SELF-TERMINATING COAXIAL CONNECTOR

A self-terminating coaxial connector is provided which is adapted to versatile use in local area network, CATV and other coaxial cable systems. The connector has the external appearance of a conventional coaxial connector and has the structure for providing the self-terminating operation contained within the connector housing. A slidable assembly is disposed within the connector body and includes an electrical contact element having contact ends confronting respective ends of the connector. A second conductive element is attached to and electrically connected to the first contact element and includes one or more outwardly extending finger portions which confront one or more respective chip resistors which are supported in respective openings of the body. A spring is provided within the body and is operative to urge the slidable assembly to an outward position in the absence of a plug attached to the outlet end. In this outward position the finger portions are in electrical connection with the chip resistor to provide termination of the connector by providing a matched impedance between the contact element and the grounded connector body. With a plug installed onto the outlet of the body, the slidable assembly is urged inwardly of the body to cause the finger portions to move out of electrical engagement with the resistor, thereby breaking the connection to the terminating resistor when the connector is attached to an associated coaxial plug for use.