Ejection mechanism for PC cards

摘要

A PC Card ejection mechanism includes a common selector for selecting a PC Card for ejection. The common selector may also be capable of selecting a holding position for holding the PC Cards in place. The common selector is coupled to a spring-loaded shaft with a radial extension at the other end. The radial extension engages a pivoting actuator arm which pushes the PC Card out of the PC Card stack. In the holding position, the common selector engages a flap that holds the PC Cards in place. Optionally, the ejection mechanism could include a solenoid and electrically activated pin holding an extension on the shaft to prevent movement of the shaft, thereby locking it. The ejection mechanism alone or in conjunction with a locking mechanism can also be used to hold and/or lock and unlock a removable disk drive.