Smart phone integrated with computer system

Description: TECHNICAL FIELD [Detailed description of the invention]

【0001】

[Technical field to which the invention belongs]

The present invention goes into the realm of telephone communication systems, particularly relating to the integration of computers and telephones by using digital signal processors and personal portable information devices.

【0002】

[Conventional technology]

Since the advent of personal computers, manufacturers have sought to integrate voice and data communication devices. Although early attempts at this integration were a mixed result, the new product brings all the features of traditional telephones to the latest computer-supported switching system, technically known as a private branch exchange (PBX). Is integrated with.

【0003】

One of the major technical developments is digital transmission as an excellent method of signal transmission within a PBX. Digital technology enables high-speed data transmission through twisted pair wiring, which was previously used only for analog voice transmission. Integrated voice-data terminals, adapters in telephones, and stand-alone devices provide complex functions such as transmitting voice and data at the same time.

【0004】

A key element in the development of digital PBX systems is digital signal processing (DSP) technology. A DSP device is a special microprocessor configured to process a digitized analog signal. Unlike ordinary microprocessors, DSPs often have several paths for communication with peripherals, allowing them to perform much of their system bus processing without the intervention of a CPU. Become. DSPs offer improved interrupt services and fast real-time processing.

【0005】

Telephones have also developed, and are becoming more versatile with information processing functions. Most PBXs support an industrial standard single-line telephone set with rotary dials and push-button dual-tone multi-frequency (DTMF) dial pads. However, the general trend is towards dedicated electronic and digital multi-button telephone sets with local microprocessors that support enhanced configurations and features. Such buttons can be programmed for access to multiple lines and trunk lines from the same telephone by different users, or for a combination of letters and numbers that provide information about ongoing calls.

【0006】

Today, PBXs often use multiple microprocessors for common control. The CPU or main microprocessor coordinates the functionality of other microprocessors to establish a call connection. Secondary microprocessors are placed on other circuit cards, and sometimes in electronic digital phones.

【0007】

Data transmissions switched through PBXs, and often through local area networks (LANs), can communicate with other data devices or computers connected to the system, and are very much over public exchange networks. It can communicate with various remote data devices and computers. The latest PBXs offer features like call transfer, low-cost routing, station message recording, meeting meetings, line searches, and call restrictions.

【0008】

Figures 1 and 2 show two PBX design choices known to the inventor. Figure 1 is an external block diagram of what was named the "Smart PBX" system. The design features one or more DSP cards in a PBX that support voicemail, fax, and other telephone communications operations. PC control is achieved through a LAN network. This smart PBX enables efficient internal exchange and use of current phones, and voicemail and other features are independent of the PC, so they work even when the PC is unavailable. .. On the other hand, this solution requires a major redesign of the PBX and involves associated development problems. There is also the cost of replacing the base on which the PBX is installed.

【0009】

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating other possible solutions. In this system, the DSP device is installed in the PC as an independent module such as an expansion card. Such systems typically use an Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) interface between the PBX and DSP. Special multimedia functions can be sent to the telephone system.

【0010】

The system in Figure 2 can be built using current cards, with relatively little hardware investment, and sharing the case and power supply with the PC makes the cost of providing a DSP relatively low. .. However, for example, this design is not very suitable for workstations, users have to install adapter cards, and PCs are not a good environment for analog circuits due to EMI and switching noise.

【0011】

Currently, there is no cheap and easy way to provide a modern telephone communication system. A major deterrent to smart PBXs, as shown in Figure 1, is the high cost of PBXs. In general, a PC has a limited space for adapters and adapter installation, and setup is inconvenient for the user. Therefore, a telephone communication system having a DSP function as shown in Fig. 2 as a whole is available. Not suitable. In addition, PCs are an undesired environment for analog circuits due to electromagnetic interference and switching noise.

【0012】

[Problems to be Solved by the Invention]

What is needed is a solution that allows the user to conveniently add and replace functional modules as needed. This is provided in the present invention by keeping the phone under the control of DSP and other functional modules. The only change required for the installed base is a new smartphone, which can be easily and quickly installed on both PCs and PBXs. These new items can be extended to full-service multimedia telephone communications.

