Transitional standard size change cable adapter

Abstract

The invention relates to a transitional standard dimensional change cable adapter. Aspects and embodiments of transition cable adapters are described. An example cable adapter includes a housing, a shield, and an adapter sleeve. The adapter sleeve includes a conductive through hole. The conductive via includes a first via length, a second via length, and a transition between the first length and the second length. In one example, the conductive via includes a conductive liner on the inner surface. The first perforation length can be formed to a first diameter of a first standard dimension for a first conductor, and the second perforation length can be formed to a second diameter of a second standard dimension for a second conductor. An improved transition provided by the cable adapter can reduce signal reflections, reduce interference and crosstalk, reduce distortion, increase signal-to-noise ratio, and increase bandwidth at transitions between conductors of different diameters, such as conductors of different diameters in a biaxial cable.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a cable adapter for transitional standard size changes. Background Art

[0002] The amount of data processed by computing systems, network switching systems, telecommunications systems, and related systems continues to increase. Data centers can include hundreds or thousands of network and computing systems. These systems are interconnected by fiber optic cables, copper cables, and various connectors, adapters, and terminations between them. The data throughput of these interconnected systems is high and continues to increase. A variety of different input / output (I / O) connectors, cables, cable assemblies, and interconnect systems are designed for these types of data, power, and data and power interconnect applications.

[0003] Example interconnect systems include board-to-board systems, wire-to-wire systems, and wire-to-board systems. Numerous designs exist for various types of connectors, cable assemblies, and interconnect systems, depending on the requirements of the power and data communication environment in which the connectors, assemblies, and systems are employed. As an example, a wire-to-board system includes a free-end connector attached to a cable bundle of wires and a fixed-end connector attached to a printed circuit board (PCB). As another example, a wire-to-wire system includes a first free-end connector attached to one end of the cable bundle and a second free-end connector attached to the other end of the cable bundle. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Various aspects and embodiments of transition cable adapters are described. For example, the improved transition provided by the cable adapters can reduce signal reflections, reduce interference and crosstalk, reduce distortion, increase signal-to-noise ratio, and increase bandwidth at the transition between conductors of different diameters, such as those in a twinaxial cable.

[0005] An example transition cable adapter includes a housing, a shield, and an adapter sleeve. The adapter sleeve includes a conductive penetration. The conductive penetration includes a first penetration length for a first conductor, a second penetration length for a second conductor, and a transition between the first penetration length and the second penetration length. In some examples, the housing is molded around the shield and the adapter sleeve.

[0006] In other aspects, in one example, the adapter sleeve comprises a dielectric insulating material, and the conductive through-hole of the adapter sleeve comprises a conductive material lining on an inner surface. The first through-hole length comprises a first diameter of a first gauge size for the first conductor, and the second through-hole length comprises a second diameter of a second gauge size for the second conductor.

[0007] In other aspects, the shield includes a lower shield plate and an upper shield plate, and the adapter sleeve is positioned within a transition channel between the lower and upper shield plates. In some cases, the lower shield plate is welded to the upper shield plate at at least one location. In other examples, the shield includes a transition channel. The transition channel includes an adapter seat for the adapter sleeve, a shield seat for a shield of a cable, a jacket seat for an outer jacket of the cable, and a shield recess for a shield conductor of the cable. In some cases, the shield seat includes a roughened surface area.

[0008] In other examples, the adapter sleeve includes an upper sleeve portion and a lower sleeve portion, wherein at least one of the upper sleeve portion or the lower sleeve portion includes a first channel length for the first conductor, a second channel length for the second conductor, and a transition between the first channel length and the second channel length.

[0009] Another transition cable adapter includes: a first cable having a first conductor of a first standard size; a second cable having a second conductor of a second standard size different from the first standard size; an adapter sleeve; and a shield surrounding the adapter sleeve. The adapter sleeve includes a through-hole. The through-hole includes a first diameter for the first conductor, a second diameter for the second conductor, and a transition between the first diameter and the second diameter.

[0010] In other aspects, the adapter sleeve comprises a dielectric insulating material, and the through-hole of the adapter sleeve comprises a conductive material lining on an inner surface. The shield comprises a lower shield plate and an upper shield plate, and the adapter sleeve is positioned in a transition channel between the lower shield plate and the upper shield plate. In some cases, the lower shield plate is welded to the upper shield plate at at least one location.

[0011] In other aspects, the shield includes a transition channel including an adapter seat for the adapter sleeve, a first shielding recess for a first shielding conductor of the first cable, and a second shielding recess for a second shielding conductor of the second cable. The first shielding conductor of the first cable includes a first angled length, the second shielding conductor of the first cable includes a second angled length, the first angled length is located within the first shielding recess, and the second angled length is located within the second shielding recess. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] Many aspects of the present disclosure may be better understood with reference to the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, but emphasis is placed on clearly illustrating the principles of the present disclosure. Additionally, in the drawings, similar reference numerals throughout the several views indicate corresponding parts.

[0013] Figure 1A A perspective view of an example cable according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0014] Figure 1B Showing various embodiments according to the present disclosure Figure 1A A front view of an example cable is shown.

[0015] Figure 2A A perspective view of an example transition cable adapter between multiple cables is shown according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 2B Showing various embodiments according to the present disclosure Figure 2A An exploded perspective view of a cable adapter and multiple cables is shown.

[0017] Figure 2C Showing various embodiments according to the present disclosure Figure 2A A perspective view of a cable adapter and a plurality of cables is shown, wherein some components are omitted.

[0018] Figure 3A Showing various embodiments according to the present disclosure Figure 2A A perspective view of an example lower shield plate in a transition cable adapter is shown.

[0019] Figure 3B Showing various embodiments according to the present disclosure Figure 2C A plan view of the area marked "3B" in FIG.

[0020] Figure 4A Showing various embodiments according to the present disclosure Figure 2A A front perspective view of an example adapter sleeve in a transition cable adapter is shown.

[0021] Figure 4B Showing various embodiments according to the present disclosure Figure 4A A rear perspective view of the adapter sleeve is shown.

[0022] Figure 4C Showing various embodiments according to the present disclosure Figure 4A A front view of the adapter sleeve is shown.

[0023] Figure 4D Showing various embodiments according to the present disclosure Figure 4A A rear view of the adapter sleeve is shown.

[0024] Figure 4E Showing various embodiments according to the present disclosure Figure 4A An exploded view of the adapter sleeve is shown.

[0025] Figure 4F Showing various embodiments according to the present disclosure Figure 4E A plan view of the lower casing section is shown.

[0026] Figure 5A A perspective view illustrating another example transition cable adapter between multiple cables according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0027] Figure 5B Showing various embodiments according to the present disclosure Figure 5A An exploded perspective view of a cable adapter and multiple cables is shown.

[0028] Figure 5C Showing various embodiments according to the present disclosure Figure 5A A perspective view of an upper shield of a transition cable adapter is shown.

