Overmolded shielded connector

Abstract

An improved shielded and insulated electrical connector for terminating shielded multiconductor cable is formed by a pair of mating metal shield members which engage a peripheral metal shell means on a standard connector and enclose the rear conductor exiting portion thereof. The shield members each include embossed strengthening means as well as interengaging side walls to completely enclose the rear of an electrical connector. At least one shield member is provided with at least one overmolding pressure relief means which opens at a predetermined pressure and allows a limited amount of overmolding insulating material to enter the cavity defined by the shield members while equalizing the inner and outer shield member pressures. The shield members also include gripping means which allow overmolding insulative material to enter and harden thereby becoming fixedly attached to the shield members to prevent withdrawal due to shrinking as the overmold insulative material cools. At least one of the shield members is preferably provided with continuity lances which positively engage the metal shell of the connector to assure good electrical contact therewith. The shield members include latching means and they are held together by a crimp ring which secures the cable shield thereto.