Importance

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Abstract

A guide mechanism prevents an improperly oriented PC card from being inserted a significant distance into a PC slot. A pair of PC card guide mechanisms are coupled to a PC male connector. A PC card is received at the guides as the card is inserted and pushed toward the male connector. Each guide mechanism includes a proximal end that engages an edge of the male connector, and a distal flanged end that receives the PC card. A guide rail extends between the proximal and distal ends of each guide mechanism. At least one guide mechanism includes a flexible arm along its guide rail. At the tip of the arm is a keying mechanism responsive to the PC card orientation. When the PC card is properly oriented, the card slides over the keying mechanism pushing it aside to traverse the guide rail. When the PC card is improperly oriented, the card is blocked by the keying mechanism so as not to traverse the guide rail. The inventive keying mechanism is located away from the male connector and toward the distal end of the guide mechanism. As a result, an installer feels resistance of an improperly oriented card before the card travels a significant distance within the slot. In particular, the installer receives tactile feedback by feeling the resistance and visible feedback by seeing that the card is not installed nearly as far as it should when a proper connection occurs. Automated ejection is not needed.

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First Claim