[0029] Figure 5D Showing various embodiments according to the present disclosure Figure 5A A perspective view of the lower shield of the transition cable adapter is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] As mentioned above, the amount of data processed by computers, computing systems, and computing environments continues to increase. Data centers can include hundreds or thousands of network systems and computing systems interconnected using fiber optic cables, copper cables, and various connectors and termination structures between them. Data is often carried on these cables using radio frequency (RF) signals at microwave frequencies. A range of different interconnect technologies can be relied upon in data centers, such as die-to-die, die-to-optical engine, chip-to-module, chip-to-chip on the same printed circuit board (PCB), chip-to-chip on different PCBs, and other interconnects. To achieve higher throughput, some interface technologies use direct attach copper cables (DACs), active optical cables (AOCs), and other interconnect solutions.

[0031] The design of cables, connectors, and interconnects for microwave signals is a critical consideration in maintaining the increasing data throughput in data centers and related computing environments. In this context, the transitions between different conductors in different cables should be carefully considered and designed. Many different electrical and mechanical arrangements have been proposed to maintain signal bandwidth and integrity for microwave signals at the transitions between multiple conductors. Even carefully designed transitions can introduce electrical discontinuities, impedance or permittivity mismatches, and other mismatches at the junctions between conductor-to-conductor transitions. The extent of the mismatch depends on several factors, including mechanical and electrical variations at the transitions between the conductors of multiple cables. Any impedance or permittivity mismatch at the transitions can lead to signal reflections, near-end and far-end interference and crosstalk, distortion, signal noise, reduced bandwidth, and other issues. Additionally, differences between the signal path and the ground return path can cause electromagnetic wave distortion, distorting the signal and leading to additional sources of parasitic mode propagation. The concepts and embodiments described herein are designed to reduce the effects of these unwanted transitions and other undesirable effects.

[0032] Turning to the accompanying drawings, Figure 1A A perspective view showing an example cable 10 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, and Figure 1B Show Figure 1A A front view of cable 10 is shown. Cable 10 is provided as an example of an electrical interconnect capable of transmitting data signals. Cable 10 is shown as a representative example and is not drawn to any particular scale or size. The shape, size, ratios, and other properties of cable 10 can vary from that shown. For example, the gauge of the conductors in cable 10 (e.g., American Standard Wire Gauge (AWG)) and other properties of cable 10 can vary. Additionally, in some cases, one or more components of cable 10, such as a shield, shielding conductors, or other components, can be omitted, and cable 10 can also include Figure 1A and Figure 1B Other parts or components not shown.

[0033] Reference Figure 1A and Figure 1B Cable 10 includes a first inner conductor 20, a second inner conductor 22, a dielectric insulator 30, a shield 40, a first shield conductor 50, a second shield conductor 52, and a jacket 60. Cable 10 is similar in some respects to a coaxial cable, but includes two inner conductors 20, 22 rather than a single inner conductor. By employing two inner conductors, cable 10 is an example of a twinaxial or twinax cable. For example, twinax cables such as cable 10 are particularly well-suited for use in short-haul, high-speed differential data signaling applications, but cable 10 can be relied upon in a range of data interconnect applications.

[0034] The conductors 20, 22 can be copper conductors, copper-clad steel conductors, or conductors formed from other metals. In some cases, the conductors 20, 22 can include an outer surface coating of silver or other metal. By way of example, the conductors 20, 22 can have a standard size ranging from, for example, 22-34 AWG, but the cable 10 can include conductors of other standard sizes. By way of example, data signals can be differentially coupled to the conductors 20, 22, but the cable 10 can be used to communicate data using a variety of modulation and signal transmission techniques. Additional aspects of the conductors 20, 22 will be described below.

[0035] The dielectric insulator 30 can be embodied as a core of a dielectric insulating material. By way of example, the dielectric insulator 30 can be embodied as a solid or low-density polyolefin, polyethylene (PE), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), fluoropolymer, or other plastic or insulating material. Example dielectric constants (Dk) of the dielectric insulator 30 can be in the range of 1.5-3, but the cable 10 is not limited to any particular type or properties of insulating material. As shown, the conductors 20, 22 are positioned within the dielectric insulator 30. The distance or spacing between the outer surface of the conductors 20, 22 and the outer surface of the dielectric insulator 30 (i.e., at the interface between the dielectric insulator 30 and the shield 40) can vary within the cable 10.

[0036] The shield 40 can be embodied as a thin layer of conductive material such as aluminum, copper, or other conductive shielding layer. In the example shown, the shield 40 is located on and covers the outer surface of the dielectric insulator 30. The first and second shield conductors 50, 52 can be embodied as aluminum, copper, or other metal conductors. As an example, the shield conductors 50, 52 can have a range of standard sizes, but the shield conductors 50, 52 are generally a standard size larger than the conductors 20, 22 (i.e., smaller in diameter). The shield conductors 50, 52 are in contact with and electrically connected to the shield 40. The jacket 60 can be embodied as any suitable material that can protect the cable 10 and allow sufficient flexibility for the cable 10, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane, chlorinated polyethylene, or other thermoplastic, thermosetting, or related materials.

[0037] By definition and as understood in the art, the diameter D of the two conductors 20, 22 can vary depending on the standard size of the conductors 20, 22 used in the cable 10. The relative position of the two conductors 20, 22 (e.g., spacing P), the overall dimensions of the cable 10 (e.g., thickness, width, etc.), and other aspects of the cable 10 can also vary depending on the standard size of the two conductors 20, 22. Thus, another cable similar to the cable 10 but including two conductors of a different standard size than the conductors 20, 22 can have two conductors that are not spatially aligned with the conductors 20, 22. Compared to the cable 10, a different cable may have two conductors of different diameters D, a different spacing P between the two conductors, a different size, shape, style, or type of dielectric insulator, a different location and size of the shield conductor, and other differences. For example, these differences in size and other aspects can present challenges when designing an interface between the cable 10 and another cable (e.g., another twinaxial cable) that is similar in style but has two conductors of a different standard size, particularly at the transition between them. Similarly, a connector designed for electrical connection at one end of cable 10 may not be appropriately sized or dimensioned for use with a similarly styled cable but having two conductors of a different standard size.

[0038] Many chip-to-chip interconnect solutions rely on the termination of multiple twinaxial cables with smaller diameter conductors (e.g., 32 or 34 American Wire Gauge (AWG)) in close proximity to the integrated circuit chip or chip module. With smaller diameter conductors, multiple cables are thinner and can be bundled more tightly around the chip or chip module at a higher density. However, smaller diameter conductors are not suitable for transmitting data signals at high data rates over longer distances. Therefore, in many cases, it is preferable to provide a transition from cables with smaller diameter conductors to cables with larger diameter conductors. Cables with larger diameter conductors can then be used to transmit data signals at high data rates over longer distances. At the same time, the transitions between different conductors in different cables should be carefully considered and designed. Depending on the design of the transitions, unwanted or undesirable effects can be imparted to the data signals at the transitions between conductors in different cables. Examples of undesirable effects include signal reflections, near-end and far-end interference and crosstalk, distortion, signal noise, reduced bandwidth, and other issues. The mechanical robustness of the transitions is also a concern.