【0013】

Smartphones with coupling outlets for functional modules and functional modules that provide a wide range of functional choices as technically required are provided in many forms in accordance with the present invention. One form retains the look and feel of a traditional phone, but has a coupling outlet and access to the coupled module, as described more fully below. Another form is the well-known form of portable computers such as notebook computers, in which the computer has multiple coupling outlets. In yet another form, the system of the present invention takes the appearance of a desktop device or workstation of a personal computer on a network, in which case the components of a smartphone are further described in full below. Integrates with computer elements or on functional cards that can be combined into one or more coupling outlets.

【0014】

In all of these forms, it is desirable to also have functional modules including input / output functions such as keyboards or contact screens and display devices, as well as computer functions such as on-board memory and microprocessor controls.

【0015】

[Means for solving problems]

In embodiments of the present invention, a modular computer is provided that includes a coupling outlet and a digital telephone circuit for coupling all the conventional elements of a personal computer plus functional modules. The computer is equipped with a microphone-speaker device for audio input and output. The digital telephone circuit includes a coder / decoder (CODEC) for converting between analog and digital data forms and an ISDN telephone line port for connecting a computer to a telephone line.

【0016】

In another embodiment, a digital signal processor (DSP) microprocessor is provided as a functional module that can be coupled to a coupling outlet and processes a digitized audio signal.

【0017】

In yet another embodiment, the modular computer comprises an on-board microphone speaker device and a digital telephone circuit is provided in a combineable functional module to add digital telephone capabilities to the computer.

【0018】

The physical form for such smart phone / computer integration is the well-known phone form, which has at least one combined outlet with the handset, and desktop computers and network workstations, which have combined outlets. And includes the form of portable computers such as notebooks and laptop computers, where voice input and output are provided by integrating speakers and microphones, as if by connecting a regular handset. Will be done.

【0019】

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a smartphone system 11 according to an embodiment of the present invention, preferably including at least one smartphone 13 connected to the PBX 17 via an ISDN (digital) line 16. Alternatively, this connection may be an analog connection. The PBX17 is connected to one or more PC21s on LAN18 and is selectively connected to one or more network servers 19. Each smartphone 13 is also connected to the PC 21 by the serial link 22.

【0020】

The smartphone 13 includes an internal circuit for communicating with the PBX and a PC, and additionally has one or more DSP functional devices 15. The one or more DSP functional devices are either hard-wired to the smartphone circuit or preferably on one or more removable and replaceable modules.

【0021】

In one embodiment, the DSP device and other functional modules are configured as PCMCIA cards. Such a PCMCIA card is inserted into a coupling slot (not shown in Figure 3) on a smartphone. The coupling outlet is configured to accept a standard physically designed PCMCIA card, in which case a Type II standard containing a multi-pin electrical connector is preferred. Because the PCMCIA card is designed for "hot" insertion, that is, the PCMCIA card can be slid into place while powered on, one card slot can be used without rebooting the host PC. , Can perform many functions in one work session.

【0022】

The serial link 22 in one preferred embodiment is a standard RS-485 protocol link. In other embodiments, it may be RS-232. In an alternative preferred embodiment, the link may be a unique high speed serial interface described more fully below with reference to FIG.

【0023】

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the smartphone 13 shown in FIG. As can also be seen in FIG. 3, the PBX 17 is shown to be connected to the smartphone via ISDN line 16 and the PC workstation 21 is shown to be connected to the smartphone via RS-485 line 22. ..

【0024】

The PC workstation 21 in this embodiment includes a telephone application programming interface (TAPI) that adjusts a Windows application running on a PC by a call function on a smartphone. You can add any number of different TAPIs and other phone management type programs to this PC workstation.

【0025】

In FIG. 4, the smartphone device is shown divided into two main components, that is, the telephone unit 14 and the DSP module 15. At the heart of the telephone unit 14 is the ASIC 24, which sends and receives via both ISDN line 16 and RS-485 line 22, monitors the conversion of incoming data to the requested output, and with other elements. Handles communication. The ASIC24 is connected to an EEPROM 25, a coder / encoder module (CODEC) 26, a keypad controller 27 with a selective liquid crystal display (LCD) 28, and a microcontroller 37.

【0026】

The EEPROM 25 holds instructions for making a telephone connection to the PBX 17. CODEC26 supports telephone sound systems and performs digital-analog and analog-digital data conversion through non-linear compression and decompression processes.

