Portable electronic apparatus with a latch mechanism including an

Abstract

A portable computer includes a housing and a keyboard unit mounted on the housing. A display unit is mounted on the housing to be movable between a closed position wherein the keyboard unit is covered by the display unit and a desired opened position wherein the keyboard is exposed. A latch mechanism for locking the display unit in the closed position is provided at the display unit. The mechanism includes a pair of latch hooks rockable between a latch position wherein each hook engages a latch hole of the housing and a release position wherein each hook is disengaged form the housing, and an interlocking member, movable together with the latch hooks. A sliding member is slidably attached to each latch hook so as to be movable between a restricted position, wherein the sliding member is situated in the latch hole to restrict disengagement of the hook, and a retracted position, wherein the sliding member is retracted from the latch hole. When an operator begins to move the latch hooks toward the release position, the interlocking member slides the sliding members to the retracted position, allowing the latch hooks to continue on toward the release position. When a combination lock attached to the display unit is engaged, movement of the interlocking member is restricted by the lock and the hooks are locked in the latch position.