Electrical components for pairs of conductors

Abstract

A connector plug including a forward body, a rearward body, a cable in the rearward body, and first and second plug contacts extending between the forward body and the rearward body. The forward body includes first and second contact housings within a first portion of the forward body and extending parallel with a plug axis to a second portion of the forward body. The forward body includes first and second contact fin slots extending from a front end and intersecting with the corresponding first and second contact housings. The second portion defines a rearward plug cavity. The rearward body includes a central cavity extending through a rear wall and into a main body. The rearward body includes first and second rearward plug contact slots that intersect upward and downward conductor channels and align with the first and second contact housings.

Description

ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS FOR PAIRS OF CONDUCTORSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Serial Nos. 63 / 670,205, filed on July 12, 2024; and 63 / 800,306, filed on May 5, 2025, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] Connectors are used in a variety of electrical applications to transmit power between various components or subsystems within a power system. As power systems continue to evolve and change, there is a continued need for electrical connectors capable of meeting new requirements.SUMMARY

[0003] In general terms, this disclosure is directed to electrical connectors and contacts for a pair of conductors.

[0004] In certain embodiments, and by non-limiting example, a connector plug includes a forward body, a rearward body, a cable, and first and second plug contacts. The forward body includes a front end and a back end. The forward body includes a first portion that is adjacent the front end and a second portion that is adjacent the back end. A plug axis extends centrally between the front and back ends. There are first and second contact housings within the first portion that extend parallel with the plug axis to the second portion. There are first and second contact fin slots that extend from the front end and intersect with the corresponding first and second contact housings. The second portion defines a rearward plug cavity. The rearward body includes a rear wall and a main body. The main body extends between a front wall and the rear wall. The main body is securable within the second portion of the forward body. The rearward body includes a central cavity that extends through the rear wall and into the main body along the plug axis. The rearward body includes oppositely oriented upward and downward conductor channels that extend transversely from corresponding first and second conductor channels. The first conductor channel extends between the central cavity and the downward conductor channel. The second conductor channel extendsbetween the central cavity and the upward conductor channel. The forward body includes first and second rearward plug contact slots that intersect the upward and downward conductor channels at the front wall. The first and second rearward plug contact slots are aligned with the corresponding first and second contact housings about the plug axis. The cable includes first and second conductors. The cable extends into the central cavity. The first conductor extends into the first conductor channel and into the downward conductor channel. The second conductor extends into the second conductor channel and into the upward conductor channel. The first and second plug contacts are positioned within the corresponding first and second contact housings and extend into the corresponding first and second rearward plug contact slots. The first plug contact is electrically connected to the first conductor and the second plug contact is electrically connected to the second conductor.

[0005] In certain embodiments, and by non-limiting example, a connector jack includes a forward body, a rearward body, a cable, and first and second jack contacts. The forward body includes a front end and a back end with a first region adjacent the front end and a second region adjacent the back end. A jack axis extends centrally between the front and back ends. A jack wall divides the first and second regions. The forward body includes first and second jack contact slots that extend through the jack wall parallel to the jack axis. The rearward body includes a rear wall and a main body. The main body extends between a front wall and the rear wall. The main body is securable within the second region of the forward body. The rearward body includes a central cavity that extends through the rear wall and into the main body along the jack axis. The rearward body includes oppositely oriented upward and downward conductor channels that extend transversely from corresponding first and second conductor channels. The first conductor channel extends between the central cavity and the downward conductor channel and the second conductor channel extends between the central cavity and the upward conductor channel. The rearward body includes first and second rearward jack contact slots that intersect the upward and downward conductor channels at the front wall. The first and second rearward jack contact slots align with the corresponding first and second jack contact slots about the jack axis. The cable includes first and second conductors. The cable extends into the central cavity. The first conductor extends into the first conductor channel and into the downward conductor channel and the second conductor extends into the second conductor channel and into the upward conductor channel. The first and second jack contacts are positioned withinthe corresponding first and second jack contact slots and extend into the corresponding first and second rearward jack contact slots. The first jack contact is electrically connected to the first conductor and the second jack contact is electrically connected to the second conductor.

[0006] In certain embodiments, and by non-limiting example, a connector assembly for a pair of conductors includes a connector jack and a connector plug. The connector jack includes a forward jack body, a rearward jack body, and first and second jack contacts. The forward jack body includes a first region and a second region with a jack wall separating the first region and the second region. The first region defines a plug cavity. The second region defines a rearward jack cavity. The forward jack body includes first and second contact fin slots that extend through the jack wall between the plug cavity and the rearward jack cavity. The rearward jack body includes a main body and a rear wall. The main body is secured within the rearward jack cavity. The rearward jack body includes first and second contact slots aligned with the corresponding first and second contact fin slots along a jack axis. The jack axis extends between the first and second regions of the forward jack body. The first jack contact extends through the first contact fin slot and into the first contact slot. The second jack contact extends through the second contact fin slot and into the second contact slot. A contact fin portion of each jack contact extends into the plug cavity. The connector plug includes a forward plug body, a rearward plug body, and first and second plug contacts. The forward plug body includes a first portion and a second portion. A plug axis extends between the first portion and the second portion. The first portion includes first and second contact housings within the first portion that extend parallel with the plug axis to the second portion. The forward plug body includes first and second contact fin slots that extend from a front end of the forward plug body and intersect with the corresponding first and second contact housings. The second portion defines a rearward plug cavity. The rearward plug body includes a main body and a rear wall. The main body is secured within the rearward plug cavity. The rearward plug body includes first and second contact slots aligned with the corresponding first and second contact housings along the plug axis. The first and second plug contacts are positioned within the corresponding first and second contact housings and extend into the corresponding first and second rearward plug contact slots. The connector plug connects to the connector jack such that the first portion of the forward plug body is at least partially inserted into the plug cavity and such that the fin portions of the first and second jackcontacts extend into the corresponding first and second contact fin slots. The first jack contact touches the first plug contact and the second jack contact touches the second plug contact.

[0007] In certain embodiments, and by non-limiting example, a connector plug includes a forward body, a rearward body, and first and second plug contact. The forward body defines a front end and a back end with a first portion adjacent the front end and a second portion adjacent the back end. A plug axis extends centrally between the front and back ends. First and second contact housings are within the first portion and extend parallel with the plug axis to the second portion. First and second contact fin slots extend from the front end and intersect with the corresponding first and second contact housings. The second portion defines a rearward plug cavity. The rearward body defines a rear wall and a main body. The main body extends between a front wall and the rear wall. The main body is securable within the second portion of the forward body. The rearward body includes a central cavity that extends through the rear wall and into the main body along the plug axis. Oppositely oriented upward and downward conductor channels extend transversely from corresponding first and second conductor channels. The first conductor channel extends between the central cavity and the downward conductor channel. The second conductor channel extends between the central cavity and the upward conductor channel. First and second rearward plug contact slots intersect the upward and downward conductor channels at the front wall. The first and second rearward plug contact slots are aligned with the corresponding first and second contact housings about the plug axis. The first and second plug contacts are positioned within the corresponding first and second contact housings and extend into the corresponding first and second rearward plug contact slots. The first and second plug contacts define cantilever style contacts on a fin contact side. The first and second contact housings define deflection pockets. The deflection pockets provide clearance for the fin contact side of the first and second plug contacts to deflect in response to insertion of mating contacts through the first and second contact fin slots.

[0008] In certain embodiments, and by non-limiting example, a connector plug includes a forward body, a rearward body, and first and second plug contacts. The forward body defines a front end and a back end with a first portion adjacent the front end and a second portion adjacent the back end. A plug axis extends centrally between the front and back ends. First and second contact housings are within the first portion and extend parallel with the plug axis to the second portion. First and second contact finslots extend from the front end and intersect with the corresponding first and second contact housings. The first and second contact housings define a cooling cavity. The second portion defines a rearward plug cavity. The rearward body defines a rear wall and a main body. The main body extends between a front wall and the rear wall. The main body is securable within the second portion of the forward body. The rearward body includes a central cavity that extends through the rear wall and into the main body along the plug axis. Oppositely oriented upward and downward conductor channels extend transversely from corresponding first and second conductor channels. The first conductor channel extends between the central cavity and the downward conductor channel. The second conductor channel extends between the central cavity and the upward conductor channel. First and second rearward plug contact slots intersect the upward and downward conductor channels at the front wall. The first and second rearward plug contact slots are aligned with the corresponding first and second contact housings about the plug axis. The first and second plug contacts are positioned within the corresponding first and second contact housings and extend into the corresponding first and second rearward plug contact slots. The cooling cavity provides air space around at least a portion of the first and second plug contacts for thermal management.

[0009] In certain embodiments, and by non-limiting example, a multi-jack assembly includes a multi-jack housing and a plurality of jacks. The multi-jack housing defines an outer shell that houses the plurality of jacks. Each of the plurality of jacks includes a forward body, a rearward body, and first and second jack contacts. The forward body defines a front end and a back end with a first region adjacent the front end and a second region adjacent the back end. The jack axis extends centrally between the front and back ends. A jack wall divides the first and second regions. First and second jack contact slots extend through the jack wall parallel to the jack axis. The rearward body defines a rear wall and a main body. The main body extends between a front wall and the rear wall. The main body is securable within the second region of the forward body. The rearward body includes a central cavity that extends through the rear wall and into the main body along the jack axis. Oppositely oriented upward and downward conductor channels extend transversely from corresponding first and second conductor channels. The first conductor channel extends between the central cavity and the downward conductor channel. The second conductor channel extends between the central cavity and the upward conductor channel. First and second rearward jack contact slots intersect the upward and downward conductor channels at the front wall.The first and second rearward jack contact slots are aligned with the corresponding first and second jack contact slots about the jack axis. The first and second jack contacts are positioned within the corresponding first and second jack contact slots and extend into the corresponding first and second rearward jack contact slots.

[0010] In certain embodiments, and by non-limiting example, a multi-jack assembly includes a multi-jack housing and a plurality of jacks. The multi-jack housing defines an outer shell that houses a plurality of jacks. Each of the plurality of jacks includes a forward body, a rearward body, and first and second jack contacts. The forward body defines a front end and a jack wall with a first region adjacent the front end and adjacent the jack wall. A jack axis extends centrally through the jack wall. First and second jack contact slots extend through the jack wall into the rearward body parallel to the jack axis. The rearward body defines first and second jack contact cavities. The first and second jack contact cavities define corresponding first and second lower openings that extend through a lower side wall of the outer shell. The first and second jack contact cavities connect to the first and second jack contact slots. The first and second jack contacts define a contact fin on a first side and a conductor contact on a second side. The first side extends orthogonal to the second side. The contact fins of the first and second jack contacts each extend through the corresponding first and second jack contact slots. The conductor contact includes a terminal for contacting a circuit board. The terminals of the first and second jack contacts each extend out of the corresponding first and second lower openings.

[0011] In certain embodiments, and by non-limiting example, a multi-jack assembly includes a multi-jack housing and a plurality of jacks. The multi-jack housing defines an outer shell that houses a plurality of jacks. Each of the plurality of jacks includes a forward body, a rearward body, and first and second jack contacts. The forward body defines a front end and a jack wall with a first region adjacent the front end and adjacent the jack wall. A jack axis extends centrally through the jack wall. First and second jack contact slots extend through the jack wall into the rearward body parallel to the jack axis. The rearward body defines first and second jack contact cavities. The first and second jack contact cavities define corresponding first and second rear openings that extend through a rear wall of the outer shell. The first and second jack contact cavities connect to the first and second jack contact slots. The first and second jack contacts define a contact fin on a first side and a conductor contact on a second side. The first side extends opposite the second side along a single axis. Thecontact fins of the first and second jack contacts each extend through the corresponding first and second jack contact slots. The conductor contact includes a terminal for contacting a circuit board. The terminals of the first and second jack contacts each extend out of the corresponding first and second rear openings.

[0012] In certain embodiments, and by non-limiting example, a patch panel assembly includes a plurality of multi-jack assemblies and a panel. The plurality of multi-jack assemblies include a multi-jack housing and a plurality of jacks. The plurality of jacks include a forward body, a rearward body, and first and second jack contacts. The multi-jack housing defines an outer shell that houses the plurality of jacks. The forward body defines a front end and a back end with a first region adjacent the front end and a second region adjacent the back end. A jack axis extends centrally between the front and back ends. A jack wall divides the first and second regions. First and second jack contact slots extend through the jack wall parallel to the jack axis. The rearward body defines a rear wall and a main body. The main body extends between a front wall and the rear wall. The main body is securable within the second region of the forward body. The rearward body includes a central cavity that extends through the rear wall and into the main body along the jack axis. Oppositely oriented upward and downward conductor channels extend transversely from corresponding first and second conductor channels. The first conductor channel extends between the central cavity and the downward conductor channel. The second conductor channel extends between the central cavity and the upward conductor channel. First and second rearward jack contact slots intersect the upward and downward conductor channels at the front wall. The first and second rearward jack contact slots are aligned with the corresponding first and second jack contact slots about the jack axis. The first and second jack contacts are positioned within the corresponding first and second jack contact slots and extend into the corresponding first and second rearward jack contact slots. The panel defines a front plate. The front plate defines a plurality of jack openings, each jack opening receives a multi-jack assembly.

[0013] In certain embodiments, and by non-limiting example, a connector plug includes a forward body, a rearward body, a cable, and first and second plug contacts. The forward body includes a front end and a back end. The forward body includes a first portion that is adjacent the front end and a second portion that is adjacent the back end. A plug axis extends centrally between the front and back ends. There are first and second contact housings within the first portion that extend parallel with the plug axisto the second portion. There are first and second contact fin slots that extend from the front end and intersect with the corresponding first and second contact housings. The second portion defines a rearward plug cavity. The rearward body includes a rear wall and a main body. The main body extends between a front wall and the rear wall. The main body is securable within the second portion of the forward body. The rearward body includes a central cavity that extends through the rear wall and into the main body along the plug axis. The rearward body includes oppositely oriented upward and downward conductor channels that extend transversely from corresponding first and second conductor channels. The first conductor channel extends between the central cavity and the downward conductor channel. The second conductor channel extends between the central cavity and the upward conductor channel. The forward body includes first and second rearward plug contact slots that intersect the upward and downward conductor channels at the front wall. The first and second rearward plug contact slots are aligned with the corresponding first and second contact housings about the plug axis. The cable has a first conductor and a second conductor. The cable extends into the central cavity. The first conductor extends into the first conductor channel and into the downward conductor channel. The second conductor extends into the second conductor channel and into the upward conductor channel. The first and second plug contacts are positioned within the corresponding first and second contact housings and extend into the corresponding first and second rearward plug contact slots. The first and second plug contacts each define first and second contact regions. The first plug contact is electrically connected to the first conductor at either the first contact region or the second contact region. The second plug contact is electrically connected to the second conductor at either the first contact region or the second contact region.

[0014] In certain embodiments, and by non-limiting example, a connector jack includes a forward body, a rearward body, a cable, and first and second jack contacts. The forward body includes a front end and a back end with a first region adjacent the front end and a second region adjacent the back end. A jack axis extends centrally between the front and back ends. A jack wall divides the first and second regions. The forward body includes first and second jack contact slots that extend through the jack wall parallel to the jack axis. The rearward body includes a rear wall and a main body. The main body extends between a front wall and the rear wall. The main body is securable within the second region of the forward body. The rearward body includes acentral cavity that extends through the rear wall and into the main body along the jack axis. The rearward body includes oppositely oriented upward and downward conductor channels that extend transversely from corresponding first and second conductor channels. The first conductor channel extends between the central cavity and the downward conductor channel and the second conductor channel extends between the central cavity and the upward conductor channel. The rearward body includes first and second rearward jack contact slots that intersect the upward and downward conductor channels at the front wall. The first and second rearward jack contact slots align with the corresponding first and second jack contact slots about the jack axis. The cable has a first conductor and a second conductor. The cable extends into the central cavity. The first conductor extends into the first conductor channel and into the downward conductor channel. The second conductor extends into the second conductor channel and into the upward conductor channel. The first and second jack contacts are positioned within the corresponding first and second jack contact slots and extend into the corresponding first and second rearward jack contact slots. The first and second jack contacts each define first and second contact regions. The first jack contact is electrically connected to the first pair of conductors at either the first contact region or the second contact region. The second jack contact is electrically connected to the second pair of conductors at either the first contact region or the second contact region.

[0015] In certain embodiments, and by non-limiting example, a plug connector includes a forward plug body. The forward plug body defines a first portion with a front face. The first portion defines an upper member and a lower member. The front face defines an upper portion on the upper member and a lower portion on the lower member. The front face defines a first contact fin slot and a second contact fin slot. The first contact fin slot is positioned on the lower member. The second contact fin slot is positioned on the upper member. The upper and lower members are separated by a central channel. The front face defines a generally square shape. The central channel extends across opposite comers of the front face.

[0016] In certain embodiments, and by non-limiting example, a jack connector includes a forward jack body. The forward jack body defines a plug cavity. The plug cavity defines a generally square opening. A central ridge extends across opposite comers of the square opening. The central ridge divides the plug cavity into an upper cavity and a lower cavity. The jack includes a first jack contact and a second jackcontact. The first jack contact is positioned at least partially within the lower cavity.The second jack contact is positioned at least partially within the upper cavity.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] FIG. 1 is perspective view of an example connector assembly in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 2 is top view of the connector assembly of FIG. 1.

[0019] FIG. 3 is a side view of the connector assembly of FIG. 1.

[0020] FIG. 4 is a partially exploded perspective view of the connector assembly of FIG. 1.

[0021] FIG. 5 is a first perspective view of an example connector plug in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 6 is a second perspective view of the connector plug of FIG. 5.

[0023] FIG. 7 is a top view of the connector plug of FIG. 5.

[0024] FIG. 8 is a side view of the connector plug of FIG. 5.

[0025] FIG. 9 is a front view of the connector plug of FIG. 5.

[0026] FIG. 10 is a rear view of the connector plug of FIG. 5.

[0027] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the connector plug of FIG. 5.

[0028] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an example forward plug body in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a rearward plug body in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional top view of the connector plug of FIG. 5.

[0031] FIG. 15 is a first cross-sectional perspective view of the forward plug body of FIG. 12.

[0032] FIG. 16 is a second cross-sectional perspective view of the forward plug body of FIG. 12.

[0033] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional rear view of the connector plug of FIG. 5.

[0034] FIG. 18 is a first perspective view of an example connector jack in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 19 is a second perspective view of the connector jack of FIG. 18.

[0036] FIG. 20 is a top view of the connector jack of FIG. 18.

[0037] FIG. 21 is a side view of the connector jack of FIG. 18.

[0038] FIG. 22 is a front view of the connector jack of FIG. 18.

[0039] FIG. 23 is a rear view of the connector jack of FIG. 18.

[0040] FIG. 24 is an exploded perspective view of the connector j ack of FIG. 18.

[0041] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an example forward jack body in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of an example rearward jack body in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 27 is a first cross-sectional perspective view of the connector jack of FIG. 18.

[0044] FIG. 28 is a second cross-sectional perspective view of the connector jack of FIG. 18.

[0045] FIG. 29 is a first cross-sectional perspective view of the connector assembly of FIG. 1.

[0046] FIG. 30 is a second cross-sectional perspective view of the connector assembly of FIG. 1.

[0047] FIG. 31 is a third cross-sectional perspective view of the connector assembly of FIG. 1.

[0048] FIG. 32 is a fourth cross-sectional perspective view of the connector assembly of FIG. 1.

[0049] FIG. 33 is an exploded perspective view of example rearward jack and plug bodies with example jack and plug contacts in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the jack and plug bodies and the jack and plug contacts in an assembled state without the jack and plug forward bodies shown.

[0051] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of jack and plug contacts in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0052] FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the jack and plug contacts of FIG. 35 when in a connected state in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0053] FIG. 37 is a perspective view of another example forward plug body in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0054] FIG. 38 is a front view of the forward plug body of FIG. 37.

[0055] FIG. 39 is a perspective view of another example forward jack body in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0056] FIG. 40 is a front view of the forward jack body of FIG. 39.

[0057] FIG. 41 is a schematic diagram of an example power system in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0058] FIG. 42 is top view of an example cable in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0059] FIG. 43 is a perspective view of another example connector plug in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0060] FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the connector plug of FIG. 43.

[0061] FIG. 45 is another cross-sectional perspective view of the connector plug of FIG. 43.

[0062] FIG. 46 is another cross-sectional perspective view of the connector plug of FIG. 43.

[0063] FIG. 47 is an exploded perspective view of the connector plug of FIG. 43.

[0064] FIG. 48 is a perspective view of another example forward plug body in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0065] FIG. 49 is a rear view of the forward plug body of FIG. 48.

[0066] FIG. 50 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the forward plug body ofFIG. 48.

[0067] FIG. 51 is another cross-sectional perspective view of the forward plug body of FIG. 48.

[0068] FIG. 52 is a perspective view of another example rearward plug body with example contacts in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0069] FIG. 53 is a front view of another example rearward plug body in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0070] FIG. 54 is a rear view of the rearward plug body of FIG. 53.

[0071] FIG. 55 is a perspective view of an example interaction between example plug contacts and example jack contacts in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0072] FIG. 56 is a perspective view of an example plug contact in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0073] FIG. 57 is a side view of the plug contact of FIG. 56.

[0074] FIG. 58 is a perspective view of another example connector plug in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0075] FIG. 59 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the connector plug of FIG.58.

[0076] FIG. 60 is another cross-sectional perspective view of the connector plug of FIG. 58.

[0077] FIG. 61 is an exploded perspective view of the connector plug of FIG. 58.

[0078] FIG. 62 is a perspective view of another example forward plug body in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0079] FIG. 63 is a rear view of the forward plug body of FIG. 62.

[0080] FIG. 64 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the forward plug body ofFIG. 62.

[0081] FIG. 65 is another cross-sectional perspective view of the forward plug body of FIG. 62.

[0082] FIG. 66 is a perspective view of an example interaction between example plug contacts and example jack contacts in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0083] FIG. 67 is a perspective view of an example plug contact in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0084] FIG. 68 is a perspective view of an example multi-jack assembly in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0085] FIG. 69 is another perspective view of the multi-jack assembly of FIG. 68.

[0086] FIG. 70 is a front view of the multi-jack assembly of FIG. 68.

[0087] FIG. 71 is a rear view of the multi-jack assembly of FIG. 68.

[0088] FIG. 72 is a side view of the multi-jack assembly of FIG. 68.

[0089] FIG. 73 is a rear view of an example forward jack body in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0090] FIG. 74 is a perspective view of the forward jack body of FIG. 73 with example jack contacts.

[0091] FIG. 75 is a perspective view of another example multi-jack assembly in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0092] FIG. 76 is a perspective view of the multi-jack assembly of FIG. 75.

[0093] FIG. 77 is a cross-sectional perspective view of an example multi-jack housing in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0094] FIG. 78 is another cross-sectional perspective view of the multi-jack housing of FIG. 77.

[0095] FIG. 79 is a perspective view of an example second jack contact in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0096] FIG. 80 is a perspective view of an example first jack contact in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0097] FIG. 81 is a perspective view of another example multi-jack assembly in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0098] FIG. 82 is a rear view of another example multi-jack housing in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0099] FIG. 83 is a perspective view of the multi-jack assembly of FIG. 82.

[0100] FIG. 84 is another perspective view of the multi-jack assembly of FIG. 82.

[0101] FIG. 85 is a perspective view of an example jack contact in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0102] FIG. 86 is a perspective view of an example patch panel assembly in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0103] FIG. 87 is another perspective view of the patch panel assembly of FIG. 86.

[0104] FIG. 88 is a perspective view of an example panel in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0105] FIG. 89 is another perspective view of the panel of FIG. 88.

[0106] FIG. 90 is a perspective view of an example plug contact in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0107] FIG. 91 is a perspective view of an example jack contact in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0108] FIG. 92 is a perspective view of an example reward plug body in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0109] FIG. 93 is a perspective view of another example first jack contact in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0110] FIG. 94 is a perspective view of another example second jack contact in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0111] Various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts and assemblies throughout the several views. Reference to various embodiments does not limit the scope of the claims attached hereto. Additionally, any examples set forth in thisspecification are not intended to be limiting and merely set forth some of the many possible embodiments for the appended claims.

[0112] A connector assembly of the present disclosure includes, for example, a jack and a plug that are designed to interface with each other. The jack and plug are designed to carry electricity between different power subsystems within a power system. The jack and plug may be used with both AC and DC power. The jack and plug may be used for Class 4 fault managed power systems. Class 4 power systems are designed to provide a high level of reliability and redundancy for critical applications. These systems are typically used in environments where power interruptions can lead to significant financial losses, safety hazards, or data corruption, such as in data centers, hospitals, or industrial control settings. Class 4 systems generally include features such as fault tolerance, the ability to isolate and bypass problem areas without interrupting power to the load. The jack and plug may also be used as part of a digital electricity system.

[0113] FIGS. 1-4 show an example of a connector assembly 10 including a plug 100 and a jack 200. The plug 100 is connected to a conductor cable 20 (shown in FIG. 42) carrying a pair of conductors 30. The plug 100 and jack 200 interface to transmit power from the pair of conductors 30 through the plug 100 and to the jack 200. The jack 200 may be connected to, for example, another plug 100 , a circuit board, or other electronic component.

[0114] An example plug 100 is shown in FIGS. 5-10. The plug 100 includes a forward plug body 110 and a rearward plug body 160. The plug 100 also includes plug contacts 106. The plug 100 is elongate about a plug axis 120 between a first end 102 and a second end 104. The plug axis 120 extends centrally through the plug 100 in the direction that the plug 100 connects to the jack 200. A first end 102 is inserted into the jack 200. The second end 104 receives the conductor cable 20.

[0115] The forward plug body 110 includes a front end 112 and a back end 114 where the front end 112 engages the jack 200 and the back end 114 engages the rearward plug body 160. In the example shown, the forward plug body 110 includes upper and lower side walls 122, 124 and first and second side walls 126, 128 that extend from the front end 112 to the back end 114. The forward plug body 110 includes a first portion 116 adjacent the front end 112 and a second portion 118 adjacent the back end 114.

[0116] The first portion 116 is designed to insert into the jack 200. In the example shown, the first portion 116 has a generally rectangular face 115 at the front end 112 which extends toward the back end 114 to form a rectangular prism shaped exterior surface. The exterior surface of the first portion 116 is defined by the face 115 and the upper and lower side walls 122, 124 and first and second side walls 126, 128 that extend from the face 115. In certain examples, the first portion 116 includes at least one keying feature. In the example shown, the first portion 116 includes first, second, and third plug key features 131, 132, and 133. The plug key features 131, 132, 133 form channels that extend from the face 115 toward the second end 104 along at least a portion of a length of the first portion 116. The first plug key feature 131 extends along the first side wall 126. The second plug key feature 132 extends along the lower side wall 124. The third plug key feature 133 extends along the second side wall 128. The first and third plug key features 131, 133 are equally spaced between the upper and lower side walls 122, 124. Each of the plug key features 131, 132, 133 include an end wall 135 that defines an end of the channel. In certain examples, the end wall 135 provides a stop or limit to prevent over insertion of the plug 100 into the jack 200.

[0117] The first portion 116 also includes first and second contact fin slots 134, 136. The first and second contact fin slots 134, 136 extend from the face 115 into corresponding first and second plug contact housings 138, 140 within the forward plug body 110. The first and second contact fin slots 134, 136 extend parallel to the plug axis 120. The first and second contact fin slots 134,136 are offset from each other about both a vertical axis 142 and a horizontal axis 144 on the face 115 where the vertical axis 142 extends between the upper and lower side walls 122, 124, normal to the plug axis 120, and the horizontal axis 144 extends between the first and second side walls 126, 128, normal to both the vertical axis 142 and the plug axis 120. The first contact fin slot 134 has a height that extends in the direction of the vertical axis 142 with a first end adjacent the lower side wall 124 and a second end at or near the horizontal axis 144. The first contact fin slot 134 has a width that extends in the direction of the horizontal axis 144. The width of the first contact fin slot 134 fits between the first and second plug key features 131, 132. The second contact fin slot 136 has a height that extends in the direction of the vertical axis 142 with a first end adjacent the upper side wall 122 and a second end at or near the horizontal axis 144. The second contact fin slot 136 has a width that extends in the direction of the horizontal axis 144. The width of the second contact fin slot 136 fits between the second and third plug key features132, 133. In certain examples, the first and second contact fin slots 134, 136 include a beveled entry to facilitate insertion of a contact from a jack.

