A removable processor enclosure apparatus for use in a gaming machine having a housing defining an interior portion, and a first electrical connector disposed in the interior portion. The enclosure apparatus includes an enclosure containing the CPU electrical components therein, and is adapted for sliding receipt in the interior portion of the gaming machine housing between a mounting condition and a removal condition. In the mounting condition, the enclosure is mounted to the housing and electrically coupling a second electrical connector of the enclosure to the first electrical connector of the housing. In the removal condition, the enclosure can be removed from the housing. A release device is interengaged between the housing and the enclosure, and is selectively movable between a first position, locking the enclosure in the mounting condition, and a second position, releasing the enclosure from the mounting condition to the removal condition and disconnecting the second electrical connector from the first electrical connector.