SHIELDED AND MULTISHIELDED COAXIAL CONNECTORS

Abstract

A shielded coaxial connector including a central conductor and a waveguide to shield the central conductor from RF signals.

Claims

1. A coaxial connector for passing signals similar to those passed by F-Type connectors, the connector comprising: a body, an electrical contact, and a metallic waveguide; the body including a connection that incorporates the electrical contact; the electrical contact aligned along a body centerline and electrically isolated from the body; and, the waveguide fixed within the body and the body centerline passes through a central aperture of the waveguide; wherein the waveguide faces the electrical contact and is configured to limit entry of stray RF signals into a body region that includes the electrical contact.

2. The connector of claim 1 further comprising: the waveguide bearing on an internal surface of the body.

3. The connector of claim 1 further comprising: an electrical insulator; the insulator and the waveguide in a waveguide assembly; and, the insulator insulating a portion of the waveguide.

4. The connector of claim 1 wherein a spring is located between the waveguide and a female port mouth.

5. The connector of claim 4 further comprising: a moveable nose for projecting from the port; first and second opposing spring end bearing surfaces; the nose providing the first bearing surface; and, the waveguide providing the second bearing surface.

6. The connector of claim 5 wherein the first bearing surface is an electrical insulator.

7. A coaxial connector for passing signals similar to those passed by F-Type connectors, the connector comprising: a body and an insulator, the insulator spacing an electrical contact of a female port to a location near a connector central axis; the electrical contact including a portion wrapped around the connector central axis; the electrical contact including inwardly directed fingers for contacting a male connector center pin; and, a metallic waveguide within the body and a waveguide aperture facing the electrical contact; wherein the waveguide is configured to limit entry of stray RF signals into a body cavity enclosing the electrical contact when the connector is not in use and the waveguide is configured to receive a center conductor of a male connector when the connector is in use.

8. The connector of claim 7 wherein the waveguide is insulated.

9. The connector of claim 7 wherein the waveguide aperture is insulated.

10. The connector of claim 7 wherein a second insulator supports the electrical contact.

11. A method of electrically shielding a coaxial cable connector for passing signals similar to those passed by F-Type connectors, the method comprising the steps of: providing a body, an electrical contact, and a metallic waveguide; supporting the electrical contact along a connector centerline with a first insulator; fixing the waveguide within the body such that a waveguide aperture is opposite the electrical contact; when the connector is unmated, the waveguide shielding the electrical contact from stray RF signals that are not able to pass through the waveguide aperture; and, when a mating connector conductor is passed through the waveguide aperture and touches the electrical contact, an electrical circuit is established through the connector.

12. The method of claim 11 wherein the waveguide is a part of the body.

13. The method of claim 11 wherein the waveguide is insulated.

14. The method of claim 11 wherein a second insulator is inserted in the waveguide aperture.

15. The method of claim 11 further comprising the step of including the electrical contact in a female port.

16. A coaxial connector for passing signals similar to those passed by F-Type connectors, the connector comprising: within a body, an electrical contact isolated from the body by a first insulator; a waveguide with an aperture pointed at the electrical contact; and, the waveguide shielding the electrical contact from stray RF signals that are not able to pass through the waveguide aperture.

17. The connector of claim 16 wherein the waveguide aperture is insulated.

18. The connector of claim 17 wherein the waveguide is incorporated in a female port.

19. The connector of claim 17 wherein the waveguide is not incorporated in a female port.

20. The connector of claim 16 The connector of claim 1 further comprising: a second electrical insulator; the insulator and the waveguide in a waveguide assembly; and, the insulator insulating a portion of the waveguide.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0058] The present invention is described with reference to the accompanying figures. These figures, incorporated herein and forming part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, further serve to explain its principles enabling a person skilled in the relevant art to make and use the invention.

[0059] FIG. 1 shows a prior art CATV wall plate with an F female connector or a splitter connector with a mated F female connector.

[0060] FIG. 2 shows a prior art CATV wall plate that is a source of ingress of interfering RF signals.

[0061] FIGS. 3A and 3B show a prior art standard F female splice (commonly called F-81) with F contacts on both ends.

[0062] FIG. 4A shows a prior art standard F female bulkhead coaxial connector (commonly called an F-61).

[0063] FIG. 4B shows a prior art CATV installation having a cable terminated with a male F connector.

[0064] FIG. 4C shows a prior art male F connector with a compression type cable attachment.

[0065] FIG. 4D shows a prior art male F connector with a crimp type cable attachment.

[0066] FIGS. 5A-B show exemplary schematics of waveguides mounted within a coaxial connector.

[0067] FIG. 5C shows an exemplary waveguide disc.

[0068] FIGS. 5D-E show exemplary waveguide dimensions.

[0069] FIGS. 6A-B show exemplary schematics of a disconnect switch mounted within a coaxial connector

[0070] FIGS. 7A-C show exemplary schematics of coaxial connectors with both a waveguide and a disconnect switch.

[0071] FIGS. 8A-B show a first coaxial connector with both a waveguide and a disconnect switch.

[0072] FIGS. 9A-C show a second coaxial connector with both a waveguide and a disconnect switch.

[0073] FIGS. 10A-B show a third coaxial connector with both a waveguide and a disconnect switch.

[0074] FIGS. 11A-B show a fourth coaxial connector with both a waveguide and a disconnect switch.

[0075] FIGS. 11C-F show alternative shielded male F type coaxial connectors for terminating a coaxial cable.

[0076] FIGS. 12A-B show a fifth coaxial connector with both a waveguide and a disconnect switch.

[0077] FIGS. 13A-B show a sixth coaxial connector with both a waveguide and a disconnect switch.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0078] The disclosure provided herein describes examples of some embodiments of the invention. The designs, figures, and descriptions are non-limiting examples of the embodiments they disclose. For example, other embodiments of the disclosed device and/or method may or may not include the features described herein. Moreover, disclosed advantages and benefits may apply to only certain embodiments of the invention and should not be used to limit the disclosed invention.

[0079] Unless otherwise stated, as used herein the term coupled includes direct and indirect connections. As such, where first and second devices are coupled, intervening devices including active devices may be located therebetween.

[0080] FIGS. 5A-C show schematics of a waveguide and of a waveguide in a connector 500A-C and FIGS. 5D-E illustrate selected waveguide dimensions 500D-E.

[0081] FIG. 5A shows a first coaxial connector schematic 500A. A coaxial connector 501 includes a body 502 and a waveguide 504 having a central aperture 514. The body is coaxially arranged with respect to a connector longitudinal axis x-x and the waveguide is located such that the x-x axis passes through the waveguide aperture. The waveguide and the body are electrically coupled, for example by mounting the waveguide to the body.

