Gang type coaxial connector assembly

Abstract

To provide a gang type coaxial connector assembly having an interface in which density of port intervals is enhanced and labor and skill required when many connections are repeated are reduced.SOLUTION: A mated connector assembly includes: a first connector assembly, comprising a plurality of first coaxial connectors mounted on a mounting structure and a first shell; and a second connector assembly, comprising a plurality of second coaxial connectors, each of the second coaxial connectors connected with each corresponding coaxial cable and mated with each corresponding first coaxial connector. The second connector assembly includes a second shell surrounding the second coaxial connectors, the second shell defining a plurality of electrically isolated cavities, each of the second coaxial connectors being located in each corresponding cavity. In a mated condition, the second shell is located inside the first shell.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Related Applications This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 652,526, filed April 4, 2018, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 677,338, filed May 29, 2018, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 693,576, filed July 3, 2018, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 804,260, filed February 12, 2019, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates generally to electrical cable connectors, and more particularly to ganged connector assemblies. [Background technology]

[0003] Coaxial cables are commonly used in RF communication systems, and coaxial cable connectors can be applied to terminate coaxial cables, for example, in communication systems where a high level of precision and reliability is required.

[0004] The connector interface provides a connection / disconnection function between a cable terminated with a connector having a desired connector interface and a corresponding connector having a mating connector interface attached to a device or attached to a further cable. Some coaxial connector interfaces utilize a retainer (often provided as a threaded coupling nut) that draws the connector interface pair into secure electrical and mechanical engagement when a coupling nut rotatably held on one connector is threaded onto the other connector.

[0005] Alternatively, the connection interface can also have blind-mate features, which allow for push-on interconnections where physical access to the connector body is limited and / or the interconnecting parts are coupled in a manner that makes precise alignment difficult or not cost-effective (e.g., a connection between an antenna and a transceiver coupled together via a rail system or the like). To accommodate misalignment, blind-mate connectors can be provided with lateral and / or longitudinal spring action to accommodate a limited degree of insertion misalignment. Blind-mate connectors can be particularly well-suited for use in "ganged" connector configurations where multiple connectors (e.g., four connectors) are attached to one another and simultaneously mated to a mating connector.

[0006] Due to limited space on devices such as antennas or radios, and the increasing number of ports required thereon, there may be a desire for an interface that provides denser port spacing and reduces the effort and skill required to make many repeated connections. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In a first aspect, an embodiment of the present invention relates to a mating connector assembly including a first connector assembly and a second connector assembly. The first connector assembly includes a plurality of first coaxial connectors mounted on a mounting structure and a first shell. The second connector assembly includes a plurality of second coaxial connectors, each of which is connected to a corresponding coaxial cable and mated to a corresponding first coaxial connector. The second connector assembly includes a second shell surrounding the second coaxial connectors, the second shell defining a plurality of electrically isolated cavities, each of which is disposed within a corresponding cavity. In a mated state, the second shell is positioned within the first shell.

[0008] In a second aspect, an embodiment of the present invention relates to a mating connector assembly including a first connector assembly and a second connector assembly. The first connector assembly includes a plurality of first coaxial connectors mounted on a mounting structure. The second connector assembly includes a plurality of second coaxial connectors, each of the second coaxial connectors connected to a corresponding coaxial cable and mated to a corresponding first coaxial connector. The second connector assembly includes a shell surrounding the second coaxial connectors, the shell defining a plurality of electrically isolated cavities, each of the second coaxial connectors disposed within a corresponding cavity. In a mated state, the shell abuts against the mounting structure, and each of the first coaxial connectors is mated to a corresponding second coaxial connector.

[0009] In a third aspect, an embodiment of the present invention relates to a mating connector assembly including a first connector assembly and a second connector assembly. The first connector assembly includes a plurality of first coaxial connectors and a first shell, each of the first coaxial connectors being connected to a corresponding first coaxial cable, the first shell defining a plurality of electrically isolated first cavities, each of the first coaxial connectors being disposed within the corresponding first cavities. The second connector assembly includes a plurality of second coaxial connectors and a second shell, each of the second coaxial connectors being connected to a corresponding second coaxial cable, the second shell defining a plurality of electrically isolated second cavities, each of the second coaxial connectors being disposed within the corresponding second cavities. In a mated state, the second shell is located within the first shell, and each of the first coaxial connectors is mated with a corresponding second coaxial connector.

