Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A read device for cassettes with electronic memory allows a cassette to be inserted in the read device without requiring the cassette to be loaded in an operative position in a recording/playback unit. Fragile contacts of the read device are protected from damage by an orientation and locking pin cooperating with a centering hole in the cassette shell so the contacts engage the memory terminals of a cassette only when the cassette is properly positioned. The contacts are engaged only when the cassette is locked in position. The terminals and contacts are relatively movable solely in their common planes. If the cassette is presented to the read device upside down or wrong side first, or lacks a centering hole in the required location, entry is blocked, the contacts are not exposed and engagement of the terminals by the cassette is prevented. In embodiments where the read device includes a movable housing member defining a recess into which a cassette is inserted, when the cassette is oriented by the pin and held as the housing member is moved, the terminals of the cassette memory directly face the contacts of the read device, and the terminals and contacts are relatively movable solely in their common planes, preventing damage to the contacts.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim