Connector apparatus with code means, and method of assembling the same

An electrical connector, comprising:

• (a) first and second connector components in the form of a plug and a socket, said connector components each having a housing containing at least one opening in which is mounted an electrical contact, said electrical contacts being arranged on said components for connection when said components are axially connected;
• and
• (b) a coding device having first and second coding elements, said first coding element being adapted for connection with said first connector component and said second coding element being adapted for connection with said second connector component, said first coding element including a head portion, and spring-loaded legs depending from said head portion, each of said legs having a projection at a distal end for engaging said housing within said opening with a snap-fit connection, and means for retaining said first coding element in a selected rotational position with respect to said housing;
• (c) said first and second coding elements being pre-assembled as a unit on said first connector component;
• (d) said second connector component being configured so that when said first and second connector components are initially connected in an axial direction, said second coding element is connected with said second connector component and when said connector components are axially separated, said first coding element remains connected with said first connector component.