[0082] As shown, the waveguide 504 is located within a body or tube 502. For example, the waveguide might be positioned at or near one end of the body. For example, the waveguide might be positioned in a position intermediate between the ends of the body such as near the midpoint of a line extending between the ends of the body.

[0083] Also shown are center conductors 508, 509. Center conductor 508 is substantially to one side 511 of the waveguide 504 and center conductor 509 is substantially to the other side 513 of the waveguide. One or both of the center conductors 508, 509, may be part(s) of the connector 501. In various embodiments, one of the center conductor ends may be located in the waveguide aperture.

[0084] As skilled artisans will recognize, the center conductors 508, 509 conduct electrical signals. These conducted signals may be present because of a physical or an electrical interconnection with the signal source. Signals may also be present in the conductor because the conductor receives, like an antenna, RF signal(s).

[0085] When a center conductor that is electrically interconnected with signal processing equipment is disconnected or open at one end, the disconnected end can become an antenna for RF signals. For example, if center conductor 508 is electrically connected with a CATV distribution system, then RF signals that reach center conductor 508 are subsequently electrically conducted to the distribution system. Such random signal ingress is generally undesirable.

[0086] A properly sized waveguide reduces ingress when it substantially prevents undesired signals from crossing the waveguide or passing through the waveguide aperture. In the example of FIG. 5A, undesirable RF signals present at location 513 are attenuated by the waveguide 504 such that the center conductor 508 on the opposite side 511 of the waveguide 504 is protected or shielded from ingress of undesired signals.

[0087] To the extent the adjacent center conductor 509 radiates undesirable RF signals, a properly sized waveguide 504 separating the center conductors 508, 509 shields the adjacent center conductor 508 and attenuates undesirable signals that would otherwise reach the CATV distribution system largely unattenuated.

[0088] FIG. 5B shows a connector such as the connector of FIG. 5A fitted with an insulator 500B.

[0089] In various embodiments the center conductors 508, 509 are signal conductors while the body 502 and interconnected waveguide 504 are typically ground conductors. As such, the connector 501 may be constructed, as shown, such that the signal conductors and ground conductors are electrically isolated.

[0090] Because one of the center conductors 508, 509 may risk contact with the waveguide 504 due to proximity and/or due to movement with respect to the body 502, some embodiments of the connector 501 include a waveguide insulator 553 for maintaining electrical isolation.

[0091] Such an insulator may cover surface(s) of the waveguide 519 perpendicular to a center conductor 508, 509 and/or the bore 517 of the aperture 504. For example, the figure shows an insulator 553 having a planar portion 572 covering the perpendicular surface. The insulator also includes a neck portion 574 that is inserted into the aperture bore. In an exemplary configuration, this arrangement guards against contact of a center conductor 509 (such as a moving center conductor) with either of the facing waveguide surface 519 and/or the aperture bore 517.

[0092] FIG. 5C shows a waveguide 500C. In a front view 529 and a side view 531 of the waveguide 504, an annular surface 519 extends from a central aperture 514 to a peripheral rim 521. The waveguide shown has a generally cylindrical shape and the aperture extends between ends of the cylinder. In the side view 531, the waveguide thickness t11 and waveguide aperture diameter d11 are indicated.

[0093] In other embodiments, the waveguide 504 need not have a cylindrical shape. For example a non-cylindrical waveguide might be used for mating with a non-cylindrical support extending from the connector body or where a connector body accommodates a waveguide of a different shape such as a polygonal or other non-circular shape.

[0094] FIG. 5D shows a first exemplary chart 500D of waveguide thickness t11 and waveguide aperture size d11. In particular, the chart shows ranges of aperture size and thickness within a particular region, Region 1, found to yield desirable RF ingress attenuation in CATV applications.

[0095] The figure illustrates thickness and aperture size ranges tested in connection with rejecting unwanted signals in the frequency band 100 MHz and below. Region 1 is bounded by aperture sizes d11 of approximately 2.0 to 3.0 mm and waveguide thicknesses t11 of approximately 0.5 to 1.5 mm. Notably, beneficial rejection of unwanted signals in the frequency spectrum between 100 MHz and 2150 MHz has also been observed.

[0096] Several waveguides with dimensions in Region 1 were found to be useful for blocking unwanted RF ingress typical of CATV applications. For example, in various embodiments an F female connector is shielded to restrict RF transfer at frequencies below 100 MHz while allowing the connector to mate with a male coaxial connector with insignificant degradation of a desired 75 ohm impedance.

[0097] FIG. 5E shows a second exemplary chart of waveguide thickness t11 and waveguide aperture size d11. In particular, the chart shows ranges of aperture size and thickness within a particular region, Region 2, found to yield desirable RF ingress attenuation in CATV applications. The figure illustrates thickness and aperture size ranges tested in connection with rejecting unwanted signals in CATV distribution frequency bands. Notably, beneficial rejection of unwanted signals in the frequency spectrum below 100 MHz, in the frequency spectrum from 10 to 1000 MHz, and in the frequency spectrum from 10 to 2050 MHz has been observed.

[0098] Here, the 0.3 to 1000 MHz and in particular the 700-800 MHz frequency band is of interest due to cellular telephone signal ingress such as 4G and/or LTE phone signal ingress in a cell phone/CATV an overlapping (700-800 MHz) frequency range. Region 2 is bounded by aperture sizes of approximately 1.5 to 3 mm and waveguide thicknesses of approximately 0.5 to 2 mm.

[0099] FIGS. 6A-B are schematic drawings illustrating a coaxial connector shielded with a center conductor switch 600A-B. The connector includes a tubular body 602 having opposing ends 608, 610, at least one of which is for receiving a mating male or female coaxial cable connector. Some embodiments include a fastener 609 for engaging a female coaxial connector such as a port.

[0100] A stationary contact assembly 604 is near a first end of the body 608 and a movable contact assembly 606 is near a second end of the body 610. The stationary contact assembly is at least partially within the body 602 and the movable contact assembly is only partially within the body such that a biasing force Fb acting on the movable contact assembly tends to separate a stationary contact 605 of the stationary contact assembly and a movable contact 607 of the movable contact assembly. In various embodiments, a front support 612 fixedly couples the stationary contact assembly to the body while a rear support enables motion of the movable contact relative to the body. For example, a sliding contact rear support 614 enables the movable contact to slide relative to the body. And, in various embodiments one or both of the front and rear supports provide an electrical insulating barrier between the body 602 and at least one of the contacts 605, 607.

