PERSONAL COMPUTER POWER LOCKING MECHANISM

摘要

A power locking mechanism (19) provides a structure for supporting a physically manipulable lock, and is in communication with a permanently installed switching connector fitting within the confines of an alternating current power socket typically found at the rear of a personal computer. The switchi ng connector has a male portion (51) which becomes a male locking portion with the addition of a locking clip member (59) which positively engages the alternating current socket of a computer, an intermediate portion containing circuitry t o insure proper switched on and off operation, and a female socket (45) portio n for interfitting with the end of the power cord (49) which was previously used t o connect into the alternating power socket (45). As such, installation of the device of the invention involves removing the power cord (49) computer plug from th e computer's power input socket (45), inserting the male portion of the switching connector (51) into the socket (45) and inserting the power cord plug (48) into the female portion of the switching connector of the invention. Locking is achieved with a flared engagement member (64) which fits into an indentation on the male portion (51) of the switching connector (19). The clip member of on e embodiment is removable in order that the switching connector be tested in place, before insertion to commit to permanent connect status.