Abstract: A data storage device includes a housing in which is mounted a data storage unit, such as a hard disk drive. Pads serve as shock mounts at the corners of the data storage unit and separate the data storage unit and the housing. A flex circuit electrically couples the data storage unit and a connector at the front of the device. The flex circuit has, e.g., an “N” shape configuration, which advantageously provides flexibility in many directions. The data storage device may convert the number of pin connections from the data storage unit to a different number of pin connections. A docking module that receives the portable data storage device may also convert the number of pin connections from the data storage device to a different number of pin connections used by a host system. The docking module includes a slide for receiving and ejecting the portable data storage device.

Abstract: A data storage subsystem capable of withstanding substantial non-operating shocks and other rough handling includes a pads configured to mate to a portion of the periphery of a data storage device to provide impact energy absorption and well as noise reduction and thermal dissipation. A flex circuit connects the data storage device to a connection, and includes a plurality of slits to permit the flex circuit to have flexibility in two dimensions.