[0101] A feature of this connector is seen in FIG. 6B when the biasing force Fb is overcome by a moving force Fm, pushing the movable contact assembly 606 in the direction of the body's first end such that the contacts 605, 607 press together. In various embodiments the moving force is supplied by a coaxial connector that engages the second end of the body 610. Exemplary biasing force means include springs, spring-like materials, gas struts or springs, resilient materials, resilient structures, elastic materials, elastic structures, and the like.

[0102] As skilled artisans will appreciate, the series disconnect switch illustrated in FIGS. 6A-B provides separation between center conductors when the connector does not engage a mating connector. To the extent one of the center conductors is interconnected with a cable distribution system, the separation avoids conduction of electrical signals between the separated portions of the center conductor. For example, if the connector of FIG. 6A does not engage a mating connector and if conductor 604 is electrically connected with cable television signal distribution equipment, electrical isolation of conductor 606 via separation of contacts 605, 607 as shown in FIG. 6A avoids conduction of electrical noise picked up by conductor 606. In particular, when portions of conductor 606 lie outside the connector body 629, they are unshielded receiving antennas for stray electromagnetic noise such as radio frequency noise in a CATV frequency band.

[0103] The shielding devices of FIGS. 6A-B are applicable to a variety of coaxial connector types. Exemplary connector types include F-Type, MCX, PAL, G Series, IEC, and the like. The shielding devices of FIGS. 6A-B are also applicable to a variety of coaxial connector configurations including single and double ended devices, for example splices, male and female connectors, adapters, and the like.

[0104] FIGS. 7A-C are schematic drawings illustrating coaxial connectors with combined shielding including a disconnect switch and a waveguide.

[0105] FIG. 7A is a schematic drawing illustrating a single ended female coaxial connector such as an equipment port 700A. A connector body 702 having first and second ends 708, 709 includes a base 716 near the second end 709. A nose 713 is urged by a force such as a spring force F to protrude from the first end 708 of the body. The nose may be described as an actuator here and elsewhere in this specification.

[0106] A disconnect switch includes a stationary conductor 704 and a moving conductor 706 carried by the nose 713. A stationary conductor end such as a terminal 734 protrudes from the body second end 709 and a moving conductor end such as a socket736 accessible via a nose opening 714 is urged to protrude from the body first end 708. A stationary conductor contact 724 is adjacent to a moving conductor contact 726 and these contacts selectively mate according to positioning of the nose 713 which operates the disconnect switch.

[0107] A waveguide 710 with a central aperture 712 is electrically coupled to the body 702. The waveguide is located within the body and divides first 719 and second 721 body chambers. The moving and stationary conductors are located substantially to either side of the waveguide such that depressing the nose advances the moving conductor contact 726 through the waveguide aperture 712.

[0108] Shown adjacent to the port 701 is an exemplary male connector 790 for engagement with the first end of the port. The male connector includes a center conductor 796, a connector body 794, and a fastener 792. When engagement occurs, the male connector center conductor 796 enters the nose access-way 714 and contacts the moving conductor exposed end 736. In addition, the nose 713 is depressed as the male connector pushes the nose into the body 702. This mating process advances the moving conductor contact 726 through the aperture 712 and closes the disconnect switch.

[0109] In various embodiments, the connector conductors include or are made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s) such as copper and copper alloys. In various embodiments, the connector body (or a sleeve encircling the body, not shown) includes or is made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s). In various embodiments, the waveguide includes or is made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s). In some embodiments, the nose provides an electromagnetic shield, for example via inclusion of metal(s) or metal alloy(s). Examples include a metal cap, coating, or layer covering an exterior of the nose, metal in a nose matrix material such as plastic, a metallic nose insulated from the integral moving conductor, and the like.

[0110] As skilled artisans will recognize, when the connector 701 is not mated, the waveguide attenuates signal flow via RF free space transmission between the moving and stationary conductors 706, 704 and the disconnect switch stops signal flow via conduction between the moving and stationary conductors. In various embodiments, waveguide performance may be enhanced by positioning a conductor contact 726, 724 within the aperture when the connector nose 713 is fully extended. For example, the moving conductor contact 726 may be so positioned. Such positioning may enhance grounding of stray signals. And, in various embodiments waveguide performance may be enhanced by positioning a conductor contact 726, 724 to one side of the aperture when the connector nose 713 is fully extended. For example, the stationary conductor may be so positioned. Such positioning may enhance grounding of stray signals. In an embodiment, the moving contact 726 is positioned within the aperture and the stationary contact 724 is positioned to one side of the aperture. And, in an embodiment, the waveguide is located between the stationary and moving contacts.

[0111] FIG. 7B is a schematic drawing illustrating a single ended male coaxial connector 700B. A connector body 702 extends from a first end 708 toward 785 a second end (not shown). A nose 713 is urged by a force such as a spring force F to protrude from the first end 708 of the body.

[0112] A disconnect switch includes a centrally located stationary conductor 704 and a centrally located moving conductor 706 carried by the nose 713. The stationary conductor extends 734 from a nose directed end 724 toward 785 the second body end. The moving conductor is carried by the nose and has opposed outward and inward ends 736, 726 protruding from opposed outward and inward sides 735, 725 of the nose.

[0113] The stationary conductor nose directed end 724 provides a contact such as a socket and the moving conductor inward end provides a mating contact such as a pin 726. These contacts selectively mate according to positioning of the nose 713 which operates the disconnect switch.

[0114] A waveguide 710 is electrically coupled to the body 702. The waveguide is located within the body and divides first 719 and second 721 body chambers. The moving and stationary conductors are located substantially to either side of the waveguide such that depressing the nose advances the moving conductor contact 726 through the waveguide aperture 712.

[0115] Shown adjacent to the connector 703 is an exemplary female coaxial connector 791 for engaging the male connector 703. The female connector includes a center conductor 797, a connector body 793 and a connector forward end 795. When engagement of the connectors occurs, the male connector center conductor outward end 736 engages the female connector center conductor and the forward end of the female connector 795 pushes the male connector nose 713 into the body. As the nose 713 is depressed the moving conductor inward contact 726 is advanced through the aperture 712 such that the disconnect switch is closed when the moving conductor inward contact mates with the stationary contact nose directed end 724.

