Path: utzoo!attcan!uunet!husc6!rutgers!cs.utexas.edu!execu!dewey
From: dewey@execu.UUCP (Dewey Henize)
Newsgroups: comp.protocols.tcp-ip
Subject: Re: Transceiver connectors
Message-ID: <211@execu.UUCP>
Date: 20 Jun 88 03:08:08 GMT
References: <8806192137.AA28570@ucbvax.Berkeley.EDU>
Reply-To: dewey@execu.UUCP (Dewey Henize)
Organization: Execucom Systems Corp., Austin, Texas
Lines: 38

In article <8806192137.AA28570@ucbvax.Berkeley.EDU> enger@GBURG.SCC.COM writes:
>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

Perhaps.  Heck, perhaps we could make it work with epoxy glue too! :-)

At the base of the problem is a different outlook though - this industry had
managed to get along with 9 pin, 25 pin, and all kinds of n-pin connectors
pretty well - but we got used to using a method of screwing things in THAT
WORKED AND WAS EFFECTIVE.  The DIX plug isn't.  It sucks on a good day, and
is flaky the rest of the time.  And as a great many of the testimonials here
have indicated, the 'fix' is simple - get rid of the poor design, go with one
or more variants of tried and true screwlocks.

Now if you (any you, not just Bob) can come up with a good reason to go with
a more complicated, less effective method, please convince me.  Or, of course,
go get a job in the Pentagon in procurement - there are likely to be a few
slots there real real soon...



-- 
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|      execu!dewey  Dewey Henize @ Execucom Systems Corp 512/346-3008         |
|    You don't think my employer APPROVES of these ideas, do you??  Sheesh!   |
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