Orthogonal electrical connector and electronic system

Abstract

The invention relates to an electric connector. The electric connector comprises a circuit board and a conductive terminal held in an insulating shell, the circuit board includes a first edge portion extending in a transverse direction, first conductive pads arranged on the first edge portion in a vertical direction perpendicular to the transverse direction, a second edge portion extending in the vertical direction and exceeding the first edge portion, and second conductive pads arranged on the second edge portion in the transverse direction. One end of each conductive terminal is arranged on the corresponding first conductive pad. The electrical connector also includes a member having a first channel and a second channel aligned in a vertical direction. The member holds and accommodates the insulating housing in the first channel and is intended to be secured to another circuit board such that the second channel is located between the first channel and the another circuit board in the vertical direction. The electrical connector is adapted to fit in a compact space in an electronic system, while improving mechanical strength and enabling sufficient heat dissipation. The invention further relates to an electronic system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates generally to the field of electrical connectors, and more particularly to an electrical connector and an electronic system including such an electrical connector. Background Technology

[0002] Electrical connectors are used in many electronic systems. Manufacturing electronic systems as separate electronic sub-components, such as printed circuit boards (PCBs), that can be connected together via electrical connectors is generally easier and more cost-effective. Separable electrical connectors allow for the easy assembly of components from electronic systems manufactured by different companies. Separable electrical connectors also allow for easy replacement of components after system assembly, enabling the replacement of defective parts or the upgrading of the system with higher-performance components.

[0003] A conventional arrangement for interconnecting several printed circuit boards typically uses one printed circuit board as the motherboard. Other printed circuit boards, known as daughter boards or daughter cards, are connected to the motherboard via electrical connectors to enable the interconnection of these boards.

[0004] In servers and other powerful computers, it is desirable to connect add-in cards as daughter cards to the motherboard. For example, the add-in card can be orthogonal to the motherboard. Multiple add-in cards can be arranged adjacent to each other and parallel to each other on the motherboard. Orthogonal connectors are configured to support interconnection between the add-in cards and the motherboard.

[0005] Orthogonal connectors are typically designed and manufactured to specific specifications to interoperate with expansion cards and meet signal and / or power transmission requirements. These specifications may be, for example, standards related to Enterprise and Data Center Standard Form Factors (EDSFF), such as SFF-TA-1002. Designing orthogonal connectors to meet specific application requirements presents several challenges. Orthogonal connectors must possess various characteristics that meet the mechanical requirements of electronic systems. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In view of this, this application proposes a novel electrical connector to meet the requirements of electronic systems.

[0007] In one aspect, this application proposes an electrical connector. The electrical connector may include: an insulating housing; a plurality of conductive terminals held within the insulating housing, each conductive terminal including a first mating end, a second mating end opposite to the first mating end, and an intermediate portion connecting the first mating end and the second mating end; and a circuit board. The circuit board includes: a first edge extending in a transverse direction; a plurality of first conductive pads arranged on the first edge in a vertical direction perpendicular to the transverse direction; a second edge extending in the vertical direction and beyond the first edge; and a plurality of second conductive pads arranged on the second edge in the transverse direction. The second mating end of each of the plurality of conductive terminals is disposed on a corresponding first conductive pad among the plurality of first conductive pads.

[0008] In some embodiments, the second mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals are arranged in two rows, each extending along the vertical direction, the two rows being opposite to each other and spaced apart in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical and transverse directions, the first edge portion including two surfaces opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction, and the plurality of first conductive pads being disposed on the two surfaces, the first edge portion being positioned between the two rows of the second mating ends such that each of the two surfaces faces the corresponding row of the two rows.

[0009] In some embodiments, the insulating housing includes a first surface and a first arm and a second arm extending from the first surface along the transverse direction and spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction, the second mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals extending from the first surface and located between the first arm and the second arm, the first arm including a first groove and the second arm including a second groove, the first groove and the second groove being arranged opposite to each other in the vertical direction and extending along the transverse direction, the first edge including a first end and a second end opposite to each other in the vertical direction, the first end being received in the first groove and the second end being received in the second groove, such that the first edge is held therebetween by the first arm and the second arm.

[0010] In some embodiments, each of the first groove of the first arm and the second groove of the second arm includes a first wall and a second wall facing each other in the longitudinal direction, and each of the first arm and the second arm also includes a channel extending from the outside of the corresponding first wall along the longitudinal direction through the first wall to the corresponding groove. The electrical connector also includes a plurality of locking members, each of the plurality of locking members being inserted into the channel of the corresponding arm and extending into the corresponding groove to engage with the first edge portion.

[0011] In some embodiments, the circuit board further includes a plurality of locking pads disposed on the first edge portion, each of the plurality of locking pads facing and aligned with the channel of a corresponding arm in the first arm portion and the second arm portion, and a corresponding locking element being soldered to the locking pad.

[0012] In some embodiments, the second mating end of each of the plurality of conductive terminals is soldered to a corresponding first conductive pad.

[0013] In some embodiments, each of the first arm and the second arm further includes a protrusion that extends from the second wall of the corresponding groove along the longitudinal direction into the corresponding groove, the protrusion and the first wall clamping the corresponding ends of the first end and the second end therebetween.

[0014] In some embodiments, the insulating housing further includes a second surface opposite to the first surface in the lateral direction and a slot recessed into the insulating housing from the second surface in the lateral direction, the slot being elongated in the vertical direction, the first mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals being bent into the slot and arranged in two rows, each extending in the vertical direction, the two rows being opposite to each other and spaced apart from each other across the slot in the longitudinal direction.

[0015] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of first conductive pads is electrically connected to a corresponding second conductive pad among the plurality of second conductive pads through a corresponding conductive structure of the circuit board.

[0016] In some embodiments, the circuit board is a first circuit board, the electrical connector further includes a component that houses and retains the insulating housing therein, and the component is configured for mounting onto a second circuit board.

[0017] In some embodiments, the component includes a first channel and a second channel, each extending along the lateral direction, the first channel and the second channel being arranged along the vertical direction and at least partially separated from each other in the vertical direction, the insulating housing being accommodated and held within the first channel of the component, the vertical direction being perpendicular to the surface of the second circuit board when the component is mounted to the second circuit board, and the second channel being located between the first channel and the second circuit board in the vertical direction.

[0018] In some embodiments, the component includes a top wall and a bottom wall opposite to each other in the vertical direction, and a partition wall located between the top wall and the bottom wall in the vertical direction, the partition wall at least partially separating the first channel and the second channel, the first channel being located between the top wall and the partition wall, and the second channel being located between the partition wall and the bottom wall, the insulating housing being held in the first channel by the top wall and the partition wall.

[0019] In some embodiments, the insulating housing includes a first end face and a second end face opposite to each other in the vertical direction, and a first protrusion and a second protrusion respectively protruding from the first end face and the second end face in the vertical direction. The member also includes a first receiving groove recessed into the top wall from the first channel in the vertical direction and extending in the transverse direction, and a second receiving groove recessed into the partition wall from the first channel in the vertical direction and extending in the transverse direction. The member also includes a first side face and a second side face opposite to each other in the transverse direction. The first channel and the second channel each extend from the first side face through the member to the second side face in the transverse direction. The first channel includes a first opening at the first side face and a second opening at the second side face. The insulating housing is inserted into the first channel from the second opening in the transverse direction such that the first protrusion is received in the first receiving groove and engages with the end of the first receiving groove, and the second protrusion is received in the second receiving groove and engages with the end of the second receiving groove, thereby limiting further insertion of the insulating housing toward the first opening in the transverse direction.

[0020] In some embodiments, the insulating housing further includes a first latching member disposed at the first end face and a second latching member disposed at the second end face. The component further includes a first recess recessed into the top wall from the first channel and a second recess recessed into the partition wall from the first channel. When the first protrusion and the second protrusion engage with the end of the first receiving groove and the end of the second receiving groove, respectively, the first latching member engages in the first recess and the second latching member engages in the second recess to restrict the retraction of the insulating housing toward the second opening along the lateral direction.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first edge of the first circuit board is located within the first channel, and the second edge of the first circuit board is located outside the member and aligned with the opening of the second channel in the vertical direction.

[0022] In some embodiments, the first circuit board includes a board body having a corner, a first side extending along the vertical direction, and a second side extending along the transverse direction, the first side and the second side intersecting at the corner, a first edge extending from the first side along the transverse direction, and a second edge extending from the second side along the vertical direction. The component also includes a first side and a second side opposite to each other in the transverse direction, a first channel and a second channel each extending from the first side along the transverse direction through the component to the second side, the first channel including a first opening at the first side and a second opening at the second side, an end of a partition wall recessed in the component relative to the second side in the transverse direction to leave a space between the first channel and the second channel communicating therebetween, the insulating housing and the first edge of the first circuit board being inserted into the first channel from the second opening, and a section of the board body including the first side being located in the component and extending from the first channel through the space to the second channel, the corner being positioned in the second channel, and the component also including a shelf disposed in the second channel, the shelf supporting a portion of the second side at the corner in the vertical direction.

[0023] In some embodiments, the shelf includes a support surface for supporting the portion of the second side and a pair of protrusions projecting from the support surface along the vertical direction, the pair of protrusions being spaced apart from each other in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical and lateral directions and receiving and holding the corner therebetween.

[0024] In some embodiments, the plate body further includes a third edge portion extending from the plate body in the vertical direction opposite to the second edge portion and beyond the first edge portion, and the member further includes a third receiving groove recessed from the first channel into the top wall and extending in the transverse direction, at least a portion of the third edge portion being received in the third receiving groove.

[0025] In some embodiments, the end of the partition wall includes a notch recessed into the partition wall from the space along the lateral direction, and a portion of the first side of the plate body is received in the notch.

[0026] In some embodiments, when the component is mounted onto the second circuit board, the outer surface of the bottom wall faces the surface of the second circuit board, and the component further includes a first protrusion that protrudes from the outer surface of the bottom wall along the vertical direction and is configured to rest on the surface of the second circuit board to space the outer surface of the bottom wall from the surface of the second circuit board.

[0027] In some embodiments, the component further includes a first sidewall and a second sidewall, the first sidewall and the second sidewall being opposite to each other in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction and the transverse direction, and each extending between the top wall and the bottom wall along the vertical direction. The component also includes a second protrusion projecting outward from the first sidewall along the longitudinal direction and a third protrusion projecting outward from the second sidewall along the longitudinal direction. The second protrusion and the third protrusion each include a mounting hole extending along the vertical direction for receiving a fastener for securing the component to the second circuit board. The second protrusion and the third protrusion are offset from each other in the longitudinal direction.

[0028] In some embodiments, the first protrusion of the component includes a bottom surface configured to contact the surface of the second circuit board. The component also includes a first side and a second side opposite to each other in the lateral direction. The first channel and the second channel each extend from the first side along the lateral direction through the component to the second side. The first channel includes a first opening at the first side and a second opening at the second side. The insulating housing also includes a second surface and a slot recessed into the insulating housing from the second surface along the lateral direction. The slot is elongated in the vertical direction. The first mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals are bent into the slot and arranged in two rows, each extending along the vertical direction. The two rows are opposite to each other and spaced apart from each other across the slot in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to both the vertical and lateral directions. The insulating housing is inserted into the first channel from the second opening along the lateral direction such that the slot is exposed at the first opening. The vertical distance from the midpoint of the slot along the vertical direction to the bottom surface of the first protrusion of the component is 26.5 mm.

[0029] A1156.70940CN01

[0030] In some embodiments, the component is a metal casing.

[0031] In some embodiments, the second edge portion of the first circuit board is configured for insertion into another electrical connector mounted on the second circuit board, such that each of the plurality of second conductive pads mates with a corresponding conductive terminal of the other electrical connector.

[0032] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of first conductive pads is electrically connected to a corresponding second conductive pad among the plurality of second conductive pads through a corresponding conductive structure of the first circuit board.

[0033] In another aspect, this application proposes an electrical connector. The electrical connector may include: an insulating housing; a plurality of conductive terminals held within the insulating housing, each conductive terminal including a first mating end, a second mating end opposite to the first mating end, and an intermediate portion connecting the first mating end and the second mating end; a component including a first channel and a second channel each extending in a transverse direction, the first channel and the second channel being arranged in a vertical direction perpendicular to the transverse direction, the component accommodating and holding the insulating housing within the first channel; and a circuit board including a first edge portion, a plurality of first conductive pads on the first edge portion, a second edge portion, and a plurality of second conductive pads on the second edge portion. The first edge portion is positioned within the first channel, and the second mating end of each of the plurality of conductive terminals is disposed on a corresponding first conductive pad among the plurality of first conductive pads. The second edge portion is located outside the component and aligned in the vertical direction with the opening of the second channel.

