Abstract: Apparatus and method wherein a credit card sized memory card having a magnetic storage medium thereon can be inserted into an operative position adjacent to a read/write head, and the card and head can be moved relative to each other to permit the head to read data from or to write data on the magnetic medium of the memory card. In a first embodiment, a disk form is provided like a hard disk but with a cut out portion or opening therein into which the memory card is insertable. The disk form can then be rotated so that the magnetic medium on the card can be moved past the read/write head movable radially of the central axis of the disk form. In another embodiment the memory card is movable into a fixed operative position adjacent to a read/write head and the head is movable radially as well as circumferentially arc so that the head and memory card are movable relative to each other in two degrees of freedom.

Abstract: An improved magnetic disk drive system including a rotatable disk, a shiftable carriage having a pair of read-write heads mounted by resilient arms thereon for coupled relationship with the disk, and a stepper motor for advancing and retracting the carriage and thereby the heads with respect to the disk. A locking mechanism is shiftably carried by a fixed base forming a part of the system, the mechanism including a locking member moveable between the resilient arms, whereby the arms are spread apart and the heads are moved away from the disk to prevent contact of the heads with the adjacent surfaces of the disk. The movement of the blocking member is a function of the movement of the carriage into its fully retracted position. Moreover, the member effectively locks the carriage against movement when the carriage is in the fully retracted position thereof.