[0116] In various embodiments, the connector conductors include or are made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s) such as copper and copper alloys. In various embodiments, the connector body (or a sleeve encircling the body, not shown) includes or is made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s). In various embodiments, the waveguide includes or is made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s). In some embodiments, the nose provides an electromagnetic shield, for example via inclusion of metal(s) or metal alloy(s). Examples include a metal cap, coating, or layer covering an exterior of the nose, metal in a nose matrix material such as plastic, a metallic nose insulated from the integral moving conductor, and the like.

[0117] As skilled artisans will recognize, when the connector 703 is not mated, the waveguide attenuates signal flow via RF free space transmission between the moving and stationary conductors 706, 704 and the disconnect switch stops signal flow via conduction between the moving and stationary conductors. In various embodiments, waveguide performance may be enhanced by positioning a conductor contact 726, 724 within the aperture when the connector nose 713 is fully extended. For example, the moving conductor contact 726 may be so positioned. Such positioning may enhance grounding of stray signals. And, in various embodiments waveguide performance may be enhanced by positioning a conductor contact 726, 724 to one side of the aperture when the connector nose 713 is fully extended. For example, the stationary conductor may be so positioned. Such positioning may enhance grounding of stray signals. In an embodiment, the moving contact 726 is positioned within the aperture and the stationary contact 724 is positioned to one side of the aperture. And, in an embodiment, the waveguide is located between the stationary and moving contacts.

[0118] FIG. 7C is a schematic drawing illustrating a double ended female coaxial connector such as a splice 700C. A connector body 702 has first and second ends 708, 709. A nose 713 is urged by a force such as a spring force F to protrude from the first end 708 of the body.

[0119] A disconnect switch includes a stationary conductor 704 and a moving conductor 706 carried by the nose 713. A stationary conductor end such as a socket 767 extends from a conductor link 765 and is located near a connector entryway 711 in the connector second end 709. A moving conductor end such as a socket 736 accessible via a nose opening 714 is urged to protrude from the body first end 708. A stationary conductor contact 724 extends from the link 765 and is adjacent to a moving conductor contact 726 and these contacts selectively mate according to positioning of the nose 713 which operates the disconnect switch.

[0120] A waveguide 710 is electrically coupled to the body 702. The waveguide is located within the body and divides first 719 and second 721 body chambers. The moving and stationary conductors are located substantially to either side of the waveguide such that depressing the nose advances the moving conductor contact 726 through the waveguide aperture 712.

[0121] Shown adjacent to the connector 705 is an exemplary male connector 790 for engagement with the first end of the connector 705. The male connector includes a center conductor 796, a connector body 794, and a fastener 792. When engagement occurs, the male connector center conductor 796 enters the nose access-way 714 and contacts the moving conductor exposed end 736. In addition, the nose 713 is depressed as the male connector pushes the nose into the body 702. This mating process advances the moving conductor contact 726 through the aperture 712 and closes the disconnect switch.

[0122] In various embodiments, the connector conductors include or are made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s) such as copper and copper alloys. In various embodiments, the connector body (or a sleeve encircling the body, not shown) includes or is made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s). In various embodiments, the waveguide includes or is made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s). In some embodiments, the nose provides an electromagnetic shield, for example via inclusion of metal(s) or metal alloy(s). Examples include a metal cap, coating, or layer covering an exterior of the nose, metal in a nose matrix material such as plastic, a metallic nose insulated from the integral moving conductor, and the like.

[0123] As skilled artisans will recognize, when the connector 701 is not mated, the waveguide attenuates signal flow via RF between the moving and stationary conductors 706, 704 and the disconnect switch stops signal flow via conduction between the moving and stationary conductors. In various embodiments, waveguide performance may be enhanced by positioning a conductor contact 726, 724 within the aperture when the connector nose 713 is fully extended. For example, the moving conductor contact 726 may be so positioned. Such positioning may enhance grounding of stray signals.

[0124] FIGS. 8A-B show cross sections of a first coaxial connector with combined shielding including a disconnect switch and a waveguide.

[0125] FIG. 8A shows a female end of a coaxial connector having an extended nose 800A. FIG. 8B shows the connector of FIG. 8A having a depressed nose 800B. The connector includes a body 802, a stationary conductor 804, a moving conductor 806, and a waveguide 810. In various embodiments each of these parts is a conductor of electricity.

[0126] The connector 800A also includes insulating part(s) that isolate the moving conductor 806 from the body 802. For example, a nose 813 or portions of the nose may be electrical insulators.

[0127] The connector body 802 has a first end 808 extending toward 885 a second end (not shown). The nose 813 is urged by a force to protrude from the first end 808 of the body. In various embodiments, the force may be provided by a resilient member such as a resilient solid or material, spring, gas charged device, or the like. In an embodiment a coil spring 889 encircles the moving conductor 806 and is located between the waveguide 810 and the body first end 808.

[0128] The nose 813 carries the moving conductor 806 in a nose cavity 881. In some embodiments the nose includes a nose internal cap 883 on which a spring such as the coil spring 889 bears.

[0129] A disconnect switch includes the stationary conductor 804 and the moving conductor 806. In various embodiments, the stationary conductor is electrically isolated from the connector body 802 via an insulating member such as an adjacent or supporting and/or substantially annular insulator 876.

[0130] The stationary conductor 804 includes a link or terminal portion 834 that extends toward 885 a second body end. The moving conductor 806 includes a socket 836 near the first body end 808. The socket 836 is accessible via a nose central passage or entryway 814 seen in an outer face 878 of the nose.

[0131] A stationary conductor contact such as a socket 824 adjoining the link 834 is adjacent to a moving conductor contact such as a pin 826 and these contacts selectively mate according to positioning of the nose 813 which operates the disconnect switch. As seen, as the nose is depressed, the spring 889 is compressed.

[0132] An exemplary waveguide 810 is electrically coupled to the body 802 and/or to a similar electromagnetic shield either within or without the body. As shown, a stand-off 874 spaces a gap between a waveguide aperture plate 872 and the stationary conductor insulator 876 to form a body chamber 819. The stand-off may be integral with the waveguide or not.

[0133] As shown, the waveguide 810 is located within the body 802 and divides first 819 and second 821 body chambers. Here and elsewhere, a waveguide dividing a connector body into similar separate chambers may be referred to as a midbody waveguide. The moving and stationary conductors 806, 804 are located substantially to either side of the waveguide such that depressing the nose 813 advances the moving conductor contact 826 through the waveguide aperture 812.

[0134] In various embodiments, the connector conductors 804, 806 include or are made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s) such as copper and copper alloys. In various embodiments, the connector body 802 (or a sleeve encircling the body, not shown) includes or is made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s). In various embodiments, the waveguide 810 includes or is made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s).