[0039] In the sections discussed above, various aspects and embodiments of a cable adapter for transitioning between standard size changes are described. An example cable adapter includes a housing, a shield within the housing, and an adapter sleeve. The adapter sleeve includes a plurality of conductive perforations. The plurality of conductive perforations include a first perforation length, a second perforation length, and a transition between the first and second lengths. In one example, the plurality of conductive perforations include a conductive lining on an inner surface. The first perforation length can be formed to a first diameter of a first standard size for a first conductor, and the second perforation length can be formed to a second diameter of a second standard size for a second conductor. The improved transition provided by the cable adapter can reduce signal reflections, reduce interference and crosstalk, reduce distortion, increase signal-to-noise ratio, and increase bandwidth at the transition between conductors of different diameters, such as conductors of different diameters in a twinaxial cable.

[0040] Figure 2A A perspective view of an example transition cable adapter 100 (i.e., "cable adapter 100") between multiple cables according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Cable adapter 100 is shown as a representative example and is not drawn to any particular scale or size. The shape, size, style, ratios, and other properties of cable adapter 100 can vary relative to that shown and between various embodiments. In some cases, one or more features or components of the cable adapter 100 and other cable adapters described herein can be omitted. In other cases, the cable adapter 100 and other cable adapters described herein can include other features or components. In addition, although the cable adapter 100 and other connectors discussed herein are described for use in high-speed interconnect applications, the concepts are not limited to use with such interconnect applications or systems. The concepts can be extended to a range of different interconnect systems and applications.

[0041] The cable adapter 100 includes a housing 110 and other components described below. The cable adapter 100 is interposed between four (4) cables 10A-10D on one side of the cable adapter 100 and four (4) cables 12A-12D on the other side of the cable adapter 100. The cables 10A-10D enter the housing 110 at a first side 111 of the housing 110, and the cables 12A-12D enter the housing 110 at a second side 112 of the housing 110. In the example shown, the first side 111 of the housing 110 extends in a plane spaced apart from the second side 112.

[0042] Cables 10A-10D are thinner than cables 12A-12D. While accommodating this difference in size, cable adapter 100 electrically connects cables 10A-10D to cables 12A-12D. More specifically, cable adapter 100 electrically connects the conductors of cable 10A to the conductors of cable 12A. Cable adapter 100 also electrically connects the conductors of cable 10B to the conductors of cable 12B, the conductors of cable 10C to the conductors of cable 12C, and the conductors of cable 10D to the conductors of cable 12D.

[0043] The cable adapter 100 includes internal components that hold the cables 10A-10D and the cables 12A-12D in place within the housing 110, provide electrical interconnection between the conductors in the cables 10A-10D and the conductors in the cables 12A-12D, shield the conductors, and facilitate the transmission of data signals between the conductors in the cables 10A-10D and the conductors in the cables 12A-12D. In addition to providing a transition adapter between at least two cables of different sizes, the cable adapters described herein are not limited to use with any number of cables. The transition cable adapter concept can be extended to use with two (2), three (3), four (4), five (5), six (6), seven (7), eight (8), or more pairs of cables, wherein one cable in each pair is thicker than the other cable in each pair.

[0044] Cables 10A-10D are thinner overall than cables 12A-12D. In the example shown, each of cables 12A-12D includes two (2) conductors of a first standard size, such as 26AWG, 28AWG, or 29AWG, and each of cables 10A-10D includes two (2) conductors of a second standard size, such as 32AWG or 34AWG. Thus, the diameter of the conductors in cables 10A-10D is smaller than the conductors in cables 12A-12D. Because the 32AWG or 34AWG conductors in cables 10A-10D have a smaller diameter than the 26AWG, 28AWG, or 29AWG conductors in cables 12A-12D, the conductors of cables 10A-10D may not be spatially aligned with the conductors of cables 12A-12D. The conductors in cables 10A-10D may also be offset in spacing and position relative to the conductors in cables 12A-12D. Cable adapter 100 includes components that facilitate the transition between conductors in cables 10A-10D and conductors in cables 12A-12D of different sizes, spacings, and positions.

[0045] Overall, cable adapter 100 provides an electrical connection and transition between the conductors of cables 10A-10D and the conductors of cables 12A-12D, even though the conductors of cables 10A-10D and the conductors of cables 12A-12D have different diameters and spacings. Compared to other techniques for joining multiple conductors, cable adapter 100 is designed to improve the impedance or dielectric constant at the transition between the conductors of cables 10A-10D and the conductors of cables 12A-12D. Cable adapter 100 also helps reduce undesirable effects that can be imparted to data signals communicated on cables 10A-10D and cables 12A-12D when the conductors of cables 10A-10D and the conductors of cables 12A-12D are electrically coupled together. By way of example, the improved transition provided by cable adapter 100 can reduce signal reflections, reduce interference and crosstalk, reduce distortion, increase signal-to-noise ratio, and increase bandwidth at the transition between conductors of different diameters (such as those in a twinaxial cable).

[0046] Figure 2B Show Figure 2A An exploded perspective view of the cable adapter 100 and cables 10A-10D and cables 12A-12D is shown, and Figure 2C FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the cable adapter 100 , wherein some components are omitted. Figure 2B and Figure 2C The cable adapter 100 includes a housing 110 having an upper housing 110A and a lower housing 110B; and a shielded component 102. The shielded component 102 includes an upper shield plate 130A, a lower shield plate 130B, and transition adapter sleeves 200A-200D (see FIG. Figure 2C ). The upper shell 110A, the lower shell 110B, the upper shield plate 130A, the lower shield plate 130B and the adapter sleeves 200A-200D are Figure 2B and Figure 2C The diagrams are shown in a representative example and are not drawn to a particular scale or size. The shapes, sizes, styles, ratios, and other properties of the components can vary in practice and between various embodiments relative to those shown. For example, cables 10A-10D and cables 12A-12D are shown in a cut length that is shorter than the length that would be relied upon in practice. Figures 2A to 2C Each of cables 10A-10D and cables 12A-12D extends at one distal end to a sleeve 200A-200D within cable adapter 100 and at another end to another component in a larger device or system.

[0047] In some cases, the housing 110 can be formed by injection molding. After the shielded components 102 have been arranged or assembled together, the housing 110 can be molded around the shielded components 102. Thus, the housing 110 can be embodied as a single, integral component surrounding the two shield plates 130A, 130B, the adapter sleeves 200A-200D, and the ends of the cables 10A-10D and the ends of the cables 12A-12D. In other examples, the housing 110 can be embodied as two or more separate components, such as Figure 2B 1. The upper housing 110A and the lower housing 110B are shown. In that case, the upper housing 110A and the lower housing 110B can be held or retained together around the shielded member 102 by welding (e.g., heating, melting, reflowing, etc.), adhesives, cable ties, screws, bolts, clips or other mechanical fasteners or other suitable means. The housing 110 can be formed from a plastic or polymer such as liquid crystal polymer (LCP), polyethylene (PE), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), fluoropolymer, or other plastic or insulating material. The housing 110 can be formed using any suitable additive or subtractive manufacturing technique, including molding, injection molding, printing, and other techniques.

