Path: utzoo!attcan!uunet!husc6!uwvax!dogie!uwmcsd1!ig!agate!ucbvax!GBURG.SCC.COM!enger
From: enger@GBURG.SCC.COM
Newsgroups: comp.protocols.tcp-ip
Subject: Transceiver connectors
Message-ID: <8806192137.AA28570@ucbvax.Berkeley.EDU>
Date: 19 Jun 88 20:04:00 GMT
Sender: daemon@ucbvax.BERKELEY.EDU
Organization: The Internet
Lines: 22

Folks:
	Many of the writers addressing this topic have complained
about bending of the slide lock metal (allowing the connector to become 
partially or fully dislodged).  Still more writers have suggested various 
revenge scenarios against the inventor of the connector, and the abandonment 
of the connector's use.  Maybe improvements can be made without resorting to 
the guillotine (or wire cutters).

	I have noted differnces in the "strength" of the slide locks 
provided on the cables from various suppliers.  While the geometry may make 
the applied forces great, it may still be possible to spec a sufficiently
"strong" slide lock to meet most user's needs.  Perhaps the use of higher 
quality metal will be the only change necessary.  Reinforcement of the slide 
lock through other methods such as ribbing and spot welding may also be usefull.

	I suppose we could machine high quality slide locks that were strong
enough to lift a car (or at least a Sun Workstation).  What I'm affraid of
however, is that we'll start to see the mating chasis hardware failing.  Wider
use of right angle connectors, and provisions for EASILY lashing the cable to
the equipment chasis should round out the remedy though. 

Bob Enger