Abstract: A disk file machine having a transducer or a pressure pad opposite a transducer movable to engage a magnetic disk rotatably disposed in a magnetic diskette assembly in the machine and having a pressure plate opposite a platen portion for holding the disk in a proper data transferring plane, and a manually operable knob mechanically connected with the movable transducer or pressure pad and with the pressure plate for moving these parts from original positions, which are widely separated from the opposite parts to allow positioning of a magnetic diskette in the machine, to intermediate positions in which the spacing is less. The machine includes a solenoid mechanically connected with the movable transducer or pressure pad and mechanically connected with the pressure plate for moving these parts from their intermediate positions to final positions in which the movable transducer or pressure pad engages the disk and in which the pressure plate grips the diskette and holds it in a proper data transferring plane.

Abstract: Apparatus for loading a collet with respect to a rotatable drive hub of a magnetic disk drive machine for gripping a magnetic disk between the collet and drive hub including a leaf spring supported at opposite ends with respect to a machine frame and carrying the collet at an intermediate place between the ends. One of the ends of the spring is pivotally mounted on the frame, and a manually rotatable lever applies a force onto the leaf spring between its pivotal mounting and the collet so as to move the collet to engage the disk between the collet and drive hub against the resilience of the leaf spring.