[0010] In a fourth aspect, an embodiment of the present invention relates to a shell for an assembly of ganged connectors, the shell including a base, a plurality of towers extending from the base, each tower being circumferentially discontinuous and having a gap, each tower defining a peripheral cable cavity configured to receive a peripheral cable through the gap, and a plurality of transition walls, each transition wall extending between two adjacent towers, the transition walls and the gaps defining a central cavity configured to receive a central cable. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of an assembly of mating ganged coaxial connectors according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a top view of the mating assembly of FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional top view of the mating assembly of FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the mating assembly of FIG. 1 showing one mated pair of connectors. [Figure 5] 5 is a front perspective view of the ganged instrument connector assembly of the assembly of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 6] 6 is a rear perspective view of the ganged instrument connector assembly of FIG. 5. FIG. [Figure 7] 7 is a rear perspective view of the mounting plate of the ganged instrument connector assembly of FIG. 5. FIG. [Figure 8] 8 is a rear perspective view of the outer shell of the ganged instrument connector assembly of FIG. 5. FIG. [Figure 9] 9A and 9B are greatly enlarged, partial perspective views showing exemplary mounting screws and their corresponding holes in the mounting plate of the ganged instrument connector assembly of FIG. [Figure 10]10 is a perspective view showing the ganged cable connector assembly of FIG. 1 inserted into the shell of the ganged instrument connector of FIG. 5. FIG. [Figure 11] 11 is a greatly enlarged perspective view showing a latch on the housing of the ganged cable connector assembly of FIG. 10. FIG. [Figure 12] 12 is a greatly enlarged plan view showing the latch of FIG. 11 inserted into a slot on the shell of FIG. 8. FIG. [Figure 13] 13 is a greatly enlarged partial cross-sectional top view of the housing and forward end of the outer conductor body of the cable connector of FIG. 10. FIG. [Figure 14] 14 is a greatly enlarged partial cross-sectional top view of the cable connector of FIG. 10 showing the housing and an intermediate portion of the outer conductor body. [Figure 15] 15 is a greatly enlarged partial cross-sectional top view of the cable connector of FIG. 10 showing the housing and rear end of the outer conductor body. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a rear perspective view of an assembly of mating ganged coaxial connectors according to an additional embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] 17 is a front perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 16 with the ganged device connector removed from the ganged cable connector. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional front view of the assembly of FIG. [Figure 19] 19 is a cross-sectional top view of the ganged cable connector in the assembly of FIG. 16. FIG. [Figure 20] 20 is a cross-sectional view of one cable connector from above in FIG. 19. FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram showing sixteen of the assemblies of FIG. 16, illustrating how adjacent assemblies interlock. [Figure 22]FIG. 22 is a perspective view of another assembly of mating ganged connectors according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 23] 23 is a cross-sectional top view of the mating assembly of FIG. 22. FIG. [Figure 24] 24 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional top view of the mating connector of FIG. 22. FIG. [Figure 25] 25 is a cross-sectional front view of the mating connector of FIG. 22. FIG. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of an assembly of a mated ganged assembly connector and an unmated instrument connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of an assembly of a mated ganged assembly connector and an unmated instrument connector assembly according to an additional embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 27, illustrating how the mated assemblies can be secured together with a screwdriver. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of an assembly of a mated ganged assembly connector and an unmated instrument connector assembly according to a further embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 30] FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view showing another assembly of mating ganged assembly connectors according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which the spring used to provide axial float relative to the connectors of the cable connector assembly is shown in a relaxed position. [Figure 31] FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view of the assembly of FIG. 30, with the spring shown in a compressed position. [Figure 32A] FIG. 32A is a perspective view of another mating ganged assembly connector assembly having a toggle assembly for securing the cable connector assembly to the equipment connector assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 32B]FIG. 32B is a side view of the toggle assembly shown in FIG. 32A with the latch in its unlocked position. [Figure 32C] FIG. 32C is a side view of the toggle assembly shown in FIG. 32A with the latch in its locked position. [Figure 33] FIG. 33 is a cross-sectional view of another assembly of mating ganged assembly connectors having quarter-turn screws used to secure the cable connector assembly to the equipment connector assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 34] FIG. 34 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the assembly of FIG. [Figure 35] 35 is an enlarged perspective view showing mounting holes in a mounting plate of the instrument connector assembly of FIG. 33. FIG. [Figure 36] 36 is an enlarged, opposite perspective view of the mounting hole of FIG. 35. FIG. [Figure 37] 37A to 37C are sequential views showing how the quarter-turn screw of FIG. 33 is inserted into the mounting hole of FIGS. 35 and 36 and fixed. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional view of an assembly of mating ganged connectors according to an embodiment of the present invention, illustrating how a locking screw is captured by a flap within the housing of the cable connector assembly. [Figure 39] FIG. 39 is a side view of a connector body for use in an assembly of mating connectors according to an embodiment of the present invention, shown after machining but before drawing and cutting. [Figure 40] FIG. 40 is a side view showing the connector body of FIG. 39 after drawing. [Figure 41] FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional side view of the connector body of FIG. 39 after drawing and cutting. [Figure 42] FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional top view of a mating connector pair suitable for use in a mating ganged assembly, the connectors being shown in an unmated state. [Figure 42A] FIG. 42A is a cross-sectional top view of a mating connector pair suitable for use in a mating ganged assembly according to another embodiment, the connectors being shown in an unmated state. [Figure 42B] FIG. 42B is an enlarged, partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interface in the assembly of FIG. 42A shown in an unmated state. [Figure 42C] FIG. 42C is an enlarged, partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the outer connector body of the assembly of FIG. 42A shown in an unmated state. [Figure 43] 43 is a cross-sectional view from above showing the connector of FIG. 42 in a mated state. [Figure 43A] FIG. 43A is a cross-sectional top view of the mating connector pair of FIG. 42A, with the connectors shown in a mated state. [Figure 43B] FIG. 43B is an enlarged, partial cross-sectional view showing a portion of the interface in the assembly of FIG. 43A shown in a mated state. [Figure 43C] FIG. 43C is an enlarged, partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the outer connector body of the assembly of FIG. 43A shown in a mated state. [Figure 44] FIG. 44 is a perspective view of an assembly of mating ganged connectors according to an additional embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 45] 45 is a front view of the instrument connector assembly of the assembly of FIG. 44. FIG. [Figure 46] 46 is a front perspective view of the shell of the cable connector assembly of the assembly of FIG. 44. FIG. [Figure 47] FIG. 47 is a rear perspective view of the shell of FIG. 46 with two cables inserted inside the shell. [Figure 48] 48 is a perspective view of an insert for use with the shell of FIG. 46. FIG. [Figure 49]49 is a perspective view with cross-section of a cable connector assembly used in the assembly of FIG. 44, showing the insert of FIG. 48 inserted into the shell of FIG. 46. FIG. [Figure 50] FIG. 50 is an enlarged perspective view of the central cavity in the shell of FIG. [Figure 51] 51 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the cable connector assembly of FIG. 49. FIG. [Figure 52] FIG. 52 is a perspective view of the assembly of FIG. 44, with the shell shown as transparent for clarity. [Figure 53] 53 is a partial side cross-sectional view of the mating assembly of FIG. [Figure 54] 54 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional side view of the mating assembly of FIG. 53. FIG. [Figure 55] FIG. 55 is a cross-sectional view showing an assembly of mating connectors according to a further embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 56] FIG. 56 is an enlarged, partial cross-sectional view of the assembly of FIG. [Figure 57] FIG. 57 is a cross-sectional view of a mating connector pair in an assembly of mating connectors according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 58] 58 is an end perspective view of a shell in a ganged cable connector assembly used in the assembly of FIG. 57. FIG. [Figure 59] FIG. 59 is a cross-sectional view of a mating connector pair in an assembly of mating connectors according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 60] 60 and 61 are end views of one connector of the cable connector assembly and the shell of the cable connector assembly of FIG. 58, showing the anti-rotation feature of the shell. [Figure 61] Same as above. [Figure 62]FIG. 62 is a perspective view showing a connector in a ganged cable connector assembly according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 63] 63 is an end view showing the connector of FIG. 62 inserted into the shell of FIG. 64. FIG. [Figure 64] FIG. 64 shows a shell in a cable connector assembly using the connector of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which specific embodiments of the invention are shown. However, the invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments shown and described herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. It will also be understood that the embodiments disclosed herein can be combined in any manner and / or in any combination to provide many additional embodiments.