[0118] The first and second plug contact housings 138, 140 extend parallel to the plug axis 120 within the first portion 116 and extend into the second portion 118. The first and second plug contact housings 138, 140 intersect with the corresponding first and second contact fin slots 134, 136 such that the first contact fin slot 134 and the first plug contact housing 138 overlap and the second contact fin slot 136 and the second plug contact housing 140 overlap. In certain examples, the first and second contact fin slots 134, 136 extend into the corresponding first and second plug contact housings 138, 140 across at least one quarter of a length of the first and second plug contact housings 138, 140. In certain examples, the first and second contact fin slots 134, 136 extend into the corresponding first and second plug contact housings 138, 140 across at least 1 / 2 of the length of the first and second plug contact housings 138, 140, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16. The height of the contact plug housings 138, 140 extend along the horizontal axis 144 and transverse to the height of the contact fin slots 134, 136. In certain examples, the intersection between the contact fin slots 134, 136 and the plug contact housings 138, 140 are centered about the height of the contact fin slots 134, 136 and about the height of the plug contact housings 138, 140.

[0119] In certain examples, the first portion 116 also includes a cantilevered latch 145 for securing the plug 100 to the jack 200. As shown, the cantilevered latch 145 extends from the upper side wall 122. In certain examples, the cantilevered latch 145 forms a keying feature. In certain examples, as shown in FIG. 6, the cantilevered latch 145 includes tabs 146 that are designed to engage the jack 200 and hold the plug 100 in the assembled state. In certain examples, the second portion 118 includes a thumb press 127 to aide with the compression of the cantilevered latch 145.

[0120] The first portion 116 connects to the second portion 118 at a transition region 130. The transition region 130 bridges a perimeter of the first portion 116 with a perimeter of the second portion 118. The second portion 118 maintains the same general shape as the first portion 116 but with an increased perimeter when viewed about the plug axis 120. In certain examples, the transition region 130 forms a shoulder between the first portion 116 and the second portion 118. In certain examples, the transition region 130 provides a stop or limit to prevent over insertion of the plug 100 into the jack 200.

[0121] The second portion 118 of the forward plug body 110 extends from the transition region 130 to the back end 114. The second portion 118 includes a rearward plug cavity 148. The rearward plug cavity 148 is designed to house the rearward plug body 160. The rearward plug cavity 148 has an opening 147 at the back end 114 and an interior wall 149 extending normal to the plug axis 120 at the transition region 130. The first and second plug contact housings 138, 140 extend into the rearward plug cavity 148 through the interior wall 149. The second portion 118 includes first and second latch openings 151, 152. the first latch opening 151 extends through the upper side wall 122 between an exterior surface and the rearward plug cavity 148. The second latch opening 152 extends through the lower side wall 124 between the exterior surface and the rearward plug cavity 148.

[0122] First and second latch ramps 153, 154 extend between the back end 114 and the corresponding first and second latch openings 151, 152 to facilitate compression of corresponding latches on the rearward plug body 160. The first and second latch ramps 153, 154 provide a channel of varying depth such that the channel is deepest at the back end 114 and decreases in depth as the latch ramp 153, 154 continues toward the latch opening 151, 152. The change in depth facilitates gradual compression of the corresponding latches on the rearward plug body 160. In certain examples, the first and second latch openings 151, 152 and corresponding latch ramps 153, 154 are offset from each other about both the vertical axis 142 and the horizontal axis 144. In certain examples, the first latch opening 151 and the second contact fin slot 136 are on the opposite side of a vertical plug plane defined by the plug axis 120 and the vertical axis 142. In certain examples, the first latch opening 151 and the first contact fin slot 134 are on the opposite side of a horizontal plug plane defined by the plug axis 120 and the horizontal axis 144. Similarly, in certain examples, the second latch opening 152 and the first contact fin slot 134 are on the opposite side of the vertical plug plane. In certain examples, the second latch opening 152 and the second contact fin slot 136 are on the opposite side of the horizontal plug plane.

[0123] In certain examples, the second portion 118 also includes first and second conductor clearance channels 155, 156. The conductor clearance channels 155, 156 provide clearance for the pair of conductors 30 connected to the rearward plug body 160 when the rearward plug body 160 is inserted into the forward plug body 110. In certain examples, the first and second conductor clearance channels 155, 156 are aligned relative to the vertical axis with the corresponding first and second contact plughousings 138, 140. In certain examples, the conductor clearance channels 155, 156 extend from the back end 114 toward the interior wall 149 parallel with the plug axis 120. In certain examples, the first and second conductor clearance channels 155, 156 extend all the way to the interior wall 149.

[0124] In certain examples, the second portion 118 also includes a second portion keying feature 157. The second portion keying feature 157 helps to prevent incorrect insertion of the rearward plug body 160. In certain examples, the second portion keying feature 157 is a ridge extending parallel with the plug axis 120 within the rearward plug cavity 148 along an interior side of the second side wall 128.

[0125] In certain examples, the forward plug body 110 is a single unitary component. In certain examples, the forward plug body 110 is made from non- conductive material, such as plastic. In certain examples, the forward plug body 110 is made through injection molding or additive manufacturing techniques.

[0126] In certain examples, the rearward plug body 160 connects to the forward plug body 110 through the second end 104 such that the rearward plug body 160 is also elongate about the plug axis 120. In certain examples, the rearward plug body 160 includes a rear wall 162 and a main body 168. The rear wall 162 defines the second end 104 of the plug 100. The rear wall 162 extends normal to the plug axis 120 and forms a rectangular perimeter with edges 164 that are flush with the upper and lower side walls 122, 124 and the first and second side walls 126, 128. An interior surface 166 of the rear wall 162 contacts the back end 114 of the forward plug body 110 in the assembled state.

[0127] The main body 168 extends from a front wall 170 to the rear wall 162. In certain examples, a length of the main body 168 between the front wall 170 and the rear wall 162 is the same as a length of the rearward plug cavity 148 between the interior wall 149 and the back end 114.

[0128] Extending through the rear wall 162 and into the main body 168 along the plug axis 120 is a central cavity 172. The central cavity 172 provides an opening for the cable 20 to enter the rearward plug body 160. In certain examples, the central cavity 172 is centered around the plug axis 120. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the central cavity 172 has an opening 174 that includes major curves 176 and minor curves 178. The major curves 176 extend across upper and lower portions of the opening and the minor curves 178 connect the major curves 176 on first and second side portions. The opening is symmetric about the vertical and horizontal axes. Within the main body 168,the central cavity 172 splits into first and second conductor channels 180, 182. The first and second conductor channels 180, 182 extend between the central cavity 172 and the front wall 170. In certain examples, the minor curves 178 align with a portion of the conductor channels 180, 182. The first and second conductor channels 180, 182 are designed to each receive one of the conductors 30 within the cable 20.

[0129] In certain examples, at the front wall 170, an upward conductor channel 184 intersects with the second conductor channel 182 and a downward conductor channel 186 intersects with the first conductor channel 180. The upward and downward conductor channels 184, 186 extend in opposite directions from the respective conductor channels 180, 182. The upward and downward conductor channels 184, 186 direct the conductors 30 toward oppositely facing upper and lower walls 191, 192 of the main body 168 such that the upward and downward conductor channels 184, 186 include openings 185 at the respective walls 191, 192.

[0130] In certain examples, first and second rearward plug contact slots 188, 190 intersect corresponding upward and downward conductor channels 184, 186. The first rearward plug contact slot 188 intersects the downward conductor channel 186 at an intermediate position between the first conductor channel 180 and the lower wall 192. The second rearward plug contact slot 190 intersects the upward conductor channel 184 at an intermediate position between the second conductor channel 182 and the upper wall 191. In the assembled state, the first and second rearward plug contact slots 188, 190 align with the first and second plug contact housings 138, 140, as shown in FIG. 14.

[0131] In certain examples, the rearward plug body 160 also includes first and second securing features 193, 194. As shown, the securing features 193, 194 are bump outs that are designed to slide along the latch ramps 153, 154 and into the latch openings 151, 152 when the rearward plug body 160 is inserted into the forward plug body 110.

[0132] In certain examples, the rearward plug body 160 also includes a corresponding keying feature 198 that engages with the keying feature 157 of the forward plug body 110. As shown, the keying feature 198 is a channel that is designed to form a close fit with the keying feature 157. As shown, the keying feature 198 extends along the length of the main body 168.

[0133] In certain examples, the rearward plug body 160 is a single unitary component. In certain examples, the rearward plug body 160 is made from non-conductive material, such as plastic. In certain examples, the rearward plug body 160 is made through injection molding or additive manufacturing techniques.

[0134] A plug contact 106 is positioned at least partially within each of the first and second plug contact housings 138, 140. The plug contact 106 includes a conductor contact side 107 and a fin contact side 108. In certain examples, the conductor contact side 107 is an insulation displacement contact. In certain examples, the fin contact side 108 provides a slot with an elongated contact region 109 and an insertion region 111 at a tip of the plug contact 106. As shown in FIG. 14, the conductor contact side 107 extends out of the second plug contact housing 140 and into the second rearward plug contact slot 190 in order to make contact with a conductor extending normal to the plug contact 106. Once the rearward plug body 160 is secured to the forward plug body 110, the plug contact 106 is encapsulated within the plug 100.

[0135] In certain examples, the jack 200 includes a forward jack body 210 and a rearward jack body 260 with jack contacts 206 extending between the forward jack body 210 and the rearward jack body 260. An example jack 200 is shown in FIGS. 18- 25. In certain examples, the forward jack body 210 includes a first region 216 and a second region 218.

[0136] The jack 200 is elongate about a jack axis 220 between a first end 202 and a second end 204. The jack axis 220 extends centrally through the jack 200 in the direction that the plug 100 connects to the jack 200 such that when the plug 100 and jack 200 are connected, the plug axis 120 and jack axis 220 are axially aligned. The first end 202 of the jack 200 receives the first end 102 of the plug 100. The second end 204 receives the conductor cable 20.

[0137] The forward jack body 210 includes a front end 212 and a back end 214 where the front end 212 engages the plug 100 and the back end 214 engages the rearward jack body 260. In the example shown, the forward jack body 210 includes upper and lower side walls 222, 224 and first and second side walls 226, 228 that extend from the front end 212 to the back end 214. The forward jack body 210 includes a first region 216 adjacent the front end 212 and a second region 218 adjacent the back end 214.

[0138] The first region 216 is designed to receive the plug 100. In the example shown, the first region 216 has a generally rectangular face 215 at the front end 212 which extends toward the back end 214 to form a rectangular prism shaped exterior surface. The exterior surface of the first region 216 is defined by the face 215 and theupper and lower side walls 222, 224 and first and second side walls 226, 228 that extend from the face 215 and define a plug cavity 217 where the plug 100 inserts into the jack 200. Horizontal and vertical jack axes 244, 245 extend centrally across the face 215 where the vertical jack axis 245 is transverse to both the jack axis 220 and the horizontal jack axis 244 and the horizontal jack axis 244 is also transverse to the jack axis 220.

[0139] In certain examples, the first region 216 includes at least one keying feature. In the example shown, the first region 216 includes three jack key features 231, 232, and 233 that correspond to the first, second, and third plug key features 131, 132, and 133. The jack key features 231, 232, 233 form ridges that extend from the face 215 toward the second end 204 along at least a portion of a length of the first region 216. The ridges of the jack key features 231 , 232, and 233 form a close fit with the channels of the plug key features 131, 132, and 133 when the plug 100 is inserted into the jack 200. The first jack key feature 231 extends along the first side wall 226. The second jack key feature 232 extends along the lower side wall 224. The third jack key feature 233 extends along the second side wall 228. The first and third jack key features 231, 233 are equally spaced between the upper and lower side walls 222, 224. Each of the jack key features 231, 232, 233 terminate at a first side 247 of a jack wall 248 that defines an end of the ridge and a border between the first region 216 and the second region 218. In certain examples, the jack wall 248 provides a stop or limit to prevent over insertion of the plug 100 into the jack 200. The jack key features 231, 232, 233 are sufficiently sized relative to the plug cavity 217 to prevent a human finger from entering the plug cavity 217.

[0140] In certain examples, the jack wall 248 divides the first and second regions 216, 218. The jack wall 248 includes first and second jack contact slots 240, 242 that extend through the jack wall 248 parallel to the jack axis 220.

[0141] In certain examples, the first region 216 also includes a latch channel 234 designed to fit the cantilevered latch 145 of the plug 100. In certain examples, the latch channel 234 extends a length from the front end 212 to the jack wall 248. In other examples, the latch channel 234 extends across the entire jack 200 between the front end 212 and the back end 214. Two securing tabs 236 extend from comers of the latch channel 234 at an intermediate location along the length of the latch channel 234. The securing tabs 236 are designed to engage the tabs 146 when the latch is inserted into the latch channel 234. The cantilevered latch 145 is compressed by a ramp 238 as thecantilevered latch 145 enters the latch channel 234. The ramp 238 compresses the tabs 146 enabling the tabs 146 to pass a front of the securing tabs 236. Once the tabs 146 have passed the securing tabs 236, the cantilevered latch 145 is able to spring back toward an uncompressed state and thereby prevent removal of the plug 100 along the plug axis 120 due to the interference between the securing tabs 236 and the tabs 146. When the plug 100 needs to be removed, the cantilevered latch 145 can be compressed by hand and removed along the plug axis 120.

[0142] In certain examples, the second region 218 includes a rearward jack cavity 250 where the rearward jack body 260 is inserted. In certain examples, and as shown in FIGS.18-30, the rearward jack cavity 250 shares the same construction as the rearward plug cavity 148 because in certain examples, the rearward plug body 160 and rearward jack body 260 are the same component. For conciseness, these features are not described in detail a second time. Like the rearward plug cavity 148, the rearward jack cavity 250 includes first and second latch openings 251, 252, first and second latch ramps 253, 254, a keying feature 257, and first and second conductor clearance channels 255, 256.

[0143] In certain examples, the forward jack body 210 is a single unitary component. In certain examples, the forward jack body 210 is made from non- conductive material, such as plastic. In certain examples, the forward jack body 210 is made through injection molding or additive manufacturing techniques.

[0144] In certain examples, the rearward jack body 260 is structurally the same as the rearward plug body 160. The features described above with respect to the rearward plug body 160 apply equally to the rearward jack body 260. In order to orient the jack contacts 206 to mate with the plug contacts 106 when the jack 200 and plug 100 are connected, the rearward jack body 260 is rotated 90 degrees relative to the rearward plug body 160 as can be seen in FIGS. 33 and 34.

[0145] The jack 200 includes two jack contacts 206 that extend through the jack contact slots 240, 242 in the jack wall 248. The jack contacts 206 include a conductor contact side 207 and a contact fin 209 on an opposite second side. The contact fin 209 is designed to fit into the elongated contact region 109 of the plug contact 106. The elongated contact region 109 helps reduce resistance and heat buildup. The conductor contact side 207 extends out of the jack wall 248 into the second region 218 and fits within first and second rearward jack contact slots 288, 290. In certain examples, the conductor contact side 207 is an insulation displacement contact.

