A method for mounting a rigid electrical connector, including selecting an electrical connector that is compatible with a predetermined portable electronic device; forming an aperture through an interface member, wherein the aperture is larger than the electrical connector; selecting an elastomeric potting material that is compatible with both the electrical connector and the interface member; locating the electrical connector in the aperture with a space between the electrical connector and the interface member; introducing the elastomeric potting material in an uncured state into the space between the electrical connector and the interface member; and while maintaining the space between the electrical connector and the interface member, curing the elastomeric potting material in the space therebetween.

An electrical connector adapted to receive a mating plug utilizes low-profile jack terminal contacts that can flex in their PCB-anchored base portions, which are substantially parallel to the PCB. Any bend in the distal connecting portion or in the intermediate transition portion of each terminal contact is gradual and forms an obtuse angle, thus minimizing stress concentrations. The contacts preferably are arranged in two oppositely facing and interdigitating rows of four contacts each. In one embodiment, the terminal contacts are anchored to the PCB by a contact cradle that constrains the base portion of each terminal contact at two spaced anchoring locations, allowing the base portion to flex therebetween. In another embodiment, the base portions of the terminal contacts are embedded in at least one elastomeric member, which is fitted to the PCB.