【0027】

The audio input is from the microphone 30 on the smartphone handset 29 or from the microphone 33 for the speakerphone 32. The audio signal is output through the amplifier and the handset speaker 31 or the main speaker 34 on the speakerphone. The selective auxiliary speaker 35 provides stereo sound along with the main speaker 34, which selectively functions as a subwoofer.

【0028】

The mask read-only memory (ROM) 36 holds the code, including the dual-tone multi-frequency (DTMF) waveform table and the sound system waveform table, for the microcontroller 37 connected to the ASIC.

【0029】

The DSP module 15 of FIG. 4 includes a DSP 38, RAM 39, a flash ROM 40, and a selective microprocessor 41. Through DSP, various signal processing functions can be integrated into the smartphone system. The flash ROM 40 retains DSP firmware and can also be programmed to compensate for broken code in ROM by methods known to the inventor, which is the subject of another patent application.

【0030】

RAM39 is the DSP workspace. RAM39 also functions as a buffer and holds data from PC21 until it can be converted by ASIC24.

【0031】

As mentioned in the discussion of Figure 3 above, one embodiment incorporates a PC-smartphone interface through the RS-485 port. However, many PCs do not have RS-485 ports. Figure 5 shows a special interface 43, which solves this problem by providing a plug-in interface that can be easily and inexpensively installed on a PC without an RS-485 port.

【0032】

An interface as shown in Figure 5 has a data cable 22 that contains a pair of differential data lines plus ground. In other embodiments, it may be two pairs of differential lines plus ground for transmitting and receiving data separately, which enables high speed transmission.

【0033】

The special interface features a modified Super I / O chip 45 with a plug-in connector (not shown) on the PC side. The three pins of the Super I / O chip are reserved for PC-smartphone communication: transmit Tx, receive Rx, and transmit enable TxE. The modified Super I / O chip logic can be configured no matter what communication protocol is desired. For example, in FIG. 5, four channels are assigned as follows. That is, Ch1, for communication of unprocessed line data such as voice and pre-recorded data; Ch2, DSP channel for fax and modem communication; Ch3, microprocessor and command for smartphone enhancement; Ch4, sound card function Sound access from the PC for. On the smartphone side of the special interface, as explained earlier, the ASIC chip 24 represents the super I / O chip interface logic circuit. An optical coupler 47 is selectively included on the smartphone side to enhance noise reduction. Common transmission protocols transmit 1 bit for handshake, 2 bits for channel allocation, and 16 bits for data.

【0034】

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary user interface for smartphone 13, with a coupling outlet 42 that provides standard connectors for three PCMCIA cards 65, as described for FIG. One of them is reserved for the DSP module.

【0035】

In an alternative embodiment, the coupling outlet may be located anywhere on the smartphone, such as one side or the other side. In yet another embodiment, the coupling outlet may be an independent complete unit that is mechanically and electrically attached to the base of the smartphone. As a built-in or externally mounted unit, one or more additional coupling outlets can be successfully added to the smartphone.

【0036】

In FIG. 6, the smartphone 13 also includes a handset 29 with a regular microphone and speaker (not shown), which also acts as a speakerphone with the combined microphone / speaker 33 and volume control slider 49. The smartphone 13 has the following externally wired interfaces: the handset line 51, the ISDN line 16 to the PBX, and the RS-485 line 22 to the PC.

【0037】

The selective plug-in speaker interface 57 is for stereo output. In the variant, one or more analog interfaces 58 and 59 may be added to extend the multimedia application. Push Button DTMF Dial Pad 53 and Programmable Function Button 61 allow users to make calls and select basic smartphone functions such as transfer, hold, mute, redial, line selection and speakerphone on / off. Provide access. A light emitting diode (LED) 63 or other type of signal light source indicates which telephone line is in use and / or when the speakerphone is on. The selective LCD display 28 provides a visual interface to the user for monitoring calls.

【0038】

FIG. 7 is an internal block diagram of the ASIC 24 of FIG. 4 with the features described with respect to FIGS. 3 to 6. Internal communication takes place through the internal bus (IBUS) 67. The use of the internal bus is controlled by the connection table 69, which is formed by the internal or external microprocessors shown here as part of the microcontroller 37. The table access register 71 provides a link for the microprocessor to perform this formation. The ASIC interface and components are described below.

