High-speed differential signal connector particularly suitable for docking applications

摘要

A connector assembly is provided with opposing and interengageable first and second connector components. Each of the two components preferably includes upper and lower housing formed from an insulative material, with cavities formed therein that receive terminal assemblies. The upper and lower housings are formed with internal cavities that extend in different directions. These cavities are aligned together when the upper and lower housings are assembled together to define a plurality of internal cavities that extend through the first and second connector components. Each cavity contains a terminal assembly with differential signal terminals. The terminals have contact portions, tail portions and interconnecting portions that are partially encapsulated by an insulative outer shell. The exterior surfaces of the connector components are plated with a conductive material so that the connector components serve as grounds for the differential signal terminals.