Abstract: By providing an input/output module which incorporates post means formed thereon and slider means connected thereto and movable into and out of locking engagement with the post means of an adjacent module, a unique input/output module is achieved that is rapidly mounted to an adjacent module as well as rapidly disconnected therefrom. Preferably, each input/output module incorporates mating connector means positioned on opposite surfaces thereof, whereby each input/output module electronically directly connects to an adjacent module for communication with a central processor.

Abstract: By providing a multi-faced connector having a female contact receiving portion formed on a first face, a male contact connecting portion formed on a second face thereof, opposite said first face, and printed circuit board receiving contacts formed on a third face thereof, a unique backplane connector is achieved which is capable of mating electronic engagement with adjacent connectors while also being capable of receipt and transmission of electronic signals from and to the printed circuit boards connected therewith. In the preferred embodiment, the backplane connector of the present invention is removably mountable in a support channel which is capable of receiving and supportingly maintaining input/output modules electronically engaged with the backplane connector.

Abstract: By providing a key actuated tumbler, rotationally journaled in a housing in juxtaposed spaced relationship to a pair of contacts, one of which comprises an elongated resiliently flexible member, with the tumbler incorporating actuating means for controllably moving the flexible contact from its first non-conductive position to its second conductive position, an inexpensive, easily manufactured and installed electric, key-controlled switch lock is achieved. In the preferred embodiment, the tumbler is mounted in a housing which incorporates a contact holding zone for positioning and maintaining the tumbler and the flexible contact in juxtaposed spaced cooperating relationship with the entire assembly directly mountable to a printed circuit board for initiating and terminating the flow of electric current thereto.

Abstract: By providing an input/output housing which incorporates paired slider assemblies for supportingly maintaining a printed circuit board in secure electronic engagement between a central processor and external devices, with said printed circuit board being quickly and easily removable from the electronically engaged position, an input/output system for a programmable controller is achieved which is capable of being quickly and easily expanded as well as capable of rapid field assembly and field disassembly for removal or replacement of any required parts. In addition, the external equipment wiring is made to a terminal block which is mounted between the paired slider assemblies and pivotally engaged therein to provide readily accessible contact points for initial interconnection thereto, while also being pivotally movable and slidingly advanceable into the housing for continuous maintenance therein in a secure, hidden, easily accessible storage zone.

Abstract: By providing a plurality of input/output housings which are removably connected to a controller interconnecting duct, with each input/output housing accommodating a plurality of input/output modules that are quickly and easily removably connected thereto, an input/output assembly for a programmable controller is achieved capable of rapid field assembly and field dis-assembly for removal or replacement of any necessary parts. In the preferred embodiment, all connectors in the programmable controller assembly are solderless connections, thereby allowing complete removal and replacement of connectors in the field without soldering. Furthermore, the input/output modules are lightweight and easily handled for quick insertion or removal from the plugged-in housing connections.