Abstract: A record support and alignment apparatus comprises a set of lifting pads secured to a depressible platform mounted in a video disc player. The lifting pads are adapted for motion between a withdrawn position and an extended position with respect to the platform. The lifting pads, in the withdrawn position, allow a record jacket to be fully inserted into the player. The lifting pads, in the extended position, support a record retained in the player such that, while the platform is disposed in an elevated position, the retained record is aligned with an empty jacket during its insertion in the player, whereby reversion of a retained record to an empty jacket is facilitated. Withdrawal of the jacket, after its full insertion in the player, removes the enclosed record from the player.

Abstract: A video disc system includes an apparatus for lifting and lowering a stylus arm carrying a stylus. A permanent magnet embedded in a movably mounted element is repelled by an electromagnet to effect lowering of the stylus on a record rotatably disposed on a turntable of the video disc system. A selectively operated circuit is provided to control the rate of increase of voltage across the coil to obtain a smooth landing of the stylus on the record for playback.

Abstract: A microcircuit adhesion testing method and fixture for uniform placement and soldering of a preselected length of wire above a film pad on a microcircuit substrate with consistent substrate-to-wire spacing, comprising a holder for the substrate, finger spacers attached to the holder, and a member for pressing the wire against the spacers. The spacers are made of a material which is not wettable with solder of the type used to attach the wire to the film.