Abstract: A modular terminal comprising a frame, a data distribution chamber, a power distribution apparatus and plural functional units. The functional units are supported and oriented by the frame in such a way that each interconnects with the power distribution components. Functional units communicate via optical transmissions through the data distribution chamber. This allows a functional unit to be inserted, removed or moved from one frame location to another without special equipment or tools by unskilled personnel.

Abstract: A compact shuttling printer mechanism suitable for use with dot forming print elements is disclosed. A single part plastic molding forms the frame and shuttling suspension for the print head or heads. The design utilizes a compound cantilevered spring principle. A linear reciprocable drive element acting as close as possible through the center of percussion of the print head and suspension assembly reciprocates the print head back and forth along a desired print line adjacent to a platen. Means for incrementing paper at the end of each reciprocation or stroke are provided. The design is adapted to provide print line visibility so that printed characters may be seen as they are formed. The reciprocation drive operates without orthogonal forces. It provides a purely linear drive force so that the machine is free of unwanted vibrations in other planes or axes. The unitary molded plastic compound cantilever spring and frame assembly greatly reduces the size, cost and complexity of the printing mechanism.

Abstract: A printed circuit board holder includes an integral, generally rectangular board receptacle which is pivotally supported above the base of a data processing device by spaced cradle posts. The receptacle can be pivoted from a normal position through an angle of approximately 90.degree. to a service position in which the receptacle bottom wall is nearly perpendicular to the base. An integral latch mechanism keeps the holder in the normal position until the latch is manually released. Multiple pin connector boards and stiffener plates are secured to the receptacle by integral latches.

Abstract: A data entry terminal has a base unit and keyboard unit which can be assembled to provide an integrated configuration or separated to provide a distributed configuration. No tools are required. The base unit has a recess with vertical guides and a protruding electrical connector providing an input path to the device electronics. The keyboard unit has complementary guides and a connector which mates with the base unit connector when the keyboard unit is slipped into place along the guides. The terminal is readily converted from an integrated configuration to a distributed configuration by removing the keyboard unit from the base unit, adding an auxiliary cable to carry signals between the keyboard unit connector and the base unit connector and concealing the base unit recess with a filler panel having the same guide structure as the keyboard unit.