【0039】

ISDN S interface 73 Incoming and outgoing ISDN lines, LI and LO, link the PBX17 with a smartphone. The isolated power converter 75 supplies 5 volt dc power. The incoming signal is sent to the ISDN receiver 81 through the isolated pulse transformer 79, and the outgoing signal is sent from the ISDN transmitter 83 to the isolated pulse transformer 79. The active state controller 85 coordinates the activity of the ISDN receiver and ISDN transmitter with the rest of the ASIC24. The receive data register 87 and the transmit data register 89 temporarily store the data for each bearer (B) channel and the data for the delta (D) channel, and each bearer channel is digitally encoded. It can convey voice, fax, text and numbers), and the delta channel conveys call status and control signals and acts as a third data channel.

【0040】

Multiprotocol controller 91 One or more multi-protocol controllers 91 provide serial data communication between the PC 21 and other data terminal equipment via the ISDN interface 73. Multiprotocol controllers handle asynchronous and synchronous formats, such as High Level Data Link Control (HDLC) and Synchronous Data Link Control (SDLC). This serial communication hardware, which looks like PC software as a standard PC serial interface register set, allows off-the-shelf communication software to run on a PC without modification.

【0041】

PC interface 93 The PC receiver 95 and the PC transmitter 97 input and output data from separate RS-485 data lines, namely PC serial data in (PCSDI) and PC serial data out (PCSDO), respectively. Separate transmit and receive lines are preferred for high-speed full-duplex communication, but in a variant, the transmit and receive lines may be combined and connected to a single transceiver block in the ASIC. Such connections result in less wiring in the PC interface, but somewhat increase the complexity of the ASIC and reduce communication speed.

【0042】

The PC processor 99 responds to an instruction from the multiprotocol controller 91 in order to arrange data and access address information from the table access register 71 on the bus. A phase-locked loop (PLL) circuit with a radio frequency oscillator (VCO) 100 locks into a PCSDI data stream. This playback clock clocks the incoming data and synchronizes the super I / O chip 45 in the PC with the ASIC's digital logic, as shown in FIG. PCSDI data reclocked in this way allows PC links to operate at speeds higher than 50 megabits / second. For example, multi-protocol controller 91 or PCMCIA interface Very fast communication is required to allow some of the devices mounted on the internal bus 67, such as the 109 card, to report real-time status to the Super I / O chip 45. .. Real-time status reporting is required for software driver transparency. The on-board clock 107 operates an ASIC digital logic circuit when the PCSDI line is not available. Switching between the two clock sources is done automatically by the PC receiver 95.

【0043】

Microprocessor interface 103 One or more microprocessors interface with the ASIC. The position of the microprocessor can be changed. For example, one or more microprocessors may reside outside the ASIC, on another chip on the circuit board, or on a PCMCIA card as part of a DSP module, or the microprocessors are configured in the ASIC. You may. In Figure 7, the chip outside the ASIC includes a microprocessor 37 that contains a microprocessor, RAM, and ROM. Selective microprocessor 41 and flash ROM 40 outside the ASIC are similarly connected to microprocessor interface 103. In one variant, the microprocessor 37 in the ASIC performs limited DSP functions, while the other microprocessors in the DSP module that selectively receive input through PCMCIA interface 109 (see below) are more complex. Functions may be performed. Due to its modular design, many modifications are possible.

【0044】

PCMCIA interface 109 Expansion bus 111 links PCMCIA connectors 113,115 and 117 with internal PCMCIA address register 119, control register 121 and data register 123. PCMCIA connectors 117 are reserved for DSP module inputs, while PCMCIA connectors 113 and 115 are general purpose expansion slots. Access to the device can be made software transparent by including I / O, memory and address mapping logic in the super I / O chip 45 in the PC. If the Super I / O chip locks I / O or memory access into a pre-programmed range, the Super I / O chip plugs into one of the smartphone's PCMCIA connectors 113,115 or (if DSP) 117. Instruct data access to the appropriate PCMCIA device.

