Connector

Abstract

A connector is disclosed which includes an insulating block having a plurality of channels therein which are substantially sized to accept terminal pins or posts of a mating component placed therein. A plurality of slots are located adjacent to the channels and respectively in communication therewith. Each channel includes a stop at the end thereof for engagement with a pin disposed therein, with the channel including a socket disposed at the bottom thereof. A plurality of contacts are placed respectively within the slots of the connector blocks with each contact having a terminal section which is sized to engage a through hole in a printed circuit board or the like, the terminal section extending from a mounting section which includes a pair of legs therein for resiliently mating with the socket of the block. The pair of legs are separated by a slot, with one leg being a short leg which is engageable with a tapered wall of the socket and the other being a contact arm which extends substantially the length of the channel slot. The contact arm includes a locking shoulder for engaging a step in the slot, the contact arm further including a projection at an end thereof which extends into the adjacent pin-receiving channel with a gap provided between the arm and the slot side wall for allowing movement of the contact arm. Provision of such legs affords firm retention of pins or posts within the connector without overstressing the contact arm. One or more locking posts may also be provided to firmly retain the connector on a mated printed circuit board or the like.