Apparatus for controlling access to data storage devices

Claim 1

Apparatus for providing a secure environment for an electronic device, said apparatus comprising: (a) an enclosure having a backwall, opposing side walls and a front portion containing at least one access port therein; (b) a drawer having opposing sidewalls and movably mounted in said access port for movement between a closed position and a full open position, said drawer receiving an electronic device therein; (c) locking means for securing said drawer in the closed position; (d) first switch means mounted on a wall of said enclosure for deactivating an electrical circuit coupled between the electronic device in the drawer and an external power supply upon the movement of said drawer to said closed position; (e) first coupling means for electrically connecting said first switch means to said external power supply through said enclosure; (f) second coupling means for electrically connecting said first switch means to the electronic device located within said drawer whereby the opening of said drawer electrically connects said device to the external power supply; (g) releasable engaging means contained in said drawer and extending through an aperture in a sidewall of said drawer, said engaging means contacting said first switch means to deactivate the circuit when said drawer is in the closed position; (h) a receiving member mounted on a side wall of said enclosure for receiving said engaging means and maintaining said drawer in a partial open position, the release of said engaging means from within said drawer permitting movement of said drawer to open or closed positions; and (i) data transmission means for connection to said device and extending outwardly through said enclosure for connection with external circuitry.