Abstract: A memory cartridge for convenient manual attachment of a RAM memory with battery back-up to an I/O module in a programmable controller system is inserted through an opening in a side cover of the I/O module and connected to a main circuit board. The housing has a pair of clip members on opposite ends with grooves running transversely across the ends to receive the edges of mounting flanges extending inward at upper and lower ends of an opening in the side cover. The clip members are yieldable in the longitudinal direction of the cartridge housing--to squeezed between a thumb and fingers of one hand--and when the cartridge is inserted through the side cover opening to a certain depth, the clip members are released to secure the cartridge between the mounting flanges.

Abstract: A connector assembly uses an intermediate guide plate to align and mate opposing connectors mounted on electrical chassis. The intermediate plate includes guide pins and is aligned to the first chassis by means of an alignment fixture attaching between the guide pins and the first connector. The guide plate is attached to the first chassis and the alignment fixture is removed, the guide pins allowing alignment with the second chassis and connector.

Abstract: A pair of spaced side plates are connected together by mounting bars which support a circuit board. Individual I/O modules plug into connectors on the circuit board and are fastened to the mounting bars. Wiring from the controller processor is brought into an adapter module which also plugs into the circuit board and external wiring is brought into terminal blocks which mount along the top and bottom edges of the circuit board. The wire terminals on the terminal blocks are connected to the conductive paths on the circuit board to provide electrical connection with the circuits in the I/O modules.

Abstract: A set of circuit boards are mounted side by side and electrical connection is made to terminal pads disposed along one edge of each circuit board by connectors which are carried by swing arms. The swing arms are rotatably mounted on a support rod which also mounts a set of lower guide rails supporting the set of circuit boards. A set of status indicator lights are disposed along the same edge of each circuit board above each swing arm. A swing arm latching mechanism holds the swing arm in a vertical operating position. A circuit board latching mechanism holds the circuit board in place when the swing arm is pivoted to a maintenance position.

Abstract: A protective package for use with a printed circuit board having mounted thereon at least one semiconductive device susceptible to deleterious effects of variance of potential across the terminals of the device or the presence of static electric discharges. The package provides, in one embodiment, a single piece, insulating case supporting and enclosing the entire circuit board and its components and a shorting member having integrally formed, spring biased contact fingers in normal engagement with the termination pads of the board. The contact fingers are separable from engagement with the termination pads upon insertion of the circuit board into an edge connector. Another illustrated embodiment provides a holder or support for a shorting member which may enclose only a portion of a printed circuit board and only a portion including termination pads.