[0135] In some embodiments, the nose 813 provides an electromagnetic shield, for example via inclusion of metal(s) or metal alloy(s). Exemplary electromagnetic shields include a nose metal cap, coating, or layer covering an exterior of the nose, metal in a nose matrix material such as plastic, a metallic nose insulated from the integral moving conductor, and the like.

[0136] As skilled artisans will recognize, when the connector 800A is not mated, the waveguide attenuates signal flow via RF free space transmission between the moving and stationary conductors 806, 804 and the disconnect switch attenuates or stops signal flow via conduction between the moving and stationary conductors. In various embodiments, waveguide performance may be enhanced by positioning a conductor contact 826, 824 within the aperture when the connector nose 813 is fully extended. For example, the moving conductor contact 826 may be so positioned (as shown). Such positioning may enhance grounding of stray signals. And, in various embodiments waveguide performance may be enhanced by positioning a conductor contact 826, 824 to one side of the aperture when the connector nose 813 is fully extended. For example, the stationary conductor may be so positioned. Such positioning may enhance grounding of stray signals. In an embodiment, the moving contact 826 is positioned within the aperture and the stationary contact 824 is positioned to one side of the aperture. And, in an embodiment, the waveguide is located between the stationary and moving contacts.

[0137] FIGS. 9A-C show cross sections of a second coaxial connector with combined shielding including a disconnect switch and a waveguide.

[0138] FIG. 9A shows a coaxial connector splice with an extended nose 900A. FIG. 9B shows a nose end view of the splice 900B. FIG. 9C shows the splice with the nose depressed 900C. The connector includes a body 902, a stationary conductor 904, a moving conductor 906, and a waveguide 910. In various embodiments each of these parts is a conductor of electricity.

[0139] The connector 900A also includes insulating part(s) that isolate the moving conductor 906 from the body 902. For example, a nose 913 or portions of the nose may be electrical insulators.

[0140] The connector body 902 has a first end 908 and a second end 909. The nose 913 is urged by a force to protrude from the first end 908 of the body. In various embodiments, the force may be provided by a resilient member such as a resilient solid or material, spring, gas charged device, or the like. In an embodiment a coil spring 989 encircles the moving conductor 906 and is located between the waveguide 910 and the body first end 908.

[0141] The nose 913 carries the moving conductor 906 in a nose cavity 981. In some embodiments the nose includes a nose internal cap 983 on which a spring such as the coil spring 989 bears.

[0142] A disconnect switch includes the stationary conductor 904 and the moving conductor 906. In various embodiments, the stationary conductor is electrically isolated from the connector body 902 via an insulating member(s) such as an adjacent or supporting and/or substantially annular insulator 945, 946. In some embodiments, the insulating member provides a cavity 948 holding the stationary conductor.

[0143] The stationary conductor 904 includes a link portion 934 that extends to a contact such as a socket 943 for receiving a mating center conductor via an insulator 944 passage or entryway 947. The moving conductor 906 includes a socket 936 near the first body end 908. The socket 936 is accessible via a nose central passage or entryway 914 seen in an outer face 978 of the nose.

[0144] A stationary conductor contact such as a socket 941 adjoining the link 934 is adjacent to a moving conductor contact such as a pin 926 and these contacts selectively mate or inter-engage according to positioning of the nose 913 which operates the disconnect switch.

[0145] An exemplary waveguide 910 is electrically coupled to the body 902 and/or to a similar electromagnetic shield either within or without the body. First 919 and second 921 body chambers are located to either side of the waveguide.

[0146] As shown, the waveguide 910 is located within the body 902. The moving and stationary conductors 906, 904 are located substantially to either side of the waveguide such that depressing the nose 913 advances the moving conductor contact 926 through the waveguide aperture 987.

[0147] In various embodiments, the connector conductors 904, 906 include or are made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s) such as copper and copper alloys. In various embodiments, the connector body 902 (or a sleeve encircling the body, not shown) includes or is made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s). In various embodiments, the waveguide 910 includes or is made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s).

[0148] In some embodiments, the nose 913 provides an electromagnetic shield, for example via inclusion of metal(s) or metal alloy(s). Exemplary electromagnetic shields include a nose metal cap, coating, or layer covering an exterior of the nose, metal in a nose matrix material such as plastic, a metallic nose insulated from the integral moving conductor, and the like.

[0149] As skilled artisans will recognize, when the connector nose 913 is not depressed 900A, the waveguide attenuates signal flow via RF free space transmission between the moving and stationary conductors 906, 904 and the disconnect switch attenuates or stops signal flow via conduction between the moving and stationary conductors. In various embodiments, waveguide performance may be enhanced by positioning a conductor contact 926, 924 within the aperture when the connector nose 913 is fully extended. For example, the moving conductor contact 926 may be so positioned (as shown). Such positioning may enhance grounding of stray signals. And, in various embodiments waveguide performance may be enhanced by positioning a conductor contact 926, 924 to one side of the aperture when the connector nose 913 is fully extended. For example, the stationary conductor may be so positioned. Such positioning may enhance grounding of stray signals. In an embodiment, the moving contact 926 is positioned within the aperture and the stationary contact 924 is positioned to one side of the aperture. And, in an embodiment, the waveguide is located between the stationary and moving contacts.

[0150] FIGS. 10A-B show cross sections of a third coaxial connector with combined shielding including a disconnect switch and a waveguide.

[0151] FIG. 10A shows a male coaxial connector with an extended nose 1000A. FIG. 10B shows connector with the nose depressed 1000B. The connector includes a body 1002, a stationary conductor 1004, a moving conductor 1006, and a waveguide 1010. In various embodiments each of these parts is a conductor of electricity.

[0152] The connector body 1002 extends from a first end such as a male connector mating end or fastener end 1008 to a second end such as a coaxial cable entry end 1009. In various embodiments the connector body includes one or more of a fastener rotatable with respect to the body 1053, a separate trailing body portion 1041, and an outer sleeve 1043.

[0153] A nose 1013 that carries the moving conductor 1006 is urged by a force such as a spring force to protrude from the first end 1008 of the body. The fully protruding nose 1013 may be contained within a fastener 1053. In various embodiments, the force may be provided by a resilient member such as a resilient solid or material, spring, gas charged device, or the like. In some embodiments a coil spring 1089 encircles the moving conductor 1006 and is located between the waveguide 1010 and the body first end 1008. And, in some embodiments, end(s) of the spring bear on one or both of the nose and the waveguide.

