Abstract: A multiple disc array apparatus and associated method are provided having substantially identical first and second partitions that are removably connectable together. Each partition supports a plurality of data storage devices arranged in noncoplanar first and second arrays. Each partition further defines clearance apertures for passing fasteners therethrough for fixing each data storage device to the respective partition.

Abstract: An engagement assembly and associate method are provided for a multiple disc array (MDA) that is receivingly engageable in a data storage array cabinet. The engagement assembly comprises a locking device that is responsive to an MDA position indicator in automatically locking and unlocking the module in the cabinet.

Abstract: An array storage system and associated method are provided comprising a multiple disc array. The multiple disc array comprises a partition defining attachment points for fixing each of a plurality of data storage devices to the partition arranged in a first and a second array, wherein a data storage device in the first array operably spins oppositely with respect to a data storage device in the second array. Two identical partitions, each supporting arrays of data storage devices, can be joined together to increase the storage capacity of the multiple disc array.

Abstract: A controlled insertion device is provided for securing an electronic module in a cabinet, the device comprising a strike fixable to the cabinet and a latch engageable with the strike for imparting a longitudinal insertion force on the module for making an electrical connection while simultaneously imparting a lateral retention force on the cabinet defining a preselected clearance between the module and the cabinet.

Abstract: A composite corrugated panel is provided comprising a first corrugated panel defining a first corrugation height joined to a second corrugated panel defining a second corrugation height, the joined panels defining a cross sectional thickness that is preferably less than a sum of the first and second corrugation heights. A method is provided for producing a composite corrugated panel, comprising: providing a first panel comprising a first corrugation and a first opening; providing a second panel comprising a second corrugation and a second opening; stacking the panels by disposing the first corrugation in the second opening and the second corrugation in the first opening.

Abstract: A carrier for supporting a circuit board and one or more data storage devices in a multiple disc array assembly. The carrier includes a partition with channel surfaces defining a tubular closed passage. The channel surfaces are adapted for circumscribing a cross section of the data storage device in a supporting mating relationship. The carrier further includes means for urging a data storage device in the passage in pressing engagement against the circuit board. Furthermore, a method for supporting a plurality of data storage devices in the multiple disc array. The method includes providing a carrier from a plurality of different carriers differentiated by a characteristic array of tubular closed channels for supportingly engaging data storage devices; inserting one or more data storage devices in a respective number of channels defining the multiple disc array; and inserting the carrier in a shelf.

Abstract: A shelf is provided defining a tubular closed passage with a frontend opening and a backend opening. A frontend partition is adapted for supporting a first component inserted in the frontend. A removable backend partition is adapted for supporting a second component inserted in the backend. A removable backplane support is adapted for operably supporting a backplane in electrical connection with the first and second components. Further, a method is provided for electrically connecting components.

Abstract: An arrangement for mounting a heat sink to a mounting board. The arrangement includes a heat sink and a locking member. The heat sink has a bottom surface and a passageway extending therein from an entrance opening on the bottom surface in a direction normal thereto and terminating with a closed end at its inner end. The passageway has an entrance region tapering toward the closed end and an inner region defined by generally parallel side wall portions. The side wall portions defining the entrance region including an engagement surface facing the closed end of the passageway. The locking member is T-shaped with the member crossing the stem of the T adapted for snug fit engagement with the generally parallel walls of the passageway's inner region. Moreover, the crossing member has an engagement member at each of it's ends that extend toward the base of the stem. The engagement members interlock with the engagement surface when the locking member is inserted into the passageway of the heat sink.