1. Field of Invention
This invention relates to a connector and more particularly to a PCB connector with identifiable characters for misinsertion prevention.
2. Related Prior Art
Various forms of PCB connectors or connector sockets are known in the art, for connecting an external connector (or an external device) to a printed circuit board of a computer. Such PCB connectors are typically formed of colors, notches or unique combination of contact pins to ensure fool-proof identification. In this way, misinsertion of a wrong type of device onto the PCB connector may be prevented if a user follows the guidance of the color, notch or contact pins. However, there are still a number of things about installing or building up a computer which causes confusion and uncertainty to those who are new to this activity. For example, in a case where connectors are so similar to one another, except the number of the contact pins, a user may get confused quite easily due to inattention even if a Computer's User Manual for information is at hand. Without distinct identification, all types of connectors may still be troublesome to be distinguished from one another and be inserted by a suitable external connector plug or device, (particularly if the person performing the installation hasn't had much practice). It may take long time merely to correctly assemble a computer and ensure its correct functionality and long life.
Broadly stated, the present invention is directed to a PCB connector or connector socket for connection to a printed circuit board. The PCB connector includes a body, a plurality of contact pins on both side of the body, and an identification layer joined to one side of the body. In particular, the identification layer defines a plurality of holes for insertion of the contact pins. The identification layer includes at least one character thereon for identifying function or use of the connector and a background in a color different from that of the character. Due to the distinct character(s) of the identification layer, the PCB connector is easily recognized, and therefore the assembly time of a computer is greatly saved and misinsertion is prevented.
Preferably, a distinguish mark is provided to surround a specific one of the contact pins only and has a color different from that of the background. In this way, the hole or position for the specific contact pin is apparently indicated.
The advantages of the present invention will be understood more readily after a consideration of the drawings and the Detailed Description.
The invention is illustrated by the accompanying drawings in which corresponding parts are identified by the same numerals and in which:
Referring now to
Those contact pins 2 are disposed on the body 1 and extend outside the first and second surfaces 10, 11.
The identification layer 3 is joined to the second surface 11 of the body 1. A plurality of holes 30 are defined in the identification layer 3 for insertion of the contact pins 2. In particular, the identification layer 3 includes at least one identifiable character 31, a distinguish mark 32 and a background 33. The identifiable character 31 in a color different from that of the background 33 is provided for identifying function or use of the PCB connector. The distinguish mark 32, also in a color different from that of the background 33 is disposed adjacent to a specific one 20 of the contact pins 2 only. In this embodiment, the identification layer 3 is an adhesive label, such a sticker or a nameplate. The adhesive label having adhesive at one side is to be stuck onto the second surface 11 of the body 1. Referring to
With reference to
It will be appreciated that although particular embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, modifications may be made. It is intended in the claims to cover such modifications which come within the spirit and scope of the invention.
Number | Date | Country | Kind |
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97206973 U | Apr 2008 | TW | national |
Number | Name | Date | Kind |
---|---|---|---|
5470253 | Siems et al. | Nov 1995 | A |
5681183 | Dzmura | Oct 1997 | A |
5790896 | Nguyen | Aug 1998 | A |
5795180 | Siebens | Aug 1998 | A |
7326075 | Armstrong et al. | Feb 2008 | B1 |