Low-cost connector apparatus and methods for use in high-speed data applications

摘要

Low-cost connector apparatus for passing electrical signals from one device over another via a cable. In one embodiment, the connector apparatus comprises a coaxial type connector that mates with a host device, such as via the motherboard thereof. In one variant, the connector further comprises a plurality of electrical components including an integrated circuit adapted to condition (e.g., equalize) the signals being transmitted over the cable. The connector (and hence internal electrical components) is shielded so as to mitigate the effects of EMI or RFI on the host device circuitry itself. In another variant, the signals comprise IEEE-Std. 1394 “FireWire” high speed data signals, and the use of the shielded connector in the signal pathway allows the use of lower cost cabling than would otherwise be required with a non-shielded (non-integrated) connector.

主权项

1. A shielded connector adapted for mating with a coaxial cable and adapted for providing a high-speed signal interface between said cable and an electronic device, said connector comprising:
a coaxial cable connector; a connector housing comprising a noise shield and a substantially shielded volume formed therein; and an integrated circuit comprising an equalizer circuit configured to substantially normalize cable attenuation as a function of frequency, said integrated circuit being in signal communication with said connector and disposed substantially within said shielded volume; wherein said shield is adapted to mitigate at least noise radiated from said integrated circuit and at least one other electronic component disposed within said shielded volume; and wherein said shielded connector comprises a self-contained module configured to couple to a printed circuit board (PCB) of said electronic device.