High density high performance connector

摘要

A telecommunications and data connector with a connector first side assembly having a first side base portion formed of plastic and defining a plurality of grooves. The connector first side assembly also includes a first side plurality of contact elements. Each of the contacts extend from a wire end toward an assembly connection end. Each of the first side contact elements is movable between a contact position, and a non-contact position. A connector second side assembly is provided which is substantially identical to the connector first side assembly. The connector first side assembly and the connector second side assembly are connectable in a mated position wherein individual contact areas of the first side plurality of contacts make electrical contact with the corresponding individual contact areas of the second plurality of electrical contacts. The contact assemblies each include a hermaphroditic connector for coupling the assemblies together. A tap is insertable between the first side base portion and the second side base portion for tapping signals carried by one or more of the first side plurality of contacts.