US Patent 7837504 Impedance mating interface for electrical connectors

Electrical connectors having improved impedance characteristics are disclosed. Such an electrical connector may include a first electrically conductive contact, and a second electrically conductive contact disposed adjacent to the first contact along a first direction. A mating end of the second contact may be offset in a second direction relative to a mating end of the first contact. Offsetting of contacts within columns of contacts provides capability for adjusting impedance and capacitance characteristics of a connector assembly.