[0154] A disconnect switch includes a centrally located stationary conductor 1004 and the centrally located moving conductor 1006 carried by the nose 1013. The stationary conductor extends from a nose directed end 1024 toward a second body directed end 1034. The moving conductor has opposed outward and inward ends 1036, 1026 protruding from opposed outward and inward sides 1035, 1025 of the nose.

[0155] In various embodiments, the stationary conductor is electrically isolated from the connector body 1002 via an insulating member(s) such as an insulating member(s) that extends between the stationary conductor and the body. Exemplary insulating members include annular, adjacent, and supporting structures. In an embodiment, a substantially annular insulator 1051, 1052 is provided. And, in an embodiment, the insulating member provides a cavity 1054 holding the stationary conductor.

[0156] The stationary conductor nose directed end 1024 provides a contact such as a socket and the moving conductor inward end provides a mating contact such as a pin 1026. These contacts selectively mate according to positioning of the nose 1013 which operates the disconnect switch. As seen, as the nose 1013 is depressed, the spring 1089 is compressed and the disconnect switch is closed. In some embodiments, the nose includes an annular pocket 1063 that fully contains the spring 1089 when the nose is fully depressed.

[0157] A waveguide 1010 is electrically coupled to the body 1002. The waveguide is located within the body 1002 and divides first 1019 and second 1021 body chambers. The moving and stationary conductors are located substantially to either side of the waveguide such that depressing the nose advances the moving conductor contact 1026 through the waveguide aperture 1012. In an embodiment, the waveguide bears on a nose directed end 1055 of the insulator 1051.

[0158] The trailing portion of the connector body 1041 may provide means for attaching a coaxial cable 1045. Here, a post 1042 is fitted within the trailing body portion and an outer sleeve 1043 is for compressing a deformable body part 1044 against the jacket 1049 of an inserted coaxial cable. In particular, the post is inserted between a cable outer conductor 1047 and a cable dielectric 1050 such that a cable trimmed end exposes a cable center conductor 1046 that is received by a socketed end 1054 of the stationary conductor 1004 that faces the coaxial cable. In various embodiments, the cable center conductor passes through a trailing portion of the stationary conductor insulator 1052 before it engages the stationary conductor.

[0159] In various embodiments, the connector conductors 1004, 1006 include or are made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s) such as copper and copper alloys. In various embodiments, the connector body 1002 (or a sleeve encircling the body, not shown) includes or is made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s). In various embodiments, the waveguide 1010 includes or is made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s).

[0160] In some embodiments, the nose provides an electromagnetic shield, for example via inclusion of metal(s) or metal alloy(s). Exemplary electromagnetic shields include a nose metal cap, coating, or layer covering an exterior of the nose, metal in a nose matrix material such as plastic, a metallic nose insulated from the integral moving conductor, and the like.

[0161] As skilled artisans will recognize, when the connector 1000A is not mated and the nose 1013 is fully extended such that the disconnect switch is open, the waveguide attenuates signal flow via RF free space transmission between the moving and stationary conductors 1006, 1004 and the disconnect switch stops signal flow via conduction between the moving and stationary conductors. In various embodiments, waveguide performance may be enhanced by positioning a conductor contact 1026, 1024 within the aperture 1012 when the connector nose 1013 is fully extended. For example, the moving conductor contact 1026 may be so positioned. Such positioning may enhance grounding of stray signals. And, in various embodiments waveguide performance may be enhanced by positioning a conductor contact 1026, 1024 to one side of the aperture when the connector nose 1013 is fully extended. For example, the stationary conductor may be so positioned. Such positioning may enhance grounding of stray signals. In an embodiment, the moving contact 1026 is positioned within the aperture and the stationary contact 1024 is positioned to one side of the aperture. And, in an embodiment, the waveguide is located between the stationary and moving contacts.

[0162] FIGS. 11A-B show cross sections of a fourth coaxial connector with combined shielding including a disconnect switch and a waveguide. The connector shown in FIGS. 11A-B differ from those shown in FIGS. 10A-B primarily due to inclusion of a non-rotating fastener portion 1162.

[0163] FIG. 11A shows a male coaxial connector with an extended nose 1100A. FIG. 11B shows the connector with the nose depressed 1100B. The connector includes a body 1102, a stationary conductor 1104, a moving conductor 1106, and a waveguide 1110.

[0164] The connector body 1102 extends from a first end such as a male connector mating end or fastener end 1108 to a second end such as a coaxial cable 1145 entry end 1109. In various embodiments the connector body includes one or more of a) a forward body portion such as a fastener end 1162 that includes a grasping means such as a resilient bail 1161 for grasping a mating female connector, b) a separate trailing body portion 1141, and c) an outer compression sleeve 1199.

[0165] Within the body 1102 a disconnect switch incorporates the moving conductor and the stationary conductor. The moving conductor 1106 carried by a spring 1189 urged nose 1113. A moving conductor outward end 1136 is for engaging a socket of a mating female connector. The stationary conductor 1104 is supported by an insulator 1151. Adjacent contacts 1126, 1124 of the moving and stationary contacts mate when the nose 1113 is depressed. Also within the body is the waveguide 1110 with a central aperture 1112 for receiving a conductor.

[0166] As skilled artisans will recognize, when the connector 1100A is not mated and the nose 1113 is fully extended such that the disconnect switch is open, the waveguide attenuates signal flow via RF free space transmission between the moving and stationary conductors 1106, 1104 and the disconnect switch stops signal flow via conduction between the moving and stationary conductors. In various embodiments, waveguide performance may be enhanced by positioning a conductor contact 1126, 1124 within the waveguide aperture 1112 when the connector nose 1113 is fully extended. For example, the moving conductor contact 1126 may be so positioned. Such positioning may enhance grounding of stray signals. And, in various embodiments waveguide performance may be enhanced by positioning a conductor contact 1126, 1124 to one side of the aperture when the connector nose 1113 is fully extended. For example, the stationary conductor may be so positioned. Such positioning may enhance grounding of stray signals. In an embodiment, the moving contact 1126 is positioned within the aperture and the stationary contact 1124 is positioned to one side of the aperture. And, in an embodiment, the waveguide is located between the stationary and moving contacts.

[0167] FIGS. 11C-F show cross sections of shielded male F type coaxial connectors for terminating a coaxial cable 1100C-F.

[0168] FIGS. 11C-D show a first shielded male F type connector with an actuator or ram 1112 projecting from a fastener 1102. FIG. 11C shows the ram projecting from the fastener while FIG. 11D shows the ram pushed into the fastener as by mating with a female coaxial connector.

