Spark gap for high-speed cable connectors
US9112310B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 23, 2011 |
| Grant date | Aug 18, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 4, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01R13/6658
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Circuits, methods, and apparatus that may provide low-capacitance protection from electrostatic discharges. One example protects a circuit in a cable connector that is connected to cable connector contacts. This example may include a number of spark gaps that may be used for electrostatic discharge protection. These spark gaps may be formed using traces a printed circuit board. Signal traces to be protected may be routed such that they pass in close proximity to a ground pad, line, plane, area, or connection. When excessive electrostatic energy builds up on the signal trace, the energy may spark across a gap from the signal trace to the ground pad. The gap and parts of the signal traces and ground may be uncovered such that the electrostatic discharge may dissipate through the air.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.