Abstract: A drive system for processing passbook data includes a bi-directional stepper motor responsive to programmed input signals, cam sets rotated by the stepper motor for initiating data sensing, document positioning, and data transfer operations, and cam followers actuated by the contour of their associated rotating cam sets for moving their reacting components to perform those operations. Appropriate cam followers cause a pressure plate and sensor to move toward and sense coded data on a document, a gate to open and close to position the document for further processing, and a print platen to advance toward the document, provide a backing during data transfer, and then retract.

Abstract: A semiautomatic free standing credit card information handling apparatus comprising a rectilinearly movable carriage supporting read/write means slidably movable across the face of a vertically disposed information bearing credit card in read/write registry therewith. Means is provided for flattening the credit card each time the apparatus is initialized for a read/write operation effective to maintain the read/write means in constant contact with the information storage portion of the card. Oppositely disposed magnet means indicate the limit of travel right and left of the read/write means. Solenoid operated interlock means including manual initiate and override means operable in conjunction with cam means engageable by the credit card enable and disable the apparatus and concurrently prevent removal of the card prior to the termination of the read/write cycle of operation.

Abstract: A slidable carriage adapted to receive and carry an information bearing credit card along a linear path in traversing registry with respect to an informational read head. A spring and dashpot cooperate with the carriage during movement thereof for limiting the velocity of the carriage to assure proper credit card reading.

Abstract: A dampening system operative to effectively lower the transmission function of an external frequency coming in on a drive mechanism as to an associated magnetic read head so that the head's natural frequency is significantly below its response level.

Abstract: A low cost credit card reader is provided wherein the magnetic stripe on a stationarily positioned credit card is read by the spring powered transverse activation of a read head, and wherein the normal spring-related fluctuations in read head velocity are compensated for and offset by a rotatable member having a concentric circumference and a variably radiused spiraling circumference, the rotatable member being interposed between and cable interconnected with said spring and a translatable read head carrier, said spring and said rotatable member in association with an opposing airpot cooperating to provide the read head with a uniform controlled velocity of movement throughout each reading cycle.