SHIELDED CONNECTOR ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING

摘要

An advanced shielded modular plug connector assembly (100) incorporating a removable insert assembly (154) disposed in the connector housing (102), the insert assembly adapted to optionally receive one or more electronic components. In one exemplary embodiment, the connector assembly comprises a single port connector with integral shielded housing and dual-substrate insert assembly (146, 152). The housing is advantageously formed using a metal casting process which inherently shields the connector (and exterior environment) from EMI and other noise while allowing for a reduced housing profile. In another embodiment, a plurality of light sources (370) are disposed within (and shielded by) the metallic housing. In yet another embodiment, the connector assembly (400) comprises a multi-port "1 x N" device. In yet another embodiment, a bail mechanism (is provided to permit easy insertion/removal of the connector assembly from an external structure such as a rack or enclosure. Methods for manufacturing the aforementioned embodiments are also disclosed.