Backward compatible connector system

Abstract

Various embodiments of connectors and connector assemblies provide modified structural features to meet evolving industrial design requirements while maintaining backward compatibility. In one embodiment, alignment posts on the two sides of a plug connector are substantially removed and the remaining connector shell reshaped so as to preserve alignment capability. Other pre-existing features such as alignment grooves and some or all springy raised tabs can be eliminated resulting in a more compact and monolithic structure for the connector without impacting functionality or backward compatibility. In another embodiment, a trim ring is molded to the base of the connector to form an integrated unit. The integrated unit results in a reduced size of the connector when it is incorporated into other devices such as a docking station. In yet another embodiment, a printed circuit board is integrated into the boot of a connector assembly to act as an intermediate connection mechanism between the cable wires and the connector pins. Other functionality such as identification circuitry or electrostatic discharge protection circuitry can be incorporated on to the integrated printed circuit board.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.