Semiautomatic credit card information handling apparatus

摘要

A semiautomatic free standing credit card information handling apparatus comprising a rectilinearly movable carriage supporting read/write means slidably movable across the face of a vertically disposed information bearing credit card in read/write registry therewith. Means is provided for flattening the credit card each time the apparatus is initialized for a read/write operation effective to maintain the read/write means in constant contact with the information storage portion of the card. Oppositely disposed magnet means indicate the limit of travel right and left of the read/write means. Solenoid operated interlock means including manual initiate and override means operable in conjunction with cam means engageable by the credit card enable and disable the apparatus and concurrently prevent removal of the card prior to the termination of the read/write cycle of operation.