Clamp-type adapter for connecting a memory module to a card edge connector

Abstract

A clamp-type adapter ( ) for a memory module ( ) includes two adapter halves ( ), ( ) with similar structures for snapping over a lower portion ( ) of the memory module, which has a plurality of conductive pads ( ), ( ) on opposite surfaces thereof. Each adapter half includes an elongate housing ( ), a row of alternating outer conductive contacts ( ) and inner conductive contacts ( ) interposed with grounding blades ( ), and a shield ( ) covering the housing. The contacts and the grounding blades are insert molded in the housing. The housing comprises an inner portion ( ) and an outer portion ( ). Each outer/inner contact comprises a contact portion ( )/( ) and a tail portion ( )/( ). The contact portion is exposed to the outside from a bottom surface of the inner portion for engaging with a corresponding contact of the card edge connector. The tail portion extends out from a top surface of the outer portion for contacting a corresponding pad of the memory module. The adapter substitutes direct connection of a memory module to a card edge connector, which connection frequently results in damage to the module's conductive pads after repeated connection/disconnection cycles.