Base-socket system with arc prevention means

Abstract

An axially compact and highly arc protective base-socket system for use with a color television picture tube having a narrow neck terminated by a cylindrical coaxial tubulation. The tubulation is surrounded by a number of axially extending electrically conductive low-voltage pins and at least one high voltage pin. The base-socket system comprises a base and a socket. The base fits over and is secured to the tubulation and passes the pins extending from the neck of the tube. The base comprises: a plurality of axially and radially outwardly extending insulating walls, the low voltage pins lying between the walls; means defining an axially extending deep narrow cavity which receives the high voltage pin, the cavity having a depth at least twice as great as the largest transverse dimension thereof; and a cavity lip surrounding the mouth of the cavity. The socket comprises: an annular support means defining a series of axially and radially inwardly extending channels for mating with the insulating walls on the base to unambiguously orient the base relative to the socket; a series of contacts on the annular support means for establishing electrical connection with the plurality of low-voltage pins on the base when the base is inserted into the socket; an axially extending socket protrusion for mating with the axially extending deep narrow cavity; a high voltage contact in the socket protrusion for establishing electrical connection with the high voltage pin on the base when the base is inserted into the socket; a cap having an annular arc-path-length-extending flange which externally telescopes over the cavity lip. When the base and socket are connected the mating of the socket protrusion and flange with the base cavity and lip form multiply folded extended arc path lengths providing a very high degree of arc prevention in an axially compact system.