Abstract: A flexible disc is provided for the recording and playback of information on a recording surface thereof. The disc is contained within a cartridge housing which protects the recording surface. At least one opening is provided in the disc which is in permanent engagement with at least one pin member of a drive hub, the drive hub providing rotation to the disc when the drive hub is rotated. The outer perimeter of the opening in the disc is larger than the outer perimeter of the pin member so that the disc is free to move laterally along the pin. At least one surface of the cartridge housing acts as a smoothing plane; rotation of the disc causes the disc to rise above such surface creating an air cushion between the flexible disc and surface, with the disc seeking its own level above the smoothing plane surface.

Abstract: A printhead alignment mechanism is used in a non-impact type printer, such as a thermal printer for use, typically, in an electronic calculator. The printhead may pivot in a direction around an axis that is orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the print roller over which the printing medium is driven. The printhead may also pivot in a direction around an axis parallel to the axis of rotation of the print roller. This enables the printhead to follow small irregularities in the printing medium and the print roller. Substantially even pressure is thereby applied across the printhead to provide uniform printed characters.