[0013] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this disclosure have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The terminology used in the following description is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present invention. As used in this disclosure, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, when a component (e.g., a device, circuit, etc.) is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another component, it will be understood that the component may be directly connected or coupled to the other component or that intervening components may be present. In contrast, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another component, there are no intervening components.

[0014] Referring now to the drawings, an assembly of mating ganged connectors, generally designated 100, is shown in Figures 1-15. Assembly 100 includes a ganged device connector assembly 105 that includes four coaxial device connectors 110, and a ganged cable connector assembly 140 that includes four coaxial cable connectors 150. These components are described in more detail below.

[0015] 3 and 4, each of the device connectors 110 includes an inner contact 112, a dielectric spacer 114 circumferentially surrounding a portion of the inner contact 112, and an outer conductor body 116 circumferentially surrounding the dielectric spacer 114 and electrically insulated from the inner contact 112. An O-ring 117 is mounted in a groove in the middle portion of the outer conductor body 116.

[0016] A flat plate 120 provides a common mounting structure for the device connectors 110. As can be seen in FIG. 7, the plate 120 includes four aligned holes 121, each surrounded by a recess 122 located on its rear side. The recesses 122 are continuous with one another. Each recess 122 has two or three pockets 123 extending radially outward through the thickness of the plate 120. Additionally, ten holes 130 are located near the periphery of the plate 120.

[0017] 3-5, a shell 124 is attached to and extends forward from the plate 120. The shell 124 is typically formed from a polymeric material and is generally scalloped, with each "scallop" 125 partially surrounding one of the holes 121. The shell 124 is held in place by posts 128 extending radially outward from the rear edge of the scallops 125 and terminating in a ring 126 (see FIG. 8), which is received in a recess 122 in the plate 120 and the post 128 is received in a pocket 123. Barbs 116a on the outer conductor body 116 help hold the shell 120 in place. As can be seen in FIGS. 1, 2, and 8, the two end-most scallops 125 include latching openings 138.

[0018] 8, 9A, and 9B, ten access openings 134 are located on the rear edge of scallop 125, each aligned with a corresponding hole 130. Screws 136 are inserted through holes 130 (with access provided by access openings 134) to attach plate 120 to electronic equipment, such as a remote radio head. The locations of access openings 134 and holes 130 allow plate 120 (and thus instrument connector assembly 110) to be fixedly attached to electronic equipment in a relatively small space.

[0019] The shell 124 may be formed by injection molding, and in particular may be injection molded with the mounting plate as an insert so that the ring 126 and post 128 may be integrally formed in place during the molding process.

[0020] 3 and 4, cable connector assembly 140 includes four cables 142, each having an inner conductor 143, a dielectric layer 144, an outer conductor 145 (in this case, the outer conductor is corrugated, but may also be smooth, braided, etc.), and a jacket 146. Each of cables 142 is connected to one of connectors 150.

[0021] Each connector 150 includes an inner contact 152, dielectric insulators 154a, 154b, and an outer conductor body 156. The inner contact 152 is electrically connected to the inner conductor 143 via a press-fit joint, and the outer conductor body 156 is electrically connected to the outer conductor 145 via a solder joint 148. A spring basket 158 ​​having fingers 158a is disposed within a cavity in the outer conductor body 156.

[0022] A shell 160 circumferentially surrounds each outer conductor body 156 of the connector 150, electrically insulating the outer conductor bodies from each other within the cavity 165. A shoulder 161 on the shell 160 is positioned to abut against a shoulder 157 on the outer conductor body 156 (see FIG. 14). A strain relief 162 covers the interface between the cable 142 and the connector 150, and a barb 156b on the outer conductor body 156 helps hold the strain relief 162 in place. As can be seen from FIGS. 4 and 13-15, the inner diameter of the shell 160 is slightly larger than the outer diameter of the outer conductor body 156 to allow for gaps g1 and g2. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 13, the free end of the outer conductor body 156 extends slightly farther toward the mating connector 110 than the shell 160. FIG. 15 shows that a gap g3 exists between the shell 160 and the strain relief 162.

[0023] 3 and 4, the connectors 110, 150 are mated by inserting the cable connector assembly 140 into the instrument connector assembly 105. More specifically, the shell 160 is inserted into the shell 120 with each cavity 165 positioned within a corresponding scallop 125. This action aligns each connector 150 of the cable connector assembly 140 with each connector 110 of the instrument connector assembly 105. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the inner contacts 152 of the connector 150 receive the inner contacts 112 of the connector 110, and the free end of the outer conductor body 116 is received in the gap between the outer conductor body 156 and the spring fingers 158a of the spring basket 158. Notably, spring fingers 158a exert radial pressure onto outer conductor body 116, rather than axially "bottoming" it, as is characteristic of some connector interface configurations, such as the 4.3 / 10, 4.1 / 9.5, and 2.2 / 5 interfaces. Cable connector assembly 140 is maintained in place relative to instrument connector assembly 140 via latches 164 on shell 160 engaging latch openings 138.

[0024] 13, the free end of the outer conductor body 156 does not reach the plate 120, thereby forming a gap g4 therebetween. If axial movement of the connectors 150 of the cable connector assembly 140 relative to their respective mating connectors 110 is required during mating (e.g., due to manufacturing tolerances and the like), the presence of gaps g3 and g4 allows such movement. Additionally, the presence of gaps g1 and g2 between the outer conductor body 156 and the shell 160 allows the connectors 150 to move radially relative to the connectors 110, if such movement is required.

[0025] Additionally, as mentioned above, the shell 160 on the cable connector assembly 140 electrically isolates the connectors 150 from each other, thereby electrically isolating each mated pair of connectors 110, 150 from adjacent pairs. This configuration allows the mated connectors 110, 150 to be closely spaced (thereby saving space in the overall connector assembly 100) without sacrificing electrical performance.

[0026] The illustrated assembly 100 depicts connectors 110, 150 that meet the specifications of a "2.2 / 5" connector and may be particularly suitable for such connectors since these connectors are typically small and used in tight spaces.

[0027] 16-21, there is shown another embodiment of an assembly of mating ganged connectors generally designated 200. Assembly 200 is similar to assembly 100 in that an instrument connector assembly 205 having four connectors 210 is mated to a cable connector assembly 240 having four connectors 250. Differences between assemblies 105, 205 and assemblies 140, 240 are described below.