[0034] In some embodiments, the component includes a top wall and a bottom wall opposite to each other in the vertical direction, and a partition wall located between the top wall and the bottom wall in the vertical direction, the partition wall at least partially separating the first channel and the second channel in the vertical direction, the first channel being located between the top wall and the partition wall, and the second channel being located between the partition wall and the bottom wall, the insulating housing being held in the first channel by the top wall and the partition wall.

[0035] In some embodiments, the insulating housing includes a first end face and a second end face opposite to each other in the vertical direction, and a first protrusion and a second protrusion respectively protruding from the first end face and the second end face in the vertical direction. The member also includes a first receiving groove recessed into the top wall from the first channel in the vertical direction and extending in the transverse direction, and a second receiving groove recessed into the partition wall from the first channel in the vertical direction and extending in the transverse direction. The member also includes a first side face and a second side face opposite to each other in the transverse direction. The first channel and the second channel each extend from the first side face through the member to the second side face in the transverse direction. The first channel includes a first opening at the first side face and a second opening at the second side face. The insulating housing is inserted into the first channel from the second opening in the transverse direction such that the first protrusion is received in the first receiving groove and engages with the end of the first receiving groove, and the second protrusion is received in the second receiving groove and engages with the end of the second receiving groove, thereby limiting further insertion of the insulating housing toward the first opening in the transverse direction.

[0036] In some embodiments, the insulating housing further includes a first latching member disposed at the first end face and a second latching member disposed at the second end face. The component further includes a first recess recessed into the top wall from the first channel and a second recess recessed into the partition wall from the first channel. When the first protrusion and the second protrusion engage with the end of the first receiving groove and the end of the second receiving groove, respectively, the first latching member engages in the first recess and the second latching member engages in the second recess to restrict the retraction of the insulating housing toward the second opening along the lateral direction.

[0037] In some embodiments, the circuit board includes a board body having a corner, a first side extending along the vertical direction, and a second side extending along the transverse direction, the first side and the second side intersecting at the corner, a first edge extending from the first side along the transverse direction, and a second edge extending from the second side along the vertical direction and beyond the first edge, the component also including a first side and a second side opposite to each other in the transverse direction, a first channel and a second channel each extending from the first side along the transverse direction through the component to the second side, the first channel being included on the first side. The component includes a first opening at one side and a second opening at the second side, the end of the partition wall being recessed in the component in the lateral direction relative to the second side to leave a space between the first channel and the second channel to communicate with them, the first edge of the insulating housing and the circuit board being inserted into the first channel from the second opening, and a section of the board body including the first side being located in the component and extending from the first channel through the space into the second channel, the corner being positioned in the second channel, and the component also including a shelf disposed in the second channel, the shelf supporting a section of the second side at the corner in the vertical direction.

[0038] In some embodiments, the shelf includes a support surface for supporting the portion of the second side and a pair of protrusions projecting from the support surface along the vertical direction, the pair of protrusions being spaced apart from each other in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical and lateral directions and receiving and holding the corner therebetween.

[0039] In some embodiments, the plate body further includes a third edge portion extending from the plate body in the vertical direction opposite to the second edge portion and beyond the first edge portion, and the member further includes a receiving groove recessed from the first channel into the top wall and extending in the transverse direction, at least a portion of the third edge portion being received in the receiving groove.

[0040] In some embodiments, the end of the partition wall includes a notch recessed into the partition wall from the space along the lateral direction, and a portion of the first side of the plate body is received in the notch.

[0041] In some embodiments, the circuit board is a first circuit board, the component is configured to be mounted on a second circuit board, wherein when the component is mounted on the second circuit board, the vertical direction is perpendicular to the surface of the second circuit board, and the second channel is located between the first channel and the second circuit board in the vertical direction.

[0042] In some embodiments, the component includes a top wall and a bottom wall opposite to each other in the vertical direction, wherein when the component is mounted on the second circuit board, the outer surface of the bottom wall faces the surface of the second circuit board, and the component further includes a first protrusion that protrudes from the outer surface of the bottom wall along the vertical direction and is configured to rest on the surface of the second circuit board to space the outer surface of the bottom wall from the surface of the second circuit board.

[0043] In some embodiments, the component further includes a first sidewall and a second sidewall, the first sidewall and the second sidewall being opposite to each other in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction and the transverse direction, and each extending between the top wall and the bottom wall along the vertical direction. The component also includes a second protrusion projecting outward from the first sidewall along the longitudinal direction and a third protrusion projecting outward from the second sidewall along the longitudinal direction. The second protrusion and the third protrusion each include a mounting hole extending along the vertical direction for receiving a fastener for securing the component to the second circuit board. The second protrusion and the third protrusion are offset from each other in the longitudinal direction.

[0044] In some embodiments, the second mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals are arranged in two rows, each extending along the vertical direction, the two rows being opposite to each other and spaced apart in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical and transverse directions, the first edge portion including two surfaces opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction, and the plurality of first conductive pads being disposed on the two surfaces, the first edge portion being positioned between the two rows of the second mating ends such that each of the two surfaces faces the corresponding row of the two rows.

[0045] In some embodiments, the insulating housing includes a first surface and a first arm and a second arm that extend from the first surface along the lateral direction and are spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction, the second mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals protrude from the first surface and are located between the first arm and the second arm, and the first edge is held therebetween by the first arm and the second arm.

[0046] In some embodiments, the insulating housing further includes a second surface and a slot recessed into the insulating housing from the second surface along the lateral direction, the slot being elongated in the vertical direction, the first mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals being bent into the slot and arranged in two rows, each extending along the vertical direction, the two rows being opposite to each other and spaced apart from each other across the slot in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to both the vertical and lateral directions.

[0047] In some embodiments, the second mating end of each of the plurality of conductive terminals is soldered to a corresponding first conductive pad.

[0048] In some embodiments, the plurality of first conductive pads are arranged along the vertical direction on the first edge portion, and the plurality of second conductive pads are arranged along the horizontal direction on the second edge portion.

[0049] In some embodiments, the component is a metal casing.

[0050] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of first conductive pads is electrically connected to a corresponding second conductive pad among the plurality of second conductive pads through a corresponding conductive structure of the circuit board.

[0051] In another aspect, this application proposes an electronic system. The electronic system may include: a first circuit board; and a first electrical connector. The first electrical connector may include: an insulating housing including a slot recessed in the insulating housing along a lateral direction and elongated in a vertical direction perpendicular to the lateral direction; a plurality of conductive terminals held in the insulating housing, each conductive terminal including a first mating end, a second mating end opposite to the first mating end, and an intermediate portion connecting the first mating end and the second mating end, the first mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals exposed in the slot; and a member including a first channel and a second channel each extending along the lateral direction, the first channel and the second channel being arranged along the vertical direction. The member accommodates and holds the insulating housing within the first channel, and the member is fixed to the surface of the first circuit board such that the vertical direction is perpendicular to the surface of the first circuit board, and the second channel is located between the first channel and the first circuit board in the vertical direction.

[0052] In some embodiments, the first electrical connector includes a second circuit board, the second circuit board including a first edge portion, a plurality of first conductive pads on the first edge portion, a second edge portion, and a plurality of second conductive pads on the second edge portion, the first edge portion being positioned within the first channel, and a second mating end of each of the plurality of conductive terminals being disposed on a corresponding first conductive pad among the plurality of first conductive pads, the second edge portion being located outside the member and aligned with the opening of the second channel in the vertical direction, the second edge portion being configured to mate with a second electrical connector mounted on the first circuit board.

[0053] In some embodiments, the component includes a top wall and a bottom wall opposite to each other in the vertical direction, and a partition wall located between the top wall and the bottom wall in the vertical direction, the partition wall at least partially separating the first channel and the second channel in the vertical direction, the first channel being located between the top wall and the partition wall, and the second channel being located between the partition wall and the bottom wall, the insulating housing being held in the first channel by the top wall and the partition wall.

[0054] In some embodiments, the second circuit board includes a board body having a corner, a first side extending along the vertical direction, and a second side extending along the transverse direction, the first side and the second side intersecting at the corner, a first edge extending from the first side along the transverse direction, and a second edge extending from the second side along the vertical direction and beyond the first edge. The component also includes a first side and a second side opposite to each other in the transverse direction, a first channel and a second channel each extending from the first side along the transverse direction through the component to the second side, the first channel being included on the first side. The first opening at the first side and the second opening at the second side, the end of the partition wall being recessed in the member in the lateral direction relative to the second side to leave a space between the first channel and the second channel to communicate with them, the first edge of the insulating housing and the second circuit board being inserted into the first channel from the second opening, and a section of the board body including the first side being located in the member and extending from the first channel through the space into the second channel, the corner being positioned in the second channel, the member also including a shelf disposed in the second channel, the shelf supporting a section of the second side at the corner in the vertical direction.

[0055] In some embodiments, the shelf includes a support surface for supporting the portion of the second side and a pair of protrusions projecting from the support surface along the vertical direction, the pair of protrusions being spaced apart from each other in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical and lateral directions and receiving and holding the corner therebetween.

[0056] In some embodiments, the plate body further includes a third edge portion extending from the plate body in the vertical direction opposite to the second edge portion and beyond the first edge portion, and the member further includes a third receiving groove recessed from the first channel into the top wall and extending in the transverse direction, at least a portion of the third edge portion being received in the third receiving groove.

[0057] In some embodiments, the component includes a top wall and a bottom wall opposite to each other in the vertical direction, the outer surface of the bottom wall facing the surface of the first circuit board, and the component further includes a first protrusion that protrudes from the outer surface of the bottom wall along the vertical direction and is placed on the surface of the first circuit board to space the outer surface of the bottom wall from the surface of the first circuit board.

[0058] In some embodiments, the component further includes a first sidewall and a second sidewall, the first sidewall and the second sidewall being opposite to each other in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction and the transverse direction, and each extending between the top wall and the bottom wall along the vertical direction. The component also includes a second protrusion projecting outward from the first sidewall along the longitudinal direction and a third protrusion projecting outward from the second sidewall along the longitudinal direction, the second protrusion and the third protrusion each including a mounting hole extending along the vertical direction, the second protrusion and the third protrusion being offset relative to each other in the longitudinal direction. The electronic system further includes a fastener disposed in the mounting hole and connected to the first circuit board to secure the component to the first circuit board.

[0059] In some embodiments, the electronic system includes a plurality of first electrical connectors, the components of the plurality of first electrical connectors being fixed on the first circuit board and arranged in a row along the longitudinal direction such that the slots of the insulating housings of the plurality of first electrical connectors face the same direction, the second protrusion of one of every two adjacent components in the row and the third protrusion of the other component are arranged adjacent to each other and staggered in the longitudinal direction, and the distance between the longitudinal center lines of the slots of every two adjacent first electrical connectors is 9.2 mm.

[0060] In some embodiments, the second mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals are arranged in two rows, each extending along the vertical direction, the two rows being opposite to each other and spaced apart in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical and transverse directions, the first edge portion including two surfaces opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction, and the plurality of first conductive pads being disposed on the two surfaces, the first edge portion being positioned between the two rows of the second mating ends such that each of the two surfaces faces the corresponding row of the two rows.

[0061] In some embodiments, the insulating housing includes a first surface and a first arm and a second arm that extend from the first surface along the lateral direction and are spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction, the second mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals protrude from the first surface and are located between the first arm and the second arm, and the first edge is held therebetween by the first arm and the second arm.

[0062] In some embodiments, the insulating housing further includes a second surface, the slot being recessed into the insulating housing from the second surface along the lateral direction, the first mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals being bent into the slot and arranged in two rows, each extending along the vertical direction, the two rows being opposite to each other and spaced apart from each other across the slot in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical and lateral directions.

[0063] In some embodiments, the second mating end of each of the plurality of conductive terminals is soldered to a corresponding first conductive pad.

[0064] In some embodiments, the plurality of first conductive pads are arranged along the vertical direction on the first edge portion, and the plurality of second conductive pads are arranged along the horizontal direction on the second edge portion.

[0065] In some embodiments, the component is a metal casing.

[0066] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of first conductive pads is electrically connected to a corresponding second conductive pad among the plurality of second conductive pads through a corresponding conductive structure of the second circuit board.

[0067] These techniques can be used alone or in any suitable combination. The foregoing summary is provided illustratively and is not intended to be restrictive.

