The invention relates to a cradle unit for receiving a print cartridge to
form a print engine. The cradle unit includes a main body defining an
opening for receiving said cartridge, the main body having a frame
structure including end plates with drive and exit rollers mounted
therebetween. The cradle unit also includes a printed circuit board (PCB)
pivotally mounted between the end plates for housing control electronics
for controlling the operation of the print engine. Also included is a
cover assembly for securing said cartridge in the opening, the cover
assembly pivotally mounted between the end plates, the cover assembly
configured to pivot the PCB into electrical contact with a printhead
controller on the cartridge when in a closed position, and to pivot the
PCB out of electrical connection with said printhead controller when in
an open position.