PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-8897001-B2
Application Number: US-201313921960-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Devices and methods for attaching components to computer housings

Abstract:
An aesthetically pleasing small form factor desktop computer is described. The small form factor desktop computer can be formed of a single piece seamless housing that in the described embodiment is machined from a single billet of aluminum. In some embodiments, the housing includes a fastening system for securing and electrically grounding internal components to the housing. Fewer components and less time and effort can be required for assembly of the small form factor desktop computer and the absence of seams in the single piece housing can provide good protection against environmental contamination of internal components as well as EM shielding.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A fastening system for mechanically securing and electrically grounding an internal component to a metal housing of a computer, the metal housing including a notch having a contact surface within the notch, the fastening system comprising:
 a bracket coupled with the internal component, the bracket having a boss portion suitably sized for receiving and coupling with a conductive insert, the conductive insert sized and shaped in accordance with and positioned within the notch thereby securing the bracket to the metal housing, wherein the conductive insert includes a coupling surface that is electrically coupled with the contact surface within the notch; and 
 a flexible conductive member positioned between the bracket and the conductive insert electrically coupling the conductive insert with the bracket. 
 
     
     
       2. The fastening system of  claim 1 , wherein the internal component is a memory drive. 
     
     
       3. The fastening system of  claim 1 , wherein the conductive insert includes a threaded opening configured to engage with a corresponding screw. 
     
     
       4. The fastening system of  claim 1 , wherein the bracket is configured to align the internal component within the metal housing during an assembly process. 
     
     
       5. The fastening system of  claim 1 , wherein the flexible conductive member is conductive tape. 
     
     
       6. The fastening system of  claim 1 , wherein the flexible conductive member is electrically coupled to the conductive insert via conductive adhesive. 
     
     
       7. The fastening system of  claim 1 , wherein the bracket comprises a plurality of boss portions for receiving a plurality of corresponding conductive inserts that cooperate to mechanically secure the bracket to the metal housing. 
     
     
       8. The fastening system of  claim 1 , wherein the metal housing comprises an ablated portion surrounded by an anodized portion, the ablated portion having an exposed metal surface in contact with the bracket. 
     
     
       9. The fastening system of  claim 1 , wherein the bracket is coupled with the conductive insert using a fastener. 
     
     
       10. The fastening system of  claim 9 , wherein the bracket includes a first opening and the conductive insert includes a second opening, wherein first opening is configured to align with the second opening such that the fastener passed through the first opening and second opening. 
     
     
       11. A fastening system for mechanically securing and electrically grounding a component to a housing for an electronic device, the housing having a notch forming a contact surface within the notch, the fastening system comprising:
 an insert having fitted portion and a protruding portion, the fitted portion having a shape and a size suitable for fitting within the notch and mechanically securing the insert to the housing, the insert including a coupling surface electrically coupled with the contact surface of within the notch; 
 a bracket configured to couple with the component and having a boss portion coupled with the protruding portion of the insert; and 
 a conductive film positioned between and electrically coupling the bracket with the insert such that the component is mechanically secured and electrically grounded to the housing when coupled with the bracket. 
 
     
     
       12. The fastening system of  claim 11 , wherein the coupling surface of the insert directly contacts the contact surface within the notch of the housing. 
     
     
       13. The fastening system of  claim 11 , wherein the bracket is coupled with the insert using a fastener, wherein the bracket includes a first opening and the insert includes a second opening, the first opening aligned with the second opening such that the fastener passes through the first opening and the second opening. 
     
     
       14. The fastening system of  claim 13 , wherein the second opening is positioned within the protruding portion of the insert. 
     
     
       15. The fastening system of  claim 13 , wherein the fastening has a first threading and the second opening a second threading corresponding to the first threading. 
     
     
       16. The fastening system of  claim 11 , wherein the insert is attached to conductive film using a conductive adhesive. 
     
     
       17. The fastening system of  claim 11 , wherein the housing comprises an ablated portion surrounded by an anodized portion, the ablated portion having an exposed metal surface in electrical contact with the bracket. 
     
     
       18. The fastening system of  claim 11 , wherein the bracket comprises a plurality of boss portions coupled with a plurality of inserts, the plurality of inserts positioned within corresponding plurality of notches formed within the housing, wherein the plurality of inserts cooperate to secure the bracket to the housing. 
     
     
       19. The fastening system of  claim 11 , wherein the protruding portion of the insert passes through a conductive film opening within the conductive film. 
     
