Multi-directional interface header assembly

Abstract

An electrical connector header assembly adapted for mounting on a printed circuit board so as to allow multi-directional mating contact with a complementary connector receptacle assembly includes a box-like insulated housing with contact receiving cavities therein. Each of the cavities is generally planar and is open to the front, rear and bottom surfaces of the housing, with the main portions of the cavities being parallel to each other and to the lateral surfaces of the housing. Each cavity also has a second, subsidiary, portion extending laterally from the main portion and open to the rear surface. The assembly further includes electrical contacts received in respective ones of the cavities. Each of the contacts is generally planar so as to fit within the planar cavity except for the laterally bent tab which extends into the cavity second portion. Each contact has a forward blade portion which extends beyond the front surface of the housing and which also extends beyond the bottom surface of the housing. Thus, the cavity being open along the bottom surface of the housing allows the contact to be inserted blade portion first from the rear surface of the housing. The bent tab prevents vertical movement of the contact and interference between the forward edge of the tab and a front wall of the cavity second portion limits forward movement of the contact. Interference members prevent rearward movement of the contact.