Apparatus and method of securing a heat dissipating cover to a thermally

Abstract

A core module assembly of a retail terminal includes a microprocessor which performs computing functions associated with operation of the retail terminal, whereby heat is generated by the microprocessor during performance of the computing functions. The core module assembly also includes a housing for containing the microprocessor. The housing has a first fastening surface. The housing also includes a heat transfer structure positioned in thermal communication with the microprocessor. The heat transfer structure has an elongated channel defined therein. The core module assembly further includes a heat dissipating cover having an elongated tongue extending therefrom. The cover further has a second fastening surface. The cover is positionable between a non-biased position and a biased position. When the cover is positioned in the non-biased position, the first fastening surface of the housing is spaced apart from the second fastening surface of the cover and the tongue is positioned within the elongated channel. When the cover is positioned in the biased position, the first fastening surface of the housing is positioned in physical contact with the second fastening surface of the cover and the tongue is positioned within the elongated channel. When the cover is moved from the non-biased position to the biased position, the tongue is urged toward and into contact with an inner wall of the channel, whereby an efficient thermal interface is created between the tongue and the inner wall of the channel.