Method and apparatus for live insertion and removal of electronic sub-assemblies

摘要

A live insertion and removal mechanism assures that a sub-assembly being inserted or removed from a live electronic assembly does not disrupt system power and buses and is protected against the negative affects of current surge. An active current control device and related circuitry, and a connector having a plurality of graduated pin lengths effect a controlled ramp-up and ramp-down of power to the sub-assembly inserted into and removed from the live electronic assembly. Additionally, means are provided for effectively disconnecting selected output drivers from signal and control paths to avoid damage to the drivers upon insertion or removal of the sub-assembly from the live assembly.