[0146] The plug 100 is inserted into the jack 200 to create an electrical connection between the cable 20 feeding into the rearward jack body 260 and the cable 20 feeding into the rearward plug body 160. When the plug 100 is inserted into the jack 200, the jack contacts 206 enter the contact fin slots 134, 136 of the forward plug body 110 and make contact with the plug contacts 106 within the contact housings 138, 140. FIGS. 29-32 show cross sections of the connector assembly 10 in the connected state. As shown in FIGS. 32, 34, and 36, the plug contacts 106 and jack contacts 206 connect in an interlocking cross shape supported by the overlapping intersection of the contact housings 138, 140 and the contact fin slots 134, 136.

[0147] In certain examples, the various keying features in the connector assembly 10 are varied to differentiate between connectors with different requirements or capabilities. FIGS. 37-40 show another possible keying layout for the connector assembly 10. FIGS. 37-38 show an alternate forward plug body 310 that shares many of the same features as the forward plug body 110 but with a different keying feature. The forward plug body 310 has a first portion 316 that is different than the first portion 116. The forward plug body 310 has a second portion 318 that is structurally the same as the second portion 118. At the forward portion 316, the forward plug body 310 divides a front face 314 diagonally into an upper member 317 and a lower member 319 with a central channel 320 extending from an upper comer of the front face 314 to an opposite lower comer of the front face 314. The central channel 320 separates the plug contacts 106 such that the upper member 317 includes the second contact fin slot 136 and the lower member 319 includes the first contact fin slot 134.

[0148] In certain examples, the front face 314 defines a square shape. In certain examples, the front face 314 defines an upper portion on the upper member 317. In certain examples, the front face 314 defines a lower portion on the lower member 319. In certain examples, the front face 314 defines the first contact fin slot. In certain examples, the front face 314 defines the second contact fin slot. The first contact fin slot is positioned on the lower member 319. The second contact fin slot positioned on the upper member 317. The upper and lower members 317, 319 are separated by the central channel 320. The central channel 320 extends across opposite comers of the front face 314. In certain examples, the upper portion of the front face 314 has a triangular shape. In certain examples, the lower portion of the front face 314 has a triangular shape. In certain examples, the upper portion of the front face 314 has a symmetry with the lower portion of the front face 314, where the upper portion isflipped and mirrored about a plane extending centrally through the central channel 320. In certain examples, the first and second contact fin slots 134, 136 extend vertically along the front face 314. In certain examples, the first contact fin slot 134 extends vertically along the lower portion a majority of a distance between the lower side wall and the central channel 320. In certain examples, the second contact fin slot 136 extends vertically along the upper portion a majority of a distance between the upper side wall and the central channel 320.

[0149] In certain examples, the front face 314 has a side length of at least 5mm. In certain examples, the front face 314 has a side length between 5 and 15mm. In certain examples, the front face 314 has a side length between 8 and 12mm. In certain examples, the first and second contact fin slots 134, 136 have a width greater than 0.8mm. In certain examples, the first and second contact fin slots 134, 136 have a width greater than 0.9mm. In certain examples, the first and second contact fin slots 134, 136 have a width between 0.85mm and 1.00mm. In certain examples, the first and second contact fin slots 134, 136 have a length greater than 2.0mm. In certain examples, the first and second contact fin slots 134, 136 have a length greater than 3.0mm. In certain examples, the first and second contact fin slots 134, 136 have a length greater than 4.0mm. In certain examples, the first and second contact fin slots 134, 136 have a length between 3.5mm and 5.00mm. In certain examples, the central channel 320 has a width of at least 0.5mm. In certain examples, the central channel 320 has a width of at least 1.0mm. In certain examples, the central channel 320 has a width between 0.9mm and 1.3mm. In certain examples, the central channel 320 has a length of at least 8.0mm. In certain examples, the central channel 320 has a length of at least 10.0mm. In certain examples, the central channel 320 has a length of at least 12.0mm. In certain examples, the central channel 320 has a length between 10.0mm and 15.0mm.

[0150] It should be noted that at least certain aspects of the measurements and descriptions of the forward plug body 310 may apply to the other forward plug bodies described within the present disclosure.

[0151] FIGS. 39-40 show a corresponding forward jack body 410 that includes a central ridge 420 that divides the plug cavity 417 into an upper cavity 418 and a lower cavity 419. The central ridge 420 is designed to form a close fit within the central channel 320 when the forward plug body 310 connects to the forward jack body 410. The central ridge 420 separates the jack contacts 206 such that the upper cavity 418 includes the second jack contact slot 242 and the lower cavity 419 includes the firstjack contact slot 240. The first jack contact positioned at least partially within the lower cavity 419. The second jack contact is positioned at least partially within the upper cavity 418. In certain examples, the central ridge 420 is a safety feature to prevent accidental contact with the jack contacts 206. In certain examples, openings of each of the upper and lower cavities 418, 419 are sized to prevent insertion of a finger into the respective cavities. In certain examples, the central ridge 420, in conjunction with the latch channel 234 provide a keying feature. In certain examples, the plug cavity 417 defines a generally square opening. In certain examples, the central ridge 420 extends across opposite comers of the square opening. In certain examples, the upper cavity 418 has a triangular shape at the opening. In certain examples, the lower cavity 419 has a triangular shape. In certain examples, the upper cavity 418 has a symmetry with the lower cavity 419, where the upper cavity 418 is flipped and mirrored about a plane extending centrally through the central ridge 420. In certain examples, the central ridge 420 acts as a dielectric barrier.

[0152] In certain examples, the central ridge 420 has a width of at least 0.5mm. In certain examples, the central ridge 420 has a width of at least 0.6mm. In certain examples, the central ridge 420 has a width between 0.6mm and 0.8mm. In certain examples, the central ridge 420 has a length of at least 10.0mm. In certain examples, the central ridge 420 has a length of at least 12.0mm. In certain examples, the central ridge 420 has a length of at least 14.0mm. In certain examples, the central ridge 420 has a length between 12.0mm and 16.0mm.

[0153] FIG. 41 shows an example power system 500 where the connector assembly 10 could be used. Typical power systems include a number of different subsystems such as a power supply 510, a power transmitter 520, a power circuit 530, a power receiver 540, and utilization equipment 550. The connector assembly 10 could be used between each of these subsystems. In certain examples, the connector assembly 10 is particularly well suited to transmit power for data centers.

[0154] In certain examples, the connector assembly 10 transmits power through the cable 20 such that each conductor 30 is capable of carrying currents greater than 4 amps. In certain examples, each conductor 30 can carry currents greater than 5 amps. In certain examples, each conductor 30 is capable of carrying currents between 6 and 12 amps. In certain examples, each conductor 30 is capable of carrying currents of 10 amps. In certain examples, the connector assembly 10 can transmit up to 3,000 watts of power. In certain examples, the connector assembly 10 has a voltage of up to 450 volts.In certain examples, the conductors 30 have a wire gauge between 8 and 24 AWG. In certain examples, the conductors 30 have a wire gauge between 12 and 16 AWG.

[0155] Another example plug 600 is shown in FIGS. 43-47. The plug 600 shares certain similarities with the plug 100 and the forward plug body 310. For conciseness, discussion of same or similar features is limited and / or not repeated. In certain examples, the same reference numbers are used to describe features that are the same as features of components previously presented. The plug 600 includes a forward plug body 610, rearward plug body 660, and a pair of plug contacts 606.

[0156] The forward plug body 610 is modified from the previously presented plug bodies to accommodate the plug contacts 606. An example of the forward plug body 610 is shown in FIGS. 48-51. The forward plug body 610 has a first portion 616 and a second portion 618. An exterior of the first portion 616 is structurally the same as the first portion 316. The plug body 610 is compatible with the previously presented plug cavity 417. As will be discussed, an interior of the first portion 616 is distinguished from an interior of the first portion 118 to accommodate the cantilever style plug contacts 606. The second portion 618 is similar to the second portion 118, however, as will be discussed, the orientation of many of the various features is rotated and / or shifted to accommodate a 90 degree rotation of the plug contact 606 relative to the plug contact 106 with respect to the forward plug body 110 / 610.

[0157] At the forward portion 616, the forward plug body 610 includes first and second contact fin slots 634, 636. Each of the first and second contact fin slots 634, 636 define a beveled entry 621 at a front end 612 to facilitate insertion of a contact from a jack. The first and second contact fin slots 634, 636 define a rectangular opening at a front end 612 of the forward plug body 610. As the first and second contact fin slots 634, 636 continue inward toward an interior wall 649, the first and second fin slots 634, 636 each define upper and lower contact channels 623, 625 at the intersection of first and second plug contact housings 638, 640. The upper and lower contact channels 623, 625 are defined adjacent the beveled entry 621. The upper and lower contact channels 623, 625 begin interior of the front end 612 and continue toward a back end 614 of the forward plug body 610. The upper and lower contact channels 623, 625 prevent deflection of a jack contact as the jack contact enters the contact fin slots 634, 636. The upper and lower contact channels 623, 625 each define a tall side 627 and a short side 629. The tall side 627 forms a sidewall of the contact channels that extends along a length of the contact fin slots 634, 636 on a side furthest from the plug contacts606. The tall side 627 is designed to provide additional support to the jack contacts 206, 806 to prevent deflection of the jack contacts about the horizontal axis 144. The short side 629 forms a sidewall opposite of the tall side 627. The short side 629 extends along a length of the contact fin slots 634, 636 on a side nearest the plug contacts. The short side 629 enables deflection of the plug contacts 606 by providing clearance for the plug contacts 606 about the vertical axis 142. In certain examples, the tall side 627 has a wall height that is at least twice as tall as a wall height of the short side 629.

[0158] First and second plug contact housings 638, 640 extend from an interior wall 649 and continue toward the front end 612. The first and second plug contact housings 638, 640 are designed to house at least a portion of the plug contacts 606. Each of the first and second plug contact housings 638, 640 define upper and lower retention pockets 641, 643. The upper and lower retention pockets 641, 643 are designed to secure a portion of the plug contacts 606. The upper and lower retention pockets 641, 643 limit the distance that the plug contacts 606 can be inserted into the first and second plug contact housings 638, 640. In certain examples, a width of the upper and lower retention pockets 641, 643 is equal to a width of the first and second contact fin slots 634, 636. In certain examples, the upper and lower retention pockets 641, 643 extend from the interior wall 649 toward the front end 612 less than an entire length of the first and second plug contact housings 638, 640. In certain examples, the upper and lower retention pockets 641, 643 extend less than 10% of the length of the first and second plug contact housing 638, 640. In certain examples, the upper and lower retention pockets 641, 643 retain only a portion of the plug contacts 606 that is nearest the interior wall 649. The retention pockets 641, 643 are designed to only retain a small portion of the plug contacts 606 such that a cantilever point is defined where a remainder of the plug contacts 606 extending beyond the upper and lower retention pockets 641, 643 act as a cantilever and are free to deflect along the horizontal axis 144

[0159] The first and second plug contact housings 638, 640 each define a deflection pocket 637. The deflection pocket 637 provides clearance for deflection of the plug contacts 606 about the horizontal axis 144. The deflection pocket 637 extends a length of first and second plug contact housings 638, 640. In certain examples, the deflection pocket 637 defines a rectangular channel. The short side 629 is adjacent the deflection pocket 637. In certain examples, the deflection pocket 637 of the first plug contact housing 638 defines a portion of the first plug contact housing 638 nearest a first sidewall 626. Similarly, in certain examples, the second plug contact housing deflectionpocket 637 defines a portion of the second plug contact housing 640 nearest a second sidewall 628. In certain examples, the deflection pocket has a depth defined along the horizontal axis 144 that is greater than a maximum deflection of the plug contact 606. In certain examples, the depth of the deflection pocket 637 is greater than twice a thickness of the plug contact 606.

[0160] In certain examples, the first and second plug contact housings 638, 640 further define a cooling cavity 639. In certain examples, the cooling cavity extends the length of the first and second plug contact housings 638, 640. In certain examples, the cooling cavity 639 defines a rectangular channel. In certain examples, the cooling cavity 639 runs along an opposite side of the first and second plug contact housings 638, 640 as the deflection cavity 637. In certain examples, an open face of the cooling cavity 639 is spaced apart from an open face of the deflection cavity 637 by a width of the upper and lower retention pockets 641, 643. The cooling cavity 639 is designed to provide air space between the contacts and the forward plug body 610. In certain examples, both the cooling cavity 639 and the deflection cavity 637 are designed to provide air space around at least a portion of the contacts. In certain examples, the cooling cavity 639 is smaller than the deflection cavity 637. In certain examples, the cooling cavity 639 is less than 1 / 2 the size of the deflection cavity 637. The cooling cavity 639 is adjacent the tall side 627.

[0161] In certain examples, the first and second plug contact housings 638, 640 intersect and overlap with the corresponding first and second contact fin slots 634, 636 to define shared cavities, first and second contact cavities 645, 646. In certain examples, the first and second contact cavities 645, 646 extend more than 1 / 2 of a length of the first and second plug contact housings 638, 640. In certain examples, the first and second contact cavities 645, 646 extend more than 4 / 5 of the length of the first and second plug contact housings 638, 640. In certain examples, the first and second contact cavities 645, 646 extend more than 1 / 2 of a length of the first and second contact fin slots 634, 636. In certain examples, the first and second contact cavities 645, 646 extend more than 4 / 5 of the length of the first and second contact fin slots 634, 636.

[0162] The second portion 618 shares the structural features of the second portion 118. The structural descriptions used above to describe, for example, the first and second latch openings 151, 152; the first and second latch ramps 153, 154; the first and second conductor clearance channels 155, 156; and the second portion keying feature157 apply to the forward plug body 610, but the position of many of these features is modified. In certain examples, first and second latch openings 651, 652 are structurally similar, or the same, to the first and second latch openings 151, 152, but the first and second latch openings 651, 652 are positioned on the first and second sides 626, 628. In certain examples, first and second latch ramps 653, 654 are structurally similar, or the same, to the first and second latch ramps 153, 154, but the first and second latch ramps 653, 654 are positioned on the first and second sides 626, 628. In certain examples, first and second conductor clearance channels 655, 656 are structurally similar, or the same, to the first and second conductor clearance channels 155, 156, but the first and second conductor clearance channels 655, 656 are positioned on the first and second sides 626, 628. In certain examples, the second portion keying feature 657 is structurally similar, or the same, to the second portion keying feature 157, but the second portion keying feature 657 is positioned on a lower side wall 624. The interior wall 649 defines openings into the first and second plug contact housings 638, 640.