[0028] The instrument connector assembly 205 includes a plate 220 having two recesses 224 on its top and bottom edges, and two ears 222 having holes 223 extending from the top and bottom edges, with each ear 222 vertically aligned with a corresponding recess 224 on the opposite edge. The ears 222 and recesses 224 are located between adjacent holes 230 in the plate 220. The cable connector assembly 240 includes a shell 260 with four ears 262, each having a hole 263 aligned with the ears 222 and holes 223. Screws 266 are inserted into the holes 263 and 223 to maintain the assemblies 205, 240 mated.

[0029] As can be seen in Figure 21, the plates 220 are configured to nest with adjacent plates 220. Figure 21 shows a schematic of 16 assemblies 200 arranged in a 4x4 array, with the ears 222 of one plate 220 received within the recesses 224 of an adjacent plate 220. This configuration allows adjacent assemblies 200 to be closely packed together, thereby conserving space.

[0030] 22-25, assembly 300 is illustrated therein. Assembly 300 includes first cable connector assembly 305 and second cable connector assembly 340. Connector 310 of first cable connector assembly 305 is similar to connector 110 described above, and connector 350 of second cable connector assembly 340 is similar to connector 150 described above. However, like connector 350, connector 310 is arranged in a square 2x2 pattern. Connector 310 is held in place via strain relief 320, spacer 322, and housing 324. Similarly, connector 350 and cable 345 are held in place via strain relief 352, spacer 354, and housing 356 having panel 358. Strain reliefs 320, 352 and spacers 322, 354 allow connectors 310, 350 to "float" relative to each other to facilitate interconnection. As shown in FIG. 24 , when assembly 300 is fully mated, the free end of housing 324 of first cable connector assembly 305 contacts panel 358 of the housing of second cable connector assembly 340, thereby providing an axial stop to prevent fingers 358 a of spring basket 358 of connector 350 from "bottoming" against outer conductor body 316 of connector 310.

[0031] 25, in some embodiments, the housings 324, 352 of the connector assemblies 305, 340 include a slightly rounded upper portion (compared to a generally straight lower portion). This difference serves as an orientation feature to ensure that the assemblies 305, 340 are properly oriented relative to one another for mating, which further ensures that the connectors 310, 350 are each aligned to mate with the correct mating connector.

[0032] 26-29, additional embodiments of ganged connectors are illustrated therein. FIG. 26 shows an assembly 400 comprising an instrument connector assembly 405 consisting of four connectors 410 mounted in a 2x2 array on a mounting plate 420, and a cable connector assembly 440 consisting of four connectors (not visible in FIG. 26) and four cables 442. The connectors 410 are similar to the connector 110 described above, and the connectors of the cable connector assembly 440 are similar to the connector 140 described above. A strain relief 462 surrounds and insulates the connectors of the cable connector assembly 440, and a shell 460 extends forward of the strain relief 462. A mounting hole 464 is centrally located in the strain relief 462 and the shell 460. The shell 460 also includes an access opening 466 at its free end positioned to receive a screw for the mounting plate 420.

[0033] 26, cable connector assembly 440 mates with instrument connector assembly 405, with the connector of cable connector 440 mating with counterpart connector 410. Assemblies 405, 440 are maintained in mated condition by screws or other fasteners inserted through mounting holes 464 and into mounting holes 426 of mounting plate 420. Shell 460 abuts against the surface of mounting plate 420.

[0034] It should be noted that, when formed from a resilient polymer or elastomeric material such as TPE, shell 460 can provide additional strain relief and can aid in "centering" the individual connectors of cable connector assembly 440. The resilience of the material biases the individual connectors toward a "center" position, making them easier to align with their respective mating connectors 405. This effect can also aid in centering the entire cable connector assembly 440, since centering two of the connectors of cable connector assembly 440 can aid in centering the entire assembly 440. Additionally, shell 460 can also allow the individual connectors to pivot or move if necessary for alignment.

[0035] Referring now to FIG. 27, another embodiment of assembly 500 is illustrated therein. Assembly 500 is similar to assembly 400, except that instrument assembly 505 includes a connector 550 mounted on mounting plate 520 and similar to connector 440, and cable connector assembly 540 includes a connector similar to connector 410. As a result, mounting plate 520 can be made slightly smaller than mounting plate 420, thereby conserving space on the instrument. FIG. 28 illustrates how assemblies 505, 540 may be secured together using a screwdriver used to drive a fastening screw through centrally located holes in mounting plate 520 and cable connector assembly 540. FIG. 38 illustrates an alternative configuration 500′, in which a fastening screw 572 is used to connect instrument assembly 505′ to cable connector assembly 540′. Fastening screw 572 is held in place by a flap 574 surrounding mounting hole 564. The head of the fastening screw 572 is larger than the mounting hole 564, so that after the head of the fastening screw 572 passes through the mounting hole 564 (the material of the shell 560' is sufficiently elastic to stretch to allow the head of the fastening screw 572 to pass through), the flap 574 traps the fastening screw 572 in place. Alternatively, the head of the screw 572 may be captured within the mounting hole 564 itself via an interference fit.

[0036] 29, there is shown an assembly 600 including an instrument connector assembly 605 and a cable connector assembly 640. In this embodiment, a coupling nut 666 that fits against a threaded ring 622 on a mounting plate 620 is utilized to secure the assemblies 605, 640 in mating relation.

[0037] 30 and 31, there is shown another embodiment of an assembly generally designated 700. Assembly 700 is similar to assembly 500 described above, except that connectors 710 mounted within cable connector assembly 740 include a helical spring 780 surrounding each connector 750. Spring 780 extends between the inner surface of shell 760 and a protrusion 782 on outer conductor body 716. Spring 780 allows connector 710 to float axially relative to shell 760.

[0038] As a potential alternative, spring 780 may be replaced with a Belleville washer, which may be a separate component, or may be insert molded into shell 760 (in which case the washer may include spiked or spoked edges to improve mechanical integrity at the joint). Spring 780 may also be replaced with an elastomeric spacer or the like.

