Abstract: A computer comprises a keyboard, and a base with a housing accommodating either a floppy disk drive or part of an external power supply which can be connected to the mains. When the power supply is fitted in the housing, a sensor prepares a reduced output power state. The keyboard is mobile, and there is a hard disk drive which can be removed by raising the keyboard from its operating position.

Abstract: A portable computer consists of a base unit within which an electronic unit is housed along with two power supply conductors for the electronic unit. The base unit includes a housing to receive a battery pack with terminals for connection to the power supply conductors. The battery pack contains rechargeable batteries. A power supply control circuit is also connected to the conductors and this includes a recharging circuit. When power is applied via an external socket to the base unit the control circuit and recharging circuit are activated. A sensor device is responsive to the presence of the battery pack to supply the recharging current to the rechargeable batteries. When non-rechargeable batteries are inserted in the housing no recharging current is supplied to them.

Abstract: A Portable computer comprises a base unit on which a lid is hinged. The base unit houses an electronic unit which can assume various operational states and carries an input unit. A display screen is carried by the lid and is controlled by the electronic unit to display graphic symbols and alphanumeric characters. The lid can be moved from an open position, allowing access to the input unit and allowing the screen to be seen, to a closed position. A mode indicator is carried by the base unit and displays various characters and symbols indicating different operational states of the computer. A viewing zone provided in the lid enables the mode indicator to be seen when the lid is closed.