[0048] Adapter sleeves 200A-200D are positioned between the ends of cables 10A-10D and the ends of cables 12A-12D. Adapter sleeves 200A-200D electrically couple the conductors in cables 10A-10D with the conductors in cables 12A-12D. More specifically, adapter sleeve 200A is positioned between the conductors of cable 10A and the conductors of cable 12A and electrically couples the conductors of cable 10A to the conductors of cable 12A. Adapter sleeve 200B electrically couples the conductors of cable 10B to the conductors of cable 12B. Adapter sleeve 200C electrically couples the conductors of cable 10C to the conductors of cable 12C, and adapter sleeve 200D electrically couples the conductors of cable 10D to the conductors of cable 12D. Additional features and aspects of adapter sleeves 200A-200D are described below with reference to Figures 4A to 4F To explain.

[0049] Each of upper shield plate 130A and lower shield plate 130B can be embodied as a conductive sheet material that is cut, bent, pressed, stamped, or otherwise formed to shape and size. Shield plates 130A, 130B are designed to provide a shield against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and related electrical influences within cable adapter 100, and shield plates 130A, 130B operate as an extension of the shielding layers of cables 10A-10D and cables 12A-12D. In some cases, shield plates 130A, 130B can be formed from a sheet of aluminum, copper, a copper alloy (e.g., bronze, phosphor bronze, beryllium copper, lead nickel copper, etc.), or other conductive metal or metals that are plated with nickel, tin, rhodium, silver, gold, or other plating metals. The thickness of shield plates 130A, 130B can vary between various embodiments, and any suitable thickness can be employed. Shield plates 130A, 130B are stamped and formed to include recesses or dimples. The recess is formed in a shape that conforms to the outer contour and outer surface of the cables 10A-10D and 12A-12D and the adapter sleeves 200A-200D. Figure 3A To explain.

[0050] The upper housing 110A and the upper shield plate 130A are Figure 2C The cables 10A-10D and 12A-12D and the adapter sleeves 200A-200D are shown seated in recesses of the lower shield plate 130B, and the lower housing 110B is shown molded around the lower shield plate 130B and the cables 10A-10D and 12A-12D. Figure 2C As shown, the cable 10A is similar to Figure 1A and Figure 1B The cable 10 shown. The cable 10A includes a first inner conductor and a second inner conductor ( Figure 2C ), a dielectric insulator 30A, a shield 40A, a first shield conductor 50A, a second shield conductor 52A, and a jacket 60A. For example, the two inner conductors of cable 10A can be 32AWG or 34AWG. Each of cables 10B-10D is similar to cable 10A. Cable 12A includes two inner conductors of a larger diameter than cable 10A, such as 26AWG, 28AWG, or 29AWG. Cable 12A includes a first inner conductor and a second inner conductor ( Figure 2C Not shown), a dielectric insulator ( Figure 2C ), a shield 42A, a first drain conductor 54A, a second drain conductor 56A, and a jacket 62A. Each of the cables 12B-12D is similar to the cable 12A.

[0051] Within the cable adapter 100, the jacket 60A of the cable 10A is stripped back and the shield 40A and the drain conductors 50A, 52A extend beyond the jacket 60A. The drain conductors 50A, 52A are turned or bent outward and away from the central longitudinal axis of the cable 10A. In the example shown, the drain conductors 50A, 52A are also cut shorter than the remaining components of the cable 10A. The drain conductors 50A, 52A are seated in the drain pockets of the lower shield plate 130B. Although Figure 2C Although not shown, the drain conductors 50A and 52A are also seated in the drain recesses of the upper shield plate 130A. The drain conductors 50A and 52A are in physical and electrical contact with the outer conductive surfaces of the shield plates 130A and 130B for shielding. The outer conductive surface of the shield 40A is also in physical and electrical contact with the outer conductive surfaces of the shield plates 130A and 130B.

[0052] As described in further detail below, strain relief in the cable adapter 100 is improved or enhanced based on the bends in the drain conductors 50A, 52A and the interference between the drain conductors 50A, 52A and the drain recesses of the shield plates 130A, 130B. More specifically, the interference between the drain conductors 50A, 52A and the shield plates 130A, 130B helps prevent the cable 10A from being pulled out of the housing 110 of the cable adapter 100. Each of the cables 10B-10D is prepared and retained within the cable adapter 100 in a similar manner to the cable 10A.

[0053] Turning to the cable 12A, the jacket 62A is stripped back and the shield 42A and the drain conductors 54A, 56A extend beyond the jacket 62A. The drain conductors 54A, 56A are turned or bent outward and away from the central longitudinal axis of the cable 12A. In the example shown, the drain conductors 54A, 56A are also cut shorter than the remaining components of the cable 12A. The drain conductors 54A, 56A are seated in the drain pockets of the lower shield plate 130B. Although Figure 2C Although not shown, drain conductors 54A, 56A also reside within the shielding recesses of upper shield plate 130A. Drain conductors 54A, 56A physically and electrically contact the outer conductive surfaces of shield plates 130A, 130B for shielding. The outer conductive surface of shield 42A also physically and electrically contacts the outer conductive surfaces of shield plates 130A, 130B. Additionally, drain conductors 54A, 56A provide strain relief within cable adapter 100 due to the bends in drain conductors 54A, 56A and the mechanical interference between drain conductors 54A, 56A and the shielding recesses of shield plates 130A, 130B. Each of cables 12B-12D is prepared and retained within cable adapter 100 in a similar manner to cable 12A.

[0054] Figure 3A Show Figure 2A A perspective view of the lower shielding plate 130B in the cable adapter 100 is shown. Figure 3A Also shown are cable 10A, adapter sleeve 200A, and cable 12A. In cable adapter 100, upper shield 130A can be identical to lower shield 130B (i.e., same material, size, shape, profile, etc.), but in some cases, the upper and lower shields can be different if desired. Lower shield 130B is cut, bent, pressed, stamped, or otherwise formed to Figure 3A The lower shield plate 130B is formed of a conductive sheet material in the shape shown. In the example shown, the lower shield plate 130B is specifically formed for use with cables 10A-10D and cables 12A-12D. In other words, the transition channel in the lower shield plate 130B is stamped, pressed, or otherwise formed to conform to the outer contour and outer surface of the cables 10A-10D and cables 12A-12D and the adapter sleeves 200A-200D. Other shield plates can be formed as needed for use with cables having different profiles.

[0055] Shield plate 130B includes transition channels 140A-140D. Transition channels 140A-140D are areas of shield plate 130B that are recessed downward from planar surface 131 of shield plate 130B. Transition channels 140A-140D are formed to conform to the outer contours and surfaces of cables 10A-10D and 12A-12D, as well as adapter sleeves 200A-200D. As an example, the surfaces within transition channel 140A are formed to conform to the outer surfaces of cable 10A, adapter sleeve 200A, and cable 12A. Thus, when assembled together as described below, cables 10A, 12A, and adapter sleeve 200A fit within transition channels 140A of lower shield plate 130B, with surfaces of cables 10A, 12A, adapter sleeve 200A in conforming contact with transition channels 140A of lower shield plate 130B. Upper shield plate 130A is also assembled onto cables 10A, 12A and adapter sleeve 200A with conformal contact between the surfaces of upper shield plate 130A, cables 10A, 12A and adapter sleeve 200A.

[0056] exist Figure 3A In FIG. 1 , cables 10A, 12A are prepared for assembly with cable adapter 100. Cables 10B-10D and 12B-12D are also prepared in a similar manner, but are not shown. Figure 3AAs shown, the jacket 60A of the cable 10A is stripped back, and the shield 40A and the drain conductors 50A, 52A extend beyond the jacket 60A. The shield 40A and the dielectric insulator 30A are also stripped back, and the first and second conductors 20A, 22A extend beyond the shield 40A and the dielectric insulator 30A. The drain conductors 50A, 52A are turned or bent outward and away from the central longitudinal axis of the cable 10A.

[0057] The jacket 62A of the cable 12A is also stripped back, and the shield 42A and the drain conductors 54A, 56A extend beyond the jacket 62A. The shield 42A and the dielectric insulator 32A are also stripped back, and the first and second conductors 24A, 26A extend beyond the shield 42A and the dielectric insulator 32A. The drain conductors 54A, 56A are turned or bent outward and away from the central longitudinal axis of the cable 12A.

[0058] Adapter sleeve 200A includes a pair of openings or through-holes 230, 232, and conductors 20A, 22A, 24A, 26A extend within these through-holes 230, 232. In some cases, the inner surface of through-holes 230, 232 can include a conductive lining. The conductive lining within through-hole 230 provides an electrical connection between conductor 22A and conductor 26A, and the conductive lining within through-hole 232 provides an electrical connection between conductor 20A and conductor 24A. The conductive lining within through-holes 230, 232 is described below with reference to Figure 4E and Figure 4F To explain.

[0059] In cables 10A and 12A, Figure 3A After the preparation shown, the cables 10A, 12A and the adapter sleeve 200A can be placed and seated in the transition channel 140A of the lower shield plate 130B. In the example shown, the adapter sleeve 200A comprises two components or pieces. The adapter sleeve 200A comprises an upper sleeve portion 210 and a lower sleeve portion 220. The sleeve portions 210, 220 are separable from each other. These and other aspects of the adapter sleeve 200A and adapter sleeves 200B-200D are described below with reference to Figures 4A to 4F To explain.

[0060] Transition channel 140A includes seats 150-154 along the length of transition channel 140A. Transition channel 140A includes a jacket seat 150 for outer jacket 60A of outer cable 10A, a shield seat 151 for shield 40A of cable 10A, an adapter seat 152 for adapter sleeve 200A, a shield seat 153 for shield 42A of cable 12A, and a jacket seat 154 for outer jacket 62A of cable 12A. Transition channel 140A also includes shield recesses 151A, 151B, 153A, 153B. Shield recesses 151A, 151B are extensions of shield seat 151, and shield recesses 153A, 153B are extensions of shield seat 153.

[0061] The cables 10A, 12A and the adapter sleeve 200A can be placed into the transition channel 140A of the lower shield 130B in many different ways, depending on how the cable adapter 100 is designed and assembled. Figure 3A In the example shown, the lower bushing portion 220 can be seated first (i.e., before the cables 10A, 12A are seated) in the adapter seat 152. The cable 10A can then be seated into the transition channel 140A seat 150 and seat 151. When the cable 10A is positioned, the outer jacket 60A of the outer cable 10A will contact the surface of the jacket seat 150, and the shield 40A of the cable 10A will contact the surface of the shield seat 151. The shield 40A of the cable 10A will electrically contact and connect to the lower shield plate 130B in the seat 151. Additionally, the shield conductors 50A, 52A of the cable 10A will be seated into and electrically connected to the shield recesses 151A, 151B, respectively. Furthermore, although not shown in FIG. Figure 3A , but as explained below, the conductors 20A, 22A of the cable 10A are located within channels extending within the lower casing portion 220.

[0062] Cable 12A can also be placed into transition channel 140A. When cable 12A is positioned, outer jacket 62A of cable 12A will contact the surface of jacket seat 154, and shield 42A of cable 12A will contact the surface of shield seat 153. Shield 42A of cable 12A will electrically contact and bond to lower shield plate 130B in seat 153. Additionally, shield conductors 54A, 56A of cable 12A will seat and electrically bond to shield recesses 153A, 153B, respectively. Furthermore, although not shown in FIG. Figure 3A 1. In the embodiment of the present invention, the conductors 24A, 26A of the cable 12A are positioned within channels extending within the lower casing portion 220, as explained below.

[0063] Once the lower sleeve portion 220 and cables 10A, 12A are positioned and seated within the transition channel 140A of the lower shield plate 130B, the upper sleeve portion 210 can be placed over the lower sleeve portion 220. The cables 10B-10D, 12B-12D and adapter sleeves 200B-200D can be positioned and assembled within the transition channels 140B-140D of the lower shield plate 130B in a similar manner, and an example of such an arrangement is shown in FIG. Figure 2C Cables 10B, 12B and adapter sleeve 200B are positioned within transition channel 140B. Cables 10C, 12C and adapter sleeve 200C are positioned within transition channel 140C, and cables 10D, 12D and adapter sleeve 200D are positioned within transition channel 140D. Upper shield 130A can then be positioned and placed on lower shield 130B (e.g., see Figure 2B ).

[0064] Once the cables 10A-10D, adapter sleeves 200B-200D, and shields 130A, 130B are assembled, the housing 110 can be molded around them. In one example, the cables 10A-10D, adapter sleeves 200B-200D, and shields 130A, 130B can be assembled in a mold for the housing 110 and molded into the shielded member 102 (see FIG. Figure 2B ) are assembled together, the housing 110 can be injected into the mold. Thus, the housing 110 helps to hold the shielded component 102 in place. The housing 110 can be molded as a single component using a plastic or polymer such as LCP, PE, PTFE, fluoropolymer, or other plastic or insulating material. The housing 110 can also be formed around and held by other means. In other examples, the housing 110 can be embodied as two or more separate components, such as Figure 2B In that case, the upper housing 110A and the lower housing 110B can be held or retained together around the shielded member 102 by welding (e.g., heating, melting, reflowing, etc.), bonding, ties, screws, bolts, clips or other mechanical fasteners, or other suitable means.

[0065] However, the cable adapter 100 can be assembled in other ways. For example, the cables 10A, 12A can be assembled as follows. Figure 3AThe ends of the two conductors 20A, 24A can be soldered or welded together. The ends of the two conductors 22A, 26A can also be soldered or welded together. The adapter sleeve 200A can then be molded around the exposed conductors 20A, 22A, 24A, 26A of the two cables 10A, 12A in a single component or piece. In this case, the through-holes 230, 232 can be omitted as described below. Figure 4E and Figure 4F The other cables 10B-10D, 12B-12D and adapter sleeves 200B-200D can be prepared in a similar manner before being positioned within the shields 130A, 130B.

[0066] Refer again Figure 3A In some cases, the lower shield plate 130B can include scored, serrated, or roughened surface areas. Roughened surface areas 161, 163 are shown as examples. Figure 3A . The rough surface areas 161, 163 can extend over one or more areas of the shield seat 151, 153. In other cases, the rough surface areas 161, 163 can extend throughout the entire shield seat 151, 153. The rough surface areas 161, 163 of the lower shield plate 130B can be formed by laser etching, chemical etching, scoring, sanding, or other techniques. The rough surface areas 161, 163 can help establish an electrical connection between the lower shield plate 130B and the shields 40A, 42A of the cables 10A, 12A. In some cases, the surfaces of the shielding recesses 151A, 151B, 153A, 153B can also include rough surface areas. The shield seats and shielding recesses in other transition channels 140B-140D can also include rough surface areas, and the upper shield plate 130A can also include rough surface areas.

[0067] In some cases, adhesive, conductive adhesive, conductive paste, solder, or other substances can be applied to the surfaces of shield plates 130A, 130B to help establish a mechanical, electrical, or both mechanical and electrical connection between cables 10A-10D, 12A-12D and shield plates 130A, 130B. For example, conductive adhesive can be applied to shield mounts 151, 153 to support or enhance the electrical connection between shields 40A, 42A of cables 10A, 12A and shield plate 130B. Conductive adhesive can also be applied to shield recesses 151A, 151B, 153A, 153B of shield plate 130B. Epoxy or other adhesive can be applied to jacket mounts 150, 154 to mechanically connect to outer jackets 60A, 62A of cables 10A, 12A.

[0068] In some cases, in the case of shielded member 102 (see Figure 2B ) After being assembled together, the upper shielding plate 130A can be welded to the lower shielding plate 130B. Figure 3A Weld locations 170-173 are shown as example locations where the shield plates 130A, 130B can be welded together. However, the weld locations 170-173 are provided as representative examples, and other weld locations can be located between the transition channels 140A-140D, at the corners of the shield plates 130A, 130B, around the perimeter of the shield plates 130A, 130B, and combinations thereof.

[0069] Figure 3B Shown in Figure 2C A plan view of the area marked "3B" in FIG. Figure 3B It shows how the drain conductors 50A, 52A of the cable 10A are seated in the drain recesses 151A, 151B, respectively. The drain conductors 54A, 56A of the cable 12A are also seated in the drain recesses 153A, 153B, respectively. Figure 3B Also shown in phantom are conductors 20A, 22A of cable 10A and conductors 24A, 26A of cable 12A extending within adapter sleeve 200A.

[0070] The drain conductors 50A, 52A of the cable 10A are turned or bent outward and away from the central longitudinal axis "L" of the cable 10A. Figure 3B As shown, an inclined length 52B of the shield conductor 52A is angled relative to the longitudinal axis "L" of the cable 10A. In the example shown, the angle The angle is about 45 degrees (°). Can vary between multiple embodiments, such as any angle between 25-65 degrees in 1 degree increments. Thus, the angle Examples include 25°, 30°, 35°, 40°, 45°, 50°, 55°, 60°, and 65°. The drain conductors 54A, 56A of the cable 12A also turn or bend outward and away from the central longitudinal axis of the cable 12A in a similar manner.

[0071] The drain conductor 52A also includes a parallel length 52C at the end of the inclined length 52B. The parallel length 52C extends parallel to the longitudinal axis "L" of the cable 10A. In the example shown, the drain conductor 52A is cut shorter than the conductors 20A, 22A of the cable 10A. However, the parallel length 52C can extend longer than Figure 3B More is shown. In some cases, the parallel length 52C of the drain conductor 52A can extend to or beyond the end of the shield 40A. In some cases, the drain conductor 50A can also extend to or beyond the end of the shield 40A, and the drain pockets 151A, 151B can be adjusted accordingly. The drain conductors 54A, 56A of the cable 12A can also extend to or beyond the end of the shield 42A.

[0072] The bends and mechanical interference between the drain conductors 50A, 52A of the cable 10A and the drain recesses 151A, 151B provide strain relief in the cable adapter 100. The interference between the drain conductors 54A, 56A of the cable 12A and the drain recesses 153A, 153B also provides strain relief in the cable adapter 100. The interference helps prevent the cables 10A, 12A from being pulled out from within the shield plates 130A, 130B and the housing 110 of the cable adapter 100. In other cases, the drain conductors 50A, 52A, 54A, 56A can extend straight without any bends, and the drain recesses 151A, 151B, 153A, 153B can be adjusted accordingly.

[0073] Figure 4A A front perspective view showing the adapter sleeve 200A in the cable adapter 100 is shown. Figure 4B A rear perspective view is shown, Figure 4C shows a front view, and Figure 4D A rear view is shown. Adapter sleeve 200A is shown as a representative example and is not drawn to any particular scale or size. The shape, size, ratios, and other properties of adapter sleeve 200A can vary from that shown. In cable adapter 100, adapter sleeves 200B-200D can be identical to adapter sleeve 200A.

[0074] Adapter sleeve 200A includes an upper sleeve portion 210 and a lower sleeve portion 220. In the illustrated example, the two sleeve portions 210, 220 are separable from one another. However, in other cases, adapter sleeve 200A can be formed as a single, integral component or piece. Adapter sleeve 200A can be formed from a dielectric insulating material such as a polyolefin, PE, PTFE, fluoropolymer, or other plastic or insulating material. An example dielectric constant, Dk, of the insulating material can be in the range of 1.5-3, but adapter sleeve 200A is not limited to any particular type of insulating material. In some cases, the insulating material of adapter sleeve 200A includes a laser direct structuring (LDS) additive material. As described below, a laser beam can be used to activate the LDS additive material on certain surfaces or surface regions of adapter sleeve 200A for selective surface metallization. Figures 4A to 4E Adapter sleeve 200A is shown as representative of the other adapter sleeves 200B-200D described herein, and each of the other adapter sleeves 200B-200D can be identical to adapter sleeve 200A. In other cases, cable adapter 100 can include two, three, or more different types or styles of adapter sleeves, depending on the cable being transitioned.

[0075] Reference Figures 4A to 4D The sleeve portions 210, 220 include front surfaces 212, 222 and rear surfaces 214, 224, respectively. The sleeve portions 210, 220 transition from the relatively small front surfaces 212, 222 to the relatively large rear surfaces 214, 224. The adapter sleeve 200A includes through-holes 230, 232 extending from the front surfaces 212, 222 to the rear surfaces 214, 224. The through-holes 230, 232 are referred to below. Figure 4E and Figure 4F The illustrated sleeve portions 210, 220 are formed as semicircular channels. The through-holes 230, 232 are circular to accommodate the conductors 20A, 22A of the cable 10A and the conductors 24A, 26A of the cable 12A. As further described below, the through-holes 230, 232 can include a conductive lining over at least a region or length of the inner surface of the through-holes 230, 232 within the adapter sleeve 200A.

[0076] The through-holes 230, 232 include a first diameter "D1" (see Figure 4C ) or to a second diameter "D2" on the rear surface 214, 224 (see Figure 4C) or a transition in size. In the example shown, the size of the openings on the front surfaces 212, 222 is smaller in diameter than the size of the openings on the rear surfaces 214, 224 (i.e., "D1" < "D2"). D1 can be selected based on the diameter or AWG of the conductors 20A, 22A of the cable 10A. D2 can be selected based on the diameter or AWG of the conductors 24A, 26A of the cable 12A. The transition between diameter D1 and diameter D2 is described below with reference to Figure 4E and Figure 4F To explain.

[0077] Figure 4E An exploded view of the adapter sleeve 200A is shown, and Figure 4F A plan view of the lower sleeve portion 220 of the adapter sleeve 200A is shown. Figure 4F and Figure 4E As shown, the perforations 230, 232 (see Figure 4A ) is formed by the semicircular channels in the two sleeve parts 210 and 220. The sleeve part 210 includes two semicircular channels 230A and 232A, and the sleeve part 220 includes two semicircular channels 230B and 232B. Figures 4A to 4D As shown, when assembled together, the two semicircular channels 230A, 230B form a through-hole 230, and the two semicircular channels 232A, 232B form a through-hole 232. However, in other cases, the adapter sleeve 200A can be formed as a single, integral component or piece, in which case the through-holes 230, 232 can be formed directly through the adapter sleeve 200A.

[0078] Semicircular channels 230A, 232A extend from the front to the rear of the sleeve portion 210, and semicircular channels 230B, 232B extend from the front to the rear of the sleeve portion 220. Figure 4E and Figure 4F As shown, channel 230B includes a first channel length 240 and a second channel length 241, wherein a transition 250 is located at an intersection between the first channel length 240 and the second channel length 241 within the sleeve portion 220. Channel 232B also includes a first channel length 260 and a second channel length 261, wherein a transition 251 is located at an intersection between the first channel length 260 and the second channel length 261 within the sleeve portion 220. The first channel length 240 is sized for the first diameter "D1" (see Figure 4C ) is provided, and the second channel length 241 is sized for the second diameter "D2" (see Figure 4D) is provided. The first channel length 260 is also sized to be the same as the first diameter "D1", and the second channel length 261 is also sized to be the same as the second diameter "D2". The first diameter is smaller than the second diameter. Each of the semicircular channels 230A, 232A of the sleeve portion 210 also includes a first channel length and a second channel length, as well as a transition between the first channel length and the second channel length, corresponding in shape, size, and position to the sleeve portion 220.

[0079] When the through-holes 230, 232 in the adapter sleeve 200A are formed by the channel lengths in the sleeve portions 210, 220, the inner diameter of the through-holes 230, 232 in the adapter sleeve 200A can be selected based on the type of cable used with the cable adapter 100 and to accommodate the standard size of the conductors in the cable. As an example, the through-holes 230, 232 may be sized to fit the cable. Figure 4C The diameter "D1" shown can be sized to accommodate the conductors 20A, 22A of the cable 10A while providing an interference fit (e.g., no gap contact) between the outer surfaces of the conductors 20A, 22A and the inner surfaces of the through-holes 230, 232. The spacing or interval between the centers of the openings of the through-holes 230, 232 on the front surfaces 212, 222 of the adapter sleeve 200A can also correspond to the spacing or interval of the two conductors 20A, 22A of the cable 10A. In addition, Figure 4D The diameter "D2" of the through-holes 230, 232 shown can be sized to accommodate the conductors 24A, 26A of the cable 12A while providing an interference fit between the outer surfaces of the conductors 24A, 26A and the inner surfaces of the through-holes 230, 232. The spacing or interval between the centers of the openings of the through-holes 230, 232 on the rear surface 214, 224 of the adapter sleeve 200A can also correspond to the spacing or interval between the two conductors 24A, 26A of the cable 12A.

[0080] In some cases, the inner surface of through-holes 230, 232 can include a lining 270 of a conductive material. Liner 270 can extend within adapter sleeve 200A from front surface 212, 222 to rear surface 214, 224 of sleeve sections 210, 220 along at least a length of through-holes 230, 232. Thus, through-holes 230, 232 are conductive due to the lining 270 of the conductive material. Liner 270 can extend along all or a portion of channel lengths 240, 241, 260, 261 and across transitions 250, 251 in sleeve section 220. In sleeve section 210, the lining can also extend along the channel length and transition.

[0081] Lining 270 of conductive material can include one or more layers of metal, metal alloy, metal particles, or other conductive material. Lining 270 of conductive material can be deposited or formed on the inner surface of through-holes 230, 232 in a number of different ways. As an example, the insulating material of adapter sleeve 200A can include an LDS additive. A laser beam can be used to activate the LDS additive on the surface or surface area of ​​through-holes 230, 232 or channels of sleeve portions 210, 220. A subsequent metallization step can be performed by immersing sleeve portions 210, 220 of adapter sleeve 200A in a bath, and conductive metal plating can adhere to the activated surface or surface area. Many different metal layers, such as copper, nickel, tin, gold, or other plating metals, or combinations thereof, can be sequentially plated using this method.

[0082] In other examples, the conductive material lining 270 can be deposited or otherwise formed by chemical or physical vapor deposition, sputtering, evaporation, electroplating, spin coating, dip coating, epitaxial growth, or other techniques. The metal, metal alloy, or metal particle layer can include copper, silver, gold, titanium, platinum, tungsten, or other metals and their alloys. In some cases, the conductive material lining 270 can include raised ridges, bumps, or other patterns of conductive material along the through-holes 230, 232, with the thickness of the conductive material lining varying at the raised ridges, bumps, or other patterns. In some cases, the outer surface of the sleeve portions 210, 220 of the adapter sleeve 200A can also include a lining of conductive material similar to the lining 270.

[0083] Figure 5A A perspective view showing another example transition cable adapter 300 (ie, "cable adapter 300") between two cables 10A, 12A, and Figure 5B An exploded perspective view of a cable adapter 300 and cables 10A, 12A is shown. Cable adapter 300 is shown as a representative example and is not drawn to any particular scale or size. The shape, size, style, ratios, and other properties of cable adapter 300 can vary relative to that shown and between various embodiments. In some cases, one or more features or components of cable adapter 300 can be omitted. In other cases, cable adapter 300 can include additional features or components. For example, cable adapter 300 can include another housing molded around a shield, described below.

[0084] Reference Figure 5A and Figure 5BCable adapter 300 includes a shield 330 and a transition adapter sleeve 400 between cables 10A and 12A. Shield 330 includes an upper shield 330A and a lower shield 330B. Transition adapter sleeve 400 can be the same as or similar to adapter sleeve 200A. Upper shield 330A and lower shield 330B can be formed from a plastic or polymer component such as LCP, PE, PTFE, fluoropolymer, or other plastic or insulating material.

[0085] The upper shield 330A includes a transition channel 350A, and the lower shield 330B includes a transition channel 350B. The surfaces in the transition channels 350A, 350B are formed to conform to the outer surfaces of the cable 10A, the adapter sleeve 400, and the cable 12A. Thus, when assembled together as described below, the two cables 10A, 12A and the adapter sleeve 400 fit within the transition channels 350A, 350B, while the surfaces of the two cables 10A, 12A and the adapter sleeve 400 are in conformal contact with the transition channels 350A, 350B.

[0086] In one example, the surface of transition trenches 350A, 350B can include a conductive lining on the inner surface. The conductive lining can be deposited or formed on the surface of transition trenches 350A, 350B in a number of different ways. As an example, the insulating material of upper and lower shields 330A, 330B can include a LDS additive. A laser beam can be used to activate the LDS additive on the surface or surface area of ​​transition trenches 350A, 350B. A subsequent metallization step can be performed by immersing shields 330A, 330B in a plating bath, and allowing a conductive metal plating layer to adhere to the activated surface or surface area. Many different metal layers, such as copper, nickel, tin, gold, or other plating metals, or combinations thereof, can be successively plated using this method. In other examples, the conductive lining can be deposited or otherwise formed by chemical or physical vapor deposition, sputtering, evaporation, electroplating, spin coating, dip coating, epitaxial growth, or other techniques. The metal, metal alloy, or metal particle layer can include copper, silver, gold, titanium, platinum, tungsten, or other metals and their alloys. In some cases, the conductive liner can include raised ridges, bumps, or other patterns of conductive material where the thickness of the conductive material liner varies in thickness.

[0087] Figure 5C A perspective view of the upper shield 330A is shown, and Figure 5D Show Figure 5AA perspective view of the lower shield 330B of the transition cable adapter 300 is shown. Shields 330A, 330B include features that mechanically retain the shield conductors 50A, 52A, 54A, 56A of cables 10A, 12A. To that end, upper shield 330A includes curved fingers 350, 352, 354, 356. Lower shield 330B includes curved perforations 360, 362, 364, 366.

[0088] To assemble the cable adapter 300, the cables 10A, 12A can be prepared with the drain conductors 50A, 52A, 54A, 56A extending straight and cut to the lengths shown. The two cables 10A, 12A and the transition adapter sleeve 400 can be assembled with the drain conductors 50A, 52A, 54A, 56A extending straight and placed into the transition channel 350B of the lower shield 330B. The upper shield 330A can then be placed over the lower shield 330B and pressed down into the lower shield 330B. The bending fingers 350, 352, 354, 356 then compress and bend the drain conductors 50A, 52A, 54A, 56A, respectively, into the bend holes 360, 362, 364, 366. The interference and contact between the drain conductors 50A, 52A, 54A, 56A and the flex penetrations 360 , 362 , 364 , 366 helps prevent the cables 10A, 12A from being pulled out of the cable adapter 300 .

[0089] Terms such as top, bottom, side, front, back, right, and left are not intended to provide an absolute frame of reference. Rather, these terms are relative and are intended to identify certain features in relationship to one another, as the posture of the structures described herein can vary. The terms comprising, including, having, and the like are synonymous and are used in an open-ended manner and do not exclude additional elements, features, actions, operations, and the like. Furthermore, the term or is used in its inclusive sense, not its exclusive sense; thus, when used in conjunction with a list of elements, the term or refers to one, some, or all of the elements in the list.

[0090] Unless otherwise specified, combination language, such as at least one of X, Y, and Z, or any of X, X, or Z, is generally used to identify one, a combination of any two, or all three (or more if identifying a larger group), such as X and only X, Y and only Y, Z and only Z, X and Y, a combination of X and Z and Y and Z, and all of X, Y, and Z. Unless otherwise specified, such combination language is generally not intended to and does not identify or require the inclusion of at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z. Unless otherwise defined herein, the terms about and substantially, in association with a particular range, percentage, or related measure of deviation, describe at least some manufacturing tolerance between a theoretical design and a manufactured product or component, such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Y14.5 and related ISO As one skilled in the art will recognize, even without explicit reference to "about," "approximately," or related terms, or even with respect to the use of theoretical terms such as "vertical," "orthogonal," "apex," "collinear," "coplanar," etc., such manufacturing tolerances are still considered.

[0091] The above-described embodiments of the present disclosure are merely examples of implementation to provide a clear understanding of the principles of the present disclosure. Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the spirit and principles of the present disclosure in essence. In addition, components and features described for one embodiment may be included in another embodiment. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure herein.

Claims

1. A transition cable adapter, comprising: a housing; a shield; as well as An adapter sleeve includes a conductive through-hole including a first through-hole length for a first conductor, a second through-hole length for a second conductor, and a transition between the first through-hole length and the second through-hole length.

2. The transition cable adapter according to claim 1, wherein: The adapter sleeve includes a dielectric insulating material; and the conductive through-hole of the adapter sleeve includes a conductive material lining an inner surface.

3. The transition cable adapter according to claim 1, wherein: The first penetration length comprises a first diameter of a first standard size for the first conductor; and The second penetration length includes a second diameter of a second standard size for the second conductor.

4. The transition cable adapter according to claim 1, wherein: The shield comprises a lower shielding plate and an upper shielding plate; and The adapter sleeve is positioned within a transition channel between the lower shield plate and the upper shield plate.

5. The transition cable adapter according to claim 4, wherein: The lower shielding plate is welded to the upper shielding plate at at least one location.

6. The transition cable adapter according to claim 1, wherein: The shield includes a transition channel; and The transition channel includes an adapter seat for the adapter sleeve, a shield seat for a shield of a cable, a jacket seat for an outer jacket of the cable, and a shield recess for a shield conductor of the cable.

7. The transition cable adapter according to claim 6, wherein: The shield seat includes a roughened surface area.

8. The transition cable adapter according to claim 6, wherein: The housing is molded around the shield and the adapter sleeve.

9. The transition cable adapter according to claim 1, wherein: The adapter sleeve includes an upper sleeve portion and a lower sleeve portion.

10. The transition cable adapter according to claim 9, wherein: At least one of the upper bushing portion or the lower bushing portion includes a first channel length for the first conductor, a second channel length for the second conductor, and a transition between the first channel length and the second channel length.

11. A transition cable adapter, comprising: a first cable comprising a first conductor of a first standard size; a second cable comprising a second conductor of a second standard size different from the first standard size; an adapter sleeve comprising a throughbore including a first diameter for the first conductor, a second diameter for the second conductor, and a transition between the first diameter and the second diameter; as well as A shield surrounds the adapter sleeve.

12. The transition cable adapter according to claim 11, wherein: The adapter sleeve includes a dielectric insulating material; and the through-hole of the adapter sleeve includes a conductive material lining an inner surface.

13. The transition cable adapter according to claim 11, wherein: The shield includes a lower shield plate and an upper shield plate; and the adapter sleeve is located in a transition channel between the lower shield plate and the upper shield plate.

14. The transition cable adapter according to claim 13, wherein: The lower shielding plate is welded to the upper shielding plate at at least one location.

15. The transition cable adapter according to claim 11, wherein: The shield includes a transition channel; and The transition channel includes an adapter seat for the adapter sleeve, a first shielding recess for the first shielding conductor of the first cable, and a second shielding recess for the second shielding conductor of the second cable.

16. The transition cable adapter according to claim 15, wherein: The first shield conductor of the first cable includes a first angled length; The second shield conductor of the first cable includes a second angled length; The first oblique length is located within the first shielding recess; and The second inclined length is located within the second shielding recess.

17. The transition cable adapter according to claim 11, wherein: The shield includes a roughened surface area for contacting a shield of at least one of the first cable and the second cable.

18. The transition cable adapter of claim 11, further comprising: A housing is molded around the shield and the adapter sleeve.

19. The transition cable adapter according to claim 11, wherein: The adapter sleeve includes an upper sleeve portion and a lower sleeve portion.

20. The transition cable adapter of claim 19, wherein: At least one of the upper bushing portion or the lower bushing portion includes a first channel length for the first conductor, a second channel length for the second conductor, and a transition between the first channel length and the second channel length.

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