[0169] The connector is arranged with a leading fastener 1102 and a trailing grip 1104. Grip parts include a grip body 1118 and a grip post 1119. The grip post 1119 is inserted in the body 1118 and in the fastener such that the post rotatably couples the fastener and the grip.

[0170] The ram 1112 is inserted in the fastener and a spring 1114 encircling the post tends to urge or project a ram free end 1113 from a mouth 1103 of the fastener. The ram free end includes an aperture 1110 which may be configured as a waveguide with dimensions similar to those mentioned herein. In some embodiments, the ram 1112, free end aperture 1110, a coaxial cable center conductor 1116, spring 1114, body 1118, post 1119, and fastener 1102 are in coaxial arrangement.

[0171] In an exemplary configuration, a ram 1112 such as a metallic or metal containing ram provides an electromagnetic shield about a coaxial cable 1106 center conductor free end 1116 when the free end 1113 protrudes (FIG. 11C) from the fastener mouth. In some embodiments, the aperture 1100 has a maximum dimension of 3.0 mm and in some embodiments a free end wall 1111 bounding the aperture has a thickness normal to the aperture centerline x-x in the range of 0.5 to 1.5 mm.

[0172] The connector grip 1104 may include a rear shell 1122 enclosing a deformable ring 1120. In various embodiments, movement of the rear shell toward the fastener 1102 deforms the metal ring such that an inserted coaxial cable 1106 is gripped or concentrically gripped by the ring. And, in various embodiments, the ring is fixed within the connector such as fixation via a shoulder 1123 of the rear shell.

[0173] FIGS. 11E-F show a second shielded male F type connector with an actuator or ram 1152 projecting from a fastener 1142. FIG. 11F shows the ram projecting from the fastener while FIG. 11E shows the ram pushed into the fastener as by mating with a female coaxial connector. Notably, for clarity no coaxial cable is shown.

[0174] The connector is arranged with a leading fastener 1142 and a trailing grip 1144. Grip parts include a grip body 1158 and a grip post 1159. The grip post 1159 is inserted in the body and in the fastener and the fastener is rotatably mounted on the body.

[0175] The ram 1152 is inserted in the fastener and a spring 1154 encircling the body 1158 and the post 1159 tends to urge or project a ram free end 1153 from a mouth 1143 of the fastener. The ram free end includes an aperture 1150 which may be configured as a waveguide with dimensions similar to those mentioned herein. In some embodiments, the ram 1152, free end aperture 1150, a coaxial cable center conductor 1116 (see FIG. 11C), spring 1154, body 1158, post 1159, and fastener 1142 are in coaxial arrangement.

[0176] In an exemplary configuration, a ram 1152 such as a metallic or metal containing ram provides an electromagnetic shield about a coaxial cable 1106 center conductor free end 1116 (see FIG. 11C) when the free end 1153 protrudes (FIG. 11F) from the fastener mouth 1543. In some embodiments, the aperture 1150 has a maximum dimension of 3.0 mm and in some embodiments a free end wall 1151 bounding the aperture has a thickness normal to the aperture centerline x-x in the range of 0.5 to 1.5 mm.

[0177] The connector grip 1144 may include a rear shell 1162 including a plug portion 1163 and a collar portion 1165 joined by a frangible connection 1164. As skilled artisans will appreciate, when the rear shell is moved toward the fastener 1142, the frangible connection breaks and the plug is inserted between the body 1158 and an inserted coaxial cable 1106. The collar 1165 may encircle the body 1158 and remain on the connector during and after this operation.

[0178] FIGS. 12A-B show cross sections of a sixth coaxial connector with combined shielding including a disconnect switch and a waveguide.

[0179] FIG. 12A shows a male to female double ended coaxial connector or adapter having an extended female end nose 1200A. FIG. 12B shows a male to female coaxial connector or adapter having a depressed female end nose 1200B. The connector includes a body 1202, a stationary conductor 1204, a moving conductor 1206, and a waveguide 1210. In various embodiments each of these parts is a conductor of electricity.

[0180] The connector 1200A also includes insulating part(s) that isolate the stationary 1204 and moving 1206 conductors from the body 1202. For example, a nose 1213 or portions of the nose may be electrical insulators.

[0181] The connector body 1202 has a first end 1208 at a female port 1242 and a second end 1209 at a male connection 1243. The nose 1213 is urged by a force to protrude from the first end 1208 of the body. In various embodiments, the force may be provided by a resilient member such as a resilient solid or material, spring, gas charged device, or the like. In an embodiment a coil spring 1289 encircles the moving conductor 1206 and is located between the waveguide 1210 and the body first end 1208.

[0182] The nose 1213 carries the moving conductor 1206 in a nose cavity 1281. In some embodiments the nose includes a nose internal cap 1283 on which a spring such as the coil spring 1289 bears.

[0183] A disconnect switch includes the stationary conductor 1204 and the moving conductor 1206. In various embodiments, the stationary conductor is electrically isolated from the connector body 1202 via a unitary or separable part insulating member such as an adjacent or supporting and/or substantially annular insulator 1276, 1277. Some embodiments provide an insulator cavity 1278 for holding the stationary conductor.

[0184] The stationary conductor 1204 includes a terminal or center pin portion 1234 that is in the form of a center pin extending from a fastener 1241 near the connector second or male end 1209. The moving conductor 1206 includes a socket 1236 near the first body end 1208. The socket 1236 is for receiving a mating coaxial connector center pin and is accessible via a nose central passage or entryway 1214 seen in an outer face 1278 of the nose.

[0185] A stationary conductor contact such as a socket 1224 adjoining the terminal 1234 is adjacent to a moving conductor contact such as a pin 1226 and these contacts selectively mate according to positioning of the nose 1213 relative to the body which operates the disconnect switch. As seen, as the nose 1213 is depressed, the spring 1289 is compressed.

[0186] An exemplary waveguide 1210 is electrically coupled to the body 1202 and/or to a similar electromagnetic shield either within or without the body. As shown, the waveguide 1210 is located within the body 1202 and divides first 1219 and second 1221 body chambers. Here and elsewhere in this specification, a waveguide dividing a connector body into separate chambers similar to these may be referred to as a midbody waveguide. The moving and stationary conductors 1206, 1204 are located substantially to either side of the waveguide such that depressing the nose 1213 advances the moving conductor contact 1226 through the waveguide aperture 1212.

