US 5,644,470 A · Autodocking hardware for installing and/or removing adapter cards without opening the computer system cover

Abstract

A computer system is provided which allows a user to remove or install feature cards without removing the cover to entire computer. A computer cover is provided with rectangular openings which correspond in alignment and size to an electrical connector on the system board. The feature card can then be mechanically attached to the computer cover, or a frame member, with a pivot and guide member. A handle is provided which will allow the user to apply pressure to the card, via the guide member in order to insert or remove the feature card from the connector on the system board. The guide member is constructed such that a vertical force is applied between the card and connector to ensure proper alignment when inserting and removing the adapter card.

Claims7

Dependent claims

A computer having a system board with at least one connector having electrical connection lands, comprising:

a cover that encloses said system board, including at least one slot aligned with said connector;
a feature card having insertion tabs, disposed on one side thereof, for contacting said lands;
a support member affixed to a side of said feature card opposite said insertion tabs;
and
means for inserting said feature card to said connector, or removing a feature card from said connector, without removing said cover, said means for inserting including a frame member aligned with said slot and connector, affixed to said computer and disposed inside said cover, and means for receiving said support member which are rotatingly attached to said computer system.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Autodocking hardware for installing and/or removing adapter cards without opening the computer system cover

Life of this patent

Autodocking hardware for installing and/or removing adapter cards without opening the computer system cover

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims7