 is a card edge connector and may be referred to as the card edge connector 112 hereinafter.

[0020] In various embodiments, the socket cage 110 is enclosed and provides electrical shielding for the electrical connector assembly 112. The pluggable module 106 is loaded into the socket cage 110 and is at least partially surrounded by the socket cage 110. The socket cage 110 includes a plurality of walls 114 that define one or more module channels for receiving corresponding (multiple) pluggable modules 106. The wall 114 can be a wall defined by a solid sheet, a perforated wall that allows airflow, a wall with a cutout (e.g., for a heat sink or heat sink to pass therethrough), or a wall defined by a rail or beam with a relatively large opening. In an exemplary embodiment, the socket cage 110 is a shielded die-cast metal cage member, wherein the wall 114 is a shielded wall 114. In other embodiments, the socket cage 110 can be opened between frame members such as rails or beams to provide cooling airflow for the pluggable module 106, wherein the frame member of the socket cage 110 defines a guide track for guiding the pluggable module 106 to be loaded into the socket cage 110.

[0021] In the illustrated embodiment, the socket cage 110 is a single port cage configured to receive a single pluggable module 106 in a single module channel 116. However, in alternative embodiments, the socket cage 110 may include multiple ports to receive multiple pluggable modules, such as a stacked cage member having an upper module channel 116 and a lower module channel 116. The module channels can be arranged in a single row, however, in alternative embodiments, the socket cage 110 may include multiple rows of module channels (e.g., 2X2, 3X2, 4X2, 4X3, etc.). The socket cage 110 includes a port 118 that provides access to the module channel 116. The pluggable module 106 is inserted into the module channel 116 through the port 118. Optionally, multiple electrical connector assemblies 112 can be arranged in the socket cage 110 to cooperate with multiple pluggable modules.

[0022] In an exemplary embodiment, the wall 114 of the socket cage 110 includes a top wall 130, a bottom wall 132, and a side wall 134 extending between the top wall 130 and the bottom wall 132. The bottom wall 132 can rest on the circuit board 102. However, in alternative embodiments, the bottom wall 132 can be raised a distance above the circuit board 102, thereby defining a gap below the bottom wall 132, such as for airflow. In various other embodiments, the socket cage 110 can be provided without the bottom wall 132. Optionally, the wall 114 of the socket cage 110 can include a rear wall 136 and a front wall 138 located at the front of the socket cage 110. The module port 118 is disposed in the front wall 138. The wall 114 defines a cavity 140, which forms (multiple) module channels 116. The cavity 140 is defined by the top wall 130, the bottom wall 132, the side wall 134, the rear wall 136, and the front wall 138. Other walls 114 may separate or divide the cavity 140 into individual module channels 116. For example, the wall 114 may include a channel divider between an upper module channel 116 and a lower module channel 116. The wall 114 may include a divider wall parallel to the side wall 134 that extends between the top wall 130 and the bottom wall 132 to separate adjacent module channels from each other.

[0023] In an exemplary embodiment, the receptacle cage 110 may include one or more gaskets at the front wall 138 to provide electrical shielding for the module channel 116. For example, the gaskets may be configured to electrically connect to the pluggable module 106 received in the module channel 116. The gaskets may be configured to electrically connect to a panel or frame.

[0024] In an exemplary embodiment, the socket connector assembly 104 may include one or more heat sinks (not shown) for dissipating heat from the pluggable module 106. For example, the heat sink may be coupled to the top wall 130 and extend through an opening in the top wall 130 to engage the pluggable module 106 and dissipate heat from the pluggable module 106.

[0025] In an exemplary embodiment, the electrical connector assembly 112 is received in the cavity 140, for example, near the rear wall 136. However, in alternative embodiments, the electrical connector assembly 112 may be located outside the receptacle cage 110, behind the rear wall 136, and extend into the cavity 140 to interface with the pluggable module(s) 106. In an exemplary embodiment, a single electrical connector assembly 112 is used. However, in other embodiments, multiple electrical connector assemblies 112 may be used.

[0026] In an exemplary embodiment, the pluggable module 106 is loaded through the front wall 138 to mate with the electrical connector assembly 112. The shield wall 114 of the receptacle cage 110 provides electrical shielding around the electrical connector assembly 112 and the pluggable module 106, such as around the mating interface between the electrical connector assembly 112 and the pluggable module 106.

[0027] In an exemplary embodiment, the pluggable module 106 is an input / output (I / O) module, such as a transceiver module. The pluggable module 106 includes a pluggable body 180, which can be defined by one or more shell members. The pluggable body 180 can be thermally conductive and / or can be electrically conductive to provide EMI shielding for the pluggable module 106. The pluggable body 180 includes a mating end 182 that is inserted into the socket cage 110 and a cable end 184 opposite the mating end 182. The pluggable body 180 holds one or more module circuit boards 190 (in the Fig.13 ), the one or more module circuit boards 190 are configured to be communicatively coupled to the electrical connector assembly 112. The module circuit board 190 is accessible at the mating end 182 for mating with the electrical connector assembly 112. The module circuit board 190 has a card edge configured to be inserted into a card slot of the electrical connector assembly 112 and contacts, such as pads or circuits, at the card edge configured to mate with the card edge connector 112.

[0028] In other various embodiments, the pluggable module 106 may be a circuit card or plug-in card rather than an I / O module. For example, the pluggable module 106 may include a module circuit board 190 without the pluggable body 180 surrounding the module circuit board 190.

[0029] Figure 3 is a front perspective view of a card edge connector 112 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 4 is a rear perspective view of card edge connector 112 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 5 2 is a bottom perspective view of the card edge connector 112 according to an exemplary embodiment. The card edge connector 112 includes a housing 200 having a cavity 204 and a contact assembly 400 received in the cavity 204 of the housing 200 .

[0030] The housing 200 extends between a front portion 206 and a rear portion 208. The cavity 204 is open at the rear portion 208 to receive the contact assembly 400. The housing 200 extends between a top portion 210 and a bottom portion 212. The housing 200 extends between opposite sides 218. In various embodiments, the housing 200 can be generally box-shaped. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom portion 212 defines a housing configured to be mounted to the circuit board 102 (e.g., Figure 1 ), and the front portion 206 defines a mounting end configured to be connected to the pluggable module 106 (as shown in FIG. Figure 1 In alternative embodiments, other orientations are possible, such as with the mating end at the top 210 and / or the mounting end at the rear 208.

[0031] The housing 200 includes a shroud 220 at a mating end, such as at the front 206. The shroud 220 is configured to be received within the pluggable module 106 ( Figure 1 ). The housing 200 includes one or more slots 222 surrounded by a shield 220. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 200 includes two slots 222, such as an upper slot and a lower slot. The shield 220 includes a partition wall 224 between the slots 222. The slots 222 receive the module circuit board 190 (on the opposite side of the partition wall 224). Fig.13 The contact assembly 400 is received in the housing 200 at the card slot 222 to mate with the module circuit board 190.

[0032] In an exemplary embodiment, the contact assembly 400 includes a subassembly associated with each slot 222. For example, the lower contact assembly is received in the lower portion of the housing 200, and the upper contact assembly is received in the upper portion of the housing 200. For example, the lower contact assembly is received in a cavity 204 aligned with and extending into the lower slot, and the upper contact assembly is received in a cavity 204 aligned with and extending into the upper slot. The lower contact assembly may be similar to the upper contact assembly and include similar components, which may be different in size and shape to fit into the housing 200. The components of any contact assembly 400 may be referred to as a whole, or may be referred to herein using the identifier "lower" or "upper". The housing 200 includes a guide feature 226 to guide the contact assembly 400 into the housing 200. For example, the guide feature 226 may be a guide groove 228 extending along the side 218 for loading the contact assembly 400 into the cavity 204 of the housing 200.

[0033] Figure 6 4 is a rear perspective view of a contact assembly 400 according to an exemplary embodiment. In an exemplary embodiment, the contact assembly 400 is a multi-row contact assembly. For example, the contact assembly 400 may be a double-sided contact assembly 400 having contacts arranged in an upper row and a lower row. In an exemplary embodiment, the contact assembly 400 includes a contact holder 430 that holds a plurality of contacts 410, the plurality of contacts 410 including outer contacts 412 arranged in rows along an outer portion of the contact assembly 400 and inner contacts 414 arranged in rows along an inner portion of the contact assembly 400. The outer contacts 412 are arranged in an outer contact array 416, and the inner contacts 414 are arranged in an inner contact array 418. The outer contacts 412 of the outer contact array 416 may be a stamped and formed lead frame. The inner contacts 414 of the inner contact array 418 may be a stamped and formed lead frame.

[0034] The contact retainer 430 can be a one-piece retainer that retains both the outer contact 412 and the inner contact 414, such as a single molded or die-cast component. The one-piece retainer can include one or more openings between the inner surface and the outer surface, which can be an air gap or can receive a portion of the housing 200. In an alternative embodiment, the contact retainer 430 can be a multi-piece retainer, for example, including an outer retainer that retains the outer contact 412 and an inner retainer that retains the inner contact 414. The outer retainer can be connected to the inner retainer. Optionally, one or more air gaps can be set between the outer retainer and the inner retainer. In various embodiments, a portion of the housing 200 can be located between the outer retainer and the inner retainer. Alternatively, the outer retainer and the inner retainer can directly dock with each other. The contact retainer 430 provides electrical shielding between the outer contact 412 and the inner contact 414. In an exemplary embodiment, the contact holder 430 provides shielding between each outer contact 412 (such as a pair of outer contacts 412) and between each inner contact 414 (such as a pair of inner contacts 414). The outer contacts 412 and the inner contacts 414 are configured to be arranged on opposite sides of the card slot for mating with opposite sides of the module circuit board 190 ( Fig.13 ). The contact assembly 400 has high density and significant data throughput. In an exemplary embodiment, the contact assembly 400 includes an outer shield 600 and an inner shield 650. The outer shield 600 provides shielding for the outer contact 412. The inner shield 650 provides shielding for the inner contact 414.

[0035] Figure 7 4 is a rear perspective view of a contact holder 430 according to an exemplary embodiment. The contact holder 430 is used to connect the outer contact 412 and the inner contact 414 ( Figure 6 ) are positioned relative to each other. The contact holder 430 is used to hold the outer contact 412 and the inner contact 414 to be loaded into the housing 200 (such as Figure 4 ). In an exemplary embodiment, the contact holder 430 is conductive to provide shielding between the various contacts 412, 414. For example, the contact holder 430 may be a die cast component, or may be a plated plastic or a conductive polymer.

[0036] The contact holder 430 includes a central wall 432 including a rear wall 434 and a front wall 436. The rear wall 434 extends to a bottom end 435. The bottom end 435 may be configured to face the circuit board 102 (at Figure 1 436). The rear wall 434 may extend generally vertically. Optionally, the rear wall 434 may include a transition portion extending between the vertical portion and the front wall 436. The front wall 436 extends forward from the rear wall 434 to a front end 438 of the contact holder 430. Optionally, the front wall 436 may extend generally horizontally. The front wall 434 may be oriented generally perpendicular to the rear wall 434.

[0037] The central wall 432 includes an outer surface 440 and an inner surface 450 opposite the outer surface 440. The outer surface 440 and the inner surface 450 extend along the rear wall 434 and the front wall 436. The front end 438 extends between the outer surface 440 and the inner surface 450. The bottom end 435 extends between the outer surface 440 and the inner surface 450.

[0038] The contact holder 430 includes an outer partition wall 442 extending from an outer surface 440 of the central wall 432. The outer partition wall 442 defines an outer contact track 444 therebetween along the outer surface 440. The contact holder 430 includes an inner partition wall 452 extending from an inner surface 450 of the central wall 432. The inner partition wall 452 defines an inner contact track (not shown) therebetween along the inner surface 450. The contact holder 430 is conductive to provide electrical shielding between the outer contact track 444 and the inner contact track. For example, the central wall 432 provides shielding between the outer contact track 444 and the inner contact track. The outer partition wall 442 provides shielding between adjacent outer contact tracks 444. The inner partition wall 452 provides shielding between adjacent inner contact tracks. The outer partition walls 442 may be parallel to each other. The inner partition walls 452 may be parallel to each other. The outer partition walls 442 may have the same height so that the distal edges of each of the outer partition walls 442 are aligned (eg, coplanar). The inner partition walls 452 may have the same height so that the distal edges of each of the inner partition walls 452 are aligned (eg, coplanar).

[0039] In an exemplary embodiment, the outer and inner dividers 442 and 452 extend along the rear wall 434 and the front wall 436. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer and inner dividers 442 and 452 are continuous, such as from near the bottom end 435 to near the front end 438, to provide continuous shielding along the contact track. For example, the outer and inner dividers 442 and 452 do not include breaks or openings. In various embodiments, the outer and inner dividers 442 and 452 are continuous from the rear wall 434 to the front end 438. Alternatively, the outer and inner dividers 442 and 452 can be continuous from the front wall 436 to the bottom end 435.

[0040] In an exemplary embodiment, the contact holder 430 includes an outer mounting post 446 extending from the outer partition wall 442 and an inner mounting post 456 extending from the inner partition wall 452. The outer mounting post 446 is used to attach the outer shield 600 ( Figure 6) is mechanically and electrically connected to the contact holder 430. The inner mounting posts 456 are used to mechanically and electrically connect the inner shield 650 to the contact holder 430. Optionally, each of the partition walls 442, 452 includes at least one mounting post 446, 456, respectively. The mounting posts 446, 456 can be located along the rear wall 434 and / or the front wall 436. In alternative embodiments, the mounting posts 446, 456 can be rectangular, cylindrical, or have other shapes.

[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, the contact holder 430 includes a dielectric recess 460. The dielectric recess 460 is disposed in the outer contact track 444 and the inner contact track. For example, the contact holder 430 includes both an outer dielectric recess and an inner dielectric recess. The dielectric recess 460 can be formed in the central wall 432 and / or the partition walls 442, 452.

[0042] Figure 8 is an exploded view of a portion of a contact assembly 400 according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. 9 is a rear perspective assembly view of a portion of a contact assembly according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 8 The outer contact array 416 is shown ready to be coupled to the contact holder 430 . Fig. 9 An outer contact array 416 and an inner contact array 418 are shown coupled to a contact holder 430. The center wall 432 holds the outer contact array 416 and the inner contact array 418. For example, the outer contact array 416 is located above the front wall 436 and behind the rear wall 434. The inner contact array 418 is located below the front wall 436 and in front of the rear wall 434.

[0043] In an exemplary embodiment, the inner contact array 418 is similar to the outer contact array 416 and includes similar features, which are described below with reference to the outer contact array 416. The outer contact array 416 includes a signal lead frame that forms the outer contacts 412. The signal lead frame is a stamped and formed lead frame to form the outer contacts 412. The signal lead frame can be overmolded with one or more overmolding bodies to maintain the relative position of the outer contacts 412. For example, the outer contact array 416 includes a plurality of contact dielectrics 470 that hold corresponding outer contacts 412. In various embodiments, the contact dielectrics 470 are overmolded bodies that are overmolded on the outer contacts 412. However, in alternative embodiments, the outer contacts 412 can be sewn or otherwise loaded into the contact dielectrics 470. The contact dielectrics 470 are configured to be coupled to the contact holder 430 to position the outer contact array 416 relative to the contact holder 430.

[0044] Each contact 412 includes an intermediate portion 420 extending between a mating end 422 and a terminating end 424. The mating end 422 is configured to mate with the module circuit board 190 ( Fig.13 ). In an exemplary embodiment, the contact 412 includes a mating beam 426 at the mating end 422. The mating beam is a deflectable spring beam. However, other types of mating portions may be provided at the mating end, such as pins, contacts, blades, tuning fork contacts, etc. The terminating end 424 is configured to terminate to the circuit board 102 ( Figure 1 ). In an exemplary embodiment, the contact 412 includes a solder tail 428 at the terminating end 424. The solder tail 428 is configured to be soldered to a board pad of the circuit board 102. In the illustrated embodiment, the solder tail 428 includes a 90° bend to orient the solder tail 428 parallel to the circuit board 102 for connection to the circuit board 102. Other types of termination portions may be used in alternative embodiments, such as compliant pins, solder pins, spring beams, etc.

[0045] In an exemplary embodiment, the outer contacts 412 are arranged in pairs. For example, the outer contacts 412 can be differential pairs. In alternative embodiments, a single outer contact 412 (such as a high-speed single-ended contact) can be arranged in a corresponding track 444. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer contacts 412 are held in pairs by corresponding outer contact dielectrics 470. The outer contact dielectrics 470 encapsulate portions of the corresponding pairs of outer contacts 412. The outer contact dielectrics 470 span the gap between the pairs of outer contacts 412. The outer contact dielectrics 470 are positioned along the sides of the outer contacts 412. The outer contact dielectrics 470 are located above and below the outer contacts 412. The outer contact dielectrics 470 encapsulate portions of the pairs of outer contacts 412 to space the outer contacts 412 from the central wall 432, the partition wall 442, and the outer shield 600.

[0046] Each pair of outer contacts 412 and the corresponding outer contact dielectric 470 form an outer contact set 417. The outer contact set 417 is configured to be received in the corresponding outer contact rail 444. The outer partition walls 442 separate adjacent outer contact sets 417 from each other.

[0047] In an exemplary embodiment, the outer contact dielectrics 470 of each outer contact group 417 are spaced apart from each other. For example, the outer contact dielectrics 470 of adjacent outer contact groups 417 are separated by gaps 472 (such as air gaps). Alternatively, the rows of outer contact dielectrics 470 can be overmolded as a single piece on the entire lead frame, which is later cut to form the gaps 472 and separate individual contact dielectrics 470. Alternatively, the outer contact dielectrics 470 can be molded separately onto the corresponding pair of outer contacts 412, wherein the gaps 472 are formed during the molding process. In an exemplary embodiment, each outer contact dielectric covers only a single pair of outer contacts 412. The gaps 472 are configured to receive the outer partition walls 442. In this way, the outer partition walls 442 are configured to be positioned between the outer contact dielectrics 470 and positioned between the outer contacts 412 along the outer contact dielectrics 470. For example, the middle portion 420 of the outer contact 412 includes an encapsulated portion 421 (a portion encapsulated in the outer contact dielectric 470 ). The encapsulated portion 421 passes through the outer contact dielectric 470 . The outer partition wall 442 is located between the encapsulated portions 421 of the outer contacts 412 of different outer contact groups 417 .

[0048] In various embodiments, each outer contact group 417 includes a plurality of outer contact dielectrics 470 that support the outer contacts 417 at different portions along the length of the outer contacts 412. For example, the outer contact dielectrics 470 are spaced apart from each other along the length. In the illustrated embodiment, each outer contact group 417 includes three outer contact dielectrics 470 (e.g., one near the mating end 422, one near the terminating end 424, and one approximately centered between them). In alternative embodiments, more or fewer outer contact dielectrics 470 may be used.

[0049] When assembled, the outer contact group 417 is received in the corresponding outer contact track 444. The outer contact group 417 extends along the outer surface 440. The outer contact group 417 is located between the corresponding outer partition walls 442. The outer contact dielectric 470 is received in the dielectric recess 460. The outer partition wall 442 extends along the side of the outer contact dielectric 470. The size and shape of the dielectric recess 460 are designed to receive the outer contact dielectric 470. For example, the outer contact dielectric 470 can be rectangular in shape, and the dielectric recess 460 can also be rectangular in shape. The size of the dielectric recess 460 can be set to hold the outer contact dielectric 470 by an interference fit to accurately position the outer contact 412 relative to the contact holder 430. The outer divider walls 442 are located between the outer dielectric recesses 460 in adjacent outer contact rails 444 to provide shielding between the outer contact dielectrics 470 and, therefore, between the encapsulated portions 421 of the outer contacts 412 .

[0050] In an exemplary embodiment, the front-most outer contact dielectric 470 defines a front outer contact dielectric 474. The front outer contact dielectric 474 is located in the outer contact track 444 near the front end 438. Optionally, the front edge of the front outer contact dielectric 474 can be aligned with the front end 438. The mating beam 426 extends in front of the front outer contact dielectric 474 to mate with the module circuit board 190.

[0051] In an exemplary embodiment, the contact assembly 400 includes an outer contact organizer 480 that holds all outer contacts 412 to position the outer contacts 412 pairs relative to each other. In various embodiments, the outer contact organizer 480 is located at the termination end 424, such as being connected to a solder tail. In other embodiments, the outer contact organizer 480 may be arranged at the end of the middle portion of the outer contact 412. If the outer contact organizer 480 is positioned at the middle position, rather than at the end of the outer contact 412, a break will be required in the wall 442, which will reduce electrical performance. Therefore, the outer contact organizer 480 is positioned at the end of the wall 442 rather than the middle of the wall 442. The outer contact organizer 480 is dielectric. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer contact organizer 480 is overmolded on the lead frame. For example, the outer contact organizer 480 is formed in place on the outer contact 412. The outer contact organizer 480 is connected to all of the outer contacts 412. The outer contact organizer 480 spaces the outer contacts 412 relative to each other. When assembled, the outer contact organizer 480 is coupled to the outer surface 440 of the contact holder 430. For example, the outer contact organizer 480 can be coupled to the rear wall 434. In various embodiments, the outer contact organizer 480 is located between the outer partition wall 442 and the circuit board bottom 435. The outer contact organizer 480 may include a window 482 that exposes a portion of the outer contact 412.

[0052] Fig.10 is a top view of a portion of a contact assembly 400 according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig.10 An outer contact array 416 coupled to a contact holder 430 is shown. The outer contact groups 417 are arranged in corresponding outer contact tracks 444. The outer separation walls 442 are located between the outer contact groups 417. For example, the outer separation walls 442 are located between the outer contact dielectrics 470. The outer separation walls 442 are located in the gaps 472 between the outer contact dielectrics 470.

[0053] In an exemplary embodiment, the mating beams 426 at the mating end 422 extend forward of the front outer contact dielectric 474. In an exemplary embodiment, the grounding beams 610 are located between the mating beams 426. The grounding beams 610 may be an outer shield 600 ( Figure 6 ) part.

[0054] Back to Figure 6 , Figure 6The contact assembly 400 is shown in an assembled state. The outer contact 412 is located at the outer portion of the contact holder 430, and the inner contact 414 is located at the inner portion of the contact holder 430. The outer shield 600 is coupled to the outer portion of the contact holder 430. The inner shield 650 is coupled to the inner portion of the contact holder 430. The outer shield 600 provides shielding for the outer contact 412. The inner shield 650 provides shielding for the inner contact 414.

[0055] The shields 600, 650 can be similar to each other, but can be sized differently to fit on the contact holder 430. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer shield 600 is made of a metal material. For example, the outer shield 600 can be stamped and formed from a metal sheet. The outer shield 600 includes a panel 602 extending along various portions of the contact holder 430, such as along the rear wall 434 and the front wall 436 of the central wall 432. In an exemplary embodiment, the outer shield 600 includes an opening 604 in one or more of the panels 602 to couple the outer shield 600 to the contact holder 430. The opening 604 receives the outer mounting post 446. The outer shield 600 can be press-fitted to the outer mounting post 446. In other embodiments, the outer shield 600 can be fixed to the outer mounting post 446 using solder or conductive epoxy. The panel 602 can be butted against the distal edge of the outer partition wall 442. Optionally, a conductive epoxy or conductive gasket may be disposed between the distal edge of the outer dividing wall 442 and the faceplate 602 of the outer shield 600 .

[0056] In an exemplary embodiment, the outer shield 600 includes grounding beams 610 extending from a front edge of the outer shield 600. The grounding beams 610 are located between corresponding outer contacts 412 (e.g., signal contacts). The grounding beams 610 provide shielding between the outer contacts 412. For example, the grounding beams 610 can be located between pairs of outer contacts 412 to provide shielding between the pairs of outer contacts 412.

[0057] In an exemplary embodiment, the outer shield 600 includes a ground tail 620 extending from a rear edge of the outer shield 600. The ground tail 620 is located between corresponding outer contacts 412 (e.g., signal contacts). For example, the ground tail 620 can be located between the solder tails 428. The ground tail 620 can be soldered to the circuit board 102 ( Figure 1 ). The ground tail 620 provides shielding between the outer contacts 412. For example, the ground tail 620 can be located between a pair of outer contacts 412 to provide shielding between the pair of outer contacts 412.

[0058] Fig.11 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a contact assembly 400 according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig.12is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a contact assembly 400 according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig.11 and Fig.12 The contact arrays 416, 418 are shown coupled to the contact holder 430. The outer contact set 417 is arranged in a corresponding outer contact track 444. The inner contact set 419 is arranged in a corresponding inner contact track 454.

[0059] Shielding is provided for the outer contact set 417 and the inner contact set 419. The central wall 432 provides shielding between the outer contacts 412 and the inner contacts 414. The outer partition wall 442 provides shielding between the outer contacts 412 of adjacent outer contact sets 417. The inner partition wall 452 provides shielding between the inner contacts 414 of adjacent inner contact sets 419. The outer shield 600 provides shielding outside the outer contacts 412. The inner shield 650 provides shielding inside the inner contacts 414. An outer shield recess 700 is provided for each outer contact set 417. For example, the central wall 432, the partition wall 442 and the outer shield 600 form an outer shield recess 700 by surrounding the corresponding outer contact rail 444 to provide circumferential shielding for the corresponding outer contact set 417. An inner shield recess 750 is provided for each inner contact set 419. For example, the central wall 432 , the divider walls 452 , and the inner shield 650 form an inner shield recess 750 by surrounding the corresponding inner contact rails 454 to provide circumferential shielding for the corresponding inner contact set 419 .

[0060] Fig.13 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the communication system 100 showing the pluggable module 106 coupled to the receptacle connector assembly 104 . Fig.13 The electrical connector assembly 112 and the receptacle cage 110 are shown mounted to the circuit board 102. The pluggable module 106 is coupled to a mating end of the electrical connector assembly 112.

[0061] In an exemplary embodiment, the pluggable module 106 includes a pair of module circuit boards 190. The card edge 192 of the module circuit board 190 is inserted into the card slot 222 at the front of the housing 200. The mating end of the contact extends into the card slot 222 to mate with the module circuit board 190. The shielding structure of the lower contact assembly 400 and the upper contact assembly 400 provides shielding for the contacts of the lower contact assembly 400 and the upper contact assembly 400.

Claims

1. A contact assembly (202), comprising: A contact holder (430) having a central wall (432), the central wall (432) having an inner surface (450) and an outer surface (440), the central wall having a front edge between the inner surface and the outer surface, the central wall having a board end between the inner surface and the outer surface, the board end being configured to face the circuit board (102), the contact holder including an inner partition wall (452) extending from the inner surface of the central wall and defining an inner contact track (454) along the inner surface, the contact holder including an outer partition wall (442) extending from the outer surface of the central wall and defining an outer contact track (444) along the outer surface, the contact holder being conductive to provide electrical shielding between the inner contact track and the outer contact track; an inner contact array (418) coupled to an inner surface of the contact holder, the inner contact array comprising inner contacts (414) arranged in pairs, the inner contact array comprising inner contact dielectrics (470), the inner contact dielectrics encapsulating portions of corresponding inner contact pairs, each pair of inner contacts and the corresponding inner contact dielectrics forming an inner contact group (419), the inner contact dielectrics of each inner contact group being spaced apart from each other, the inner contact groups being received in corresponding inner contact tracks, wherein the inner partition walls separate the inner contact groups from other inner contact groups; an outer contact array (416) coupled to an outer surface of the contact holder, the outer contact array comprising outer contacts (412) arranged in pairs, the outer contact array comprising outer contact dielectrics (470), the outer contact dielectrics (470) encapsulating portions of corresponding pairs of outer contacts, each pair of outer contacts and corresponding outer contact dielectrics forming an outer contact group (417), the outer contact dielectrics of each outer contact group being spaced apart from each other, the outer contact groups being received in corresponding outer contact tracks, wherein the outer partition walls separate the outer contact groups from other outer contact groups; an inner shield (650) coupled to the contact holder to cover the inner contact tracks, wherein the central wall, the divider wall and the inner shield form a shield recess (750) surrounding the corresponding inner contact track to provide circumferential shielding for the corresponding inner contact set; as well as An outer shield (600) is connected to the contact holder to cover the outer contact track, wherein the central wall, the partition wall and the outer shield form a shield recess (700), and the shield recess (700) surrounds the corresponding outer contact track to provide circumferential shielding for the corresponding outer contact group.

2. The contact assembly (202) according to claim 1, wherein: The inner dividing wall (452) is continuous from a front edge to a rear portion (208) of the contact holder (430), and wherein the outer dividing wall (442) is continuous from a front edge to a rear portion of the contact holder.

3. The contact assembly (202) according to claim 1, wherein: The inner contact dielectrics (470) of adjacent inner contact groups (419) are separated by gaps (472), and the inner partition walls (452) are received in the gaps, and wherein the outer contact dielectrics (470) of adjacent outer contact groups (417) are separated by gaps, and the outer partition walls (442) are received in the gaps.

4. The contact assembly (202) according to claim 1, wherein: The inner contact (414) includes an encapsulated portion passing through the inner contact dielectric (470), and the internal partition wall (452) is located between the encapsulated portions of the inner contacts of different inner contact groups (419), and wherein the outer contact (416) includes an encapsulated portion passing through the outer contact dielectric (470), and the external partition wall (442) is located between the encapsulated portions of the outer contacts of different outer contact groups (417).

5. The contact assembly (202) according to claim 1, wherein: The inner contact track (454) of the contact retainer (430) includes an inner dielectric recess (460) for receiving a corresponding inner contact dielectric (470), and the inner partition wall (452) is located between the inner dielectric recesses in adjacent inner contact tracks, and wherein the outer contact track (444) of the contact retainer includes an outer dielectric recess (460) for receiving a corresponding outer contact dielectric (470), and the outer partition wall (442) is located between the outer dielectric recesses in adjacent outer contact tracks.

6. The contact assembly (202) according to claim 1, wherein: Each inner contact group (419) includes a plurality of inner contact dielectrics (470), the inner partition walls (452) extending along the sides (218) of each of the inner contact dielectrics, and wherein each outer contact group (417) includes a plurality of outer contact dielectrics (470), the inner partition walls extending along the sides of each of the outer contact dielectrics.

7. The contact assembly (202) according to claim 1, wherein: The inner contact dielectric (470) encapsulates portions of the inner contact (414) pair to space the inner contacts from the central wall (432), the partition walls (442, 452) and the inner shield (650), and wherein the outer contact dielectric (470) encapsulates portions of the outer contact (412) pair to space the outer contacts from the central wall, the partition walls and the outer shield (600).

8. The contact assembly (202) according to claim 1, wherein: The inner contact dielectric (470) includes a front inner contact dielectric located in the inner contact track (454) at a front edge, the inner contact (414) includes a mating beam (426) extending in front of the front inner contact dielectric to mate with the module circuit board (190), and wherein the outer contact dielectric (470) includes a front outer contact dielectric located in the outer contact track (444) at a front edge, and the outer contact (412) includes a mating beam extending in front of the front outer contact dielectric to mate with the module circuit board.

9. The contact assembly (202) according to claim 1, wherein: The contact assembly includes an inner contact organizer, which holds all of the inner contacts (414) to position the inner contact pairs relative to each other, the inner contact organizer is dielectric, the inner contact organizer is connected to the inner surface (450) of the contact holder (430), the inner contact organizer is located between the inner partition wall (452) and the circuit board (102), and wherein the contact assembly includes an outer contact organizer (480), the outer contact organizer holds all of the outer contacts (412) to position the outer contact pairs relative to each other, the outer contact organizer is dielectric, the outer contact organizer is connected to the outer surface (440) of the contact holder, and the outer contact organizer is located between the outer partition wall (442) and the circuit board.

10. The contact assembly (202) of claim 1, wherein: The inner partition wall (452) includes an inner mounting post (456) extending therefrom, the inner shield (650) includes an opening for receiving the inner mounting post, and wherein the outer partition wall (442) includes an outer mounting post (446) extending therefrom, and the outer shield (600) includes an opening for receiving the outer mounting post.

11. The contact assembly (202) of claim 1, wherein: The inner partition wall (452) extends to an inner edge, the inner shield (650) is disposed on the inner edge of the inner partition wall, and wherein the outer partition wall (442) extends to an outer edge, the outer shield (600) is disposed on the outer edge of the outer partition wall.

12. The contact assembly (202) of claim 1, wherein: Each inner contact (414) includes an intermediate portion (420) extending between a mating beam (426) configured to mate to a module circuit board (190) and a solder tail (428), the mating beam being configured to be soldered to a circuit board (102), the intermediate portion being received in a corresponding shield recess (700, 750), and wherein each outer contact (412) includes an intermediate portion extending between a mating beam and a solder tail, the mating beam being configured to mate to a module circuit board, the solder tail being configured to be soldered to a circuit board, and the intermediate portion being received in a corresponding shield recess.

13. The contact assembly (202) of claim 12, wherein: The inner partition wall (452) extends continuously along the middle portion (420) to isolate the middle portion from inner contacts (414) in different inner contact tracks (454), and wherein the outer partition wall (442) extends continuously along the middle portion to isolate the middle portion from outer contacts (412) in different outer contact tracks (444).

14. The contact assembly (202) of claim 12, wherein: The middle portion (420) is shielded on four sides (218) throughout the entire length of the middle portion by the central wall (432), the corresponding inner partition wall (452) and the inner shield (650), and wherein the middle portion is cup-shielded on four sides throughout the entire length of the middle portion by the central wall, the corresponding outer partition wall (442) and the outer shield (600).

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