Latching device for an edge connector

摘要

An edge connector is disclosed for a printed circuit board having a mating edge and a plurality of contact pads adjacent the edge. The connector includes an elongated insulating housing having a plurality of contacts mounted on the housing along the length thereof for engaging the printed circuit board contact pads when the printed circuit board is inserted into the housing at a first angular position and subsequently pivoted to a second angular position. The contacts exert an opposing force against the printed circuit board when pivoted to the second angular position. A latching device has a latching section for engaging the printed circuit board. The latching device is rotatably mounted on the housing for rotation from a first position to a second position in response to pivoting the printed circuit board from its first angular position to its second angular position. The latching device is linearly moveable from its second position to a third locking position under the influence of the opposing force of the spring contacts. Complementary interengaging latching surfaces are provided between the latching device and the housing for automatically locking the printed circuit board to the housing when the latching device moves to its third locking position.