[0068] A1156.70940CN01 Attached Figure Description

[0069] The above and other aspects of this application will be more thoroughly understood and appreciated below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the drawings are schematic only and not drawn to scale. In different drawings, the same components are indicated by the same reference numerals. Furthermore, for the sake of brevity, not all components or portions of the electrical connectors, circuit boards, and electronic systems according to this application are shown or labeled in the drawings. It should be understood that the dimensions, scale relationships, and number of components or portions in the drawings are not intended to limit this application. In the drawings:

[0070] FIG. 1 This is a side front view of an electronic system according to some embodiments of this application;

[0071] FIG. 2A This is a perspective view of an electrical connector according to some embodiments of this application;

[0072] FIG. 2B yes FIG. 2A Another perspective view of the electrical connector;

[0073] FIG. 2C yes FIG. 2A Another 3D view of the electrical connector;

[0074] FIG. 2D yes FIG. 2A Another 3D view of the electrical connector;

[0075] FIG. 2E yes FIG. 2A A front view of the electrical connector;

[0076] FIG. 3A yes FIG. 2A A partially exploded view of an electrical connector, showing the connector's components, sub-connectors, and circuit board;

[0077] FIG. 3B yes FIG. 2A Another exploded view of the electrical connector;

[0078] FIG. 4A It is along FIG. 2A A cross-sectional view of line 4A-4A;

[0079] FIG. 4B It is along FIG. 2A A cross-sectional view of line 4B-4B;

[0080] FIG. 5A It shows FIG. 2A A perspective view of an electrical connector, in which components have been removed to show the sub-connectors and circuit board assembled together;

[0081] FIG. 5B It shows FIG. 2AAnother perspective view of the electrical connector, in which components are removed to show the sub-connectors and circuit board assembled together;

[0082] FIG. 5C It is along FIG. 5A A cross-sectional view of line 5C-5C;

[0083] FIG. 6A yes FIG. 3A A 3D view of the sub-connector;

[0084] FIG. 6B yes FIG. 6A Another perspective view of the sub-connector;

[0085] FIG. 6C yes FIG. 6A Another 3D view of the sub-connector;

[0086] FIG. 6D yes FIG. 6A Another 3D view of the sub-connector;

[0087] FIG. 6E yes FIG. 6A A partially exploded view of the sub-connector, showing the insulating housing, terminal assembly, and locking mechanism of the sub-connector;

[0088] FIG. 7A yes FIG. 6E A perspective view of the insulating shell shown;

[0089] FIG. 7B yes FIG. 7A An enlarged view of the area 7B circled by the dashed box in the image;

[0090] FIG. 8A yes FIG. 6E A perspective view of the terminal assembly;

[0091] FIG. 8B yes FIG. 8A Another perspective view of the terminal assembly;

[0092] FIG. 9A yes FIG. 3A A three-dimensional view of the components;

[0093] FIG. 9B yes FIG. 9A Another perspective view of the components;

[0094] FIG. 9C yes FIG. 9A Another three-dimensional view of the components;

[0095] FIG. 9D It is along FIG. 9A A cross-sectional view of line 9D-9D;

[0096] FIG. 10A This is a schematic illustration of several of them. FIG. 2A The diagram shows a perspective view of an electronic system in which the electrical connector is mounted on another circuit board; and

[0097] FIG. 10B yes FIG. 10A A top view of the electronic system. Detailed Implementation

[0098] Electrical connectors are used in many electronic systems. They must possess characteristics that meet the mechanical requirements of the electronic system. For example, when an electrical connector is installed into an electronic system, it must be reliably positioned within the system. As another example, when there are space constraints on the placement of the connector within the electronic system, its dimensions must meet these space constraints. Yet another example, the connector needs to have sufficient heat dissipation capabilities. And yet another example, it is desirable for the connector to have a small footprint on the circuit board of the electronic system.

[0099] The inventors have recognized and are aware of a design technique for electrical connectors that possess characteristics that meet the mechanical requirements of electronic systems. This technique enables electrical connectors that are taller, thinner, and lighter, with sufficient / improved mechanical strength, while meeting the physical requirements of standards such as EDSFF standards (e.g., SFF-TA-1002). This technique is particularly advantageous in positive-interlocking systems.

[0100] An electrical connector may include a sub-connector having an insulating housing and a plurality of conductive terminals held within the insulating housing. Each conductive terminal may include a first mating end, a second mating end opposite to the first mating end, and an intermediate portion connecting the first and second mating ends. The insulating housing includes a slot that is elongated in a vertical direction. The first mating end of the conductive terminal may protrude from the slot. The electrical connector may also include a circuit board. The circuit board may include a first edge extending in a transverse direction, a plurality of first conductive pads arranged in a vertical direction perpendicular to the transverse direction on the first edge, a second edge extending in the vertical direction and beyond the first edge, and a plurality of second conductive pads arranged in a transverse direction on the second edge. The second mating end of each conductive terminal is disposed on a corresponding first conductive pad on the first edge.

[0101] Because the second edge of the circuit board extends vertically beyond the first edge, the assembly formed by the sub-connector and the circuit board can have a relatively high vertical profile. This assembly is suitable for assembly within the compact space of an electronic system while achieving adequate heat dissipation. This assembly meets the space and heat dissipation requirements of electronic systems. It is particularly well-suited for meeting the physical requirements of EDSFF standards (e.g., SFF-TA-1002).

[0102] The circuit board is a first circuit board. The electrical connector may also include a component that can accommodate and retain an insulating housing therein, and the component can be configured for mounting onto a second circuit board, such as a motherboard. The component may include a first channel and a second channel, each extending in a lateral direction. The first channel and the second channel are arranged in a vertical direction and are at least partially separated from each other in the vertical direction. The insulating housing can be accommodated and retained within the first channel of the component. When the component is mounted onto the second circuit board, the vertical direction is perpendicular to the surface of the second circuit board, and the second channel is located in the vertical direction between the first channel (and the insulating housing in the first channel) and the second circuit board. That is, the second channel is located in the vertical direction between the sub-connector and the second circuit board.

[0103] This configuration allows the assembly (i.e., the electrical connector) formed by sub-connectors, circuit boards, and components to have a relatively high vertical height. This compact electrical connector structure is suitable for assembly within the limited space of electronic systems while achieving adequate heat dissipation. This electrical connector meets the space and heat dissipation requirements of electronic systems. It is particularly well-suited for meeting the physical requirements of the EDSFF standard (SFF-TA-1002).

[0104] In some electronic systems, cooling fans can be incorporated to allow airflow through the circuit boards and electrical components. A second channel in the electrical connector's component can serve as an airflow channel, allowing air to pass through it. Because an airflow channel is provided between the sub-connector and the second circuit board, the resistance of the electrical connector to airflow is reduced, thereby improving heat dissipation performance. Furthermore, the formation of the second channel reduces the weight of the component and the electrical connector. Additionally, the component reliably and securely supports the sub-connector and the first circuit board above the second circuit board, thereby improving the reliability of the connection between the electrical connector and the second circuit board.

[0105] In some embodiments, a first edge of the first circuit board is located within a first channel. A second edge of the first circuit board is located outside the component and is aligned vertically with the opening of the second channel. With this configuration, the second channel can guide air flowing through it to the second edge of the first circuit board, i.e., to the location where the first circuit board mates with another electrical connector on the second circuit board, to help dissipate heat generated at the mating location. This configuration improves the heat dissipation performance of the electronic system.

[0106] When the component is mounted onto the second circuit board, the outer surface of the component's bottom wall can face the surface of the second circuit board. In some embodiments, the component may include a first protrusion that protrudes vertically from the outer surface of the bottom wall and is configured to rest on the surface of the second circuit board to space the outer surface of the bottom wall from the surface of the second circuit board. This configuration reduces the space occupied by the component on the second circuit board and improves the heat dissipation performance of the electronic system.

[0107] The component may include a first sidewall and a second sidewall, which are opposite to each other in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical and lateral directions, and each extends vertically between a top wall and a bottom wall. In some embodiments, the component may include a second protrusion projecting outward from the first sidewall in the longitudinal direction, and a third protrusion projecting outward from the second sidewall in the longitudinal direction, each of the second and third protrusions including a mounting hole extending in the vertical direction for receiving fasteners for securing the component to a second circuit board. The second and third protrusions are arranged offset from each other in the longitudinal direction. With this configuration, when multiple electrical connectors are mounted on the second circuit board, the protrusions of adjacent electrical connectors can be arranged offset from each other. In this way, multiple electrical connectors can be arranged at a high density on the second circuit board to achieve a high-density, small-pitch connector layout.

[0108] Some embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that these embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Furthermore, features in the embodiments of this application can be combined with each other unless otherwise specified.

[0109] FIG. 1 An electronic system 1, including a circuit board 3, an electrical connector 5, and an electrical connector 10, is schematically illustrated according to some embodiments of this application. FIGS. 2A-9D The configuration of the electrical connector 10 is shown in detail. FIGS. 10A-10B An electronic system 1' comprising a circuit board 3 and multiple electrical connectors 10 is shown. For clarity and conciseness, in... FIGS. 1-10BThe connector 10 is defined by three directions: horizontal (XX), vertical (YY), and vertical (ZZ). These directions are perpendicular to each other. The horizontal direction (XX) typically refers to the length of the connector 10. The vertical direction (YY) typically refers to the width of the connector 10. The vertical direction (ZZ) typically refers to the height of the connector 10.

[0110] like FIG. 1 As shown, electronic system 1 may include circuit board 3, electrical connector 5, and electrical connector 10. Circuit board 3 may be the motherboard of a server, switch, or other computing device. Electrical connector 5 may be an onboard connector that is mounted and connected to circuit board 3. Electrical connector 5 may be mechanically fixed to circuit board 3 and electrically connected to conductive structures (e.g., conductive pads or conductive vias) of circuit board 3. Electrical connector 5 may provide an electrical interface for electrically connecting electrical connector 10 to circuit board 3.

[0111] Electrical connector 10 can be configured to establish an electrical connection between electrical connector 5 and an electrical component (not shown). This electrical component can be, for example, another circuit board. Exemplarily, this other circuit board can be a plug-in card such as a solid-state drive (SSD), network interface card (NIC), or graphics processing unit (GPU). Electrical connector 10 can be fixed to circuit board 3 (e.g., fixed to surface 3a of circuit board 3) and mates with electrical connector 5 to be electrically connected to circuit board 3 via electrical connector 5. Another circuit board, such as a plug-in card, can be inserted into a slot (described below) of electrical connector 10 to mate with electrical connector 10. In this way, the other circuit board can be electrically connected to circuit board 3 via electrical connector 10 and electrical connector 5 to enable signal and / or power transmission between the other circuit board and circuit board 3. The other circuit board and circuit board 3 can be orthogonal to each other. Electrical connector 10 may be referred to as an orthogonal connector.

[0112] It should be understood that this application is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the electrical connector 10 may be configured to establish an electrical connection between the electrical connector 5 and another electrical connector, such as a plug connector, which may be mounted on another circuit board or attached with a cable.

[0113] FIGS. 2A-9D The configuration of electrical connector 10 is shown in detail. (For example...) FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B As shown, the electrical connector 10 may include a sub-connector 100, a circuit board 200, and a component 300. For example... FIGS. 2A-2EAs shown, a portion of the sub-connector 100 and the circuit board 200 can be accommodated and held in the member 300. As will be described below, the member 300 can be configured to be fixed to the surface 3a of the circuit board 3, thereby holding the sub-connector 100 and the circuit board 200 relative to the circuit board 3.

[0114] FIGS. 6A-8B The configuration of sub-connector 100 is shown in detail. (For example...) FIGS. 6A-6E As shown, the sub-connector 100 may include an insulating housing 400, a terminal assembly 500 disposed within the insulating housing 400, and a locking member 600. The terminal assembly 500 may include a plurality of conductive elements (or may be referred to as "conductive elements" or "contacts") 510 and a terminal retaining member 520. The insulating housing 400 and the terminal retaining member 520 may each be made of an insulating material. Examples of insulating materials suitable for manufacturing the insulating housing 100 and the terminal retaining member 520 include, but are not limited to, plastics, nylon, liquid crystal polymer (LCP), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), high-temperature nylon or polyphenylene oxide (PPO) or polypropylene (PP). Each of the plurality of conductive terminals 510 may be formed of a conductive material. The conductive material suitable for manufacturing the conductive terminals 510 may be a metallic material, such as copper or a copper alloy.

[0115] The insulating housing 400 may include a first surface 401 and a second surface 402 that are opposite to each other in the transverse direction XX, a third surface 403 and a fourth surface 404 that are opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction YY, and a fifth surface 405 and a sixth surface 406 that are opposite to each other in the vertical direction ZZ. The first surface 401 may also be referred to as the mounting surface, the second surface 402 may also be referred to as the mating surface, the third surface 403 and the fourth surface 404 may also be referred to as the first side surface and the second side surface, respectively, and the fifth surface 405 and the sixth surface 406 may also be referred to as the first end surface and the second end surface, respectively.

[0116] like FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B and FIG. 6E The insulating housing 400 may include a slot 410 recessed into the insulating housing 400 from the second surface 402 along the lateral direction XX. The slot 410 may be elongated in the vertical direction ZZ. As will be described below, another circuit board or plug connector, such as a card, may be inserted into the slot 410 of the insulating housing 400 to establish an electrical connection with the conductive terminals 510 of the sub-connector 100. The slot 410 is configured to receive the edge of the card or the plug portion of the plug connector therein. Although the insulating housing 400 is shown as including a single slot 410, it should be understood that the insulating housing 400 may include more than one slot. For example, multiple slots may be spaced apart from each other along the vertical direction ZZ.

