Abstract: Disclosed is a personal computer system that includes a media console coupled to a system unit with a multi-conductor cable. The media console contains a direct access storage device (e.g., floppy disk drive) having an opening for receiving a removable storage medium. The system unit is separate from the media console and includes a microprocessor coupled to a first bus, a non-volatile storage device coupled to the first bus and a power supply for supplying power to the the system. The multi-conductor cable has one end coupled to the media console and another end coupled to the system unit for electrically connecting devices in the media console to devices in the system unit.

Abstract: A system for overcoming force which inhibits movement of a data storage device is provided. An actuator is mounted at the perimeter of a circular data storage device and has a pivoting armature. The armature is mounted to pivot into contact with the perimeter of the storage device thereby initiating movement thereof and overcoming any force inhibiting the movement thereof, and to pivot out of contact with the perimeter of the storage device to allow for subsequent rotation thereof.

Abstract: A computer system includes a chassis having an internal connector with a first portion in electrical contact with a first external peripheral device, and second portion in electrical contact with a second external peripheral device. An adapter is coupled between an internal device and the internal connector. The internal device is associated with either the first or second external peripheral devices. The adapter has either a first portion that connects the internal device to the first portion of the internal connector or a second portion that connects the internal device to the second portion of the internal connector in order to couple the internal device to its associated external peripheral device.

Abstract: An antenna is integrated into the laptop to increase the efficiency, convenience and ruggedness of radio frequency transmission. The antenna extends from the laptop's cover when in use for maximum efficiency but retracts when not in use for ruggedness and convenience. The antenna is a multi-modal antenna to permit efficient transmission and reception in more than one range of frequencies. The multi-modal antenna is made up of multiple segments for transmitting and receiving at different frequencies that are matched to a single terminating circuit.