[0163] In certain examples, the rearward plug body 660 is structurally similar to the rearward plug body 160 and shares many of the same or similar features. An example of the rearward plug body 660 is shown in FIGS. 52-54. As discussed above with respect to the forward plug body 610, certain features of the rearward plug body 660 are rotated and / or shifted relative to the rearward plug body 160. Certain features of the rearward plug body 660, including central cavity 672; first and second conductor channels 680, 682; upward and downward conductor channels 684, 686; first and second rearward plug contact slots 688, 690; first and second securing features 693, 694; and keying feature 698, are mirrored and rotated 90 degrees relative to the corresponding features of the rearward plug body 160. In certain examples, the rearward plug body 660 includes first and second securing cavities 695, 696. The first and second securing cavities 695, 696 extend through a rear wall 662. The first and second securing cavities 695, 696 are aligned with the corresponding first and second securing features 693, 694 about the plug axis 120. As shown, the first and second securing cavities 695, 696 define an area that is greater than a maximum cross-sectional area of the first and second securing features when viewed along the plug axis 120. The first and second securing cavities 695, 696 are designed to facilitate removal of the rearward plug body 660 from the forward plug body 610. In certain examples, the first and second securing cavities 695, 696 may also be used to simplify injection molding manufacturing of the first and second securing features 693, 694.

[0164] The plug contact 606 has the same purpose as the plug contact 106. An example of the plug contact 606 is shown in FIG. 53. The plug contact 606 is a cantilever style contact designed to deflect in response to insertion of the jack contact 206, 806. The deflection of the plug contact ensures contact is maintained between the plug contact 606 and the jack contact resulting from a spring force in the deflected plug contact 606. The plug contacts 606 are positioned at least partially within each of the first and second plug contact housings 638, 640. The plug contact 606 includes a conductor contact side 607 and a fin contact side 608. In certain examples, the conductor contact side 607 is an insulation displacement contact. In certain examples, the fin contact side 608 defines an arm 613 with a contact region 609 and an insertion region 611 adjacent a tip 615 of the plug contact 606. The arm 613 defines a plate-like protrusion with an S-shaped curvature. The arm 613 defines a constant thickness between two flat sides, first and second sides 617, 619. The first side 617 contacts the jack contact 206, 806. The insertion region 611 is designed to make first contact with the incoming jack contact 206, 806. The insertion region 611 extends from the contact region 609 to the tip 615 of the arm 613. The contact region marks a local maximum in the S-shaped curvature of the arm 613.

[0165] The plug contact 606 has a first position where the plug is not inserted into a jack and where there are no forces acting on the fin contact side 608. The plug contact has a second position where the plug is inserted into a jack and a jack contact 206, 806 is contacting the plug contact 606. When the plug contact 606 is in the forward plug body 610 in the first position, the insertion region 611 extends across at least a portion of the first and second contact fin slots 634, 636 when viewed along the plug axis 120 at the front end 612. The contact region is furthest from the short side 629 and the insertion region extends towards the short side 629 about the horizontal axis 144. When the plug contact 606 is in the first position, the tip 615 is near or within the deflection pocket 637. When the jack contact 206, 806 is fully inserted into the plug 600, at the second position, the jack contact 206, 806 contacts the contact region 609. When the plug contact 606 is at the second position, the tip 615 is positioned further into the deflection pocket 637 and the contact region 609 is positioned nearer the deflection pocket 637 as compared to the first position. The contact region 609 does not enter the deflection pocket 637 in the second position.

[0166] As shown in FIG. 46, the conductor contact side 607 extends out of the first plug contact housing 638 and into the first rearward plug contact slot 688 in order tomake contact with a conductor extending normal to the plug contact 606. Once the rearward plug body 660 is secured to the forward plug body 610, the plug contact 606 is encapsulated within the plug 600. In certain examples, the plug contact 606 provides a contact surface along an entire width of the arm 613 at the contact region 609. In certain examples, the contact surface of contact plug 606 is greater than a contact surface of contact 106, 706. In certain examples, increased contact between the plug contact 606 and the jack contact 806 provides improved current flow across the contacts.

[0167] Another example plug 700 is shown in FIGS.58-61. The plug 700 shares certain similarities with the plug 100 the forward plug body 310, and the plug 600. For conciseness, discussion of same or similar features is limited and / or not repeated. The plug 700 includes a forward plug body 710, rearward plug body 760, and a pair of plug contacts 706.

[0168] FIGS. 62-65 show an example of the forward plug body 710. The forward plug body 710 has a first portion 716 and a second portion 718. An exterior of the first portion 716 is the same as the first portion 316. An interior of the first portion 716 is similar to the first portion 116. The interior 716 includes first and second contact fin slots 734, 736 and first and second plug contact housings 738, 740. The second portion 718 is the same as the second portion 118, with the exception of an interior wall 749 that defines modified openings to the first and second plug contact housings 738, 740.

[0169] In certain examples, the first and second plug contact housings 738, 740 further define a cooling cavity 739. The cooling cavity 739 is designed to provide air space between the contacts and the forward plug body 710. The air space facilitates thermal management. In certain examples, the cooling cavity 739 extends the length of the first and second plug contact housings 738, 740. In certain examples, the cooling cavity 739 defines a rectangular cavity positioned at a central intersection of the first and second contact fin slots 734, 736 and the first and second plug contact housings 738, 740.

[0170] The addition of the cooling cavity 739 modifies the previously described first and second contact fin slots 134, 136 and first and second plug contact housings 138, 140. The first and second contact fin slots 734, 736 define a rectangular opening at a front end 712 of the forward plug body 710. As the first and second contact fin slots 734, 736 continue inward toward the interior wall 749, the first and second fin slots 734, 736 each define upper and lower contact channels 723, 725 at the intersection ofthe first and second plug contact housings 738, 740. The upper and lower contact channels 723, 725 extend adjacent opposite horizontal sides of the cooling cavity 739. The upper and lower contact channels 723, 725 maintain alignment of the jack contacts 206, 806 as the jack contacts 206, 806 enter into the plug 700. The upper and lower contact channels 723, 725 surround edges of the jack contacts 206, 806. In certain examples, the upper and lower contact channels 723, 725 define a depth that is less than 1 / 10 of a height of the cooling cavity 739. In certain examples, the depth of the upper and lower contact channels 723, 725 is less than 1 / 2 of a thickness of the plug contacts 706.

[0171] In certain examples, the first and second plug contact housings 738, 740 each define first and second contact channels 732, 733. The first and second contact channels 732, 733 extend adjacent opposite vertical sides of the cooling cavity 739. The first and second contact channels 732, 733 are designed to maintain alignment of the plug contacts 706 within the plug 700. The first and second contact housings 738, 740 extend from an opening at the interior wall 749 and toward the front end 712. The first and second contact channels 732, 733 surround edges of the plug contacts 706. In certain examples, the first and second contact channels 732, 733 define a depth that is less than 1 / 2 of the height of the cooling cavity 739. In certain examples, the depth of the first and second contact channels 732, 733 is less than 1 / 2 of a thickness of the plug contacts 706.

[0172] In certain examples, the first and second contact fin slots 734, 736 and the first and second plug contact housings 738, 740 intersect and overlap to define corresponding first and second contact cavities 745, 746. In certain examples, the first and second contact fin slots 734, 736 and the first and second plug contact housings 738, 740 overlap for a length that is less than 1 / 2 a length of the first and second plug contact housings 738, 740.

[0173] Each of the first and second plug contact housings 738, 740 define first and second retention pockets 741, 743. The first and second retention pockets 741, 743 are designed to secure a portion of the plug contacts 706. The first and second retention pockets 741, 743 limit the distance that the plug contacts 706 can be inserted into the first and second plug contact housings 738, 740. In certain examples, the first and second retention pockets 741, 743 extend from the interior wall 749 toward the front end 712 less than an entire length of the first and second plug contact housings 738, 740. In certain examples, the first and second retention pockets 741, 743 extend lessthan 10% of the length of the first and second plug contact housing 738, 740. In certain examples, the first and second retention pockets 741, 743 retain only a portion of the plug contacts 706 that is nearest the interior wall 749.

[0174] In certain examples, the rearward plug body 760 is the same as the previously described rearward plug body 160, but with the addition of first and second securing cavities 795, 796. The first and second securing cavities are the same as the first and second securing cavities 695, 696 described above. In certain examples, the rearward plug body 760 is compatible with the forward jack body 210.

[0175] An example of one of the plug contacts 706 is shown on FIGS. 66-67. The plug contact 706 shares certain similarities with the plug contact 106. The plug contact 706 includes a conductor contact side 707 and a fin contact side 708. In certain examples, the conductor contact side 707 is an insulation displacement contact. In certain examples, the fin contact side 708 provides a slot with an elongated contact region 709 and an insertion region 711 at a tip of the plug contact 706. When the jack contact 206, 806 is inserted into the slot, arms 713 deflect outward to accommodate the jack contact. The deflection provides an approximately constant spring force maintaining contact between the plug contact and the jack contact 206, 806.

[0176] In certain examples, connectors may be grouped such that there are multiple plugs and multiple jacks. In certain examples, multiple jacks may be grouped in a single multi-jack assembly. The multi-jack assembly may be connected to, for example, a group of plugs 100, 600, 700, a circuit board, or other electronic component. Any number of jacks may be grouped into a multi-jack assembly. In certain examples, four jacks are grouped in a multi-jack assembly. Multi-jack assemblies may also be grouped into a patch panel. Various examples of multi-jack assemblies will be described. These examples are intended to be illustrative and non-limiting. In certain examples, the same reference numbers are used to describe features that are the same as features of components previously presented.

[0177] An example multi-jack assembly 800 is shown in FIGS. 68-72. The multijack assembly 800 is designed to receive a number of plugs on one side and another number of pairs of conductors on an opposite side. In certain examples, the multi-jack assembly defines a plurality of jacks. In certain examples, multi-jack assemblies improve space efficiency by sharing walls between jacks. In certain examples, multijack assemblies reduce parts needed to connect multiple plugs. In certain examples, the multi-jack assembly 800 defines a multi-jack housing 870, and a plurality of jacks 801.In certain examples, the multi-jack assembly 800 defines four jacks 801. The multi-jack assembly 800 defines a first region 816 and a second region 818. Each of the four jacks 801 defines a forward jack body 810, a corresponding rearward jack body 860, and a pair of jack contacts 806. The forward jack bodies 810 are positioned in the first region 816 and the rearward jack bodies 860 are positioned in the second region 818. In certain examples, each forward jack body 810 defines an interior that is structurally the same, or similar, as an interior of the forward jack body 410. In certain examples, each rearward jack body 860 is structurally the same, or similar to, as the rearward plug body 760.

[0178] In certain examples, the multi-jack housing 870 is integrally formed with each of the forward jack bodies 810. The multi-jack housing 870 defines a rectangular outer shell 872 with upper and lower side walls 822, 824 and first and second side walls 826, 828. The upper and lower side walls 822, 824, are sized to accommodate four jacks 801 positioned side by side. The first and second side walls 826, 828 are sized the same as the first and second side walls 226, 228. In certain examples, the first and second side walls 826, 828 each define an attachment feature 823. The attachment feature 823 enables the multi-jack assembly 800 to be attached or mounted to different components. For example, the attachment features 823 may be adapted to attach the multi-jack assembly to a patch panel or a power distribution unit.

[0179] In certain examples, as shown in FIGS. 68-72, the attachment feature 823 defines a tab 825. The tab 825 is defined within the first and second side walls 826, 828 by a cutout portion 827. The cutout portions 827 form three-sided cutouts through the first and second side walls 826, 828 to form the tabs 825. The tab 825 includes a ramp feature 829 on an exterior side of the tab 825. A base of the ramp feature 829 begins where the tab 825 connects to the side wall 826, 828. The ramp feature 829 rises to an apex at a distal end of the tab 825. The rise of the ramp feature 829 is defined laterally across the first and second side walls 826, 828 where the apex is nearest a front end 812 of the multi-jack assembly 800. A stop bar 831 protrudes outward from and extends vertically along the first and second side walls 826, 828. The stop bar 831 is positioned between the tab 825 and the front end 812. An attachment gap 833 is defined between the tab 825 and the stop bar 831. The attachment gap 833 is designed to contain a portion of any component that receives the multi-jack assembly 800.

[0180] The first and second side walls 826, 828 further define first and second latch openings 851, 852. The first and second latch openings are the same as the first and second latch openings 251, 252.

[0181] Interior jack walls 813 separate the individual jacks 801 and define at least one of the side walls of each jack 801. Each interior jack wall defines a side wall for two neighboring jacks 801. The interior jack walls 813 have a thickness that accommodates an overhang of the interior wall 162 of two of the rearward jack bodies 860 when the rearward jack bodies 860 are inserted into the forward jack body 810. In certain examples, the interior jack walls 813 have a hollow center 819 such that the interior jack walls 813 each define two parallel walls. The interior jack walls 813 further define additional first and second latch pockets 858, 859 to facilitate attachment of the rearward jack bodies 860. The first and second latch pockets 858, 859 function similarly to the first and second latch openings 851, 852 by providing clearance for the first and second securing features 693, 694. Each interior jack wall 813 defines both first and second latch openings 851, 852 because the interior jack wall 813 serves as a jack wall for two neighboring jacks 801.

[0182] The jack contact 806 is compatible with all of the forward plug bodies 110, 310, 610, and 710 that are described above. An example jack contact 806 can be seen with associated plug contacts 606, 706 on FIGS. 55 and 66. The jack contact 806 has certain similarities to the jack contact 206. In certain examples, the jack contact 806 has an increased thickness over the jack contact 206 and the associated slots and housings that interact with the jack contact 806 may be adapted to accommodate the increased thickness. The increased thickness may provide enhanced current transfer and thermal management.

[0183] Another example multi-jack assembly 900 is shown in FIGS. 75-76. The multi-jack assembly 900 is designed to receive a number of plugs on one side and connect to a circuit board orthogonally to the plug axis 120. The multi-jack assembly 900 shares certain similarities with the multi-jack assembly 800. In certain examples, the multi-jack assembly 900 defines a multi-jack housing 970, and four jacks 901. The multi-jack assembly 900 defines a first region 916 and a second region 918. Each of the four jacks 901 defines a forward jack body 910, a corresponding rearward jack body 960, a first jack contact 906, and a second jack contact 914. The forward jack bodies 910 are positioned in the first region 916 and the rearward jack bodies 960 are positioned in the second region 918. In certain examples, the forward jack body 910 isthe same as the forward jack body 810. Because the multi-jack assembly 900 is designed to connect to a circuit board, the multi-jack assembly 900 does not include the attachment features defined in the multi-jack assembly 800.

