Miniature contact block packaging for printed circuit boards

Abstract

This invention includes packaging for miniature contact blocks. The packaging is an array having a plurality of contact blocks suspended therein by way of connecting ribs and break-away stems. The array preferably includes snaps for coupling to a printed circuit board panel. The array is coupled to a panel. The contact blocks are then permanently affixed to the circuit boards. Afterwards, the break-away stems are broken, allowing the individual circuit boards to be removed from the panel.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . A package for an electrical contact, comprising: 
 a. an outer member;    b. at least one rigid member coupled to the outer member;    c. at least one breakable member coupled to the at least one rigid member; and    d. at least one contact block coupled to the at least one breakable member.    
     
     
         2 . The package of  claim 1 , wherein the package comprises: 
 a. a plurality of rigid members;    b. a plurality of breakable members; and    c. a plurality of contact blocks.    
     
     
         3 . The package of  claim 2 , further comprising at least one means for coupling to a printed circuit board, the means for coupling coupled to the outer member.  
     
     
         4 . The package of  claim 3 , wherein the quantity of breakable members is at least twice the quantity of contact blocks.  
     
     
         5 . A method of manufacturing a printed circuit board, the method comprising the steps of: 
 a. coupling the package of  claim 1  to a panel;    b. soldering the contact blocks to printed circuit boards disposed within the panel;    c. breaking the breakable members; and    d. breaking webbing disposed between the circuit boards and an outer edge of the panel.    
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 5 , wherein the breaking of the break-away stems and the breaking of the webbing occurs in the same step.