Self-centering electrical contacts

A method of joining electrical components with a self-centering electrical contact, the method comprising:

• positioning a soldering mask between a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector;
• dividing soldering material into a plurality of regions with the soldering mask;
• allowing surface tensions in the soldering material within the plurality of regions to self-center the first electrical connector on the second electrical connector;
• and
• solidifying the soldering material.

A surface mount pin for an electrical connector, the surface mount pin comprising:

• a shaft extending from a first end comprising a tip to a second end comprising a base;
• a pedestal located at the base, the pedestal comprising a widened portion of the surface mount pin to define an electrical contact surface;
• and
• a soldering mask located on the electrical contact surface, the soldering mask shaped to divide the electrical contact surface into a plurality of equally-sized regions.