Connector for electrical components

Abstract

Connectors for electrical components include a support base having an edge which defines an open space, and an electrically insulated socket member connected to the support base within the defined open space for holding and establishing electrical connection with the electrical component. The socket member includes opposed pair of side walls, an upper wall and a lower wall which collectively establish an open-ended interior space. At least one clamp connector is disposed in a rearward end of the interior space and is coupled to the socket member for receiving a terminal portion of an electrical component inserted into a forward end of the interior space so as to connect the electrical component electrically to an external circuit. Opposed pairs of separated upper and lower locking tabs are formed on either the side walls of said socket member or the support base, and project outwardly therefrom. These upper and lower locking tabs serve to connect the socket member to the support base and positionally restrain the socket member within the defied space. Preferably, the edge of the support base defines an enlarged forward space in which the electrical component is disposed, and a rearward space in which the socket member is disposed. In this regard, the support base will most preferably include inwardly projecting retaining ears disposed at a juncture between the forward and rearward spaces.