Abstract: A device to hold a peripheral component interconnect (PCI) card. The device may include a first member having a first side wall extending in a longitudinal direction, a second member having a tab mechanism and a living hinge coupled between the first member and the second member. The living hinge may allow the second member to move between a first (open) position and a second (closed) position. The living hinge may also allow the tab mechanism to abut against the PCI card when the second member is in the closed position.

Abstract: Disclosed is structure and methods for engaging/disengaging a peripheral component interconnect compliant card with/from a slot therefor, without having to power down the system (e.g., computer) or remove any system chassis components. The structure includes a bracket to hold the card, which bracket can be adjustable to hold cards of different sizes. The structure also includes a frame member attached to the system chassis, the frame member having a guide rail to guide the bracket and peripheral component interconnect compliant card to engage/disengage the card with/from the slot therefor. The adjustable retention bracket can be used independently of use of the frame member, to hold peripheral component interconnect compliant cards rigid and stable.

Abstract: Structure and methods are provided for engaging/disengaging (1) a peripheral component interconnect (PCI) compliant card and (2) a slot therefor on a baseboard of a computer, without having to power down the system or remove any computer chassis components. The structure includes a bracket to hold the PCI compliant card, as a first part of the structure. The bracket slides into a channel of a second part of the structure, this second part having the engagement/disengagement mechanism built into it. The engagement/disengagement mechanism includes a camming structure which rotates to press against the channel and forces it downward (thereby forcing the PCI compliant card, held by the bracket in the channel, downward), to engage the electrical contacts of the PCI compliant card to electrical connectors in the slot. Upon release of the camming structure, a spring of the engagement/disengagement mechanism forces the channel upward to disengage the PCI compliant card from the slot.