[0187] In various embodiments, the connector conductors 1204, 1206 include or are made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s) such as copper and copper alloys. In various embodiments, the connector body 1202 (or a sleeve encircling the body, not shown) includes or is made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s). In various embodiments, the waveguide 1210 includes or is made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s).

[0188] In some embodiments, the nose 1213 provides an electromagnetic shield, for example via inclusion of metal(s) or metal alloy(s). Exemplary electromagnetic shields include a nose metal cap, coating, or layer covering an exterior of the nose, metal in a nose matrix material such as plastic, a metallic nose insulated from the integral moving conductor, and the like.

[0189] As skilled artisans will recognize, when the connector 1200A is not mated, the waveguide attenuates signal flow via RF free space transmission between the moving and stationary conductors 1206, 1204 and the disconnect switch attenuates or stops signal flow via conduction between the moving and stationary conductors. In various embodiments, waveguide performance may be enhanced by positioning a conductor contact 1226, 1224 within the aperture when the connector nose 1213 is fully extended. For example, the moving conductor contact 1226 may be so positioned (as shown). Such positioning may enhance grounding of stray signals. And, in various embodiments waveguide performance may be enhanced by positioning a conductor contact 1226, 1224 to one side of the aperture when the connector nose 1213 is fully extended. For example, the stationary conductor may be so positioned. Such positioning may enhance grounding of stray signals. In an embodiment, the moving contact 1226 is positioned within the aperture and the stationary contact 1224 is positioned to one side of the aperture. And, in an embodiment, the waveguide is located between the stationary and moving contacts.

[0190] FIGS. 13A-B show cross sections of a seventh coaxial connector with combined shielding including a disconnect switch and a waveguide.

[0191] FIG. 13A shows a male to female double ended coaxial connector or adapter having an extended male end nose 1300A. FIG. 13B shows a male to female coaxial connector or adapter having a depressed male end nose 1300B. The connector includes a body 1302, a stationary conductor 1304, a moving conductor 1306, and a waveguide 1310. In various embodiments each of these parts is a conductor of electricity.

[0192] The connector body 1302 extends from a first end such as a male connector mating end or fastener end 1308 to a second female connector end 1309. In various embodiments the connector includes a male end fastener such as a fastener that is rotatable with respect to the body 1353.

[0193] A nose 1313 that carries the moving conductor 1306 is urged by a force such as a spring force to protrude from the first end 1308 of the body. As shown here and elsewhere in this specification the fully protruding nose 1313 may be fully contained within a fastener 1353. In various embodiments, the force may be provided by a resilient member such as a resilient solid or material, spring, gas charged device, or the like. In some embodiments a coil spring 1389 encircles the moving conductor 1306 and is located between the waveguide 1310 and the body first end 1308. And, in some embodiments, end(s) of the spring bear on one or both of the nose and the waveguide.

[0194] A disconnect switch includes a centrally located stationary conductor 1304 and the centrally located moving conductor 1306 carried by the nose 1313. The stationary conductor extends via a link 1334 from a nose directed end 1324 toward the body second end 1309. The moving conductor has opposed outward and inward ends 1336, 1326 protruding from opposed outward and inward sides 1335, 1325 of the nose.

[0195] In various embodiments, the stationary conductor 1304 is electrically isolated from the connector body 1302 via an insulating member(s) such as an insulating member(s) that extends between the stationary conductor and the body. Exemplary insulating members include annular, adjacent, and supporting structures. In an embodiment, a substantially annular insulator 1351 is provided. As shown, the insulator 1351 may be supported by the connector body 1302.

[0196] The stationary conductor nose directed end 1324 provides a contact such as a socket and the moving conductor inward end provides a mating contact such as a pin 1326. These contacts selectively mate according to positioning of the nose 1313 which operates the disconnect switch. As seen, as the nose 1313 is depressed, the spring 1389 is compressed and the disconnect switch is closed. In some embodiments, the nose includes an annular pocket 1363 that may fully contain the spring 1389 when the nose is fully depressed.

[0197] A waveguide 1310 is electrically coupled to the body 1302, for example by fitment to the body inside wall 1349. The waveguide may have shoulders or a bore 1357 for fitment about a knob 1359 of the insulator 1351.

[0198] The waveguide is located within the body 1302 and divides first 1319 and second 1321 body chambers. The moving and stationary conductors 1304, 1306 are located substantially to either side of the waveguide such that depressing the nose advances the moving conductor contact 1326 through the waveguide aperture 1312. In an embodiment, the waveguide bears on a nose directed end 1355 of the insulator 1351.

[0199] Opposite the male fastener end of the connector 1361 is a female end of the connector such as an externally threaded end 1362. A female end insulator 1342 supported by the connector body 1302 receives a socket 1341 of the stationary conductor 1304. The socket is interconnected with the stationary conductor contact 1324 via a link 1334. A passage or entryway in the female end insulator 1343 provides access to the socket.

[0200] In various embodiments, the connector conductors 1304, 1306 include or are made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s) such as copper and copper alloys. In various embodiments, the connector body 1302 (or a sleeve encircling the body, not shown) includes or is made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s). In various embodiments, the waveguide 1310 includes or is made from metal(s) or metal alloy(s).

[0201] In some embodiments, the nose provides an electromagnetic shield, for example via inclusion of metal(s) or metal alloy(s). Exemplary electromagnetic shields include a nose metal cap, coating, or layer covering an exterior of the nose, metal in a nose matrix material such as plastic, a metallic nose insulated from the integral moving conductor, and the like.

[0202] As skilled artisans will recognize, when the connector 1300A is not mated and the nose 1313 is fully extended such that the disconnect switch is open, the waveguide attenuates signal flow via RF free space transmission between the moving and stationary conductors 1306, 1304 and the disconnect switch stops signal flow via conduction between the moving and stationary conductors. In various embodiments, waveguide performance may be enhanced by positioning a conductor contact 1326, 1324 within the aperture 1312 when the connector nose 1313 is fully extended. For example, the moving conductor contact 1326 may be so positioned. Such positioning may enhance grounding of stray signals. And, in various embodiments waveguide performance may be enhanced by positioning a conductor contact 1326, 1324 to one side of the aperture when the connector nose 1313 is fully extended. For example, the stationary conductor may be so positioned. Such positioning may enhance grounding of stray signals. In an embodiment, the moving contact 1326 is positioned within the aperture and the stationary contact 1324 is positioned to one side of the aperture. And, in an embodiment, the waveguide is located between the stationary and moving contacts.

[0203] While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in the form and details can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. As such, the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and equivalents thereof.