Optical transceiver latch

An opto-electronic device for transmitting signals between first and second optical waveguides and a host computer of the type including a mounting cage for receiving the opto-electronic device, the opto-electronic device comprising:

• an receiver optical sub-assembly for converting optical signals from the first waveguide into electrical signals for transmission to the host computer, the receiver optical sub-assembly having first electric leads extending from a rear end thereof;
• a transmitter optical sub-assembly for converting electrical signals from the host computer into optical signals for transmission on the second waveguide, the transmitter optical sub-assembly having second electric leads extending from a rear end thereof;
• a printed circuit board electrically connected to the receiver and transmitter optical sub-assemblies via the first and second leads, respectively, the printed circuit board including circuitry for controlling the receiver and transmitter optical sub-assemblies;
• a electrically and thermally conductive housing for supporting the receiver and transmitter optical subassemblies, the housing including:
• a first latching member for engaging a corresponding second latching member on the mounting cage, and a T-shaped projection extending laterally between sides of the housing and longitudinally between the first and second leads for supporting the printed circuit board and for shielding the first leads from the second leads, thereby reducing crosstalk therebetween;
• an optical connector extending from a first end of said housing for receiving the first and second optical waveguides, and for aligning the first and second optical waveguides with the receiver and transmitter optical sub-assemblies, respectively;
• an electrical connector extending from a second end of said housing for mating with an electrical connector on a motherboard of the host computer to transmit electrical signals between the printed circuit board and the host computer;
• and
• a latching lever pivotally connected to the housing for disengaging the first and second latching members when the latching lever is rotated.

An electronic or opto-electonic module for receiving and sending signals, said module for mounting in a guide rail or cage assembly having at least one locking hole, the module comprising:

• a housing for supporting and enclosing electronic or opto-electronic components;
• a latch arm pivotally mounted on said housing about a rotation axis, said pivoting latch mechanism including an actuating end and
• a latching end;
• a kick back spring for biasing the latching end into the locking hole;
• and
• a bail pivotally mounted on said housing for engaging the actuating end of the latch mechanism causing the latching end to move out of the locking hole, thereby disengaging the transceiver module from the guide rail or cage assembly.