[0117] In some embodiments, such asFIG. 6E , FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B As shown, a plurality of conductive terminals 510 can be held in place relative to each other by terminal holding members 520 to form a terminal assembly 500. The terminal assembly 500 can be disposed in an insulating housing 400 to hold the plurality of conductive terminals 510 in the insulating housing 400.

[0118] like FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B As best shown, each conductive terminal 510 includes a first mating end 511, a second mating end 512 opposite to the first mating end 511, and an intermediate portion 513 connecting the first mating end 511 and the second mating end 512. The intermediate portion 513 extends between the first mating end 511 and the second mating end 512. Each conductive terminal 510 can provide a conductive path from the first mating end 511 through the intermediate portion 513 to the second mating end 512. As will be specifically described below, the first mating end 511 can be configured to establish an electrical connection with a mating conductive structure (e.g., a conductive pad or conductive terminal) on another circuit board or another plug connector, such as a card, while the second mating end 512 can be configured to establish an electrical connection with a mating conductive structure (e.g., a conductive pad) on the circuit board 200 of the electrical connector 10. The second mating end 512 may also be referred to as a mounting end or a tail end.

[0119] like FIG. 6E , FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B As shown, the intermediate portion 503 of a plurality of conductive terminals 510 can be at least partially held by a terminal holding member 520, such that the plurality of conductive terminals 510 are held in place relative to each other by the terminal holding member 520. Exemplarily, the terminal holding member 520 can be molded around the intermediate portion 503 of the plurality of conductive terminals 510, or the terminal holding member 520 can be formed with a terminal channel, and the intermediate portion 503 of the terminal holding member 520 can be inserted and held in the terminal channel. The plurality of conductive terminals 510 can be arranged as two terminal rows each extending along a vertical direction ZZ, the two terminal rows being opposite each other and spaced apart in the longitudinal direction YY. The conductive terminals 510 in each terminal row are aligned and spaced apart in the vertical direction ZZ. The terminal holding member 520 can include a single piece or multiple pieces connected together.

[0120] like FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B As shown, the first mating ends 511 of the plurality of conductive terminals 510 can be arranged into two rows, each extending along the vertical direction ZZ, the two rows being opposite to each other and spaced apart in the longitudinal direction YY. The first mating ends 511 in each row are aligned and spaced apart in the vertical direction ZZ. Furthermore, as...FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B As shown, the second mating ends 512 of the plurality of conductive terminals 510 can be arranged into two rows, each extending along the vertical direction ZZ, the two rows being opposite to each other and spaced apart in the longitudinal direction YY. The second mating ends 512 in each row are aligned and spaced apart in the vertical direction ZZ.

[0121] Multiple conductive terminals 510 can be configured for transmitting power and / or signals. For example, each terminal block may include pairs of signal terminals and ground terminals that space adjacent pairs of signal terminals apart from each other. The pairs of signal terminals may be configured as differential signal pairs for transmitting differential signals. Specifically, one of a pair of signal terminals may be energized by a first voltage, and the other may be energized by a second voltage. The voltage difference between a pair of signal terminals represents a signal. As another example, the multiple conductive terminals 510 may include power terminals configured for transmitting power. Signal terminals, ground terminals, and power terminals may have substantially the same configuration. However, it should be understood that this application is not limited to the configuration of the conductive terminals 510 illustrated. The multiple conductive terminals 510 of the electrical connector 10 may have any suitable configuration to achieve the transmission of power and / or signals.

[0122] like FIG. 7A As shown, the insulating housing 400 may include a space 420 recessed into the insulating housing 400 from a first surface 401 along a transverse direction XX. The space 420 may communicate with a slot 410. A terminal assembly 500 may be inserted into and held in the space 420, and first mating ends 511 of a plurality of conductive terminals 510 may be positioned in the slot 410. The insulating housing 400 may include a recess 430 recessed into the insulating housing 400 from the space 420 along a longitudinal direction YY. A terminal holding member 520 may include a protrusion 521. When the terminal assembly 500 is inserted into the space 420 of the insulating housing 400, the protrusion 521 engages with the recess 430 to hold the terminal assembly 500 in the space 420. It should be understood that this application is not limited thereto. The terminal assembly 500 may be held in the insulating housing 400 by any suitable means or mechanism.

[0123] like FIG. 6A and FIG. 6BAs shown, when the terminal assembly 500 is disposed within the insulating housing 400, the first mating ends 511 of a plurality of conductive terminals 510 can be bent into the slot 410 and arranged in two rows extending in the vertical direction ZZ as described above. The two rows of the first mating ends 511 are opposite to each other and spaced apart from each other across the slot 410 in the longitudinal direction YY. As an example, the edge of another circuit board, such as a plug card, can be inserted into the slot 410 and located between the two rows of the first mating ends 511, such that the mating conductive pads on the edge contact the first mating ends 511 of the plurality of conductive terminals 510. In this way, a separable electrical connection can be established between the sub-connector 100 and the other circuit board. As another example, the plug portion of a plug connector can be inserted into the slot 410 and located between the two rows of the first mating ends 511, such that the mating ends of the mating conductive terminals on the plug portion contact the first mating ends 511 of the plurality of conductive terminals 510. In this way, a separable electrical connection can be established between the sub-connector 100 and the plug connector. Although the insulating housing 400 is shown as including a single slot 410 and all the first mating ends 511 of the conductive terminals 510 are disposed in the slot 410, it should be understood that the insulating housing 400 may include multiple slots and the first mating ends 511 of the multiple conductive terminals 510 may be disposed in corresponding slots of the multiple slots respectively.

[0124] like FIG. 6C and FIG. 6D As shown, when the terminal assembly 500 is disposed in the insulating housing 400, the second mating ends 512 of the plurality of conductive terminals 510 can extend from the first surface 401 and are arranged in two rows, each extending along the vertical direction ZZ as described above. The two rows of the second mating ends 512 are opposite to each other and spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction YY.

[0125] FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B The configuration of circuit board 200 is shown in detail. Circuit board 200 may also be referred to as a printed circuit board (PCB). For example... FIG. 3A and FIG. 3BAs shown, the circuit board 200 may include a first edge portion 210 extending along a lateral direction XX, a plurality of first conductive pads 230 arranged on the first edge portion 210 along a vertical direction ZZ (the vertical direction ZZ is perpendicular to the lateral direction XX), a second edge portion 220 extending along the vertical direction ZZ and beyond the first edge portion 210, and a plurality of second conductive pads 240 arranged on the second edge portion 220 along a lateral direction XX. That is, the first edge portion 210 and the second edge portion 220 extend in orthogonal directions. The first edge portion 210 may extend along the vertical direction ZZ, and the second edge portion 220 may extend along the lateral direction XX. Each of the plurality of first conductive pads 230 may be electrically connected to a corresponding second conductive pad 240 of the plurality of second conductive pads 240 through a corresponding conductive structure of the circuit board 200, such as a conductive trace or a conductive layer.

[0126] As will be described in detail below, the first conductive pad 230 can be configured to establish an electrical connection with the second mating end 512 of the corresponding conductive terminal 510 of the sub-connector 100. The first edge portion 210 includes a first surface 211 and a second surface 212 opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction YY, and a plurality of first conductive pads 230 are disposed on the first surface 211 and the second surface 212. Specifically, a first portion of the plurality of first conductive pads 230 is disposed on the first surface 211 and arranged in a vertical direction ZZ. A second portion of the plurality of first conductive pads 230 is disposed on the second surface 212 and arranged in a vertical direction ZZ. It should be understood that this application is not limited thereto. The first edge portion 210 may have first conductive pads on only one of its surfaces.

[0127] The second edge portion 220 is configured for insertion into an electrical connector 5 mounted on the circuit board 3, such that each of the plurality of second conductive pads 240 mates with a corresponding conductive terminal (not shown) of the electrical connector 5 to establish an electrical connection between the circuit board 200 and the electrical connector 5. The second edge portion 220 may be referred to as an insertion portion of the circuit board 200. The second edge portion 220 includes a first surface 221 and a second surface 222 opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction YY, and the plurality of second conductive pads 240 are disposed on the first surface 221 and the second surface 222. Specifically, a first portion of the plurality of second conductive pads 240 is disposed on the first surface 221 and arranged in the vertical direction ZZ. A second portion of the plurality of second conductive pads 240 is disposed on the second surface 222 and arranged in the vertical direction ZZ. It should be understood that the present application is not limited thereto. The second edge portion 220 may have second conductive pads on only one of its surfaces.

[0128] It should be understood that the first conductive pad 230 and the second conductive pad 240 are not limited to the rectangular shape shown in the figure, but can have any suitable shape. It should also be understood that although the first conductive pad 230 and the second conductive pad 240 are shown as separate conductive pads, in other embodiments, the first conductive pad 230 and / or the second conductive pad 240 can be continuous conductive areas. In this case, the first mating ends 511 of a plurality of conductive terminals 510 can be connected to the same first conductive pad 230, and / or a plurality of conductive terminals of the electrical connector 5 can be connected to the same second conductive pad 240.

[0129] Circuit board 200 can be connected to sub-connector 100. Circuit board 200 can be fixedly disposed relative to insulating housing 400. In some embodiments, as will be specifically described below, insulating housing 400 can be fixed to a first edge 210 of circuit board 200. FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B As shown, the second mating end 512 of each of the plurality of conductive terminals 510 can be disposed on and in contact with a corresponding first conductive pad 230 of the plurality of first conductive pads 230 on the first edge portion 210 of the circuit board 200. In this way, an electrical connection can be established between the sub-connector 100 and the circuit board 200. The sub-connector 100 and the circuit board 200 can form an assembly (which may also be referred to as an "electrical connector"). The second edge portion 220 of the circuit board 200 extends along the vertical direction ZZ and extends beyond the first edge portion 210, so the assembly formed by the sub-connector 100 and the circuit board 200 can have a high height in the vertical direction ZZ. This assembly is suitable for assembly in the compact space of an electronic system while achieving sufficient heat dissipation. In other words, this assembly can meet the space and heat dissipation requirements of an electronic system. This assembly is particularly suitable for meeting the physical requirements of EDSFF standards (e.g., SFF-TA-1002).

[0130] like FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B As shown, a first edge portion 210 of the circuit board 200 is positioned between two rows of second mating ends 512 of the conductive terminals 510, such that each of the first surface 221 and the second surface 222 of the first edge portion 210 faces the corresponding row of the two rows. Each second mating end 512 is positioned on and in contact with a corresponding first conductive pad 230. For each conductive terminal 510, the second mating end 512 may extend flexibly from the middle portion 513 to press against the corresponding first conductive pad 230. In some embodiments, such as FIG. 5A and FIG. 5BAs shown, for each conductive terminal 510, the second mating end 512 can be soldered (e.g., via surface mount technology) to the corresponding first conductive pad 230. In other embodiments, for each conductive terminal 510, the second mating end 512 can be elastically pressed against the corresponding first conductive pad 230, such that contact is maintained between the second mating end 512 and the corresponding first conductive pad 230 solely by elastic pressure.

[0131] In some embodiments, such as FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B As shown, the insulating housing 400 may include a first arm 440 and a second arm 450 to receive and hold a first edge 210 of the circuit board 200. The first arm 440 and the second arm 450 extend from the first surface 401 along the lateral direction XX and are spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction ZZ. FIGS. 6C-6D As shown, the second mating ends 512 of the plurality of conductive terminals 510 can extend from the first surface 401 and are located between the first arm 440 and the second arm 450. FIGS. 6C-6D and FIGS. 7A-7B As shown, the first arm portion 440 may include a first groove 441, and the second arm portion 450 may include a second groove 451. The first groove 441 is recessed into the first arm portion 440 in the vertical direction ZZ and extends in the horizontal direction XX. The second groove 451 is recessed into the second arm portion 450 in the vertical direction ZZ and extends in the horizontal direction XX. The first groove 441 and the second groove 451 may be arranged opposite to each other in the vertical direction ZZ. The first edge portion 210 of the circuit board 200 is inserted between the first arm portion 440 and the second arm portion 450 such that the first end portion 213 and the second end portion 214 of the first edge portion 210, which are opposite to each other in the vertical direction ZZ, ( FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B The first edge portion 210 is received in the first groove 441 and the second groove 451, respectively, so that the first arm portion 440 and the second arm portion 450 are held therebetween. In this way, the circuit board 200 can be fixedly disposed relative to the insulating housing 400. In other words, the insulating housing 400 can be mounted on the first edge portion 210 of the circuit board 200. The first surface 401 of the insulating housing 400 faces the edge of the first edge portion 210 of the circuit board 200.