[0039] 32A-32C, another embodiment of an assembly is illustrated therein and generally designated by the numeral 800. Assembly 800 may be similar to either assemblies 400, 500, but includes a toggle assembly 885 having an L-shaped latch 886 attached to shell 860 of cable connector assembly 840 at pivot 887 and a pin 888 attached to mounting plate 820 of instrument connector assembly 805. A handle 889 extends generally parallel to a finger 890 on latch 886 and generally perpendicular to an arm 891 extending between finger 890 and pivot 887. Finger 890 includes a recess 895 adjacent arm 891. Handle 889 includes a slot 896 (see FIG. 32A).

[0040] The latch 886 can be pivoted via the handle 889 into engagement with the pin 888 to lock the assemblies 805, 840 together. When the finger 890 first contacts the pin 888, the handle 889 is pivoted relatively easily toward the latched position. Once the latch 886 is pivoted sufficiently so that the finger 890 moves relative to the pin 888, causing the pin 888 to slide into the recess 895, the assembly 800 is fully locked by the toggle assembly 885. Because the handle 889 is generally horizontal with respect to the pin 888 and generally perpendicular to the line between the pivot axis 887 and the recess 895 in the locked position, a significant mechanical force is required on the handle 889 to move the latch 886 out of the recess 895 and back to the unlocked position. In the illustrated embodiment, the force required on handle 889 to move latch 886 to the locked position may be less than 27 lb-ft (36.6 Nm), while the force required to move handle 889 from the locked position may be 50 lb-ft (67.8 Nm) or more, and may even require the use of a screwdriver, wrench, or other lever inserted into slot 896 to generate sufficient force. Thus, once locked, assembly 800 tends to stay locked.

[0041] 33-37C, another embodiment of an assembly is illustrated therein and generally designated by the numeral 900. Assembly 900 is similar to assembly 500, except that a quarter-turn screw 990 is used to secure cable connector assembly 940 to instrument connector assembly 905. As shown in FIG. 35, mounting hole 991 in mounting plate 920 is configured to receive protruding flange 992 of quarter-turn screw 990. FIG. 36 shows that on the opposite side of mounting plate 920, mounting hole 991 is surrounded by a circular recess 993 with two additional radially extending recesses 994. 37A-37C show that a quarter-turn screw 990 can be inserted into a mounting hole 991 (FIG. 37A) and driven to rotate a quarter turn (shown mid-rotation in FIG. 37B) so that a flange 992 is received in a recess 994 (FIG. 37C).

[0042] 38, the assembly 500′ shown therein also includes a metal tube 595 through which the fastening screw 572 can be inserted, the metal tube 595 providing a positive stop to prevent overtightening of the fastening screw 572. The assembly 500′ also shows a groove 596 on the inner surface of the shell 560′ that can capture a rim 597 on the housing 524′ to assist in securing the assemblies 505′, 540′.

[0043] Referring now to FIGS. 39-41, an outer conductor body suitable for use in a mating ganged assembly is illustrated therein and generally designated by the numeral 1056. The outer conductor body 1056 includes a spring-washer type structure and operation that may replace the spring 780 shown in FIGS. 30 and 31. As shown in FIG. 39, the machined outer conductor body has radially extending fins 1058. The fins 1058 are drawn or otherwise formed into a frusto-conical configuration (shown as 1058′ in FIG. 40). The inner diameter of the fins 1058′ is then cut from the remainder of the outer conductor body 1056 (see FIG. 41). In this configuration, the fins 1058′ can function as springs that allow axial adjustment of the outer conductor body 1056.

[0044] The process described above can provide a Belleville washer type spring that may be preferable to a separate washer by allowing the inner diameter of the fins 1058' (which may be a critical dimension for achieving the desired spring action) to closely match the outer diameter of the outer conductor body 1056.

[0045] 42 and 43, there are shown mating connectors 1105, 1150 for another assembly, generally designated 1100. Connectors 1105, 1150 are similar to the connectors in assembly 700 described above, and include associated springs 780 to allow axial float. However, outer conductor body 1156 of connector 1150 includes a sloped surface 1157 forward of shoulder 1158, with spring 1150 captured between shoulders 1182, 1158. Shell 1160 includes a rim 1161 with a sloped inner surface 1162.

[0046] As can be seen in Figure 42, in the open position, the rim 1161 abuts against the forward face of the shoulder 1158. As shown in Figure 43, when the connector 1150 is moved into a mated state with the connector 1105, the forward face of the rim 1161 compresses the spring 1180 against the shoulder 1182. The angled faces 1157, 1162 interact during mating, gradually centering and radially aligning the connectors 1105, 1150. In some embodiments, there is a slight interference fit between the angled faces in the closed position.

[0047] This configuration can offer distinct performance advantages. When both the electrical contacts (inner and outer conductors) of the mating connectors are radial, as is the case with the 4.3 / 10, 2 / 2.5, and Nex10 interfaces, the axial clamping force between the mating connectors is not directly required for electrical contact but is only required to provide mechanical stability. Specifically, the axial clamping force between the mating connectors is required to keep the axes of the two mating connectors aligned, thereby preventing relative movement of the electrical contact surfaces due to bending, vibration, and the like. Such relative axial movement can directly cause PIM and can also generate debris that further contributes to PIM. (Experiments have demonstrated this behavior for the 4.3 / 10 interface.)

[0048] The two spaced clamping or interference portions along the outer conductor body 1156 in the closed position of FIG. 43 provide a means for creating this desired axial stability. Additionally, the angled surfaces 1157, 1162 initially allow radial float, gradually guide the axis of the floating connector (i.e., connector 1150) into alignment with the fixed connector (i.e., connector 1105), and then hold it in a fixed position when fully advanced. The angle of the angled surfaces 1157, 1162 can be adjusted to provide the required mechanical advantage based on the strength of the latching mechanism used. In some embodiments, this configuration may not require any axial float, in which case the spring 1180 may be omitted. The interference area can be increased, if desired, to increase stability at the expense of radial float.

[0049] 42A-42C and 43A-43C, another assembly generally designated 1100' is illustrated therein. In this embodiment, axial float is provided by a spring 1180' similar to the spring shown for assembly 1100. However, radial float is controlled differently by the inner and outer diameters of the outer connector bodies 1116', 1154' at their interface, the outer diameter of the rear end of the outer connector body 1154', and the angled transition surface 1155'. As shown in FIGS. 42A-42C, in the unmated state, the connector 1150' is able to float axially and radially due to the spring 1180'. However, in the mated state of FIGS. 43A-43C , mating of the outer connector bodies 1116′, 1154′ tends to radially align the connector 1150′, and as it floats rearward, the angled transition surface 1155′ radially aligns the rearward end of the outer connector body 1154. When this occurs, however, there is still an opportunity for axial float as the outer connector body 1154′ moves rearward. The clearance at the ends of the outer conductor body 1154′ is sufficiently minimal that this interaction can be used to maintain mating without other external means. (Indeed, those skilled in the art will recognize that this concept can be used with a single connector pair and is not limited to ganged connectors as illustrated herein.) Also, as noted above, in some embodiments, the spring 1180′ may be omitted when the resilience of the shell 1160′ can provide sufficient resilience to allow any required axial float.

[0050] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the assembly configurations described above may vary. For example, while the connectors are shown as being either "in-line" or in a rectangular M x N array, other configurations, such as circular, hexagonal, staggered, or the like, may be used. Also, while each assembly is shown as having four pairs of mating connectors, fewer or more connectors may be used in each assembly. An example assembly having five pairs of connectors is shown in FIGS. 44-54, generally designated 1200, and includes an instrument connector assembly 1205 having five connectors 1210 and a cable connector assembly 1240 having five connectors 1250 connected to five cables 1242. As shown in FIGS. 46 and 47, the connectors 1210 and 1250 are arranged in a cross-shaped pattern, with each connector 1210, 1250 surrounded by four other connectors 1210, 1250, spaced 90 degrees from one another. One potential problem that can arise in this configuration is the proximity of the connectors: for larger cables and connectors, the wall thickness of the material surrounding the cavities is often too thin, and there may not be enough space between the connectors 1210 to allow each connector 1250 to have its own cavity as shown in FIG. 26 (either as separate shells or as a single shell with four cavities).

[0051] This drawback can be overcome by the use of a shell 1260, shown in Figures 46-54. The shell 1260 has a generally square footprint with an outer rim 1262 surrounding a base 1261. Four towers 1263 extend from the base 1261. Each tower 1263 defines a peripheral cavity 1267 but is discontinuous in that it includes a radially inward gap 1264. Each tower 1263 includes a recess 1265 at one end, with a lip 1265a extending radially inward from the forward end of the recess 1265 (see Figures 53 and 54). A transition wall 1269 spans adjacent towers 1263, thereby effectively forming a central cavity 1266 by the transition wall 1269 and the gap 1264. Each of the transition walls 1269 includes a recess 1268 (see Figure 50).

[0052] 48, an annular insert 1270 is illustrated therein. The insert 1270 is discontinuous, having a gap 1271 in a main wall 1273. Four blocks 1274 having arcuate outer surfaces 1275 extend radially outward from the main wall 1273. A snap projection 1276 extends radially outward from the main wall 1273 between each pair of adjacent blocks 1274.

[0053] The structure of assembly 1240 can be understood with reference to Figures 47, 49-51, 53, and 54. A terminated cable 1242 having a connector 1250 attached to its end is inserted through central cavity 1266. The cable 1242 is then forced radially outward through one of the gaps 1264 and into the corresponding peripheral cavity 1267, with tower 1263 being sufficiently flexible to allow flexing to allow cable 1240 to pass through gap 1264. Connector 1250 is positioned relative to shell 1260 such that the rearward end of outer body 1252 of connector 1250 is received within recess 1265 and captured by lip 1265a (see Figures 53 and 54). This process is repeated three more times until all four peripheral cavities 1267 are filled (see FIG. 47, which shows two cables 1240 in place within shell 1260).

[0054] Next, the fifth terminal cable 1242 is threaded through the central cavity 1266, and the connector 1250 is positioned relative to the shell 1260. The insert 1270 is slid over the cable 1242 (i.e., the cable 1242 passes through the gap 1271 in the insert 1270) and oriented so that the block 1274 fits between the transition walls 1269. The insert 1270 is then slid into the central cavity 1266, along with the cable 1242, until the snap projection 1276 snaps into the recess 1265 (see FIG. 49 ). This interaction locks the final (middle) cable 1242 in place. The cable connector assembly 1240 can then be mated to the instrument connector assembly 1205, as shown in FIG. 52 .

[0055] It can be appreciated that the above-described configuration, with four cables serving as the "corners" of a "square" and a fifth cable located in the center of the "square," can provide space-related advantages to the assembly. In particular, cables can be arranged in this manner in a smaller footprint than similar cables arranged in a circular pattern. Similarly, if the same footprint area is used, the illustrated "square" arrangement can include larger cables while still providing performance advantages (such as improved attenuation).

[0056] It will also be appreciated that the assembly 1240 may be formed with four cables 1242 (each residing in a peripheral cavity 1267) and with the central cavity 1266 filled with a circular (rather than annular) insert.

[0057] 55 and 56, another assembly generally designated 1300 is illustrated therein. Assembly 1300 is similar to assembly 1200 and includes an instrument connector assembly 1305 having connector 1310 and a cable connector assembly 1340 having connector 1350 and shell 1360. Cable connector assembly 1340 includes two O-rings 1380, 1382 recessed in outer conductor body 1356 of connector 1350 to provide a seal against outer conductor body 1316 of connector 1310. Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 57 and 58, assembly 1400 includes instrument connector assembly 1405 and cable connector assembly 1440, where cable connector assembly 1440 provides a seal via one O-ring 1480 positioned similarly to O-ring 1380 and a second O-ring 1485 positioned between outer conductor body 1456 and shell 1460. In these examples, the O-rings are positioned to provide two separate seals between the assemblies to ensure that water does not seep into the electrical contact area between the outer conductor bodies of the connectors. As another alternative, assembly 1500 is similar to assembly 1400, but includes molded-in seal protrusion 1590 that is part of shell 1560 rather than O-ring 1485.

[0058] 60 and 61, the shell 1460 of the cable connector assembly 1440 shown in FIG. 58 has a cavity 1467 with a generally hexagonal shaped portion 1468, but with chamfered corners 1468a between the sides 1468b of the "hexagon." Stated another way, the portion 1468 has twelve sides: six long sides 1468b and six short sides 1468a. As shown in FIGS. 60 and 61, this configuration can prevent the connector 1450 from over-rotating within the cavity 1467 (which could damage the cable and / or create debris that could adversely affect performance) while still allowing a similar amount of radial float.

[0059] As another example addressing the desire for some radial float of the connector while limiting twist, connector assembly 1600 is shown in Figures 62-64. In this embodiment, a connector 1650 of a cable connector assembly 1640 has teeth 1669 on its outer conductor body 1654, and a shell 1660 has corresponding recesses 1670. (In the embodiment illustrated herein, the connector 1650 has six teeth 1669 and the shell 1660 has six recesses 1670, although more or fewer teeth / recesses may be included.) This configuration also reduces the amount of twist between the connector 1650 and the shell 1660, which may protect the cable and prevent undesirable debris generation, while allowing some radial float.

[0060] Those skilled in the art will also recognize that the manner in which mating assemblies may be secured together for mating may be varied so that different types of fastening features may be used. For example, while fastening features may include the numerous latches, screws, and coupling nuts described above, fastening features may alternatively include bolts and nuts, press fits, detents, bayonet-style "quick lock" mechanisms, and the like.

[0061] The foregoing is illustrative of the present invention and should not be construed as limiting thereof. While several exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been described, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications can be made in the exemplary embodiments without substantially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the present invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention as defined in the claims. The present invention is defined by the following claims, including equivalents of the claims therein. A part or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but not limited to, the following supplementary notes. [Appendix 1] 1. A mating connector assembly comprising: a first connector assembly including a plurality of first coaxial connectors mounted on a mounting structure and a first shell; a second connector assembly including a plurality of second coaxial connectors, each of the second coaxial connectors being connected to a corresponding coaxial cable and mated with a corresponding first coaxial connector; the second connector assembly includes a second shell surrounding the second coaxial connectors, the second shell defining a plurality of electrically isolated cavities, each of the second coaxial connectors being disposed within a corresponding cavity; In a mated state, the second shell is located inside the first shell. [Appendix 2] 2. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the first shell is formed from a polymeric material and is captured on the mounting structure via injection molding. [Appendix 3] 3. The connector assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first shell includes a plurality of access openings and the mounting structure includes a plurality of mounting holes, each mounting hole being accessible through a corresponding access opening. [Appendix 4] A connector assembly described in any one of appendix 1 to 3, wherein the first shell and the second shell include fastening features that secure the first connector assembly and the second connector assembly in the mated state. [Appendix 5] 5. The connector assembly of claim 4, wherein the fastening feature includes a latch and a latch opening. [Appendix 6] 5. The connector assembly of claim 4, wherein the fastening feature includes a plurality of holes in the mounting structure and a plurality of holes in the second shell, the assembly further including screws inserted into the holes in the mounting structure and the holes in the second shell. [Appendix 7] A connector assembly as described in any one of appendix 1 to 6, wherein each of the cavities has an inner diameter, and each of the second coaxial connectors has an outer diameter larger than the inner diameter of the cavity, thereby allowing the second coaxial connectors to move radially relative to the second shell. [Appendix 8] 8. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein each of the second coaxial connectors includes an outer conductor body and a spring basket having spring fingers arranged radially inward from the outer conductor body, and each of the first coaxial connectors includes an outer conductor body that engages with the spring fingers. [Appendix 9] 9. The connector assembly of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the mounting structure includes a first edge and a second edge positioned opposite each other, each of the first edge and the second edge including at least one recess and at least one protruding ear configured to nest with the at least one recess of an adjacent mounting plate. [Appendix 10] 10. The connector assembly of claim 9, wherein each ear includes a mounting hole, and the second shell includes ears on opposite edges having mounting holes aligned with the mounting holes of the mounting structure. [Appendix 11] 11. The connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the second connector assembly includes a strain relief covering a joint between the coaxial cable and the second coaxial connector. [Appendix 12] 1. A mating connector assembly comprising: a first connector assembly including a plurality of first coaxial connectors mounted on a mounting structure; a second connector assembly including a plurality of second coaxial connectors, each of the second coaxial connectors being connected to a corresponding coaxial cable and mated with a corresponding first coaxial connector; the second connector assembly includes a shell surrounding the second coaxial connectors, the shell defining a plurality of electrically isolated cavities, each of the second coaxial connectors being disposed within a corresponding cavity; In a mated state, the shell abuts against the mounting structure, and each of the first coaxial connectors is mated with a corresponding second coaxial connector. [Appendix 13] 13. The connector assembly of claim 12, wherein the shell includes a plurality of access openings and the mounting plate includes a plurality of mounting holes, each mounting hole being accessible through a corresponding access opening. [Appendix 14] 14. The connector assembly of claim 12 or 13, wherein the shell and the mounting structure include fastening features that secure the first connector assembly and the second connector assembly in the mated state. [Appendix 15] 15. The connector assembly of claim 14, wherein the fastening feature includes a hole in the mounting plate and a hole in the shell, and a screw is inserted into the hole in the shell and the hole in the mounting structure, thereby securing the first assembly and the second assembly in the mated state. [Appendix 16] 15. The connector assembly of claim 14, wherein the fastening feature includes a threaded ring on the mounting structure and a coupling nut on the second connector assembly. [Appendix 17] 17. The connector assembly of any one of appendixes 12 to 16, wherein each of the second coaxial connectors includes an outer conductor body and a spring basket having spring fingers arranged radially inward from the outer conductor body, and each of the first coaxial connectors includes an outer conductor body that engages with the spring fingers. [Appendix 18] 18. The connector assembly of claim 12, wherein each of the first coaxial connectors includes an outer conductor body and a spring basket having spring fingers arranged radially inward from the outer conductor body, and each of the second coaxial connectors includes an outer conductor body that engages with the spring fingers. [Appendix 19] 1. A mating connector assembly comprising: a first connector assembly including a plurality of first coaxial connectors and a first shell, each of the first coaxial connectors being connected to a corresponding first coaxial cable, the first shell defining a plurality of electrically isolated first cavities, and each of the first coaxial connectors being disposed within a corresponding first cavity; a second connector assembly including a plurality of second coaxial connectors and a second shell, each of the second coaxial connectors being connected to a corresponding second coaxial cable, the second shell defining a plurality of electrically isolated second cavities, and each of the second coaxial connectors being disposed within a corresponding second cavity; In a mated state, the second shell is positioned inside the first shell, and each of the first coaxial connectors is mated with a corresponding second coaxial connector. [Appendix 20] 20. The mating connector assembly of claim 19, wherein the first shell and the second shell each include a protrusion that ensures proper orientation of the first and second assemblies when mated. [Appendix 21] 21. The mating assembly of claim 20, wherein a plurality of springs each engage with a respective one of the second coaxial connectors and the second shell, thereby providing axial and radial float between the respective one of the second coaxial connectors and the second shell. [Appendix 22] 22. The fitting assembly of claim 21, wherein the spring is a helical spring. [Appendix 23] 22. The fitting assembly of claim 21, wherein the spring is a Belleville washer type spring. [Appendix 24] 22. The mating assembly of claim 21, wherein each of the second coaxial connectors includes an outer conductor body having an angled surface, and the second shell includes a second angled surface, the angled surfaces engaging each other when mated, thereby providing axial stability to the mated assemblies. [Appendix 25] 1. A shell for an assembly of ganged connectors, comprising: With the base, a plurality of towers extending from the base, each tower being circumferentially discontinuous and having a gap, each tower defining a peripheral cable cavity configured to receive a peripheral cable through the gap; a plurality of transition walls, each of the transition walls extending between two adjacent towers; The transition wall and the gap define a central cavity configured to receive a central cable. [Appendix 26] 26. The shell of claim 25, further comprising an annular insert inserted into the central cavity, the insert configured to grip the central cable within the central cavity. [Appendix 27] 27. The shell of claim 26, wherein the annular insert includes a block that fits within the gap between the walls. [Appendix 28] 28. The shell of claim 27, wherein the block has an arc-shaped radially outward surface. [Appendix 29] 29. The shell of any one of clauses 26-28, wherein the insert includes engagement features that mate with features on the walls to secure the insert between the walls. [Appendix 30] 30. The shell of any one of clauses 26 to 29, wherein the annular insert is discontinuous. [Appendix 31] 31. The shell of any one of appendixes 25 to 30, wherein the plurality of towers is four towers, and the base is substantially square. [Appendix 32] 32. The shell of claim 31, wherein the peripheral cavity and the central cavity define a cross-shaped arrangement. [Appendix 33] 33. The shell of any one of clauses 25 to 32 in combination with a plurality of peripheral cables, each of the peripheral cables being received within a corresponding peripheral cavity. [Appendix 34] 34. The shell of any one of clauses 25-33, further comprising a central cable received within the central cavity. [Appendix 35] 13. The mating connector assembly of claim 12, wherein the second connector includes a first anti-rotation feature that engages with a second anti-rotation feature on the shell, thereby preventing rotation of the second connector relative to the shell when mated. [Appendix 36] 36. The mating connector assembly of claim 35, wherein the first anti-rotation feature is a plurality of teeth extending radially outward from the second connector, and the second anti-rotation feature is a plurality of recesses that receive the plurality of teeth. [Appendix 37] 36. The mating connector assembly of claim 35, wherein the first and second anti-rotation features are configured to allow radial floating of the connector relative to the shell. [Appendix 38] 15. The mating connector assembly of claim 14, wherein the fastening feature includes a toggle assembly having a pin on the mounting structure and a latch pivotally connected to the shell, the latch engaging the pin to lock the mating assembly in place. [Appendix 39] 39. The mating connector assembly of claim 38, wherein the latch includes a finger that engages the pin and an arm that is integral with the finger and pivotally attached to the second shell, and the toggle assembly further includes a handle attached to the arm. [Appendix 40] 40. The mating connector assembly of claim 39, wherein in a locked position, the fingers are generally perpendicular to a line between the pivot axis and the pin, and the handle is generally parallel to the fingers. [Appendix 41] 13. The mating connector assembly of claim 12, wherein the second connector and the shell are configured such that, in an unmated state, the second connector is free to float axially and radially relative to the shell, and in a mated state, the second connector is free to float axially relative to the shell but is restricted from floating radially.