     
       20. The fastening system of  claim 19 , wherein the conductive film includes a tab portion that extends from the conductive film opening.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation application that claims priority under 35 U.S.C. 120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/893,994, filed Sep. 29, 2010, entitled “Removable Hard Drive In A Small Form Factor Desk Top Computer,” which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) to each of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/355,138, filed Jun. 15, 2010, entitled “Small Form Factor Desktop Computer;” U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/355,144, filed Jun. 16, 2010, entitled “Electronic Components In A Small Form Factor Desktop Computer;” U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/355,145, filed Jun. 16, 2010, entitled “Cooling Arrangement For Small Form Factor Desktop Computer;” and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/355,150, filed Jun. 16, 2010, entitled “Manufacturing Fixtures For Small Form Factor Desktop Computer,” each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety and for all purposes. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     1. Field of the Described Embodiments 
     The described embodiments relate generally to small form factor desktop computing devices. More particularly, enclosures of small form factor desktop computing devices and methods of assembling same are described. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     In recent years, small form factor desktop computers have been developed. These small form factor desktop computers provide basic computing services such as those provided by a central processing unit, or CPU, without the traditional I/O devices such as a keyboard and monitor usually associated with a standard desktop computer. By providing basic computer services, the small form factor desktop computer is affordable and can be easily customized for applications that would be unsuitable or at best difficult for the standard desktop computer. For example, the small form factor desktop computer can be easily placed on a shelf or in a cabinet and configured to operate as a media control center. In contrast to the small form factor desktop computer, in order to use the standard desktop computer as the media control center, a sturdy shelf or large cabinet must be used. Moreover, most people would not appreciate a standard desktop computer in plain view and would most likely opt to hide the unit. In this way, the small form factor desktop computer lends itself to applications that would otherwise be unsuitable for a standard desktop computer. 
     The reduction in size compared to standard desktop computers and the ease of use provide two reasons for the growing popularity of small form factor desktop computers. Factors that contribute to the reduction in size and ease of use can be attributed to the manufacturer&#39;s ability to fabricate various operational components in smaller and smaller sizes while increasing their power and/or operating speed. However, this trend of smaller, lighter and more powerful computers presents a continuing design challenge. One design challenge associated with the small form factor desktop computer is the design of the enclosure used to house the various internal components. This design challenge arises from a number conflicting design goals that includes the desirability of making the enclosure lighter and yet rugged and strong in addition to being aesthetically pleasing. Conventional approaches to making computer enclosures lighter rely upon the extensive use of plastic. Although the conventional plastic design is generally lighter, enclosures formed entirely of plastic tend to be more flexible and therefore less rugged. Therefore, in order to strengthen the housing and form a more rigid and rugged structure, thicker plastics are generally used. However, even though the increase in thickness is consistent with a stronger and more rugged enclosure, the thicker plastic adds weight and bulkiness that can lead to user dissatisfaction. 
     Computer enclosures are generally mechanical assemblies having multiple parts that are screwed, bolted, riveted, or otherwise fastened together at discrete points that can result in cracks, seams, gaps or breaks at the mating surfaces and fasteners located along the surfaces of the housing. For example, a mating line surrounding the entire enclosure is produced when using an upper and lower casing. Moreover, the various components and complicated processes used to manufacture the computer can make assembly a time consuming and cumbersome process requiring, for example, a highly trained assembly operator working with special tools. 
     In view of the foregoing, there is a need for improved component density and associated assembly techniques that reduce cost and improve outgoing quality. In addition, there is a need for improvements in the manner in which small form factor desktop computers are assembled such as improvements that enable structures to be quickly and easily installed within the enclosure. 
     SUMMARY OF THE DESCRIBED EMBODIMENTS 
     A small form factor desktop computer is disclosed. The small form factor desktop computer includes at least a single piece housing, a support structure attached to a front wall of the single piece housing, the support structure formed of vibration absorbing material and having at least two grommets, and a mass storage device. In the described embodiment, the mass storage device includes at least a body arranged to enclose and support a mass storage medium and associated mass storage device circuitry configured to access the mass storage medium and a plurality of support pins having a size and shape in accordance with the at last two grommets. The mass storage device is assembled into the small form factor desktop computer by inserting the mass storage device into the bottom opening, aligning the support pins with the at least two grommets, and inserting the support pins into the grommets in such a way that the mass storage device is removable. 
     A method can be performed by providing a single piece housing, attaching a support structure to a front wall of the single piece housing, the support structure formed of vibration absorbing material and having at least two grommets, providing a mass storage device, the mass storage device having a body arranged to enclose and support a mass storage medium and associated mass storage device circuitry configured to access the mass storage medium and a plurality of support pins attached to the body of the mass storage device having a size and shape in accordance with the at last two grommets. Inserting the mass storage device into a bottom opening of the single piece housing, aligning the support pins with the at least two grommets, and inserting the support pins into the grommets in such a way that the mass storage device is removable. 
     A mass storage device having a size in accordance with a small form factor desktop computer system is described. The mass storage device includes at least a mass storage device body, a mass storage data medium, the mass storage data medium configured to store digital data, a mass storage device circuit, the mass storage device circuit configured to provide access to the mass storage data medium, and a support pin integrally formed with the housing. In the described embodiment, the support pin is used to support the mass storage device such that the mass storage device is vibrationally isolated from other devices in the small form factor desktop computer and provides for easy discretionary insertion and removal of the mass storage device. 
     Other apparatuses, methods, features and advantages of the described embodiments will be or will become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is target that all such additional apparatuses, methods, features and advantages be included within this description be within the scope of and protected by the accompanying claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The embodiments will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  shows a perspective front view of a small form the factor desktop computer in accordance with the described embodiments. 
         FIG. 2  shows a rear view of computer shown in  FIG. 1   
         FIG. 3  shows a bottom view of a small form factor computer system shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 . 
         FIGS. 4A-4D  shows bottom view of  FIG. 3  where a foot has been removed to exposed internal components. 
         FIG. 5  shows an interior view of the foot shown in  FIG. 4 . 
         FIGS. 6 ,  7 ,  8 A,  8 B,  9 A,  9 B,  10 ,  11 ,  12 , and  13  show additional embodiments of a foot. 
         FIG. 14  shows a representative cut away view of a portion of a housing illustrating representative anchor notches and alignment notch machined directly into the housing. 
         FIG. 15  shows representative interior view of a cavity (also referred to as lumen) of a housing used to enclose various internal components of a computer. 
         FIG. 16  shows a more detailed view of the bezel shown in  FIG. 15 . 
         FIGS. 17-19  show representative mounting features in accordance with the described embodiments. 
         FIGS. 20-21  show representative optical disc drive (ODD) in accordance with the described embodiments. 
         FIG. 22  shows hard disc drive (HDD) inserted into and mounted within the housing such that HDD is acoustically isolated from the ODD. 
         FIG. 23-24  shows representative AC power supply and technique for assembling into the housing in accordance with the described embodiments. 
         FIG. 25  shows a technique for inserting and installing a main logic board (MLB) in accordance with the described embodiments. 
         FIG. 26  shows representative stacking connector in accordance with the described embodiments. 
         FIG. 27  shows a coaxial cable routing system in accordance with the described embodiments. 
         FIG. 28  shows a surface mounted ground clip in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIGS. 29A-29B  shows a main circuit board extraction tool in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 30  shows a flowchart detailing a forming a computer housing in accordance with the described embodiments. 
         FIG. 31  shows a flowchart detailing a process for extraction of a circuit board in accordance with the described embodiments. 
         FIG. 32  is a schematic view of an illustrative computing device in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIBED EMBODIMENTS 
     In the following paper, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the concepts underlying the described embodiments. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that the described embodiments may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well known process steps have not been described in detail in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the underlying concepts. 
     This paper discusses an aesthetically pleasing small form factor desktop computer such as the Mac Mini™ manufactured by Apple Inc. of Cupertino Calif. that can be placed in many locations otherwise unsuitable for standard sized desktop computers. It should be noted that the term “desktop” should not be construed as limiting the location at which the computing device can be used since the computing device can be placed on a desk, shelf, and bookcase and so on. 
     Due in part to the simplicity of design, fewer components and less time and effort are required to assembly the small form factor desktop computer. The small form factor desktop computer can be formed of a single piece seamless housing (also referred to as a unibody housing) that can be machined from a single billet of metal such as aluminum. Due to the metallic nature as well as the lack of seams, leakage of electromagnetic radiation (EM) can be eliminated thereby helping to prevent RF leakage to the external environment as well as shielding RF sensitive internal components. 
     The single piece seamless housing can have a bottom portion with a support structure (hereinafter referred to as a foot) that facilitates the placement of the small form factor desktop computer. The foot can be formed of slip resistant material that is resilient and yet poses an insubstantial risk of scratching or otherwise damaging any surface upon which the small form factor desktop computer is placed. The foot can also be used as a mechanism that provides easy access to nearby internal components. In this regard, the foot can be configured for easy removal without the need for special tools other than a simple screwdriver (or even a coin) or a user&#39;s hand. 
     At least a portion of the foot can include RF transparent material that allows the unimpeded passage of RF energy in the support of a wireless transmission. In some cases, the foot can also be formed to include conductive materials that can provide an effective electromagnetic (EM) shield. In this way, RF sensitive circuits within the small form factor desktop computer can be protected from spurious RF signals emanating from the external environment. In addition, the RF shielding capabilities, the foot can also reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) caused by the close proximity of the small form factor desktop computer to EM sensitive circuits, such as audio processors/receivers, etc. 
     The single piece seamless housing can be formed from metal, the metal can take the form of a single billet of aluminum. The single billet of aluminum can be formed into a shape appropriate for housing various internal components as well as providing various openings into which switches, connectors and so on can be accommodated. The single piece seamless housing can be machined into a desired shape. One of the advantages to using metal for the housing is ability of metal to provide good electrical grounding for any internal components requiring a good ground plane. For example, performance of a built in RF antenna can be substantially improved when a good ground plane is provided. Moreover, a good ground plane can be used to help mitigate the deleterious effects caused by, for example, electromagnetic interference (EMI) and/or electrostatic discharge (ESD). 
     It should be noted that throughout the following discussion, the term “CNC” is used. The abbreviation CNC stands for computer numerical control and refers specifically to a computer controller that reads computer instructions and drives a machine tool (a powered mechanical device typically used to fabricate components by the selective removal of material). It should be noted however, that any appropriate machining operation can be used to implement the described embodiments and is not strictly limited to those practices associated with CNC. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1-32 . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
       FIG. 1  shows a perspective front view of a small form the factor desktop computer in accordance with the described embodiments. More specifically,  FIG. 1  shows an embodiment of the small form factor desktop computer in the form of computer  100  that can process data and more particularly media data such as audio, video, images, etc. By way of example, computer  100  can generally correspond to a device that can perform as a music player, game player, video player, media center and/or the like. Computer  100  can be easily placed in a convenient location such as a desktop, shelf or small cabinet due to both the small footprint and lightweight of computer  100 . 
     Computer  100  can include single piece seamless housing  102  formed of metal such as aluminum. The aluminum can take the form of a single billet that can be milled and further processed into a desired shape. In some embodiments, aluminum housing  102  can be anodized to provide a protective surface layer that resists scratches and corrosion maintaining an attractive metallic appearance. Housing  102  can have a substantially flat top  104  and flat side walls  106  that curve to meet front wall  108 . Portions of housing  102  can be removed by a machining process such as that provided by systems that utilize computer numerical control, or CNC, to form well defined openings with tight mechanical tolerances. For example, slot  110  can be formed in front wall  108  having a size and shape in accordance with an optical disc along the lines of a CD or DVD whereas other openings can be used during assembly for placing internal components. 
     Housing  102  can enclose and support internally various structural and electrical components (including integrated circuit chips and other circuitry) to provide computing operations for computer  100 . The integrated circuits can take the form of chips, chip sets, modules any of which can be surface mounted to a printed circuit board, or PCB, or other support structure. For example, a main logic board (MLB) can have integrated circuits mounted thereon that can include at least a microprocessor, semi-conductor (such as FLASH) memory, various support circuits and so on. An optical disc drive (ODD) in cooperation with slot  110  can be used to read and or write optical media such as DVDs and CDs used to store data using laser etched media whereas a hard disc drive (HDD) can include rotating disc media used to magnetically store data. 
       FIG. 2  shows a rear view of computer  100  with opening  112 . Opening  112  can be formed by CNC machining techniques and can have a size and shape suitable for accommodating baffle  114  used to channel heated exhaust air from an interior of computer  100  initially drawn in from beneath computer  100  as part of an internal air cooling system. More particularly, support structure in the form of foot  116  upon which computer  100  can rest elevates computer  100  distance “d” from support surface S. Distance “d” can facilitate an intake airflow  118  that can be drawn up into computer  100  by way of an internal fan by way of air vents located in frontal portion  119  of computer  100  to provide a cooling mechanism for internal components such as a main logic board, or MLB. Once inside of computer  100 , the air can absorb heat and then be forced out of computer  100  by the fan using baffle  114  as an exhaust port. In this way, the operating temperature of the internal components can remain within acceptable limits. In addition to baffle  114 , a number of I/O ports  120  (HDMI, Monitor, USB, FireWire, LAN, etc.) can be accommodated within opening  112  as well as AC power receptacle  122 , power button  124 , memory card slot  126 . 
     At least a portion of housing  102  can be adapted to include an RF window that can be formed using radio (or RF) transparent materials. The radio transparent material can include, for example, plastic, ceramic, and so on. In this way, RF energy used for at least wireless communication can pass between internal RF circuits (such as an RF antenna) and external RF circuits in the form of RF receivers and or RF transmitters. The wireless communications can be based on many different wireless protocols including for example Bluetooth, 802.11, FM, AM, and so on. Any number of antennas may be used, which can use a single window or multiple windows depending on the needs of the system. For example,  FIG. 3  shows a view of bottom surface  128  of computer  100  where a circular portion of housing  102  has been removed to form opening  130  having a size and shape to accommodate foot  116 . Foot  116  can be formed of resilient material along the lines of silicone rubber or plastic having slip resistant and radio transparent properties. In this way, foot  116  can be used to support computer  100  on a surface without scratching or otherwise marring the appearance of the surface. Moreover, the radio transparent nature of the material that goes to form foot  116  does not adversely affect that ability of an internal RF antenna from sending or receiving radio transmissions. 
     Foot  116  can be adapted to be easily removed by a user without requiring special tools. For example, recesses  132  can be used to place a finger or other object that can exert a rotational force F R  on foot  116 . Rotational force F R  can be of sufficient magnitude to move foot  116  in a circular, screw like motion. This screw like motion can cause foot  116  to rotate upwards such that foot  116  can disengage from housing  102 . In this way, foot  116  can be easily removed to expose nearby internal components as shown in  FIG. 4A . By removing foot  116 , a number of internal components can be revealed. These internal components can include RF antenna  134 , antenna plate  136 , cowling  138 , fan assembly  140 , (interchangeable) memory cards  142 , and (a portion of) power supply  144 . Cowling  138  can be formed of metal along the lines of aluminum or stainless steel. Cowling  138  can be used to shield internal components from EM radiation from RF antenna  134  as well as from the external environment. In combination with antenna plate  136 , cowling  138  can form what is referred to as a Faraday shield between the internal components of computer  100  and the external environment preventing unwanted EM interference. In addition to providing EM shielding, cowling  138  can add structural support for housing  102  and when connected with fan assembly  140 , can be used to hold down and secure a drive connector associated with fan assembly  140 . Air intake  118  can be seen ingressing housing  102  at frontal portion  119  and egressing from baffle  114 . In this way, relatively cool air can be drawn into housing  102  by fan assembly  140 . The fan action provide by fan assembly  140  can cause coolant gas, in the form of air, to pass over a thermal transfer apparatus (shown in  FIG. 4B ) to receive heat generated by various internal components, and be exhausted through baffle  114 . 
       FIG. 4B  shows computer  100  with both antenna plate  136  and cowling  138  removed to expose other internal components in addition to those described with regards to  FIG. 4A . More particularly, RF circuitry  135  and heat transfer apparatus  137  in the form of heat pipes  137  and heat exchanger apparatus  139 . It should be noted that heat transfer apparatus  139  is described in more detail in co-pending U.S. patent application entitled “Cooling Arrangement For Small Form Factor Desktop Computer” which is incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. 
     In order to service computer  100  (i.e., swapping internal components such as memory cards  142 ), foot  116  can be removed by, for example, applying downward pressure P D  onto foot  116 . Downward pressure P D  can cause spring fasteners  146  to disengage. When spring fasteners  146  are disengaged, foot  116  is free to rotate in response to the application of rotational force F R  by moving in a first circular direction releasing foot  116  from spring fasteners  146 . Alternatively, foot  116  can be secured to housing  102  by placing foot  116  in proximity to spring fasteners  146 , applying downward pressure P D  and concurrently applying rotational force −F R  (in the opposite direction to that of rotational force F R  used to remove foot  116 ) causing foot  116  to rotate in second direction, opposite to that of the first direction. In this way, special tools such as a putty knife, screw driver and so on are not required. In order to provide a good fit and finish between housing  102  and foot  116 , lip  147  is contoured using CNC machining, for example, to match the contour of foot  116 . In this way, the look and feel of housing  102 /foot  116  is clean and appealing. 
       FIG. 4C  shows bonnet type EMI shield plate  149  in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. EMI shield plate  149  can be formed of radio opaque material such as metal along the lines of aluminum, stainless steel, etc. As can be seen, EMI shield plate  149  can be a continuous plate of radio opaque material having central opening  151  for accessing various internal components such as fan assembly  140 , memory cards  142 , and power supply  144 . Opening  151  can be used to provide access to memory cards  142  as well as facilitate air intake for fan assembly  140 . EMI shield plate  149  can also include air holes  153  that allow passage of air flow  118  from the external environment. Air holes  153  can located in that portion of opening  130  exposed to air from the external environment.  FIG. 4D  shows a particular technique for attaching and detaching EMI shield plate  149  to/from housing  128  and a removable optical disc drive (ODD). Accordingly, fasteners  153  can align with and engage bosses  153   a  integrally formed with housing  128  and fasteners  155  with bosses  155   a  integrally formed with a housing of the ODD. EMI shield plate  149  can also provide additional structural support for housing  102  by spanning opening  130 . In this way, a load applied to housing  102  can be transferred and distributed by way of EMI shield plate  149  to other portions of housing  102 . By not concentrating the applied load at a particular region of housing  102 , any potential damage such as buckling or bending resulting from the applied force can be substantially reduced if not entirely eliminated. 
       FIG. 5  shows an interior view of an embodiment of foot  116  illustrating retainers  148  configured to co-operate with spring fasteners  146  to secure foot  116  to housing  102 . Retainers  148  are conformably shaped to accommodate spring fasteners  146 . Retainers  148  can be shaped to include retention feature  150  and spring lock feature  152 . Retention feature  150  can have a size and shape that engages with head portion  154  of spring fastener  146  and locked in place by the spring action provided by spring lock feature  152  preventing any further movement of foot  116 . In order to unlock foot  116 , downward pressure P D  can be applied to foot  116  that compresses a spring attached to base portion  156  and head portion  154  of spring fasteners  146  (shown in  FIG. 4B  detailed insert). Compression of the spring causes base portion  156  and head portion  154  to move downward and away from foot  116  such that head  154  disengages from locking portion  150  allowing foot  116  to rotate. When rotated such that head portion  154  align with release portion  152 , foot  116  is free to be removed completely from housing  102  in a lifting motion disengaging the locking features  150  of receptors  148  from spring fasteners  146 . 
     In order to provide as much EM protection as possible, EMI shield  158  can be formed of metal such as aluminum or stainless steel. EMI shield  158  can align with that portion of foot  116  that does not align with antenna plate  136  in the embodiment shown in  FIG. 4A . Moreover, in those embodiments that rely upon EMI plate  149 , EMI shield  158  can provide EMI shielding for opening  151  shown in  FIG. 4C . In this way, any components that would otherwise be exposed are afforded EMI protection from EMI emanating from the external environment as well as reducing potential EMI effects caused by EM leakage of computer  100 . In order to assure a good fit and seal, EMI gasket  159  can be associated with a perimeter of EMI shield  158 . EMI gasket  159  can mate with a corresponding portion of lip  147  providing an effective air seal. In this way, there is no obstruction to intake air flow  118  in that portion of foot  116  that does not include EMI shield  158 . It should be noted that air holes  153  correspond to that portion of foot  116  that does not include EMI shield  158 . In this way, air intake flow  118  can be well defined since any air flow leakage into or out of computer  100  is effectively prevented by the presence of the air seal created by EMI gasket  159 . Therefore, portion  160  of foot  116  can be used as an air intake area suitably sized for intake of airflow  118  used to assist in the cooling of internal components of computer  100 . Raised portions  162  can be coincide with recesses  132  in order to add additional depth for easier gripping of foot  116 . 
     It should be noted that in additional embodiments, air intake openings  153  can be incorporated into a separate structure that can take the form of an air intake ring. The air intake ring can be sized to fit with opening  130 . In this case, using an air intake ring can require the use of surface attachment features integrally formed with lip  147  that can engage with corresponding attachment features present on the air intake ring. For example, in one embodiment, the integrally formed attachment features can take the form of castellations having a size and shaped to accommodate corresponding connection features (such as grooves) located at attachment points on the air intake ring. 
       FIGS. 6-13  show additional embodiments of foot  116  well suited for use with computer  100 . For example,  FIGS. 6-7  show foot  600  configured to be used with an object having a slotted shape such as a coin, fingernail, etc. For example, foot  600  can include slot opener  602  having a closed/locked orientation and an open/unlocked configuration. Using slot opener  602 , the coin (as a representative object having the aforementioned slotted shape) can be used to change the orientation of slot opener  602  by simply engaging the coin with corresponding slot  704  shown in  FIG. 7  and applying a rotational force. For example, in the locked configuration shown in  FIG. 7 , a number of latches  606  can engage corresponding latching features located on housing  102  to secure foot  600 . Moreover, in order to assure that there is no substantial obstruction of air intake flow  118 , a number of air intake features  608  can move be positioned relative to corresponding air intake holes  153 . In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 8A and 8B , in the open/unlocked configuration, slot opener  602  can be associated with an opening mechanism such as gear  802  engaged with gear  804 . When slot opener  602  is positioned in the open/unlocked configuration, pin/slot mechanism  806  attached to latches  606  by way of snap fastener  808  can cause latches  606  to retract away from the corresponding latching features on housing  102 . Therefore, when, as shown in  FIGS. 9A and 9B , slot opener  602  is rotated from the open/unlocked configuration to the closed/locked configuration, gear  802  rotates commensurate with the rotation of slot opener  602 . The gearing action of gear  802  at gear  804  causes pin/slot mechanism  806  to deploy latches  606  to engage the corresponding latching features on housing  102 . In this way, foot  600  can be locked and unlocked with a simple twist of slot opener  602  using nothing more complicated that a coin or fingernail. 
       FIGS. 10-13  show yet another embodiment of foot  116  in the form of foot  1000  in accordance with the described embodiments. Foot  100  can include a number of latches  1002  as shown in  FIG. 10  that when deployed can secure foot  1000  to housing  102 . By deployed, it is meant that latches  1002  can extend out from foot  1000  in such as way as to engage corresponding latching features on housing  102 .  FIG. 11  shows an exploded view of foot  1000  showing various internal components such as foot cover  1102 , base support guide  1104 , pivot slot mechanism  1106  integrally formed with latch  1102 . In the described embodiment, pivot slot mechanism  1106  can include slot  1108  having a curvilinear shape. Slot  1108  can engage pin  1110  on base support guide  1104  such that moving rotating foot cover  1102 , pin  1110  moves within slot  1108  causing latch  1002  to deploy (i.e., move out from foot  1000 ) or retract (i.e., move within foot  1000 ). Foot  1000  can also include top support cover  1112 .  FIG. 12  shows foot  1000  in the unlocked configuration whereby latches  1002  are placed in the open/retracted configuration. However, in order to secure foot  1000  to housing  102 , foot  1000  can be simply rotated such that pivot mechanism  1202  causes latches  1002  to deploy by as shown in  FIG. 13 . 
     One of the advantages of housing  102  is the fact that several alignment and attachment features can be formed into the interior surface of housing  102 . These attachment and alignment features can be used for directly attaching a component to housing  102 . In addition to providing a mechanism for directly attaching a component to housing  102 , the attachment and alignment features can be used to reduce the overall assembly tolerance stack by providing anchor points that can be used to align and orient various components during assembly. For example,  FIG. 14  shows a cut away view  1400  of a portion of housing  102  illustrating representative anchor notch  1402  and alignment notch  1404  machined directly into housing  102 . Anchor notch  1402  can be used to anchor a component (such as the ODD) directly to housing  102 . Anchor notch  1402  can also provide a good electrical contact to chassis ground since anchor notch  1402  is etched directly into housing  102 . In addition, alignment notch (also referred to as a key cut)  1404  can provide a good alignment feature for components that must interface with an exterior of housing  102 . For example, AC power receptacle  122  as part of the power supply must closely align with opening  112 . By providing alignment feature  1404 , the power supply can be fixed directly to housing  102  in such a way that the tolerance stack between the power supply/AC power receptacle  122 /opening  112  can be greatly reduced 
     By machining anchor notch  1402  directly into housing  102 , anchor notch  1402  can then be used to attach an operational component, such as the ODD, directly to housing  102 . Since the ODD is directly aligned with housing  102 , the ODD itself can become an alignment and attachment feature for subsequently added components, such as the power supply, the HDD, the fan assembly, and so on. For example, once the ODD is attached to housing  102  using anchor notch  1402 , the HDD can be installed by inserting the HDD into and through opening  112  (or opening  128  for that matter) using the ODD as an alignment feature. Moreover, once the HDD is installed, the power supply having a shape that can conform to both housing  102  and the ODD can be inserted directly into opening  112 . Since the power supply has a shape that cooperates with that of the ODD and housing  102 , the power supply can be “guided” into place using the previously installed components. Once properly in place, the power supply can be anchored to housing  102  using alignment notch  1404 , housing  102  and the ODD. 
     In this way, the internal components can be sized and shaped to interlock with other already installed components in much the same way as the pieces of a puzzle are shaped to interlock with each other in a particular way to form a picture. Using the analogy of the puzzle, the internal components of computer  100  can have cooperating sizes and shapes in order to fit together presenting a high density configuration. The internal components of computer  100  can be assembled into a relatively small space using a well defined and orderly assembly process in which specific components are installed in a particular order in a specific orientation with regards to already installed components. 
     Accordingly, the various internal components are formed in such a way to include various interlocking features that can be user to greatly simplify the assembly process which can be analogized to assembling a ship in a bottle in that assembly can be carried out by inserting component in a particular order with a specific orientation in relation to other already installed components. Once inserted, the internal component is aligned with and at least partially secured by previously inserted components. For example, each internal component fits and aligns with other internal components. The interlocking features can also greatly reduce the number of fasteners that must be used to secure the internal components to housing  102 . 
       FIG. 15  shows representative interior view  1500  of cavity (also referred to as lumen)  1502  of housing  102  used to enclose various internal components of computer  100 . During assembly of computer  100 , various internal components can be inserted into lumen  1502  using either opening  112  or opening  130 . Opening  112  can be sized to accommodate many of the larger sized internal components such as an optical disc drive (ODD), a main logic board, or MLB, and a power supply. Generally, opening  112  is sized such that the larger sized components can be inserted directly into lumen  1502  for direct mounting to housing  102  without any undue twisting and turning. For example, the ODD can be inserted directly through opening  112  in the same orientation required for attachment to housing  102 . In this way, the assembly operator can easily and quickly insert and attach the ODD to housing  102 . As with the ODD, other components such as the MLB and power supply can also be inserted directly into opening  112  without changing their orientation with reference to housing  102  for installation. 
     A number of alignment and locking features machined into or attached to the structure of housing  102  can be used to align and fasten various internal components during assembly. For example, bezel  1504  can be used to mount and align internal components such as a hard disk drive and/or optical disk drive as well as a power supply. Bezel  1504  can be attached to an inside wall of housing  102  in proximity to slot opening  110 . Bezel  1504  can be formed of resilient and shock absorbing material. In this way, any vibrations caused by one component attached to bezel  1504  (such as the ODD) can be sufficiently damped so as to not significantly affect other vibration sensitive components (such as the HDD) also attached to bezel  1504 . 
     In order to shield internal components from externally generated electromagnetic fields, especially in those embodiments where a logo formed of radio transparent material such as plastic is formed on top surface  104  of housing  102 , metal logo shield  1506  can be provided. Metal logo shield  1506  can be attached to interior surface  1508  of housing  102  using any of a number of adhesive materials such as glue. Once applied, metal logo shield  1506  can prevent electromagnetic energy from penetrating into (or out of) lumen  1502 . Metal logo shield  1506  can be formed of a thin sheet of metal such as aluminum. 
     As shown in more detail in  FIG. 16 , bezel  1504  can include several attachment and alignment features used for installing at least the optical disc drive (ODD) and the removable hard disc drive (HDD). For example, grommets  1510  can be elastomeric in nature and can be sized and located to accommodate correspondingly sized and space posts on the HDD. Since the HDD is not permanently attached to bezel  1504  using fasteners such as screws or rivets, the HDD can be easily installed and just as easily removed if necessary by merely reaching into lumen  1502 , grasping and extracting the HDD. Accordingly, the HDD can be considered to be a removable HDD. 
     Grommets  1510  can be formed of the same or similar resilient and shock dampening material as bezel  1504 . In this way, the HDD can be removably mounted to housing  102  and at the same time be isolated from vibrations generated by the ODD. The HDD effectively floats with respect to the ODD and is therefore isolated from significant vibrations generated by the rapid rotation of the optical disc. The HDD can be supported by the support pins located on a front portion of the HDD. The pins along with grommets  1506  can be used to dampen vibrations as well as to help isolate the HDD from shocks caused by sharp motions such as that experience in a drop event, for example. Damping is important consideration since vibrations can disrupt the heads used to read and write data to and from the HDD. Therefore, by using grommets  1510 , there is no surface contact between the HDD and the optical disk drive, or ODD. 
       FIG. 17  shows lumen  1502  with mounting bracket  1702  used for mounting components directly to housing  102  in accordance with the described embodiments. Mounting bracket  1702  can include metal boss  1704  and alignment holes  1705  used for a MLB extraction tool described below. Metal boss  1704  can have a size and shape in accordance with anchor notch  1402  etched into housing  102 . Metal boss  1704  can be used to securely attach an internal component (such as the ODD) directly to housing  102 . In this way, those internal components mounted and secured to mounting brackets  1702  can be directly aligned to housing  102  by anchors  1402 . Metal boss  1704  can include at least threaded insert  1706 . Threaded insert  1706  can be used to secure an internal component to metal boss  1704  by way of a fastener such as a machine screw. In this way the internal component can be directly attached to housing  102  and used to align and mount subsequently assembled internal components. 
     As shown in  FIG. 18 , mounting bracket  1702  can be aligned with and attached to housing  102  using metal boss  1704 . In the described embodiment, metal boss  1704  can be aligned directly to anchor notch  1402  using metal insert  1802  that snugly fits within anchor notch  1402 . In order to provide a conductive path between internal components fastened to mounting bracket  1702  and housing  102 , metal insert  1802  and threaded portion  1706  can be formed as a single piece of metal. However, in order to assure that there is a good electrical contact between threaded portion  1706  and housing  102 , metal insert  1802  can be attached to conductive tape  1804  using a conductive adhesive. In this way, metal boss  1704  can be considered to be electrically grounded since it is connected by way of conductive tape  1804  to housing  102 . Conductive tape  1804  can take the form of metal tape such as aluminum that can be electrically connected to metal insert  1802 . For example, metal tape  1804  can be wrapped around metal insert  1802 , inserted through an opening formed in metal tape  1804 , and so on and then attached directly to housing  102  to form a conductive path from housing  102  (as chassis ground) and threaded portion  1706  of metal boss  1702 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 19 , in those embodiments where housing  102  is formed of anodized aluminum, portion  1902  of the interior surface of housing  102  can be ablated to remove the surface layer created by the anodizing process. For example, portion  1902  (in the approximate shape of mounting bracket  1402 ) of the interior surface of housing  102  can be laser ablated to expose the base layer of aluminum that constitutes housing  102 . A good electrical conduction path can be established between metal threaded portion  1706  and housing  102  by way of metal tape  1804 , but also by way of mounting bracket  1702 . In this way, good electrical contact can be established between housing  102  and any electrical component that uses mounting bracket  1702 . It should be noted that various portions of housing  102  in particular locations associated with ground tabs (also referred to as EMI fingers) can also be laser ablated in order to assure good electrical path to ground. 
       FIG. 20  shows an embodiment where optical disc drive (ODD)  2000  can be aligned with and attached to housing  102  using bezel  1504  to align with ODD slot  110 . Moreover, ODD  2000  can be attached to housing  102  by way of mounting brackets  1702 . In this way, ODD  2000  can be directly aligned with and electrically grounded to housing  102 . For example, ODD  2000  can include openings  2002  sized to accommodate a stacked coupler described below. The stacked coupler can have a threaded portion that can be sized to fit within opening  2002  and engage with threaded opening  1706 . The stacked coupler can then be rotated until ODD  2000  is securely fastened to housing  102 . In this way, not only can ODD  2000  be securely fastened to housing  102 , ODD  2000  is directly aligned with a known alignment point (i.e., anchor notches  1402 ) and electrically grounded to housing  102 . 
     Once placed in position and securely fastened to housing  102  and bezel  1504 , ODD  2000  can be used to align and mount subsequent internal components such as hard disc drive (HDD)  2100  shown in  FIGS. 21 and 22 . HDD  2100  can be attached to bezel  1504  by way of mounting pins inserted into grommets  1510  and supported by frame  2102 . HDD  2100  can be secured to housing  102  by way of bezel  1504  without making direct surface contact with ODD  2000 . In this way, any vibrations generated by an optical disc in ODD  2000  can be damped preventing vibrations from ODD  2000  from disrupting the operation of HDD  2100 . 
       FIGS. 23 and 24  shows AC power supply  2300  in accordance with the described embodiments. As shown in  FIG. 23 , AC power supply  2300  can be shaped for easy installation. For example, AC power supply  2300  can be inserted “head” portion  2302  first into opening  112 . (It should be noted that in actual assembly, ODD  2000  can be installed and attached prior to AC power supply  2300 , however, in the example shown, ODD  2000  is left out for sake of clarity only.) Head portion  2302  can be pushed in until it engages with bezel  1504 . Head portion  2302  can be shaped to match that of housing  102 . In this way, AC power supply  2300  can be tightly packed within housing  102 . Once head portion  2302  is firmly inserted, body portion  2304  of AC power supply  2300  can be aligned to an interior alignment feature (such as alignment feature  2306 ) that can be used to align AC power supply  2300  to housing  102 . 
     Since AC power inlet  122  must retain a specific axis with regards to housing  102 , and in particular opening  112 , AC power inlet  122  can configured to include rotational bayonet  2310  that can be rotated into key way cut  1404 . In this way AC inlet  122  can rotate into and be supported both above and below AC inlet  122  by keyway cut  1404 . Moreover, by rotating bayonet  2310  into key way cut  1404 , AC inlet  122  can be locked in place. In some embodiments, a locking pin (not shown) can be used to further assure that AC inlet  122  remains locked in place. 
       FIG. 25  shows a technique for inserting main logic board (MLB)  2400  in accordance with the described embodiments. As discussed above, the assembly of computer  100  can be likened to assembling a puzzle or a ship in a bottle. Accordingly, MLB  2400  can be inserted into opening  112  after both ODD  2000  and AC power supply  2300  have been assembled into housing  102 . MLB  2400  can be inserted into opening  112  until I/O wall  2402  aligns with opening at which point MLB  2400  can be secured to housing  102  using stacked connector  2600  shown in  FIG. 26  that can also be used to anchor fan assembly  140  to MLB  2400 . Stacked connector  2600  can for formed of multiple parts each formed to accommodate a particular component in a unified manner. For example, first portion  2602  can accommodate metal boss  1706  and opening  2002  to secure ODD  2000  directly to housing  102 . Portion  2604  on the other hand can be sized to accommodate connector  2604  used to secure MLB  2400  to housing  102  by way of ODD  2000  and mounting bracket  1702 . Portion fan assembly  140  to housing  102  by way of ODD  2000  and mounting bracket  1702 . In this way, a single connector can be used to mount, secure, and align multiple components in a single operation. 
       FIG. 27  shows coaxial cable routing system  2700  in accordance with the described embodiments. Cable routing system  2700  can include a plurality of stand-offs  2702  each of which can be formed of resilient material such as silicone rubber. Each of the plurality of stand-offs  2702  can include notch  2704  sized to accommodate co-axial cable. By placing each of stand-off at a particular location on MLB  2400 , consistent coaxial cable routing can be achieved. Moreover, by placing the coaxial cable in notch  2704 , the coaxial cable can be removed from operational circuits present on MLB  2400  reducing any electromagnetic interaction between coaxial cable  2706  and the operational circuits. Furthermore, by specifying the particular locations for the stand-offs, consistent cable routing can be achieved by assembly operations in a time can cost efficient manner. Accordingly, in one embodiment, cable routing system  2700  can include at least a plurality of non-conductive carriers used to support and route the coaxial cable on the main logic board, the carriers supporting the coaxial cable a distance removed from active operational circuits on the main logic board, the distance sufficient to reduce electromagnetic interference with the signal carried by the coaxial cable, the carriers also providing a repeatable path for laying the cable on the main logic board. 
       FIG. 28  shows surface mounted ground clip system  2800  in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment, surface mounted ground clip system  2800  can include at least surface mounted carrier  2802  mounted to and electrically coupled to a printed circuit board ground of MLB  2400 . Surface mounted carrier  2802  can physically support coaxial cable  2804  in a region of MLB  2400  having at least one active RF circuit. In the described embodiment, surface mounted carrier  2802  includes metallic ferrule  2806  that electrically connects a ground sheath of coaxial cable  2804  directly to the printed circuit board ground of MLB  2400 . In this way, surface mounted carrier  2802  provides a distributed ground plane to coaxial cable  2804  in the region of MLB  2400  having the at least one active RF circuit. 
       FIGS. 29A-29B  show a circuit board extraction tool removing a main circuit board in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The main circuit board extraction tool can assist a user in removing a main logic board from a small form factor desktop computer housing by engaging the main logic board with a main logic board extraction tool. In the described embodiment, the main logic board extraction tool can be formed of a single open loop of metal having open ends. The circuit board can be removed by inserting each of the open ends within a corresponding opening in the main logic board separated by a distance in accordance with the spacing between the open ends of the extraction tool until the open ends of the extraction tool inserted into the corresponding openings in the main logic board to securely engage with corresponding openings  1705  on housing  102  and generating a centrally located extraction force by exerting a lateral force in a direction of extraction to impel the main logic board to disengage an attachment feature coupling the main logic board to the housing thereby enabling a user to remove the main logic board without adversely affecting the main logic board or surrounding circuits. 
       FIG. 30  shows a flowchart detailing process  3000  for assembly of a computer in accordance with the described embodiments. Process  3000  can begin at  3010  by receiving a housing formed of metal. In this way the metal housing can provide a chassis ground for the computer. Next at  3020 , a first operational component is inserted into an opening in the housing; the first operational component can be sized in accordance with the opening such that the orientation of the first operational component remains unchanged in relation to the housing. Next at  3030 , the first component is attached directly to an interior surface of the housing using an attachment feature. The attachment feature is directly formed in the housing. In this way, the attachment feature can provide a direct alignment to the housing. Accordingly, the first installed component can be used as an alignment feature for subsequently installed internal components. Next at  3040 , an electrically conductive path to the chassis ground is provided to the first installed internal component. The conductive path can be provided by securing the first installed internal component to a mounting bracket electrically coupled to the housing. Next at  3050 , a second component is inserted into the housing through the opening. The second component can use the first installed components as a guide for proper placement within and in relation to the housing. At  3060 , the second component is attached to an attachment fixture that, in turn, is coupled to the housing. At  3070 , the second component is attached to the housing by way of the first installed internal component. In this way, each installed component can act to align and secure subsequently installed components. 
       FIG. 31  is a flowchart detailing process  3100  for extracting a circuit board from a small form factor computer in accordance with the described embodiments. Process  3200  can be carried out by engaging the circuit board with an extraction tool at  3110 . In the described embodiment, the extraction tool can be formed of a single loop of material, such as metal, having open ends. At  3120 , each of the open ends is inserted into corresponding openings in the circuit board. The openings are aligned with corresponding extraction features located on an interior surface of a housing used to embody the small form factor computer. At  3130 , the open ends are inserted until the open ends engage with the corresponding extraction features on the interior surface of the housing. At  3140 , once engaged with the extraction feature, a lateral force is applied in the direction of the extraction and at  3150 ; the circuit board is disengaged from an attachment feature used to secure the circuit board in the small form factor computer. 
       FIG. 32  is a schematic view of an illustrative computing device  3200  in accordance with some embodiments of the invention. Computing device  3200  can include control circuitry  3202 , storage  3204 , memory  3206 , input/output (“I/O”) circuitry  3208 , and communications circuitry  3210 . In some embodiments, one or more of the components of computing device  3200  can be combined or omitted (e.g., storage  3204  and memory  3206  may be combined). In some embodiments, computing device  3200  can include other components not combined or included in those shown in  FIG. 32  (e.g., motion detection components, a power supply such as a battery or kinetics, a display, bus, a positioning system, a camera, an input mechanism, etc.), or several instances of the components shown in  FIG. 32 . 
     Control circuitry  3202  can include any processing circuitry or processor operative to control the operations and performance of computing device  3200 . For example, control circuitry  3202  can be used to run operating system applications, firmware applications, media playback applications, media editing applications, or any other application. In some embodiments, control circuitry  3202  can drive a display and process inputs received from a user interface coupled to computer  3200 . 
     Storage  3204  can include, for example, one or more storage mediums including a hard-drive, solid state drive, flash memory, permanent memory such as ROM, any other suitable type of storage component, or any combination thereof. Storage  3204  can store, for example, media data (e.g., music and video files), application data (e.g., for implementing functions on computing device  3200 ), firmware, user preference information data (e.g., media playback preferences), authentication information (e.g. libraries of data associated with authorized users), lifestyle information data (e.g., food preferences), exercise information data (e.g., information obtained by exercise monitoring equipment), transaction information data (e.g., information such as credit card information), wireless connection information data (e.g., information that can enable computing device  3200  to establish a wireless connection), subscription information data (e.g., information that keeps track of podcasts or television shows or other media a user subscribes to), contact information data (e.g., telephone numbers and email addresses), calendar information data, and any other suitable data or any combination thereof. 
