Abstract: An information storage device (10) includes a drive module (14) releasably coupled to an interface module (13), where an information storage cartridge (11) can be removably inserted into the drive module in an approximately vertical direction. The drive module has a light source and magnifying lens which highlight indica located on the cartridge. Guide structure ensures that the cartridge can be inserted only with a single proper orientation. The drive module includes a display (236) which provides operational status information, and which is visible through an opening (411) provided in the interface module. The interface module has at least two ports (307, 308) conforming to a selected communication protocol, to permit the information storage device to be daisy chained with other compatible devices. A button (301) for initiating cartridge removal is actuated in an approximately vertical direction.

Abstract: A connector making electrical contact with a mating connector includes a base which is slidable in the housing in initial movement to plug or unplug the connector into the mating connector. This initial movement cams the tension arms mounted on the printed circuit board of the connector to rotate hooks on the connector to unlock it from its mating connector. The connector includes a second set of contacts having a different electrical configuration which allows a hot-swappable connection.

Abstract: An accessory panel for use in an internal bay of a computer is compatible with at least two disparate types of mounting arrangements for such panels. The accessory panel comprises a face plate, a mounting plate, and a sub-frame. The sub-frame includes a side plate and a rear plate. The mounting plate is fixedly coupled to the face plate. One or more bores are disposed along a surface of the mounting plate. The bores are arranged in a pattern that corresponds to a pattern of mounting-holes on a framework that surrounds a particular type of computer bay. The bores provide a means for mounting the panel in this type of computer bay through the use of fasteners. The side and rear plates are coupled to the mounting plate when the panel is installed in a computer bay that accommodates peripheral devices through the use of mounting rails. Once coupled, the mounting plate and the side plate provide a substantially smooth, coplanar area on which a mounting rail can be disposed.

Abstract: A movable platform is mounted on opposing guide rails within a disk drive. A head actuator and spindle motor are mounted on the movable platform. The platform moves on the guide rails from a forward position to a rearward position upon insertion of a disk cartridge into the disk drive. As the platform moves toward the rearward position, the elevation of the platform changes in order to bring the spindle motor into engagement with the hub of the disk cartridge. A latch member having a torsion spring and a notched projection is pivotally mounted on one of the guide rails for latching the platform in its forward position when the disk drive is not in use. The latch member locks and holds the platform in the forward and locked position when a shock load is encountered.

Abstract: A switch for use in an electronic device that includes a support portion and a light pipe. The support portion is formed to receive the light pipe such that an integrated switch/status indicator may be fashioned. The support portion further is formed such that it may be mounted to the electronic device. The integrated switch provides for a device that is capable of transmitting status information to a user, without requiring additional electrical connections to the switch.