Abstract: A recording apparatus has a movable member for exposing an original to light and for scanning the original; and a power transmission device for reciprocally moving the movable member. The power transmission device has a plunger type solenoid, a first clutch coupled to the plunger of the solenoid for controlling forward movement of the movable member in response to an operation of the plunger type solenoid to a first state, and a second clutch coupled to the plunger for controlling backward movement of the movable member in response to the plunger type solenoid being in a second state. The plunger of the solenoid is movable relative to the solenoid coil between first and second positions, the first position being an attracted position in which the solenoid coil is energized and the plunger is attracted thereto, and the second position being beyond a limit position of attraction whereat the plunger is not attracted to the solenoid coil upon energization of the solenoid coil.