[0132] like FIG. 7B As best shown, the first groove 441 of the first arm portion 440 includes a first wall 441a and a second wall 441b facing each other in the longitudinal direction YY, and a bottom wall 441c extending between the first wall 441a and the second wall 441b. In some embodiments, such as FIG. 7BAs shown, the first arm 440 may include a channel 443 extending from the outer side of the first wall 441a along the longitudinal direction YY through the first wall 441a into the first recess 441. The locking member 600 may also be referred to as a circuit board lock. The locking member 600 may be inserted into the channel 443 of the first arm 440 and extends into the first recess 441 to engage with the first edge 210 to retain the first edge 210 relative to the insulating housing 400. The engagement of the locking member 600 with the first edge 210 at least restricts movement of the first edge 210 relative to the insulating housing 400 along the lateral direction XX. With this configuration, the circuit board 200 can be reliably held in place relative to the insulating housing 400. In some embodiments, such as FIG. 5C and FIG. 6E As shown, the locking member 600 may include a barb feature 601 to enhance engagement with the inner wall of the channel 443.

[0133] In some embodiments, such as FIG. 3A and FIG. 5C As shown, the circuit board 200 may include a locking pad 250 disposed on the first edge portion 210. For example... FIG. 5C As best shown, the locking pad 250 faces and aligns with the channel 443 of the first arm portion 440. The locking member 600 is soldered to the locking pad 250 to hold the first edge portion 210 relative to the insulating housing 400. This configuration improves the reliability of the connection between the circuit board 200 and the sub-connector 100. For example, reflow soldering can be used to solder the second mating end 512 of the conductive terminal 510 to the corresponding first conductive pad 230 of the first edge portion 210 in the same soldering process, while simultaneously soldering the locking member 600 to the locking pad 250. This configuration improves the efficiency of assembling the circuit board 200 and the sub-connector 100 together.

[0134] It should be understood that this application is not limited thereto. The locking member 600 may engage with other suitable structures of the first edge portion 210 to retain the first edge portion 210 relative to the insulating housing 400. For example, in other partial embodiments, the first edge portion 210 may include a socket (not shown), and a portion of the locking member 600 may be inserted into the socket to retain the first edge portion 210 relative to the insulating housing 400.

[0135] In some embodiments, such as FIG. 7B As shown, the first arm portion 440 may include a protrusion 445 projecting longitudinally YY into the first groove 441 from the second wall 441b of the first groove 441. The protrusion 445 may be in the form of a rib and extend transversely XX. The first wall 441a may be flat. FIG. 5CAs shown, the protrusion 445 and the first wall 441a can hold the first end portion 213 of the first edge portion 210 therebetween. The protrusion 445 and the first wall 441a can restrict the movement of the first end portion 213 of the first edge portion 210 along the longitudinal direction YY. In this way, the first end portion 213 of the first edge portion 210 can be firmly held in the first groove 441.

[0136] like FIG. 6C , FIG. 6D and FIG. 7A As shown, the configuration of the second arm 450 can be similar to that of the first arm 440. Another locking member 600 can be similarly disposed in the second arm 450 to engage with the first edge 210, thereby retaining the first edge 210 relative to the insulating housing 400. For simplicity, details of these identical portions will not be repeated. It is conceivable that each groove in the first groove 441 of the first arm 440 and the second groove 451 of the second arm 450 may include a first wall and a second wall facing each other in the longitudinal direction YY, and each arm in the first arm 440 and the second arm 450 also includes a channel extending from the outside of the corresponding first wall along the longitudinal direction YY through the first wall into the corresponding groove. The locking member 600 can be inserted into the channel of the corresponding arm and extend into the corresponding groove to engage with the first edge 210, thereby retaining the first edge 210 relative to the insulating housing 400. Each of the grooves in the first groove 441 of the first arm portion 440 and the second groove 451 of the second arm portion 450 may further include a protrusion extending into the groove from the corresponding second wall along the longitudinal direction YY. The protrusion and the first wall clamp the corresponding ends of the first end 213 and the second end 214 of the first edge portion 210 therebetween. In this way, movement of the first edge portion 210 relative to the insulating housing 400 along the longitudinal direction YY can be restricted. Each of the locking pads 250 on the first edge portion 210 may face and align with the channel of the corresponding arm in the first arm portion 440 and the second arm portion 450, and the corresponding locking member 600 may be soldered to the locking pad 250. When the first edge portion 210 is held therebetween by the first arm portion 440 and the second arm portion 450, the first end portion 213 of the first edge portion 210 can engage with the bottom wall 441c of the first groove 441, and the second end portion 214 can engage with the bottom wall (not shown) of the second groove 451 to restrict the movement of the first edge portion 210 relative to the insulating housing 400 in the vertical direction ZZ.

[0137] Although the foregoing description describes a plurality of conductive terminals 510 being held in place relative to each other by terminal retaining members 520 to form a terminal assembly 500, and the terminal assembly 500 being disposed within an insulating housing 400 to retain the plurality of conductive terminals 510 within the insulating housing 400, it should be understood that this application is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the plurality of conductive terminals 510 may be disposed and retained within the insulating housing 400 in any other manner. For example, the insulating housing 400 may be molded directly around the plurality of conductive terminals 510, or the plurality of conductive terminals 510 may be directly inserted into terminal channels formed in the insulating housing 400.

[0138] Although the foregoing description indicates that the first edge 210 of the circuit board 200 is held by the first arm 440 and the second arm 450 of the insulating housing 400, it should be understood that the circuit board 200 can be mechanically coupled to the insulating housing 400 by any other suitable means. Furthermore, in other embodiments, as will be specifically described below, the circuit board 200 can be held in place relative to the insulating housing 400 by the member 300.

[0139] Although the foregoing description describes the second mating ends 512 of the plurality of conductive terminals 510 extending from the first surface 401, it should be understood that the second mating ends 512 of the plurality of conductive terminals 510 may be located within the insulating housing 400. For example, the insulating housing 400 may include a slot recessed into the insulating housing 400 from the first surface 401 along the transverse direction XX, and the second mating ends 512 of the plurality of conductive terminals 510 may be bent into the slot and arranged in two rows, each extending in the vertical direction ZZ. The two rows of the second mating ends 512 are opposite to each other and spaced apart from each other across the slot in the longitudinal direction YY. In this case, the first edge portion 210 of the circuit board 200 may be inserted into the slot and positioned between the two rows of the second mating ends 512. The second mating end 512 of each electrical terminal 510 may make electrical contact with the corresponding first conductive pad 230.

[0140] like FIGS. 2A-2E and FIGS. 4A-4B As shown, component 300 can accommodate and retain the insulating housing 400 of sub-connector 100 within it. Correspondingly, the conductive terminals 510 of sub-connector 100 are also retained in component 300. FIG. 1As shown, component 300 can be fixed to circuit board 3. As described above, circuit board 200 is fixedly disposed relative to insulating housing 400. Therefore, component 300 can hold sub-connector 100 (which includes insulating housing 400 and conductive terminals 510) and circuit board 200 fixed relative to circuit board 3. When component 300 is mounted on circuit board 3, the vertical direction ZZ is perpendicular to surface 3a of circuit board 3. That is, electrical connector 10 is oriented and fixed to circuit board 3 with vertical direction ZZ perpendicular to surface 3a of circuit board 3. The extension direction of slot 410 of insulating housing 400 is also perpendicular to surface 3a of circuit board 3.

[0141] FIGS. 9A-9D The configuration of component 300 is shown in detail. Component 300 may also be referred to as a holder or shell. FIGS. 9A-9D As shown, component 300 may include a top wall 310 and a bottom wall 320 opposite to each other in the vertical direction ZZ, a first side wall 330 and a second side wall 340 opposite to each other in the transverse direction XX, and a first side wall 350 and a second side wall 360 opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction YY. The first side wall 350 and the second side wall 360 each extend along the vertical direction ZZ between the top wall 310 and the bottom wall 320. In some embodiments, component 300 may be made of a metallic material. In other words, component 300 may be a metal casing.

[0142] Component 300 may include a first channel 371 and a second channel 372, each extending in the lateral direction XX. The first channel 371 and the second channel 372 may also be referred to as a first port and a second port, respectively. The first channel 371 and the second channel 372 may each extend from a first side surface 330 in the lateral direction XX through the component 300 to a second side surface 340. FIG. 9D As shown, the first channel 371 may include a first opening 371a at a first side 330 and a second opening 371b at a second side 340. The second channel 372 may include a third opening 372a at a first side 330 and a fourth opening 372b at a second side 340. The first channel 371 and the second channel 372 are arranged along the vertical direction ZZ and are at least partially separated from each other in the vertical direction ZZ.

[0143] The insulating housing 400 can be accommodated and held within the first channel 371 of the component 300. When the component 300 is mounted onto the circuit board 3, the second channel 372 is located between the first channel 371 and the circuit board 3 in the vertical direction ZZ. With this configuration, the assembly (i.e., the electrical connector 10) formed by the sub-connector 100, the circuit board 200, and the component 300 can have a relatively high height in the vertical direction ZZ. This electrical connector 10 has a compact structure, suitable for assembly in the compact space of an electronic system, while achieving sufficient heat dissipation. In other words, the electrical connector 10 can meet the space and heat dissipation requirements of an electronic system. This electrical connector 10 is particularly suitable for meeting the physical requirements of the EDSFF standard (SFF-TA-1002). In some electronic systems, cooling fans can be provided to allow airflow through the circuit boards and electrical components of the electronic system. The second channel 372 can be used as an airflow channel to allow air to pass through it. Since an airflow channel is provided between the sub-connector 100 and the circuit board 3, the resistance of the electrical connector 10 to airflow is reduced, thereby improving heat dissipation performance. Furthermore, the formation of the second channel 372 reduces the weight of the component 300 and the electrical connector 10. Additionally, the component 300 reliably and securely supports the sub-connector 100 and the circuit board 200 above the circuit board 3, thereby improving the reliability of the connection between the electrical connector 10 and the circuit board 3.

[0144] When component 300 is mounted onto circuit board 3, the bottom wall 320 of component 300 is closer to the surface 3a of circuit board 3 in the vertical direction ZZ than the top wall 310. Component 300 may include a partition wall 380 located between the top wall 310 and the bottom wall 320 in the vertical direction ZZ. The partition wall 380 at least partially separates the first channel 371 and the second channel 372. The first channel 371 is located between the top wall 310 and the partition wall 380, and the second channel 372 is located between the partition wall 380 and the bottom wall 320.

[0145] In some embodiments, such as FIG. 4A As shown, the insulating housing 400 can be held within the first channel 371 by the top wall 310 and the partition wall 380 of the component 300. Specifically, as FIGS. 6A-6D As shown, the insulating housing 400 may include a first protrusion 405a projecting from the fifth surface 405 in the vertical direction ZZ and a second protrusion 406a projecting from the sixth surface 406 in the vertical direction ZZ. Although three first protrusions 405a and two second protrusions 406a are shown in the figure, it should be understood that the number of first protrusions 405a and second protrusions 406a is not limited thereto. The insulating housing 400 may include at least one first protrusion 405a and at least one second protrusion 406a. FIG. 9B and FIG. 9DAs shown, component 300 may include a first receiving groove 311 that is recessed into the top wall 310 in the vertical direction ZZ from the first channel 371 and extends in the horizontal direction XX. The number of first receiving grooves 311 corresponds to the number of first protrusions 405a of the insulating housing 400. FIG. 9B and FIG. 9D As shown, the component 300 can be recessed into the partition wall 380 in the vertical direction ZZ from the first channel 371 and extend into the second receiving groove 381 in the horizontal direction XX. The number of second receiving grooves 381 corresponds to the number of second protrusions 406a of the insulating housing 400.

[0146] The insulating housing 400 can be inserted into the first channel 371 in the lateral direction XX through the second opening 371b of the first channel 371. The first protrusion 405a is received in the corresponding first receiving groove 311 and engages with the end of the corresponding first receiving groove 311 (e.g., FIG. 4A As shown), and the second protrusion 406a is received in the corresponding second receiving groove 381 and engages with the end of the corresponding second receiving groove 381 to limit further insertion of the insulating housing 400 toward the first opening 371a in the lateral direction XX.

[0147] In some embodiments, such as FIGS. 6A-6D As shown, the insulating housing 400 may include a first latching member 405b disposed on the fifth surface 405 and a second latching member 406b disposed on the sixth surface 406. FIGS. 9B-9D As shown, component 300 may include a first recess 313 recessed into the top wall 310 from the first channel 371 and a second recess 323 recessed into the partition wall 380 from the first channel 371. When the first protrusion 405a and the second protrusion 406a engage with the ends of the first receiving groove 311 and the second receiving groove 381, respectively, the first latching member 405b engages in the first recess 313, and the second latching member 406b engages in the second recess 323 to restrict the retraction of the insulating housing 400 toward the second opening 371b in the lateral direction XX. Through the protrusion-receiving groove and latching member-recess configuration, component 300 can reliably hold the insulating housing 400 in the lateral direction XX, and thus reliably hold the sub-connector 100 and the circuit board 200. Furthermore, this configuration can improve the assembly efficiency of the electrical connector 10.

[0148] In one of these embodiments, the top wall 310 of the member 300 may have an opening 314 extending in the vertical direction ZZ to allow external access to and release of the first latch 405b engaged in the first recess 313, thereby allowing the insulating housing 400 to be withdrawn in the lateral direction XX toward the second opening 371b.

[0149] In some embodiments, when the insulating housing 400 is inserted into the first channel 371, the first protrusion 405a and the second protrusion 406a can slide along the corresponding first receiving groove 311 and the corresponding second receiving groove 381, respectively, to guide the movement of the insulating housing 400 in the lateral direction XX.

[0150] like FIG. 9B As shown, the first receiving groove 311 may include two sidewalls 311a and 311b that are opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction, and a bottom wall 311c extending between the two sidewalls 311a and 311b. FIG. 9A As shown, the second receiving groove 381 may include two sidewalls 381a and 381b opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction and a bottom wall 318c extending between the two sidewalls 381a and 381b. In some embodiments, a first protrusion 405a may engage with the two sidewalls 311a and 311b of the corresponding first receiving groove 311, and a second protrusion 406a may engage with the two sidewalls 381a and 381b of the corresponding second receiving groove 381 to restrict movement of the insulating housing 400 relative to the member 300 in the longitudinal direction YY. With this configuration, the member 300 can reliably hold the insulating housing 400 in the longitudinal direction YY, and thus reliably hold the sub-connector 100 and the circuit board 200. Furthermore, this configuration can improve the assembly efficiency of the electrical connector 10. The third surface 403 and the fourth surface 404 of the insulating housing 400 may be spaced apart from the first sidewall 350 and the second sidewall 360 of the member 300, respectively, so that air can flow through them, thereby helping to dissipate heat generated by the sub-connector 100. The insulating housing 400 may include heat dissipation holes (not shown) extending from the inside along the longitudinal direction YY through the third surface 403 and the fourth surface 404, respectively.

[0151] In some embodiments, the first protrusion 405a may engage with the bottom wall 311c of the first receiving groove 311, and the second protrusion 406a may engage with the bottom wall 318c of the second receiving groove 381 to restrict the movement of the insulating housing 400 relative to the member 300 in the vertical direction ZZ. With this configuration, the member 300 can reliably hold the insulating housing 400 in the vertical direction ZZ, thus reliably holding the sub-connector 100 and the circuit board 200. Furthermore, this configuration can improve the assembly efficiency of the electrical connector 10.

[0152] In some embodiments, such as FIGS. 5A-5CAs shown, the circuit board 200 can be connected to the sub-connector 100 before the sub-connector 100 is inserted into the first channel 371 of the member 300. Subsequently, the first edge 210 of the circuit board 200 can be inserted into the first channel 371 of the member 300 together with the sub-connector 100. The insulating housing 400 is accommodated and held within the first channel 371 of the member 300 as described above, thus the circuit board 200 can be held in place relative to the member 300 by the insulating housing 400. FIG. 4A As shown, the first edge 210 of the circuit board 200 is located within the first channel 371. FIGS. 2A-2D and FIG. 4A As shown, the second edge 220 of the circuit board 200 is located outside the component 300 and is aligned in the vertical direction ZZ with the openings of the second channel 372 (i.e., the third opening 372a and the fourth opening 372b). In other words, the second edge 220 of the circuit board 200 and the second channel 372 of the component 300 are at the same height in the vertical direction ZZ. With this configuration, the second channel 372 can guide the air flowing through it to the second edge 220 of the circuit board 200, that is, to the portion of the circuit board 200 that mates with the electrical connector 5 on the circuit board 3, to help dissipate heat generated at that mating portion. This configuration improves the heat dissipation performance of the electronic system 1.

[0153] like FIG. 3A , FIG. 3B and FIG. 4A As shown, the circuit board 200 may include a board body 201 having a first side 201a extending along a vertical direction ZZ, a second side 201b extending along a horizontal direction XX, and a corner 203. The first side 201a and the second side 201b intersect at the corner 203. A first edge portion 210 extends from the first side 201a along the horizontal direction XX, and a second edge portion 220 extends from the second side 201b along the vertical direction ZZ and extends beyond the first edge portion 210. Therefore, the first edge portion 210 and the second edge portion 220 extend from the board body 201 in orthogonal directions. The board body 201 of the circuit board 200 defines a principal plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction YY (i.e., parallel to the horizontal direction XX and the vertical direction ZZ), and the first edge portion 210 and the second edge portion 220 extend on this principal plane. The plate body 201 may include a third edge portion 205 extending from the plate body 201 in the vertical direction ZZ opposite to the second edge portion 220 and beyond the first edge portion 210. The third edge portion 205 may include two surfaces 205a and 205b that are opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction YY, and a third side 205c that extends between the two surfaces 205a and 205b in the transverse direction XX.

[0154] In some embodiments, the board body 201 of the circuit board 200 may be held by the member 300 to improve the mechanical reliability of the electrical connector 10. For example, when the electrical connector 10 is connected to the electrical connector 5 on the circuit board 3 or when the electrical connector 10 is separated from the electrical connector 5, the member 300 can provide support to the board body 201 of the circuit board 200 to reliably hold the circuit board 200 in place relative to the member 300.

[0155] In some embodiments, such as FIG. 9D As shown, the end of the partition wall 380 is recessed into the member 300 in the lateral direction XX relative to the second side 340, so as to leave a space 373 between the first channel 371 and the second channel 372 that connects them. FIGS. 9A-9D As shown, component 300 may include a shelf 390 disposed in the second channel 372. The shelf 390 may be spaced apart from the partition wall 380 in the vertical direction ZZ. The shelf 390 may divide the airflow in the second channel 372 into two parts, one part flowing toward the first edge 210 of the circuit board 200 and the other part flowing toward the second edge 220 of the circuit board 200.

[0156] like FIG. 4A As shown, when the first edge 210 of the insulating housing 400 and the circuit board 200 is inserted into the first channel 371, a section of the board body 201 including the first side 201a is located in the member 300 and extends from the first channel 371 through the space 373 into the second channel 372. The corner 203 is positioned in the second channel 372 and is supported by a shelf 390 in the vertical direction ZZ. Specifically, the shelf 390 supports a section of the second side 201b at the corner 203 in the vertical direction ZZ. With this configuration, the shelf 390 is able to provide support and restraint on one side of the board body 201 (i.e., at the corner 203) in the vertical direction ZZ.

[0157] In some embodiments, the member 300 may include a third receiving groove 315 that is recessed from the first channel 371 into the top wall 310 and extends in the lateral direction XX. For example... FIG. 9B and FIG. 9D As shown, the third receiving groove 315 and one of the first receiving grooves 311 may be the same receiving groove. It should be understood that this application is not limited thereto. The third receiving groove 315 may be an additional recess. The third receiving groove 315 may include two sidewalls opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction YY (i.e., sidewalls 311a and 311b in the figure) and a bottom wall extending between the two sidewalls (i.e., bottom wall 311c in the figure). FIG. 4A and FIG. 4BAs shown, at least a portion of the third edge 205 is received in the third receiving groove 315, such that the third side 205c engages with the bottom wall of the third receiving groove 315. With this configuration, the top wall 310 of the member 300 can provide support and restraint in the vertical direction ZZ on the other side of the plate body 201 (i.e., at the third side 205c).

[0158] Through the engagement between the shelf 390 and the second side 201b, and the engagement between the third side 205c of the third edge portion 205 and the bottom wall of the third receiving groove 315, the member 300 can reliably hold the plate body 201 in the vertical direction ZZ. This configuration can improve the mechanical reliability of the electrical connector 10.

[0159] It should be understood that, in other embodiments, the edge of the third edge portion 205 may be flush with the edge of the first edge portion 210 in the vertical direction ZZ. That is, the third side 205c of the third edge portion 205 may be flush with the first end portion 213 of the first edge portion 210. In this case, the third side 205c of the third edge portion 205 may engage with the surface of the top wall 310 of the member 300.

[0160] In some embodiments, such as FIGS. 9A-9C As shown, the shelf 390 may include a support surface 390a for supporting the portion of the second side 201b, and a pair of protrusions 390b and 390c projecting from the support surface 390a in a vertical direction ZZ. The protrusions 390b and 390c may each be in the form of ribs and extend in a transverse direction XX. The protrusions 390b and 390c are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction YY. FIG. 4B As shown, protrusions 390b and 390c can receive and hold corner portion 203 therebetween. This configuration provides support and restraint to the plate body 201 in the longitudinal direction YY, limiting movement of the plate body 201 relative to member 300 along the longitudinal direction YY. This configuration improves the mechanical reliability of the electrical connector 10.

[0161] In some embodiments, such as FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B As shown, when at least a portion of the third edge portion 205 is received in the third receiving groove 315, the two surfaces 205a and 205b of the third edge portion 205 respectively engage with the two sidewalls of the third receiving groove 315. This configuration provides support and restraint to the plate body 201 in the longitudinal direction YY, limiting movement of the plate body 201 relative to the member 300 along the longitudinal direction YY. This configuration improves the mechanical reliability of the electrical connector 10.

[0162] In some embodiments, such as FIG. 9Aand FIG. 9D As shown, the end of the partition wall 380 adjacent to the second side 340 may include a notch 383 recessed into the partition wall 380 from the space 373 along the lateral direction XX. FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B As shown, a portion of the first side edge 201a of the plate body 201 can be received in the recess 383 to restrict the movement of the plate body 201 relative to the member 300 in the longitudinal direction YY. This configuration provides support and restraint to the plate body 201 in the longitudinal direction YY, reliably holding the plate body 201 relative to the member 300. This configuration improves the mechanical reliability of the electrical connector 10.

[0163] In some embodiments, such as FIG. 9B and FIG. 9D As shown, component 300 may include a first protrusion 301 that protrudes vertically ZZ from the outer surface 320a of the bottom wall 320 and is configured for mounting on the surface 3a of the circuit board 3. The first protrusion 301 may be integrally formed with the bottom wall 320. FIG. 1 As shown, when component 300 is fixed to surface 3a of circuit board 3, the first protrusion 301 can separate the outer surface 320a of bottom wall 320 from surface 3a of circuit board 3 by a gap G. With this configuration, the space occupied by component 300 on circuit board 3 can be reduced, and the heat dissipation performance of electronic system 1 can be improved.

[0164] Due to the configuration of component 300, the mating port (slot 410) of electrical connector 10 can be positioned at a relatively high level. In some embodiments, such as FIG. 2E As shown, the vertical distance D from the midpoint 410a of the slot 410 in the vertical direction ZZ to the bottom surface 301a of the first protrusion 301 of the member 300 can be greater than 25 mm. For example, this vertical distance D can be 26.5 mm. In other embodiments, the distance from the midpoint 410a of the slot 410 to the outer surface 320a of the bottom wall 320 of the member 300 can be greater than 25 mm. For example, this vertical distance can be 26.5 mm.

[0165] In some embodiments, such as FIG. 9B and FIG. 9CAs shown, component 300 may include a second protrusion 302 projecting outward from a first sidewall 350 along a longitudinal direction YY, and a third protrusion 303 projecting outward from a second sidewall 360 along a longitudinal direction YY. The second protrusion 302 and the third protrusion 303 may be integrally formed with the first sidewall 350 and the second sidewall 360, respectively. Each of the second protrusion 302 and the third protrusion 303 includes a mounting hole 304 extending along a vertical direction ZZ for receiving a fastener (not shown) for securing component 300 to circuit board 3. Exemplarily, the mounting hole 304 may be a threaded hole, and the fastener may be a threaded fastener such as a bolt or screw. Circuit board 3 may include mating mounting holes (not shown) such as threaded holes or through holes. Fasteners may be inserted into mating mounting holes of circuit board 3 through corresponding mounting holes 304 of component 300. With this configuration, electrical connector 10 can be reliably and securely connected to circuit board 3.

[0166] In one of these embodiments, such as FIG. 9B and FIG. 9C As shown, the second protrusion 302 and the third protrusion 303 can be staggered relative to each other in the longitudinal direction YY. With this configuration, when multiple electrical connectors 10 are mounted on the circuit board 3, the protrusions of two adjacent electrical connectors 10 can be staggered relative to each other. In this way, multiple electrical connectors 10 can be arranged on the circuit board 3 at a high density to achieve a high-density, small-pitch connector layout.

[0167] FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B An electronic system 1' comprising a circuit board 3 and three electrical connectors 10 mounted on the circuit board 3 is schematically shown. FIG. 10B As shown, when three electrical connectors 10 are mounted on the circuit board 3, the three electrical connectors 10 are arranged in a row along the longitudinal direction YY, such that the slots 410 of the insulating housings 400 of the first electrical connector 10 face the same direction. Since the second protrusions 302 and third protrusions 303 of each electrical connector 10 are staggered relative to each other in the longitudinal direction YY, the protrusions 302 and 303 of every two adjacent electrical connectors 10 can be adjacent to each other and staggered. With this arrangement, the three electrical connectors 10 can be arranged on the circuit board 3 at a high density. The spacing P between two adjacent electrical connectors 10 can be less than 11 mm or less than 10 mm, for example, it can be 9.2 mm. The spacing P can refer to the distance between the longitudinal center lines (parallel to the vertical direction ZZ) of the slots 410 of two adjacent first electrical connectors 10.

[0168] Although the foregoing description indicates that the circuit board 200 is connected to the sub-connector 100 before the sub-connector 100 is inserted into the member 300, it should be understood that this application is not limited thereto. In other embodiments, the circuit board 200 may also be inserted into and connected to the sub-connector 100 after the sub-connector 100 is inserted into the member 300. The member 300 may hold the circuit board 200 and the insulating housing 400 relative to each other in a fixed position.

[0169] It should be understood that although the sub-connector 100, circuit board 200, and component 300 are described above as parts of the sub-connector 100, this is for convenience only. In other embodiments, the sub-connector 100 and circuit board 200 may form an electronic assembly, or the sub-connector 100 and component 300 may form an electronic assembly.

[0170] It should also be understood that although the insulating housing 400 and the plurality of conductive terminals 510 are described above as components of the sub-connector 100, this is for ease of description only. In other embodiments, the concept of the sub-connector 100 may be omitted.

[0171] It should be understood that the terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," "fifth," and "sixth" are used only to refer to an A1156.70940CN01

[0172] An element, component, or part is distinguished from another element, component, or part, but such elements, components, and parts should not be limited by such terms.

[0173] The present application has been described in detail above with reference to specific embodiments. Obviously, the above description and the embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings should be understood as exemplary and not as limiting the present application. Those skilled in the art can make various modifications or alterations without departing from the spirit of the present application, and such modifications or alterations do not depart from the scope of the present application.

Claims

1. An electrical connector, characterized in that, The electrical connector includes: Insulating housing; A plurality of conductive terminals are held within the insulating housing, each conductive terminal including a first mating end, a second mating end opposite to the first mating end, and an intermediate portion connecting the first mating end and the second mating end; and Circuit board, the circuit board comprising: The first edge extending in the lateral direction; A plurality of first conductive pads are arranged on the first edge portion along a vertical direction perpendicular to the lateral direction; A second edge portion extending along the vertical direction and beyond the first edge portion; and A plurality of second conductive pads are arranged along the lateral direction on the second edge portion; The second mating end of each of the plurality of conductive terminals is disposed on the corresponding first conductive pad among the plurality of first conductive pads.

2. The electrical connector according to claim 1, characterized in that: The second mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals are arranged in two rows, each extending along the vertical direction, the two rows being opposite to each other and spaced apart in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical and transverse directions. as well as The first edge portion includes two surfaces opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction, and the plurality of first conductive pads are disposed on the two surfaces. The first edge portion is positioned between the two rows of the second mating end such that each of the two surfaces faces the corresponding row of the two rows.

3. The electrical connector according to claim 2, characterized in that: The insulating housing includes a first surface and a first arm and a second arm that extend from the first surface along the lateral direction and are spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction. The second mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals extend from the first surface and are located between the first arm and the second arm. The first arm includes a first groove, and the second arm includes a second groove. The first groove and the second groove are arranged opposite to each other in the vertical direction and extend along the lateral direction, respectively. as well as The first edge portion includes a first end and a second end opposite to each other in the vertical direction, the first end being received in the first groove and the second end being received in the second groove, such that the first edge portion is held therebetween by the first arm portion and the second arm portion.

4. The electrical connector according to claim 3, characterized in that: Each of the first groove in the first arm and the second groove in the second arm includes a first wall and a second wall facing each other in the longitudinal direction; Each of the first arm and the second arm further includes a channel extending from the outside of the corresponding first wall along the longitudinal direction through the first wall into the corresponding groove; as well as The electrical connector also includes a plurality of locking elements, each of which is inserted into the channel of the corresponding arm and extends into the corresponding groove to engage with the first edge.

5. The electrical connector according to claim 4, characterized in that: The circuit board further includes a plurality of locking pads disposed on the first edge portion, each of the plurality of locking pads facing and aligned with the channel of the corresponding arm in the first arm portion and the second arm portion, and a corresponding locking member being soldered to the locking pad; and / or The second mating end of each of the plurality of conductive terminals is soldered to the corresponding first conductive pad; and / or Each of the first arm portion and the second arm portion further includes a protrusion extending from the second wall of the corresponding groove along the longitudinal direction into the corresponding groove, the protrusion and the first wall clamping the corresponding ends of the first end portion and the second end portion therebetween.

6. The electrical connector according to claim 3, characterized in that: The insulating housing also includes a second surface opposite to the first surface in the lateral direction and a slot recessed into the insulating housing from the second surface in the lateral direction. The slot is elongated in the vertical direction. The first mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals are bent into the slot and arranged in two rows, each extending in the vertical direction, the two rows being opposite to each other and spaced apart from each other across the slot in the longitudinal direction. and / or Each of the plurality of first conductive pads is electrically connected to a corresponding second conductive pad among the plurality of second conductive pads through a corresponding conductive structure of the circuit board.

7. The electrical connector according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: The circuit board is a first circuit board; and The electrical connector also includes a component that houses and retains the insulating housing therein, and the component is configured for mounting onto a second circuit board.

8. The electrical connector according to claim 7, characterized in that: The component includes a first channel and a second channel, each extending along the lateral direction, the first channel and the second channel being arranged along the vertical direction and at least partially separated from each other in the vertical direction; The insulating housing is accommodated and held within the first channel of the component; as well as When the component is mounted on the second circuit board, the vertical direction is perpendicular to the surface of the second circuit board, and the second channel is located between the first channel and the second circuit board in the vertical direction.

9. The electrical connector according to claim 8, characterized in that: The component includes a top wall and a bottom wall opposite to each other in the vertical direction, and a partition wall located between the top wall and the bottom wall in the vertical direction, the partition wall at least partially separating a first channel and a second channel, the first channel being located between the top wall and the partition wall, and the second channel being located between the partition wall and the bottom wall; and The insulating housing is held in the first channel by the top wall and the partition wall.

10. The electrical connector according to claim 9, characterized in that: The insulating housing includes a first end face and a second end face that are opposite to each other in the vertical direction, and a first protrusion and a second protrusion that protrude from the first end face and the second end face respectively in the vertical direction; The component further includes a first receiving groove recessed into the top wall along the vertical direction from the first channel and extending along the horizontal direction, and a second receiving groove recessed into the partition wall along the vertical direction from the first channel and extending along the horizontal direction; The component also includes a first side and a second side opposite to each other in the lateral direction, the first channel and the second channel each extending from the first side along the lateral direction through the component to the second side, the first channel including a first opening at the first side and a second opening at the second side; as well as The insulating housing is inserted into the first channel from the second opening along the lateral direction, such that the first protrusion is received in the first receiving groove and engages with the end of the first receiving groove, and the second protrusion is received in the second receiving groove and engages with the end of the second receiving groove, thereby limiting further insertion of the insulating housing toward the first opening along the lateral direction.

11. The electrical connector according to claim 10, characterized in that: The insulating housing further includes a first fastener disposed on the first end face and a second fastener disposed on the second end face; The component further includes a first recess recessed into the top wall from the first channel and a second recess recessed into the partition wall from the first channel; as well as When the first protrusion and the second protrusion engage with the ends of the first receiving groove and the second receiving groove, respectively, the first latching member engages in the first recess and the second latching member engages in the second recess to restrict the retraction of the insulating housing toward the second opening along the lateral direction.

12. The electrical connector according to claim 9, characterized in that: The first edge of the first circuit board is located within the first channel; and The second edge of the first circuit board is located outside the member and is perpendicular to it in the vertical direction. The opening of the second channel is aligned.

13. The electrical connector according to claim 12, characterized in that: The first circuit board includes a board body having a corner, a first side extending along the vertical direction, and a second side extending along the horizontal direction. The first side and the second side intersect at the corner, a first edge extends from the first side along the horizontal direction, and a second edge extends from the second side along the vertical direction. The component also includes a first side and a second side opposite to each other in the lateral direction, the first channel and the second channel each extending from the first side along the lateral direction through the component to the second side, the first channel including a first opening at the first side and a second opening at the second side; The end of the partition wall is recessed into the member in the lateral direction relative to the second side, so as to leave a space between the first channel and the second channel to connect them; The insulating housing and the first edge of the first circuit board are inserted into the first channel through the second opening, and a section of the board body including the first side is located in the member and extends from the first channel through the space into the second channel, and the corner is positioned in the second channel; as well as The component also includes a shelf disposed in the second channel, the shelf supporting a portion of the second side at the corner in the vertical direction.

14. The electrical connector according to claim 13, characterized in that: The shelf includes a support surface for supporting the portion of the second side and a pair of protrusions projecting from the support surface along the vertical direction, the pair of protrusions being spaced apart from each other in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical and transverse directions, and receiving and holding the corner therebetween.

15. The electrical connector according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that: The plate body further includes a third edge portion extending from the plate body along the vertical direction opposite to the second edge portion and beyond the first edge portion; The component further includes a third receiving groove recessed into the top wall from the first channel and extending along the lateral direction; and At least a portion of the third edge portion is received in the third receiving slot.

16. The electrical connector according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that: The end of the partition wall includes a notch recessed into the partition wall from the space along the lateral direction, and a portion of the first side of the plate body is received in the notch.

17. The electrical connector according to claim 9, characterized in that: When the component is mounted onto the second circuit board, the outer surface of the bottom wall faces the surface of the second circuit board; as well as The component further includes a first protrusion that protrudes from the outer surface of the bottom wall along the vertical direction and is configured to be placed on the surface of the second circuit board to space the outer surface of the bottom wall from the surface of the second circuit board.

18. The electrical connector according to claim 17, characterized in that: The component further includes a first sidewall and a second sidewall, the first sidewall and the second sidewall being opposite to each other in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction and the transverse direction, and each extending along the vertical direction between the top wall and the bottom wall; as well as The component further includes a second protrusion projecting outward from the first sidewall along the longitudinal direction, and a third protrusion projecting outward from the second sidewall along the longitudinal direction, each of the second and third protrusions including a mounting hole extending along the vertical direction for receiving a fastener for securing the component to the second circuit board, the second and third protrusions being offset from each other in the longitudinal direction.

19. The electrical connector according to claim 17, characterized in that: The first protrusion of the component includes a bottom surface configured to contact the surface of the second circuit board. The component also includes a first side and a second side opposite to each other in the lateral direction. The first channel and the second channel each extend from the first side along the lateral direction through the component to the second side. The first channel includes a first opening at the first side and a second opening at the second side. The insulating housing further includes a second surface and a slot recessed into the insulating housing from the second surface along the transverse direction. The slot is elongated in the vertical direction. The first mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals are bent into the slot and arranged in two rows, each extending along the vertical direction. The two rows are opposite to each other and spaced apart from each other across the slot in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to both the vertical and transverse directions. The insulating housing is inserted into the first channel from the second opening along the transverse direction, such that the slot is exposed at the first opening. as well as The vertical distance from the midpoint of the slot along the vertical direction to the bottom surface of the first protrusion of the member is 26.5 mm.

20. The electrical connector according to claim 7, characterized in that: The component is a metal casing; and / or The second edge portion of the first circuit board is configured for insertion into another electrical connector mounted on the second circuit board, such that each of the plurality of second conductive pads mates with a corresponding conductive terminal of the other electrical connector; and / or Each of the plurality of first conductive pads is electrically connected to a corresponding second conductive pad among the plurality of second conductive pads through a corresponding conductive structure of the first circuit board.

21. An electrical connector, characterized in that, The electrical connector includes: Insulating housing; A plurality of conductive terminals are held in the insulating housing, each conductive terminal including a first mating end, a second mating end opposite to the first mating end, and an intermediate portion connecting the first mating end and the second mating end; A component comprising a first channel and a second channel each extending in a transverse direction, the first channel and the second channel being arranged in a vertical direction perpendicular to the transverse direction, the component accommodating and retaining the insulating housing within the first channel; and A circuit board, the circuit board including a first edge portion, a plurality of first conductive pads on the first edge portion, a second edge portion, and a plurality of second conductive pads on the second edge portion; Wherein, the first edge portion is positioned within the first channel, and the second mating end of each of the plurality of conductive terminals is disposed on the corresponding first conductive pad among the plurality of first conductive pads; The second edge portion is located outside the member and is aligned with the opening of the second channel in the vertical direction.

22. The electrical connector according to claim 21, characterized in that: The component includes a top wall and a bottom wall opposite to each other in the vertical direction, and a partition wall located between the top wall and the bottom wall in the vertical direction, the partition wall at least partially separating the first channel and the second channel in the vertical direction, the first channel being located between the top wall and the partition wall, and the second channel being located between the partition wall and the bottom wall; and The insulating housing is held in the first channel by the top wall and the partition wall.

23. The electrical connector according to claim 22, characterized in that: The insulating housing includes a first end face and a second end face that are opposite to each other in the vertical direction, and a first protrusion and a second protrusion that protrude from the first end face and the second end face respectively in the vertical direction; The component further includes a first receiving groove recessed into the top wall along the vertical direction from the first channel and extending along the horizontal direction, and a second receiving groove recessed into the partition wall along the vertical direction from the first channel and extending along the horizontal direction; The component also includes a first side and a second side opposite to each other in the lateral direction, the first channel and the second channel each extending from the first side along the lateral direction through the component to the second side, the first channel including a first opening at the first side and a second opening at the second side; as well as The insulating housing is inserted into the first channel from the second opening along the lateral direction, such that the first protrusion is received in the first receiving groove and engages with the end of the first receiving groove, and the second protrusion is received in the second receiving groove and engages with the end of the second receiving groove, thereby limiting further insertion of the insulating housing toward the first opening along the lateral direction.

24. The electrical connector according to claim 23, characterized in that: The insulating housing further includes a first fastener disposed on the first end face and a second fastener disposed on the second end face; The component further includes a first recess recessed into the top wall from the first channel and a second recess recessed into the partition wall from the first channel; as well as When the first protrusion and the second protrusion engage with the ends of the first receiving groove and the second receiving groove, respectively, the first latching member engages in the first recess and the second latching member engages in the second recess to restrict the retraction of the insulating housing toward the second opening along the lateral direction.

25. The electrical connector according to claim 22, characterized in that: The circuit board includes a board body having a corner, a first side extending along the vertical direction, and a second side extending along the horizontal direction, the first side and the second side intersecting at the corner, a first edge extending from the first side along the horizontal direction, and a second edge extending from the second side along the vertical direction and beyond the first edge. The component also includes a first side and a second side opposite to each other in the lateral direction, the first channel and the second channel each extending from the first side along the lateral direction through the component to the second side, the first channel including a first opening at the first side and a second opening at the second side; The end of the partition wall is recessed into the member in the lateral direction relative to the second side, so as to leave a space between the first channel and the second channel to connect them; The insulating housing and the first edge of the circuit board are inserted into the first channel from the second opening, and a section of the board body including the first side is located in the member and extends from the first channel through the space into the second channel, and the corner is positioned in the second channel; as well as The component also includes a shelf disposed in the second channel, the shelf supporting a portion of the second side at the corner in the vertical direction.

26. The electrical connector according to claim 25, characterized in that: The shelf includes a support surface for supporting the portion of the second side and a pair of protrusions projecting from the support surface along the vertical direction, the pair of protrusions being spaced apart from each other in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical and transverse directions, and receiving and holding the corner therebetween.

27. The electrical connector according to claim 25, characterized in that: The plate body further includes a third edge portion extending from the plate body along the vertical direction opposite to the second edge portion and beyond the first edge portion; The component also includes a receiving groove that is recessed into the top wall from the first channel and extends along the lateral direction; as well as At least a portion of the third edge portion is received in the receiving slot.

28. The electrical connector according to claim 25, characterized in that: The end of the partition wall includes a notch recessed into the partition wall from the space along the lateral direction, and a portion of the first side of the plate body is received in the notch.

29. The electrical connector according to any one of claims 21 to 28, characterized in that: The circuit board is a first circuit board; and The component is configured to be mounted onto a second circuit board, wherein when the component is mounted onto the second circuit board, the vertical direction is perpendicular to the surface of the second circuit board, and the second channel is located between the first channel and the second circuit board in the vertical direction.

30. The electrical connector according to claim 29, characterized in that: The component includes a top wall and a bottom wall that are opposite to each other in the vertical direction; When the component is mounted onto the second circuit board, the outer surface of the bottom wall faces the surface of the second circuit board; as well as The component further includes a first protrusion that protrudes from the outer surface of the bottom wall along the vertical direction and is configured to be placed on the surface of the second circuit board to space the outer surface of the bottom wall from the surface of the second circuit board.

31. The electrical connector according to claim 30, characterized in that: The component further includes a first sidewall and a second sidewall, the first sidewall and the second sidewall being opposite to each other in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction and the transverse direction, and each extending along the vertical direction between the top wall and the bottom wall; as well as The component further includes a second protrusion projecting outward from the first sidewall along the longitudinal direction, and a third protrusion projecting outward from the second sidewall along the longitudinal direction, each of the second and third protrusions including a mounting hole extending along the vertical direction for receiving a fastener for securing the component to the second circuit board, the second and third protrusions being offset from each other in the longitudinal direction.

32. The electrical connector according to any one of claims 21 to 28, characterized in that: The second mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals are arranged in two rows extending along the vertical direction, the two rows being opposite to each other and spaced apart in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical and transverse directions, the first edge portion including two surfaces opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction, and the plurality of first conductive pads being disposed on the two surfaces, the first edge portion being positioned between the two rows of the second mating ends such that each of the two surfaces faces the corresponding row of the two rows; and / or The insulating housing includes a first surface and a first arm and a second arm extending from the first surface along the transverse direction and spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction. The second mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals extend from the first surface and are located between the first arm and the second arm. The first edge is held therebetween by the first arm and the second arm; and / or The insulating housing further includes a second surface and a slot recessed into the insulating housing from the second surface along the transverse direction. The slot is elongated in the vertical direction. The first mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals are bent into the slot and arranged in two rows, each extending along the vertical direction. The two rows are opposite to each other and spaced apart from each other across the slot in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to both the vertical and transverse directions. and / or The second mating end of each of the plurality of conductive terminals is soldered to the corresponding first conductive pad; and / or The plurality of first conductive pads are arranged along the vertical direction on the first edge portion, and the plurality of second conductive pads are arranged along the horizontal direction on the second edge portion; and / or The component is a metal casing; and / or Each of the plurality of first conductive pads is electrically connected to a corresponding second conductive pad among the plurality of second conductive pads through a corresponding conductive structure of the circuit board.

33. An electronic system, characterized in that, The electronic system includes: First circuit board; and A first electrical connector, the first electrical connector comprising: An insulating housing, the insulating housing including a slot recessed in the insulating housing in the transverse direction and elongated in the vertical direction perpendicular to the transverse direction; A plurality of conductive terminals are held within the insulating housing, each conductive terminal including a first mating end, a second mating end opposite to the first mating end, and an intermediate portion connecting the first mating end and the second mating end, the first mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals being exposed in the slot; and The component includes a first channel and a second channel, each extending along the lateral direction, the first channel and the second channel being arranged along the vertical direction; The component houses and holds the insulating housing within the first channel, and the component is fixed to the surface of the first circuit board such that the vertical direction is perpendicular to the surface of the first circuit board, and the second channel is located between the first channel and the first circuit board in the vertical direction.

34. The electronic system according to claim 33, characterized in that: The first electrical connector includes a second circuit board, the second circuit board including a first edge portion, a plurality of first conductive pads on the first edge portion, a second edge portion, and a plurality of second conductive pads on the second edge portion; The first edge portion is positioned within the first channel, and the second mating end of each of the plurality of conductive terminals is disposed on the corresponding first conductive pad among the plurality of first conductive pads; as well as The second edge is located outside the member and aligned with the opening of the second channel in the vertical direction. The second edge is configured to mate with a second electrical connector mounted on the first circuit board.

35. The electronic system according to claim 34, characterized in that: The component includes a top wall and a bottom wall opposite to each other in the vertical direction, and a partition wall located between the top wall and the bottom wall in the vertical direction, the partition wall at least partially separating the first channel and the second channel in the vertical direction, the first channel being located between the top wall and the partition wall, and the second channel being located between the partition wall and the bottom wall; and The insulating housing is held in the first channel by the top wall and the partition wall.

36. The electronic system according to claim 35, characterized in that: The second circuit board includes a board body having a corner, a first side extending along the vertical direction, and a second side extending along the horizontal direction, the first side and the second side intersecting at the corner, a first edge extending from the first side along the horizontal direction, and a second edge extending from the second side along the vertical direction and beyond the first edge. The component also includes a first side and a second side opposite to each other in the lateral direction, the first channel and the second channel each extending from the first side along the lateral direction through the component to the second side, the first channel including a first opening at the first side and a second opening at the second side; The end of the partition wall is recessed into the member in the lateral direction relative to the second side, so as to leave a space between the first channel and the second channel to connect them; The first edge of the insulating housing and the second circuit board is inserted into the first channel from the second opening, and a section of the board body including the first side is located in the member and extends from the first channel through the space into the second channel, and the corner is positioned in the second channel; as well as The component also includes a shelf disposed in the second channel, the shelf supporting a portion of the second side at the corner in the vertical direction.

37. The electronic system according to claim 36, characterized in that: The shelf includes a support surface for supporting the portion of the second side and a pair of protrusions projecting from the support surface along the vertical direction, the pair of protrusions being spaced apart from each other in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical and transverse directions, and receiving and holding the corner therebetween.

38. The electronic system according to claim 36, characterized in that: The plate body further includes a third edge portion extending from the plate body along the vertical direction opposite to the second edge portion and beyond the first edge portion; The component further includes a third receiving groove recessed into the top wall from the first channel and extending along the lateral direction; and At least a portion of the third edge portion is received in the third receiving slot.

39. The electronic system according to any one of claims 33 to 38, characterized in that: The component includes a top wall and a bottom wall opposite to each other in the vertical direction, the outer surface of the bottom wall facing the surface of the first circuit board; as well as The component further includes a first protrusion that protrudes from the outer surface of the bottom wall along the vertical direction and is placed on the surface of the first circuit board to space the outer surface of the bottom wall from the surface of the first circuit board.

40. The electronic system according to claim 39, characterized in that: The component further includes a first sidewall and a second sidewall, the first sidewall and the second sidewall being opposite to each other in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical direction and the transverse direction, and each extending along the vertical direction between the top wall and the bottom wall; The component further includes a second protrusion protruding outward from the first sidewall along the longitudinal direction, and a third protrusion protruding outward from the second sidewall along the longitudinal direction, the second protrusion and the third protrusion each including a mounting hole extending along the vertical direction, the second protrusion and the third protrusion being offset from each other in the longitudinal direction; as well as The electronic system also includes fasteners disposed in the mounting holes and connected to the first circuit board to secure the component to the first circuit board.

41. The electronic system according to claim 40, characterized in that: The electronic system includes a plurality of first electrical connectors, the components of the plurality of first electrical connectors being fixed on the first circuit board and arranged in a row along the longitudinal direction such that the slots of the insulating housings of the plurality of first electrical connectors face the same direction; as well as The second protrusion of one of every two adjacent components in the row and the third protrusion of the other component are arranged adjacent to each other and staggered in the longitudinal direction, and the distance between the longitudinal center lines of the slots of every two adjacent first electrical connectors is 9.2 mm.

42. The electronic system according to any one of claims 34 to 38, characterized in that: The second mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals are arranged in two rows extending along the vertical direction, the two rows being opposite to each other and spaced apart in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical and transverse directions, the first edge portion including two surfaces opposite to each other in the longitudinal direction, and the plurality of first conductive pads being disposed on the two surfaces, the first edge portion being positioned between the two rows of the second mating ends such that each of the two surfaces faces the corresponding row of the two rows; and / or The insulating housing includes a first surface and a first arm and a second arm extending from the first surface along the lateral direction and spaced apart from each other in the vertical direction. The second mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals extend from... The first surface extends out and is located between the first arm and the second arm, with the first edge portion held therebetween by the first arm and the second arm; and / or The insulating housing further includes a second surface, the slot being recessed into the insulating housing from the second surface along the transverse direction, the first mating ends of the plurality of conductive terminals being bent into the slot and arranged in two rows, each extending along the vertical direction, the two rows being opposite to each other and spaced apart from each other across the slot in a longitudinal direction perpendicular to the vertical and transverse directions; and / or The second mating end of each of the plurality of conductive terminals is soldered to the corresponding first conductive pad; and / or The plurality of first conductive pads are arranged along the vertical direction on the first edge portion, and the plurality of second conductive pads are arranged along the horizontal direction on the second edge portion; and / or The component is a metal casing; and / or Each of the plurality of first conductive pads is electrically connected to a corresponding second conductive pad among the plurality of second conductive pads through a corresponding conductive structure of the second circuit board.

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