Abstract: A computer system includes an exterior casing having an opening therein to permit user access to peripheral devices, such as floppy drives, CD ROM drives, tape drives, or optical drives. A door driven by a reversible motor slides along the exterior casing to open and close the opening in the exterior casing. A user may activate a sensor provided on the exterior casing to selectively open or close the door. The sensor may be a light-sensitive sensor, a voice-activated sensor, or a proximity sensor. Alternatively or in addition, the user may open and close the door via a system processor, for example, by entering commands via a keyboard. The door may slide along tracks within the exterior casing. In addition, the door may be locked in a closed position and unlocked to allow opening.

Abstract: A computer system including a plurality of air circulation areas to facilitate cooling of components with in the air circulation areas. Specifically, the system includes an air circulation area for a plurality of printed circuit boards, for a power supply, and for a plurality of internal and external peripherals, such as disk drives. The system also includes an automatic door that covers the external peripherals. The external peripherals slide forward, out of a casing of the system to facilitate upgrade and/or repair of the peripherals. In addition, the system includes cabling slots and structure to effect electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding.