Abstract: An apparatus for securing a component in a computer chassis. The apparatus provides a tray that may be made from a resilient material in which the computer component is encased. The computer component is thereby isolated from physical shock applied to the chassis, and sound from the component is dampened from escaping the confines of the apparatus. Embodiments of the tray are particularly constructed to be placed near the top of a tower configuration computer and encased by a cover that keeps the component secured. The cover is removable and therefore allows for ready access to the component.

Abstract: The present invention provides for an apparatus for grounding and supporting a circuit board such as a motherboard in the chassis of a computer. The apparatus enables use of either a specially manufactured motherboard or an off-the-shelf motherboard in a standardized chassis. Embodiments of the apparatus provided for use with specially manufactured motherboards allow for grounding and support of the motherboard without the use of conventional fasteners such as screws that require tools for installation and removal.

Abstract: A cable connector system for connecting a cable to an electronic component through a plug coupled to the cable and a receptacle coupled to the electronic component. The plug provides a unique structure that is easily connected to the receptacle without the use of tools. Additionally, the plug provides cover over the end of the plug to which the cable is connected so that the plug may be easily pulled past obstructions with which a conventional plug could become entangled.

Abstract: The present invention provides for an apparatus and method for securing a computer system. A security loop or tab is attached to a computer chassis and used to engage a cover that encloses at least a portion of a side of the computer chassis. Structure is provided in embodiments of the invention to releasably engage the cover with the security tab and to provide a means of locking the cover on the chassis to prevent unauthorized access to the computer system. Additionally, the securing apparatus is place in a location not readily visible to users of the computer system.

Abstract: A method for handling or manipulating microelectronic components in manufacturing assembly processes. In one embodiment of handling microelectronic components, a microelectronic component handling system may have a base or a support member, a track or platform attached to the base to rotate about a rotational axis, and a linear drive assembly to rotate the track about the rotational axis. The track may have a first end, a second end spaced apart from the first end along a longitudinal axis of the track, a top surface facing away from the base, and a bottom surface facing toward the base. Additionally, the linear drive assembly may have an actuator and a rod driven by the actuator along a displacement axis spaced apart from the rotational axis. In operation, the actuator moves the rod along the displacement axis to rotate the track about the rotational axis to a raised position at an inclination sufficient to slide a microelectronic component down the track.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for mounting a disk drive such as a hard drive, floppy drive, or CD-ROM drive to the chassis of a computer. No tools or conventional fasteners such as screws are required to install or remove a disk drive. A combination of members, including shear connectors and a deformable member, are employed to secure a disk drive.