     Memory  3206  can include cache memory, semi-permanent memory such as RAM, and/or one or more different types of memory used for temporarily storing data. In some embodiments, memory  3206  can also be used for storing data used to operate electronic device applications, or any other type of data that can be stored in storage  3204 . In some embodiments, memory  3206  and storage  3204  can be combined as a single storage medium. I/O circuitry  3208  can be operative to convert (and encode/decode, if necessary) analog signals and other signals into digital data. In some embodiments, I/O circuitry  3208  can also convert digital data into any other type of signal, and vice-versa. The digital data can be provided to and received from control circuitry  3202 , storage  3204 , memory  3206 , or any other component of computing device  3200 . Although I/O circuitry  3208  is illustrated in  FIG. 32  as a single component of computing device  3200 , several instances of I/O circuitry  3208  can be included in computing device  3200 . 
     In some embodiments, computing device  3200  can include specialized output circuitry associated with output devices such as, for example, one or more audio outputs. The audio output can include one or more speakers (e.g., mono or stereo speakers) built into computing device  3200 , or an audio component that is remotely coupled to computing device  3200  (e.g., a headset, headphones or ear buds that can be coupled to communications device with a wire or wirelessly). 
     The display circuitry also can include display driver circuitry, circuitry for driving display drivers, or both. The display circuitry can be operative to display content (e.g., media playback information, application screens for applications implemented on the electronic device, information regarding ongoing communications operations, information regarding incoming communications requests, or device operation screens) under the direction of control circuitry  3202 . Alternatively, the display circuitry can be operative to provide instructions to a remote display. 
     Communications circuitry  3210  can include any suitable communications circuitry operative to connect to a communications network and to transmit communications (e.g., voice or data) from computing device  3200  to other devices within the communications network. Communications circuitry  3210  can be operative to interface with the communications network using any suitable communications protocol such as, for example, Wi-Fi (e.g., a 802.11 protocol), Bluetooth radio frequency systems (e.g., 900 MHz, 1.4 GHz, and 5.6 GHz communication systems), infrared, GSM, GSM plus EDGE, CDMA, quad band, and other cellular protocols, VOIP, or any other suitable protocol. 
     In some embodiments, communications circuitry  3210  can be operative to create a communications network using any suitable communications protocol. For example, communications circuitry  3210  can create a short-range communications network using a short-range communications protocol to connect to other devices. For example, communications circuitry  3210  can be operative to create a local communications network using the Bluetooth protocol to couple computing device  3200  with a Bluetooth headset. 
     Computing device  3200  can include one more instances of communications circuitry  3210  for simultaneously performing several communications operations using different communications networks, although only one is shown in  FIG. 32  to avoid overcomplicating the drawing. For example, computing device  3200  can include a first instance of communications circuitry  3210  for communicating over a cellular network, and a second instance of communications circuitry  3210  for communicating over Wi-Fi or using Bluetooth. In some embodiments, the same instance of communications circuitry  3210  can be operative to provide for communications over several communications networks. 
     In some embodiments, computing device  3200  can be coupled a host device for data transfers, synching the communications device, software or firmware updates, providing performance information to a remote source (e.g., providing riding characteristics to a remove server) or performing any other suitable operation that can require computing device  3200  to be coupled to a host device. Several electronic devices  3200  can be coupled to a single host device using the host device as a server. Alternatively or additionally, computing device  3200  can be coupled to several host devices (e.g., for each of the plurality of the host devices to serve as a backup for data stored in computing device  3200 ). 
     In another embodiment, a computer-readable medium is provided that includes computer program instructions for performing the various steps of assembly described in  FIG. 32 . Specifically, the computer program instruction may act to control various automatic installation components, such as, for example, robotic arms, automatic screwdrivers, etc. That can assembly the device without the need for human intervention (or, at least, minimizing human intervention). In this way, the computer instructions may be programmed to control a machine to insert various components into the housing without substantial human intervention. The computer instructions can also be programmed to control a machine to perform laser etching and laser routing in addition to any other process required for the assembly and testing of the media player. 
     The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of the described embodiments can be used separately or in any combination. Various aspects of the described embodiments can be implemented by software, hardware or a combination of hardware and software. The described embodiments can also be embodied as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling manufacturing operations or as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling a manufacturing line. The computer readable medium is any data storage device that can store data which can thereafter be read by a computer system. Examples of the computer readable medium include read-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, DVDs, magnetic tape, and optical data storage devices. The computer readable medium can also be distributed over network-coupled computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion. 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the invention. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. 
     The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the invention be defined by the following claims and their equivalents. 
     While the embodiments have been described in terms of several particular embodiments, there are alterations, permutations, and equivalents, which fall within the scope of these general concepts. It should also be noted that there are many alternative ways of implementing the methods and apparatuses of the present embodiments. For example, although an extrusion process is preferred method of manufacturing the integral tube, it should be noted that this is not a limitation and that other manufacturing methods can be used (e.g., injection molding). It is therefore intended that the following appended claims be interpreted as including all such alterations, permutations, and equivalents as fall within the true spirit and scope of the described embodiments.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20130619
Publication Date: 20141125
Grant Date: 20141125
Priority Date: 20100615
Inventors: KNOPF ERIC A.
TARKINGTON DAVID P.
FARAHANI HOUTAN R.
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G06F1/185", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B26D3/14", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/182", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/187", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/203", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/16", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K13/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/181", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/18", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/20", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/203", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49826", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49169", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/185", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K7/20336", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/187", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H05K13/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/16", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B23C3/30", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T83/9391", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/182", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T83/04", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B23C2220/36", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49826", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/182", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T83/04", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B26D3/14", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49117", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T83/9391", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/203", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B23C5/08", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/20", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49169", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T83/869", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/181", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49117", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "B26D3/14", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/181", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T83/869", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "Y10T29/49002", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 45095267