[0184] In certain examples, the rearward jack body 960 is modified from the previously presented rearward jack bodies 260, 860 to facilitate connection to a circuit board. In certain examples, the multi-jack housing 970 is integrally formed with each of the forward jack bodies 910 and the rearward jack bodies 960. An example of the multi-jack housing 970 is shown on FIGS. 77 and 78. The multi-jack housing 970 defines a rectangular outer shell 972 with upper and lower side walls 922, 924, first and second side walls 926, 928, and a rear wall 930. The upper and lower side walls 922, 924, are sized to accommodate four jacks 901 positioned side by side.

[0185] The rearward jack body 960 forms a generally solid body with a first jack contact cavity 935 and a second jack contact cavity 937. The rearward jack body 960 is solid across a boundary between neighboring rearward jack bodies 960. The first jack contact cavity 935 defines a first rear opening 939 and a first lower opening 943. The first rear opening 939 defines a slotted opening on the rear wall 930. The first rear opening 939 is designed to enable insertion of the first jack contact 906. The first lower opening 943 defines a slotted opening in the lower wall 924. The first rear opening 939 and the first lower opening 943 join at a lower rear comer of the jack 901. The first jack contact cavity 935 further defines a first jack contact slot 940 that extends about the jack axis 220 from the rearward jack body 960 into to the forward jack body 910. The first jack contact cavity 935 further defines first and second shoulders 961, 962. The first and second shoulders 961, 962 limit insertion of the first jack contact 906 and ensure the first jack contact 906 is properly positioned within the first jack contact cavity 935. The first shoulder 961 is adjacent an upper portion of the first jack contact slot 940. The second shoulder 962 is adjacent a lower portion of the first jack contact slot 940.

[0186] The second jack contact cavity 937 defines a second rear opening 941 and a second lower opening 945. The second rear opening 941 defines a slotted opening on the rear wall 930. The second rear opening 941 is designed to enable insertion of the second jack contact 914. The second lower opening 945 defines a slotted opening in the lower wall 924. The second rear opening 941 and the second lower opening 945 join at a lower rear comer of the jack 901. The second jack contact cavity 937 further defines a second jack contact slot 942 that extends about the jack axis 220 from the rearward jackbody 960 into to the forward jack body 910. The second jack contact cavity 937 further defines first and second shoulders 963, 964. The first and second shoulders 963, 964 limit insertion of the second jack contact 914 and ensure the second jack contact 914 is properly positioned within the second jack contact cavity 937. The first shoulder 963 is adjacent an upper portion of the second jack contact slot 942. The second shoulder 964 is adjacent a lower portion of the second jack contact slot 942.

[0187] The multi-jack housing 970 further defines a plurality of posts 992. The posts 992 are designed to secure the multi-jack assembly 900 to a circuit board. The posts 992 define a cylindrical body extending outward from the lower side wall 924. The posts 992 include a plurality of ridges 993 that extend along a portion of a length of the posts 992. The ridges 993 are designed to form a tight fit with the circuit board and to provide a gap between the circuit board and the post 992 for adhesive or solder to hold the post 992 to the circuit board. In certain examples, the multi-jack housing 970 includes two posts 992.

[0188] The multi-jack housing 970 further defines a plurality of bump-out features 994. The bump-out features 994 are designed to separate the lower side wall 924 from the circuit board. The bump-out features 994 extend along a portion of a length of the multi-jack housing between the first region 916 and the second region 918 at intersections of the lower side wall 924 with the first and second side walls 926, 928. In certain examples, there are two bump-outs 994 at a comer defined by the first side wall 926 and the lower side wall 924. In certain examples, there are two bump-outs 994 at a comer defined by the second side wall 928 and the lower side wall 924.

[0189] Each jack 901 includes a first jack contact 906 and a second jack contact 914. The first and second jack contacts transfer energy between the plug 100, 600, 700 and a circuit board. An example first jack contact 906 is shown on FIG. 80. The first jack contact 906 defines a conductor contact 907 on a first side and a contact fin 909 on a second side. The contact fin 909 is designed to fit into and extend through the first jack contact slot 940. The contact fin 909 is designed to engage a plug contact 106, 606, 706. The conductor contact 907 extends orthogonally away from the contact fin 909. At the intersection of the conductor contact 907 and the contact fin 909, first and second contact shoulders 911, 912 are defined. The first contact shoulder 911 engages the first shoulder 961 and the second contact shoulder 912 engages the second shoulder 962. The conductor contact 907 extends out of the lower side wall 924. The conductorcontact 907 defines a terminal post 913 that is designed to contact the circuit board. The terminal post 913 is designed to be soldered to the circuit board.

[0190] An example second jack contact 914 is shown on FIG. 79. The second jack contact 914 defines a conductor contact 921 on a first side and a contact fin 917 on a second side. The contact fin 917 is designed to fit into and extend through the second jack contact slot 942. The contact fin 917 is designed to engage a plug contact 106, 606, 706. The conductor contact 921 extends orthogonally away from the contact fin 917. At the intersection of the conductor contact 921 and the contact fin 917, first and second contact shoulders 915, 919 are defined. The first contact shoulder 915 engages the first shoulder 963 and the second contact shoulder 919 engages the second shoulder 964. The conductor contact 921 extends out of the lower side wall 924. The conductor contact 921 defines a terminal post 923 that is designed to contact the circuit board. The terminal post 923 is designed to be soldered to the circuit board. In certain examples, the first and second jack contacts 906, 914 may include multiple terminal posts. In certain examples, the multiple terminal posts may provide additional support and / or to reduce current flowing through an individual terminal post. In certain examples, the terminal posts 913, 923 extend through the circuit board. In certain examples, the terminal posts 913, 923 mount flush to the circuit board. In certain examples, the terminal posts 913, 923 are needle eye (eye of the needle), press fit, split beam, etc.

[0191] Another example multi-jack assembly 1000 is shown in FIG. 81. The multijack assembly 1000 shares many of the same features as the multi-jack assembly 900. The multi-jack assembly 1000 is designed to receive a number of plugs on one side and connect to a circuit board on an opposite side that is parallel with the plug axis 120. In certain examples, the multi-jack assembly 1000 defines a multi-jack housing 1070, and four jacks 1001. The multi-jack assembly 1000 defines a first region 1016 and a second region 1018. Each of the four jacks 1001 defines a forward jack body 1010, a corresponding rearward jack body 1060, and two jack contact 1006. The forward jack bodies 1010 are positioned in the first region 1016 and the rearward jack bodies 1060 are positioned in the second region 1018. In certain examples, the forward jack body 1010 is the same as the forward jack body 1010. Because the multi-jack assembly 1000 is designed to connect to a circuit board, the multi-jack assembly 1000 does not include the attachment features defined in the multi-jack assembly 800.

[0192] In certain examples, the rearward jack body 1060 is modified from the previously presented rearward jack bodies 260, 860 to facilitate connection to a circuitboard. In certain examples, the multi-jack housing 1070 is integrally formed with each of the forward jack bodies 1010 and the rearward jack bodies 1060. An example of the jack housing 1070 is shown in FIGS. 82-84. The multi-jack housing 1070 defines a rectangular outer shell 1072 with upper and lower side walls 1022, 1024, first and second side walls 1026, 1028, and a rear wall 1030. The upper and lower side walls 1022, 1024, are sized to accommodate four jacks 1001 positioned side by side.

[0193] The rearward jack body 1060 forms a generally solid body with a first jack contact cavity 1035 and a second jack contact cavity 1037. The rearward jack body 1060 is solid across a boundary between neighboring rearward jack bodies 1060. The first jack contact cavity 1035 defines a first rear opening 1039. The first rear opening 1039 defines a slotted opening on the rear wall 1030. The first rear opening 1039 is designed to enable insertion of one of the first jack contacts 1006. The first jack contact cavity 1035 further defines a first jack contact slot 1040 that extends about the jack axis 220 from the rearward jack body 1060 into to the forward jack body 1010. The first jack contact cavity 1035 further defines first and second shoulders 1061, 1062. The first and second shoulders 1061, 1062 limit insertion of the jack contact 1006 and ensure the jack contact 1006 is properly positioned within the first jack contact cavity 1035. The first shoulder 1061 is adjacent an upper portion of the first jack contact slot 1040. The second shoulder 1062 is adjacent a lower portion of the first jack contact slot 1040.

[0194] The second jack contact cavity 1037 defines a second rear opening 1041.The second rear opening 1041 defines a slotted opening on the rear wall 1030. The second rear opening 1041 is designed to enable insertion of one of the jack contacts 1006. The second jack contact cavity 1037 further defines a second jack contact slot 1042 that extends about the jack axis 220 from the rearward jack body 1060 into to the forward jack body 1010. The second jack contact cavity 1037 further defines first and second shoulders 1063, 1064. The first and second shoulders 1063, 1064 limit insertion of the jack contact 1006 and ensure the jack contact 1006 is properly positioned within the second jack contact cavity 1037. The first shoulder 1063 is adjacent an upper portion of the second jack contact slot 1042. The second shoulder is adjacent a lower portion of the second jack contact slot 1042. In certain examples, the second jack contact cavity 1037 is the same as the first jack contact cavity 1035 but in a different position.

[0195] The multi-jack housing 1070 further a plurality of posts 1092. The posts 1092 are structurally the same as the posts 992. The posts 1092 are designed to securethe multi-jack assembly 1000 to the circuit board at the rear wall 1030. The posts 1092 extend outward from the rear wall 1030. In certain examples, the multi-jack housing 1070 includes two posts 1092. In certain examples, more than two posts 1092 are included. In certain examples, a wave solder process is used for soldering contacts after the posts 1092 secure the multi-jack assembly 1000 to the circuit board.

[0196] The multi-jack housing 1070 further defines a plurality of bump-out features 1094. The bump-out features 1094 are structurally the same as the bump-out features 994. The bump-out features 1094 are designed to separate the rear wall 1030 from the circuit board. The bump-out features 1094 extend along a portion of a length of the multi-jack housing between the upper side wall 1022 and the lower side wall 1024 at intersections of the rear wall 1030 with the first and second side walls 1026, 1028. In certain examples, there are two bump-outs 1094 at a comer defined by the first side wall 1026 and the rear wall 1030. In certain examples, there are two bump-outs 1094 at a comer defined by the second side wall 1028 and the rear wall 1030.

[0197] Each jack 1001 includes two jack contacts 1006. The jack contacts transfer energy between the plug 100, 600, 700 and a circuit board. An example jack contact1006 is shown on FIG. 85. The jack contact 1006 defines a conductor contact 1007 on a first side and a contact fin 1009 on a second side. The contact fin 1009 is designed to fit into and extend through the first and second jack contact slots 1040, 1042. The contact fin 1009 is designed to engage a plug contact 106, 606, 706. The conductor contact1007 extends away from the contact fin 1009. Both the conductor contact 1007 portion and the contact fin 1009 portion extend along a single axis. At the intersection of the conductor contact 1007 and the contact fin 1009, first and second contact shoulders 1011, 1012 are defined. The first contact shoulder 1011 engages the first shoulder 1061 and the second contact shoulder 1012 engages the second shoulder 1062. The conductor contact 1007 extends out of the rear wall 1030. The conductor contact 1007 defines a terminal post 1010 that is designed to contact the circuit board. The terminal post 1010 is designed to be soldered to the circuit board.

[0198] An example patch panel assembly 1100 is shown on FIGS. 86-87. The patch panel assembly 1100 is designed to organize and manage a network of power cables. In certain examples, the patch panel assembly 1100 includes a panel 1110 and a plurality of multi-jack assemblies 800. In certain examples, the patch panel 1110 assembly houses 32 jacks 801.

[0199] An example of the panel 1110 is shown on FIGS. 88-89. The panel 1110 defines a front plate 1120 that extends a length of the patch panel assembly 1100.

[0200] The panel 1110 defines a plurality of jack openings 1130. The jack openings extend through the front plate 1120 and between a front and rear side 1112, 1114 of the panel 1110. In certain examples, the panel 1110 defines eight jack openings 1130. Each jack opening 1130 is sized to form a close fit around a perimeter of the multi-jack assembly 800. In certain examples, the jack openings 1130 are rectangular. The front plate 1120 defines a thickness that fits within the attachment gap 833 of the multi-jack assembly 800. The jack openings 1130 alternate between upper and lower rows 1136, 1138. The upper and lower rows 1136, 1138 extend across the length of the front plate 1120. In certain examples the front plate 1120 has a height that is at least a height of two jack openings 1130. In certain examples, the jack openings 1130 of the upper row 1136 do not overlap with the jack openings 1130 in the lower row 1138.

[0201] The front plate 1120 further defines a plurality of attachment features 1126. The attachment features 1126 are designed to secure the patch panel to a broader housing (not shown) for electrical equipment, such as that used in a server room. In certain examples, attachment feature 1126 are positioned at each comer of the front plate 1120. In certain examples, the attachment features 1126 define fastener openings.

[0202] Upper and lower mounting tabs 1150, 1152 extend rearward from upper and lower sides 1122, 1124 of the front plate 1120. The upper and lower mounting tabs 1150, 1152 are designed to facilitate mounting the patch panel 1100 into a broader housing (not shown). In certain examples, the upper and lower mounting tabs 1150, 1152 extend a length less than the length of the patch panel assembly. In certain examples, the upper and lower mounting tabs 1150, 1152 extend a length that extends at least as long as a distance between the first and last jack 801. In certain examples, the upper and lower mounting tabs 1150, 1152 extend rearward a distance that is less than a height of the front plate 1120. In certain examples, the upper and lower mounting tabs 1150, 1152 extend rearward a distance that is less than 1 / 2 the height of the front plate 1120. In certain examples, the attachment features 1126 are positioned outside of the length of the upper and lower tabs 1150, 1152.

[0203] During assembly of the patch panel assembly 1100, the multi-jack assembly 800 enters the front side 1112 with a rear end 814 of the multi-jack assembly 800 entering the jack opening 1130 first. As the multi-jack assembly 800 enters, the front plate 1120 begins to contact the ramp feature 829. The ramp feature 829 depresses thetab 825 as the ramp feature 829 continues contact with sides 1132 of the jack opening 1130. The tab 825 is fully depressed when the sides 1132 of the jack opening 1130 are positioned at the apex of the ramp feature 829. Once the sides 1132 of the jack opening 1130 pass the apex of the ramp feature 829, the tab 825 springs back to a neutral position at which point the sides 1132 of the jack opening 1130 are held between the stop bar 831 and the ramp feature 829 within the attachment gap 833. The multi-jack assembly may be removed from the panel 1110 by depressing the tabs 825 and pulling the multi-jack assembly 800 out of the jack opening 1130 in an opposite direction from how the multi-jack assembly 800 entered.

[0204] In certain applications, it may be desirable to accommodate multiple sizes of conductors through a single connector. The previously described jacks and plugs may be modified, as needed, to accommodate the use of multiple sizes of conductors. In certain examples, a plug contact 1206, a jack contact 1306, and a rearward plug body 1460 are modified to adapt the previously presented connector components for the use of differently sized conductors.

[0205] An example plug contact 1206 is shown in FIG. 90. The plug contact 106 shares certain similarities with the plug contacts 106, 606, and 706. The plug contact 1206 defines a conductor contact side 1207 and a fin contact side 1208. The conductor contact side 1207 includes a first conductor contact region 1211 and second conductor contact region 1212. The second conductor contact region 1212 is adjacent the first conductor contact region 1211 and, on an opposite side, adjacent the fin contact side 1208. The first contact region 1211 is sized to receive a first size of conductor and the second contact region 1212 is sized to receive a second size of conductor. In certain examples, the second contact region 1212 is sized for a larger gauge (smaller) conductor than the first contact region 1211. In certain examples, the second contact region 1212 is sized to accommodate at least 24-14 gauge conductors. In certain examples, the second contact region 1212 is sized to accommodate at least 16-14 gauge conductors. In certain examples, the first contact region 1211 is sized to accommodate at least 12-8 gauge conductor. In certain examples, the first contact region 1211 is sized to accommodate at least a 12 gauge conductor. In certain examples, the first and second contact regions 1211, 1212 define portions of insulation displacement contacts. In certain examples, the fin contact side 1208 is structurally the same as the fin contact side 608.

[0206] An example jack contact 1306 is shown in FIG. 91. The jack contact 1306 shares certain similarities with the jack contacts 206, 806. The jack contact 1306 defines a conductor contact side 1307 and a contact fin side 1309. The conductor contact side 1307 includes a first conductor contact region 1311 and second conductor contact region 1312. The second conductor contact region 1312 is adjacent the first conductor contact region 1311 and, on an opposite side, adjacent the contact fin side 1309. The first contact region 1311 is sized to receive a first size of conductor and the second contact region 1312 is sized to receive a second size of conductor. In certain examples, the second contact region 1312 is sized for a larger gauge (smaller) conductor than the first contact region 1311. In certain examples, the second contact region 1312 is sized to accommodate at least 24-14 gauge conductors. In certain examples, the second contact region 1312 is sized to accommodate at least 16-14 gauge conductors. In certain examples, the first contact region 1311 is sized to accommodate at least 12-8 gauge conductor. In certain examples, the first contact region 1311 is sized to accommodate at least a 12 gauge conductor. In certain examples, the first and second contact regions 1311, 1312 define portions of insulation displacement contacts. In certain examples, the contact fin side 1309 is structurally the same as the contact fin side 806.

[0207] In certain examples, a conductor is sized to pass through the first contact region 1211, 1311 without removing insulation from the conductor. The conductor is then attached to the second contact region 1212, 1312. In certain examples, a conductor may be attached to the first conductor region 1211, 1311 being sized to prevent continuing into the second contact region 1212, 1312.

[0208] An example rearward plug body 1460 is shown in FIG. 92. As previously mentioned, in certain applications the rearward plug body is the same as the rearward jack body. Therefore, the rearward plug body 1460 may also act as a rearward jack body as needed. The rearward plug body 1460 shares certain similarities with the rearward plug bodies 160, 660. The rearward plug body 1460 is designed to accommodate differently sized conductors fitting in the first contact region 1211, 1311 of the plug and jack contacts 1206, 1306. The rearward plug body defines a main body 1468. The rearward plug body 1460 defines first and second conductor channels 1480, 1482. The first and second conductor channels 1480, 1482 extend between a central cavity (not shown) and a front wall 1470. The first and second conductor channels 1480, 1482 are designed to receive conductors in the first conductor contact region1211, 1311 by accommodating the length of plug contacts 1206 or the jack contacts 1306. In certain examples, at the front wall 1470, an upward conductor channel 1484 intersects with the second conductor channel 1482 and a downward conductor channel 1486 intersects with the first conductor channel 1480. The upward and downward conductor channels 1484, 1486 extend in opposite directions from the respective conductor channels 1480, 1482. The upward and downward conductor channels 1484, 1486 direct the conductors toward oppositely facing upper and lower walls 1491, 1492 of the main body 1468 such that the upward and downward conductor channels 1484, 1486 define openings 1485 at the respective walls 1491, 1492. To provide additional space for the contacts 1206, 1306, the openings 1485 are increased in size by increasing the intersection between the first and second conductor channels 1480, 1482 and the upward and downward conductor channel 1484, 1486.

[0209] In certain examples, the rearward plug body 1460 may be provided in conjunction with the rearward plug body 160, 260, 660, 760, or 860 such that a user may choose which rearward plug body to use based on the conductor size they use in the contacts 1206, 1306. For example, if the second contact region 1212, 1312 is used, then any of the plugs 160, 660, or 760 may be used. If the first contact region 1211, 1311 is used, then the rearward plug body 1460 may be used. The use of multiple rearward jack / plug bodies enables a cost-effective solution to provide a user flexibility in the conductor size used.

[0210] FIGS. 93 and 94 show another alternative pair of first and second jack contacts 1506, 1514. The first and second jack contacts 1506, 1514 share many similarities with the first and second jack contacts 906, 914. The first and second jack contacts 1506, 1514 may be used with any of the above disclosed jacks that are compatible with first and second jack contacts 906, 914. Each of the first and second jack contacts 1506, 1514 include an additional post. The first jack contact 1506 has a first post 1513 and a second post 1508. The second jack contact 1514 has a first post 1523 and a second post 1528. The use of two posts provides improved distribution of current through the contact and into the circuit board. The use of two posts provides improved stability of the jack mounted to the circuit board. Although not shown, the jack contacts 1506, 1514 may also be modified to correspond with jack contact 1006, such that the two posts extend linearly rearward from the contact fin.

[0211] The terms upper and lower are relative directional terms and should not be construed to be limiting. In certain examples, orientation of the rearward plug / jack body is rotated such that upper and lower become first side and second side, etc.

[0212] The various embodiments described above are provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed to limit the claims attached hereto. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize various modifications and changes that may be made without following the example embodiments and applications illustrated and described herein, and without departing from the full scope of the following claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:1 , A connector plug comprising: a forward plug body defining a front end and a back end with a first portion adjacent the front end and a second portion adjacent the back end, a plug axis extending centrally between the front and back ends, first and second contact housings within the first portion and extending parallel with the plug axis to the second portion, first and second contact fin slots extending from the front end and intersecting with the corresponding first and second contact housings, the second portion defining a rearward plug cavity; a rearward plug body defining a rear wall and a main body, the main body extending between a front wall and the rear wall, the main body securable within the second portion of the forward plug body, the rearward plug body including a central cavity extending through the rear wall and into the main body along the plug axis, oppositely oriented upward and downward conductor channels extending transversely from corresponding first and second conductor channels, the first conductor channel extending between the central cavity and the downward conductor channel, the second conductor channel extending between the central cavity and the upward conductor channel, first and second rearward plug contact slots intersecting the upward and downward conductor channels at the front wall, the first and second rearward plug contact slots aligned with the corresponding first and second contact housings about the plug axis; a cable having a first conductor and a second conductor, the cable extending into the central cavity, the first conductor extending into the first conductor channel and into the downward conductor channel, the second conductor extending into the second conductor channel and into the upward conductor channel; and first and second plug contacts positioned within the corresponding first and second contact housings and extending into the corresponding first and second rearward plug contact slots, the first plug contact electrically connected to the first conductor, the second plug contact electrically connected to the second conductor.

2. The connector plug of claim 1, wherein the second portion of the forward plug body includes first and second conductor clearance channels extending from the back end toward the front end parallel with the plug axis such that ends of the first and second conductors positioned within the upward and downward conductor channelshave sufficient clearance from the forward plug body to insert the rearward plug body into the forward plug body.

3. The connector plug of claim 2, wherein the first and second conductor clearance channels are positioned on oppositely facing upper and lower side walls within the rearward plug cavity, wherein the first and second conductor clearance channels are offset about both a vertical axis and a horizontal axis, wherein the vertical axis is transverse to the plug axis and the horizontal axis is transverse to both the plug axis and the vertical axis.

4. The connector plug of claim 1 , wherein the second portion of the forward plug body includes first and second latch openings, wherein the main body includes first and second securing features that slide into the corresponding first and second latch openings when the rearward plug body is inserted into the forward plug body.

5. The connector plug of claim 4, wherein the first and second latch openings are positioned on oppositely facing upper and lower side walls, wherein the first and second latch openings are offset about both a vertical axis and a horizontal axis, wherein the vertical axis is transverse to the plug axis and the horizontal axis is transverse to both the plug axis and the vertical axis.

6. The connector plug of claim 1, wherein the second portion of the forward plug body includes a keying feature that corresponds to a keying feature in the rearward plug body such that the rearward plug body can be inserted in only one orientation relative to the forward plug body.

7. The connector plug of claim 1, wherein the first and second contact housings are offset about both a vertical axis and a horizontal axis, wherein the vertical axis is transverse to the plug axis and the horizontal axis is transverse to both the plug axis and the vertical axis.

8. The connector plug of claim 1, wherein the first portion of the forward plug body includes at least one keying feature.

9. The connector plug of claim 1, wherein the first portion of the forward plug body includes a cantilevered latch for securing the connector plug to a corresponding jack.

10. The connector plug of claim 1, wherein the first and second contact fin slots have a height extending parallel to a vertical axis that is transverse to the plug axis, wherein the first and second contact housings have a height extending parallel to a horizontal axis that is transverse to both the vertical axis and the plug axis.

11. The connector plug of claim 1 , wherein each of the first and second plug contacts includes a conductor contact side and a contact fin side.

12. The connector plug of claim 11, wherein the contact fin side includes an insertion region at a tip of the plug contact and an elongated contact region, wherein the insertion region provides a ramp to facilitate insertion of a mating contact, and wherein the elongated contact region is configured to contact the mating contact along a length of the mating contact.

13. The connector plug of claim 1, wherein the first and second contact fin slots intersect with the first and second contact housings in a cross-shape when viewed about the plug axis.

14. A connector jack comprising: a forward jack body defining a front end and a back end with a first region adjacent the front end and a second region adjacent the back end, a jack axis extending centrally between the front and back ends, a jack wall dividing the first and second regions, and first and second jack contact slots extending through the jack wall parallel to the jack axis; a rearward jack body defining a rear wall and a main body, the main body extending between a front wall and the rear wall, the main body securable within the second region of the forward jack body, the rearward jack body including a central cavity extending through the rear wall and into the main body along the jack axis, oppositely oriented upward and downward conductor channels extending transversely from corresponding first and second conductor channels, the first conductor channelextending between the central cavity and the downward conductor channel, the second conductor channel extending between the central cavity and the upward conductor channel, and first and second rearward jack contact slots intersecting the upward and downward conductor channels at the front wall, the first and second rearward jack contact slots aligned with the corresponding first and second jack contact slots about the jack axis; a cable having a first conductor and a second conductor, the cable extending into the central cavity, the first conductor extending into the first conductor channel and into the downward conductor channel, the second conductor extending into the second conductor channel and into the upward conductor channel; and first and second jack contacts positioned within the corresponding first and second jack contact slots and extending into the corresponding first and second rearward jack contact slots, the first jack contact electrically connected to the first conductor, the second jack contact electrically connected to the second conductor.

15. The connector jack of claim 14, wherein the second region includes first and second conductor clearance channels extending from the back end toward the front end parallel with the jack axis such that ends of the first and second conductors positioned within the upward and downward conductor channels have sufficient clearance from the forward jack body to insert the rearward jack body into the forward jack body.

16. The connector jack of claim 15, wherein the first and second conductor clearance channels are positioned on oppositely facing upper and lower side walls within the rearward jack cavity, wherein the first and second conductor clearance channels are offset about both a vertical axis and a horizontal axis, wherein the vertical axis is transverse to the jack axis and the horizontal axis is transverse to both the jack axis and the vertical axis.

17. The connector jack of claim 14, wherein the second region includes first and second latch openings, wherein the main body includes first and second securing features that slide into the corresponding first and second latch openings when the rearward jack body is inserted into the forward jack body.

18. The connector jack of claim 17, wherein the first and second latch openings are positioned on oppositely facing upper and lower side walls, wherein the first and second latch openings are offset about both a vertical axis and a horizontal axis, wherein the vertical axis is transverse to the jack axis and the horizontal axis is transverse to both the jack axis and the vertical axis.

19. The connector jack of claim 14, wherein the second region of the forward jack body includes a keying feature that corresponds to a keying feature in the rearward jack body such that the rearward jack body can be inserted in only one orientation relative to the forward jack body.

20. The connector plug of claim 14, wherein the first and second jack contact slots are offset about both a vertical axis and a horizontal axis, wherein the vertical axis is transverse to the jack axis and the horizontal axis is transverse to both the jack axis and the vertical axis.

21. The connector jack of claim 14, wherein the first region of the forward jack body includes at least one keying feature.

22. The connector jack of claim 14, wherein the each of the first and second jack contacts includes a conductor contact side and a contact fin on an opposite side.

23. A connector assembly for a pair of conductors comprising: a connector jack comprising: a forward jack body including a first region and a second region with a jack wall separating the first region and the second region, the first region defining a plug cavity, the second region defining a rearward jack cavity, and first and second contact fin slots extending through the jack wall between the plug cavity and the rearward jack cavity; a rearward jack body including a main body and a rear wall, the main body secured within the rearward jack cavity, the rearward jack body including first and second contact slots aligned with the corresponding first and second contact fin slots along a jack axis, the jack axis extending between the first and second regions of the forward jack body; andfirst and second jack contacts, the first jack contact extending through the first contact fin slot and into the first contact slot, the second jack contact extending through the second contact fin slot and into the second contact slot, a contact fin portion of each jack contact extending into the plug cavity; a connector plug comprising: a forward plug body defining a first portion and a second portion, a plug axis extending between the first portion and the second portion, the first portion including first and second contact housings within the first portion and extending parallel with the plug axis to the second portion, and first and second contact fin slots extending from a front end of the forward plug body and intersecting with the corresponding first and second contact housings, the second portion defining a rearward plug cavity; a rearward plug body including a main body and a rear wall, the main body secured within the rearward plug cavity, the rearward plug body including first and second contact slots aligned with the corresponding first and second contact housings along the plug axis; and first and second plug contacts positioned within the corresponding first and second contact housings and extending into the corresponding first and second rearward plug contact slots; the connector plug connecting to the connector jack such that the first portion of the forward plug body is at least partially inserted into the plug cavity and such that the fin portions of the first and second jack contacts extend into the corresponding first and second contact fin slots, the first jack contact touching the first plug contact and the second jack contact touching the second plug contact.

24. The connector assembly of claim 23, wherein the rearward plug body and the rearward jack body are structurally identical.

25. The connector assembly of claim 24, wherein the rearward jack body and rearward plug body are rotated 90 degrees relative to each other about the plug axis.

26. A connector plug comprising: a forward plug body defining a front end and a back end with a first portion adjacent the front end and a second portion adjacent the back end, a plug axis extendingcentrally between the front and back ends, first and second contact housings within the first portion and extending parallel with the plug axis to the second portion, first and second contact fin slots extending from the front end and intersecting with the corresponding first and second contact housings, the second portion defining a rearward plug cavity; a rearward plug body defining a rear wall and a main body, the main body extending between a front wall and the rear wall, the main body securable within the second portion of the forward plug body, the rearward plug body including a central cavity extending through the rear wall and into the main body along the plug axis, oppositely oriented upward and downward conductor channels extending transversely from corresponding first and second conductor channels, the first conductor channel extending between the central cavity and the downward conductor channel, the second conductor channel extending between the central cavity and the upward conductor channel, first and second rearward plug contact slots intersecting the upward and downward conductor channels at the front wall, the first and second rearward plug contact slots aligned with the corresponding first and second contact housings about the plug axis; and first and second plug contacts positioned within the corresponding first and second contact housings and extending into the corresponding first and second rearward plug contact slots, the first and second plug contacts defining cantilever style contacts on a fin contact side, the first and second contact housings defining deflection pockets, the deflection pockets providing clearance for the fin contact side of the first and second plug contacts to deflect in response to insertion of mating contacts through the first and second contact fin slots.

27. The connector plug of claim 26, wherein the first and second contact housings further define a cooling cavity adjacent the deflection pocket, the cooling cavity and deflection pocket providing air space around at least a portion of the fin contact side of the first and second plug contacts for thermal management.

28. The connector plug of claim 26, wherein the second region includes first and second latch openings, wherein the main body includes first and second securing features that slide into the corresponding first and second latch openings when the rearward plug body is inserted into the forward plug body.

29. The connector plug of claim 28, wherein the first and second latch openings are positioned on oppositely facing side walls, wherein the first and second latch openings are offset from each other about both a vertical axis and a horizontal axis, wherein the vertical axis is transverse to the plug axis and the horizontal axis is transverse to both the plug axis and the vertical axis.

30. The connector plug of claim 28, wherein the rear wall defines first and second securing cavities aligned with the respective first and second securing features about a direction parallel with the plug axis, the first and second securing features designed to facilitate removal of the rearward plug body from the forward plug body.

31. A connector plug comprising: a forward plug body defining a front end and a back end with a first portion adjacent the front end and a second portion adjacent the back end, a plug axis extending centrally between the front and back ends, first and second contact housings within the first portion and extending parallel with the plug axis to the second portion, first and second contact fin slots extending from the front end and intersecting with the corresponding first and second contact housings, the first and second contact housings defining a cooling cavity, the second portion defining a rearward plug cavity; a rearward plug body defining a rear wall and a main body, the main body extending between a front wall and the rear wall, the main body securable within the second portion of the forward body, the rearward body including a central cavity extending through the rear wall and into the main body along the plug axis, oppositely oriented upward and downward conductor channels extending transversely from corresponding first and second conductor channels, the first conductor channel extending between the central cavity and the downward conductor channel, the second conductor channel extending between the central cavity and the upward conductor channel, first and second rearward plug contact slots intersecting the upward and downward conductor channels at the front wall, the first and second rearward plug contact slots aligned with the corresponding first and second contact housings about the plug axis; and first and second plug contacts positioned within the corresponding first and second contact housings and extending into the corresponding first and secondrearward plug contact slots, the cooling cavity providing air space around at least a portion of the first and second plug contacts for thermal management.

32. The connector plug of claim 31 , wherein the second region includes first and second latch openings, wherein the main body includes first and second securing features that slide into the corresponding first and second latch openings when the rearward plug body is inserted into the forward plug body.

33. The connector plug of claim 32, wherein the first and second latch openings are positioned on oppositely facing side walls, wherein the first and second latch openings are offset from each other about both a vertical axis and a horizontal axis, wherein the vertical axis is transverse to the plug axis and the horizontal axis is transverse to both the plug axis and the vertical axis.

34. The connector plug of claim 32, wherein the rear wall defines first and second securing cavities aligned with the respective first and second securing features about a direction parallel with the plug axis, the first and second securing features designed to facilitate removal of the rearward plug body from the forward plug body.

35. A multi-jack assembly comprising:A multi-jack housing defining an outer shell housing a plurality of jacks, each of the plurality of jacks comprising: a forward jack body defining a front end and a back end with a first region adjacent the front end and a second region adjacent the back end, a jack axis extending centrally between the front and back ends, a jack wall dividing the first and second regions, and first and second jack contact slots extending through the jack wall parallel to the jack axis; a rearward jack body defining a rear wall and a main body, the main body extending between a front wall and the rear wall, the main body securable within the second region of the forward jack body, the rearward jack body including a central cavity extending through the rear wall and into the main body along the jack axis, oppositely oriented upward and downward conductor channels extending transversely from corresponding first and second conductor channels, the first conductor channel extending between the central cavity and the downward conductor channel, the secondconductor channel extending between the central cavity and the upward conductor channel, and first and second rearward jack contact slots intersecting the upward and downward conductor channels at the front wall, the first and second rearward jack contact slots aligned with the corresponding first and second jack contact slots about the jack axis; and first and second jack contacts positioned within the corresponding first and second jack contact slots and extending into the corresponding first and second rearward jack contact slots.

36. The multi-jack assembly of claim 35, wherein the outer shell defines attachment features at first and second side walls.

37. The multi-jack assembly of claim 36, wherein each attachment feature defines a depressible tab with a ramp feature on an exterior side of the tab.

38. The multi-jack assembly of claim 37, wherein the attachment feature further defines a stop bar spaced apart from the tab by an attachment gap, wherein the attachment feature is designed to removably attach to a fixture positioned in the attachment gap between the stop bar and an apex of the ramp feature.

39. The multi-jack assembly of claim 35, wherein the forward jack body is integrally attached to the multi-jack housing.

40. The multi-jack assembly of claim 35, wherein the multi-jack housing defines interior jack walls separating interior portions of each neighboring jack of the plurality of jacks.

41. The multi-jack assembly of claim 40, wherein the second region includes a latch pocket on each side of each of the interior jack walls, wherein the main bodies each include a securing feature that slides into the corresponding latch pocket when the rearward jack body is inserted into the forward jack body.

42. The multi-jack assembly of claim 35, wherein the plurality of jacks is four jacks aligned in a row.

43. A multi-jack assembly comprising:A multi-jack housing defining an outer shell housing a plurality of jacks, each of the plurality of jacks comprising: a forward jack body and a rearward jack body, the forward jack body defining a front end and a jack wall with a first region adjacent the front end and adj acent the j ack wall, a j ack axis extending centrally through the j ack wall, first and second jack contact slots extending through the jack wall into the rearward jack body parallel to the jack axis, the rearward jack body defining first and second jack contact cavities, the first and second jack contact cavities defining corresponding first and second lower openings extending through a lower side wall of the outer shell, the first and second jack contact cavities connecting to the first and second jack contact slots; and first and second jack contacts, the first and second jack contacts defining a contact fin on a first side and a conductor contact on a second side, the first side extending orthogonal to the second side, the contact fins of the first and second jack contacts each extending through the corresponding first and second jack contact slots, the conductor contact including a terminal for contacting a circuit board, the terminals of the first and second jack contacts each extending out of the corresponding first and second lower openings.

44. The multi-jack assembly of claim 43, wherein the forward jack body and the rearward jack body are integrally attached to the multi-jack housing.

45. The multi-jack assembly of claim 43, wherein the lower side wall includes a plurality of posts for attaching the multi-jack assembly to the circuit board.

46. A multi-jack assembly comprising:A multi-jack housing defining an outer shell housing a plurality of jacks, each of the plurality of jacks comprising: a forward jack body and a rearward jack body, the forward jack body defining a front end and a jack wall with a first region adjacent the front end and adj acent the j ack wall, a j ack axis extending centrally through the j ack wall, first and second jack contact slots extending through the jack wall into the rearward jack body parallel to the jack axis, the rearward jack body defining first and second jack contactcavities, the first and second jack contact cavities defining corresponding first and second rear openings extending through a rear wall of the outer shell, the first and second jack contact cavities connecting to the first and second jack contact slots; and first and second jack contacts, the first and second jack contacts defining a contact fin on a first side and a conductor contact on a second side, the first side extending opposite the second side along a single axis, the contact fins of the first and second jack contacts each extending through the corresponding first and second jack contact slots, the conductor contact including a terminal for contacting a circuit board, the terminals of the first and second jack contacts each extending out of the corresponding first and second rear openings.

47. The multi-jack assembly of claim 46, wherein the forward jack body and the rearward jack body are integrally attached to the multi-jack housing.

48. The multi-jack assembly of claim 46, wherein the rear wall includes a plurality of posts for attaching the multi-jack assembly to the circuit board.

49. A patch panel assembly comprising: a plurality of multi-jack assemblies comprising: a multi-jack housing defining an outer shell housing a plurality of jacks, each of the plurality of jacks comprising: a forward jack body defining a front end and a back end with a first region adjacent the front end and a second region adjacent the back end, a jack axis extending centrally between the front and back ends, a jack wall dividing the first and second regions, and first and second jack contact slots extending through the jack wall parallel to the jack axis; a rearward jack body defining a rear wall and a main body, the main body extending between a front wall and the rear wall, the main body securable within the second region of the forward jack body, the rearward jack body including a central cavity extending through the rear wall and into the main body along the jack axis, oppositely oriented upward and downward conductor channels extending transversely from corresponding first and second conductor channels, the first conductor channel extending between the central cavity and the downward conductor channel, the second conductor channel extending between the central cavity and theupward conductor channel, and first and second rearward jack contact slots intersecting the upward and downward conductor channels at the front wall, the first and second rearward jack contact slots aligned with the corresponding first and second jack contact slots about the jack axis; and first and second jack contacts positioned within the corresponding first and second jack contact slots and extending into the corresponding first and second rearward jack contact slots; and a panel defining a front plate, the front plate defining a plurality of jack openings, each jack opening sized to receive a multi-jack assembly.

50. The patch panel assembly of claim 49, wherein the outer shell defines attachment features at first and second side walls, wherein each attachment feature defines a depressible tab with a ramp feature on an exterior side of the tab, wherein the attachment feature further defines a stop bar spaced apart from the tab by an attachment gap, wherein the attachment feature is designed to removably attach to the front plate, wherein the front plate fits within the attachment gap between the stop bar and an apex of the ramp feature.

51. A connector plug comprising: a forward plug body defining a front end and a back end with a first portion adjacent the front end and a second portion adjacent the back end, a plug axis extending centrally between the front and back ends, first and second contact housings within the first portion and extending parallel with the plug axis to the second portion, first and second contact fin slots extending from the front end and intersecting with the corresponding first and second contact housings, the second portion defining a rearward plug cavity; a rearward plug body defining a rear wall and a main body, the main body extending between a front wall and the rear wall, the main body securable within the second portion of the forward plug body, the rearward plug body including a central cavity extending through the rear wall and into the main body along the plug axis, oppositely oriented upward and downward conductor channels extending transversely from corresponding first and second conductor channels, the first conductor channel extending between the central cavity and the downward conductor channel, the second conductor channel extending between the central cavity and the upward conductorchannel, first and second rearward plug contact slots intersecting the upward and downward conductor channels at the front wall, the first and second rearward plug contact slots aligned with the corresponding first and second contact housings about the plug axis; a cable having a first conductor and a second conductor, the cable extending into the central cavity, the first conductor extending into the first conductor channel and into the downward conductor channel, the second conductor extending into the second conductor channel and into the upward conductor channel; and first and second plug contacts positioned within the corresponding first and second contact housings and extending into the corresponding first and second rearward plug contact slots, the first and second plug contacts each defining first and second contact regions, the first plug contact electrically connected to the first conductor at either the first contact region or the second contact region, the second plug contact electrically connected to the second conductor at either the first contact region or the second contact region.

52. The connector plug of claim 51 , wherein the first contact region accommodates a larger gauge conductor than the second contact region.

53. A connector j ack comprising: a forward jack body defining a front end and a back end with a first region adjacent the front end and a second region adjacent the back end, a jack axis extending centrally between the front and back ends, a jack wall dividing the first and second regions, and first and second jack contact slots extending through the jack wall parallel to the jack axis; a rearward jack body defining a rear wall and a main body, the main body extending between a front wall and the rear wall, the main body securable within the second region of the forward jack body, the rearward jack body including a central cavity extending through the rear wall and into the main body along the jack axis, oppositely oriented upward and downward conductor channels extending transversely from corresponding first and second conductor channels, the first conductor channel extending between the central cavity and the downward conductor channel, the second conductor channel extending between the central cavity and the upward conductor channel, and first and second rearward jack contact slots intersecting the upward anddownward conductor channels at the front wall, the first and second rearward jack contact slots aligned with the corresponding first and second jack contact slots about the jack axis; a cable having a first conductor and a second conductor, the cable extending into the central cavity, the first conductor extending into the first conductor channel and into the downward conductor channel, the second conductor extending into the second conductor channel and into the upward conductor channel; and first and second jack contacts positioned within the corresponding first and second jack contact slots and extending into the corresponding first and second rearward jack contact slots, the first and second jack contacts each define first and second contact regions the first jack contact electrically connected to the first conductor at either the first contact region or the second contact region, the second jack contact electrically connected to the second conductor at either the first contact region or the second contact region.

54. The connector jack of claim 53, wherein the first contact region accommodates a larger gauge conductor than the second contact region.

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