Einseitige Greifervorrichtung für Datenkassette

A picker for data cartridges (300, 602) in a computer information storage library. The picker includes a sleeve (326, 400) for transporting data cartridges, a thumb (600) that can move in one dimension relative to the sleeve, and a single pivoting finger (606) on the thumb. The single finger has an inboard pivot point (608) which results in a self locking action (pulling makes the finger grip tighter). The finger has a armed state for gripping and a splayed state for release. Switching between states is passive, depending only on one dimensional motion of the thumb relative to the sleeve. The finger has a post (610) that travels in tracks (804, 806) in the sleeve. Switching tracks switches finger states. A spring loaded gate (808) in the tracks enables track switching. Potential cartridge wear and binding problems during extraction are eliminated by providing sleeve guides (312, 320) that limit cartridge rotation, by providing a concave guide surface (310) in storage locations, and by proper selection of materials. A corresponding drive has a handle (1100) that must be manipulated. The picker includes thumb details (1300, 1302) for manipulating the drive handle.