Claims

1. 1. A ganged connector assembly comprising: a shell having five electrically isolated cavities; a plurality of coaxial connectors, each coaxial connector located in a respective cavity of the shell; a plurality of coaxial cables, each coaxial cable being connected to a respective one of the plurality of coaxial connectors; the cavities are arranged in a cross shape; a ganged connector assembly, wherein the shell has a square footprint with an outer rim surrounding a base of the shell, four of the five cavities being located at each of the four corners of the footprint along the outer rim, and one of the five cavities being located in a center of the square footprint.

2. 2. The ganged connector assembly of claim 1, wherein said plurality of coaxial connectors comprises four coaxial connectors, and a central one of said insulated cavities is devoid of a coaxial connector.

3. 2. The ganged connector assembly of claim 1, wherein said plurality of coaxial connectors is five coaxial connectors.

4. 2. The ganged connector assembly of claim 1, wherein a spring is present in each of the cavities, each spring engaging a respective one of the plurality of coaxial connectors to allow the coaxial connector to float radially and axially relative to the shell.

5. 10. The ganged connector assembly of claim 1, wherein the shell includes alignment features that ensure proper orientation upon mating with a mating ganged connector assembly.

6. 1. A ganged connector assembly comprising: a shell having a plurality of electrically isolated cavities; a plurality of coaxial connectors, each coaxial connector located in a respective cavity of the shell; a plurality of coaxial cables, each coaxial cable being connected to a respective one of the plurality of coaxial connectors; each of the plurality of coaxial connectors includes an outer connector body, the outer connector body includes a plurality of teeth, and each of the cavities includes a plurality of recesses that receive the teeth; A ganged connector assembly wherein the shell has a square footprint with an outer rim surrounding a base of the shell, four of five cavities located along the outer rim at each of the four corners of the footprint, and one of the five cavities located in a center of the square footprint.

7. 7. The ganged connector assembly of claim 6, wherein a gap exists between each of said teeth and each of said recesses to allow some radial float between each of said coaxial connectors and said shell.

8. 7. The ganged connector assembly of claim 6, wherein the plurality of coaxial connectors includes four coaxial connectors, the plurality of cavities includes five cavities arranged in a cross shape, and a central one of the isolated cavities is devoid of a coaxial connector.

9. 7. The ganged connector assembly of claim 6, wherein said plurality of coaxial connectors is five coaxial connectors, and said plurality of cavities has five cavities arranged in a cross pattern.

10. 7. The ganged connector assembly of claim 6, wherein a spring is present in each of the cavities, each spring engaging a respective one of the plurality of coaxial connectors to allow the coaxial connector to float axially relative to the shell.

11. 7. The ganged connector assembly of claim 6, wherein the shell includes alignment features that ensure proper orientation upon mating with a mating ganged connector assembly.

Images