【0045】

CODEC interface 125 This interface connects to a CODEC circuit 26, which performs digital conversion and vice versa for analog signals from components of a telephone audio system channeled through an analog multiplexer (MUX) 129. The telephone audio system includes a handset 29 with a microphone 31 and a speaker 30, a speakerphone 32 with a microphone 33 and a speaker 34, and a selective satellite speaker / amplifier 35. The selective analog sound line 58 allows multimedia expansion, while the selective analog fax line 59 allows the use of standard stand-alone analog fax machines. The analog MUX controller 127 on the ASIC bus is an analog MUX It controls the activity of 129 and provides a lowpass filter for the output from speaker 34. A low-pass filter is used when the embedded speaker is used as a woofer with a selective satellite speaker. Although a speakerphone is included as part of this embodiment, the speakerphone is not essential to the operation of the smartphone. In a simple variant, the phone sound may consist of a single speaker-microphone pair in the handset.

【0046】

LCD display interface 131 This interface to the selective LCD display 28 on the smartphone provides a means of visually monitoring incoming calls.

【0047】

Keypad interface 133 The interface with the telephone keypad controller 27 provides a means for smartphones to respond to inputs from the DTMF keypad 53 and function buttons 61. If the smartphone handset 29 is used, the signal is sent to the keypad interface 133. The keypad interface 133 also controls the LED light source 63 on the smartphone keypad panel.

【0048】

FIG. 8 is a table of I / O pin counts for one embodiment of a smartphone. In different embodiments, the number of pins will of course vary.

【0049】

In summary, the smartphone 13 as described through FIGS. 3 to 8 has the following features.

【0050】

* Direct PC access to any smartphone via high-speed serial RS-485 line with selective plug-in special interface with modified Super I / O chip. * A PBX with a digital fax and modem that communicates with a smartphone through ISDN via a multi-protocol controller. * Modular coupling outlet on smartphones with PCMCIA slots for DSP upgrades and multimedia expansion. * Software transparent data communication between smartphone components such as multi-protocol communication controllers and PCMCIA I / O and memory. * Synchronous data link control (SDLC) and asynchronous support. * High quality analog sound input for speakerphones and mixing for speakerphones. * Standard analog telephone input ports, such as fax machines and modems. * Flash ROM that can be reprogrammed from a PC. * Phase-locked loop (PLL) support in ASIC.

【0051】

A smartphone 13, as described in FIGS. 3-8, is composed of various levels of functionality that are tailored to the buyer's budget and needs. Inexpensive and basic smartphone models may only have microprocessors that reside inside or outside the ASIC. In addition to fax / data ISDN lines to PBX, PC interfaces and speakerphones, basic smartphone features include business audio (for tape recording) and voicemail and data compression (with DTMF detection) and vice versa. Inexpensive and affordable DSP chips, now available from Zylog and Motorola, to add features such as compression and data encryption, which can be easily scaled as needed. .. The DSP can reside on a removable PCMCIA card that plugs into a designated slot on the smartphone.

【0052】

Upgraded smartphone models may add fax transmission and reception capabilities and V.32bis data transmission mode to the previous features, which are currently available from microprocessors and AT & T, ADI and TI. You need a high quality DSP chip that can be. In addition to all of the above features, the best-priced smartphone products may offer multimedia I / O supported by stereo 16-bit digital / analog and analog-to-digital conversion.

【0053】

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a smartphone 137 according to another embodiment, which is invented as an ultra-compact personal portable information device (μPDA) in addition to the functions described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 8. A well-known special portable computer device 139 can be connected to a standard PCMCIA pin connector in a smartphone via a coupling outlet 141. Such μPDA 139 are shown coupled in FIG.

【0054】

A typical μPDA user is a business that requires access to specific software applications such as travel files and fax programs with spreadsheets and currency converters, time zone clocks, address phone number records and the like. I am a traveler.

【0055】

The common μPDA 139 is approximately credit card size and is modeled on the standard PCMCIA Type II form. The μPDA 139 has a CPU, non-volatile memory for storing control routines for applications and data files, and a display device covered with a touch-sensitive screen 143.

【0056】

The physical window 147 in the smartphone housing allows the contact-sensitive screen 143 to be used while the μPDA is coupled. By doing so, the user uses the executable control routine stored on the μPDA to control all the functions of the telephone system and the smartphone. For example, a user can access a work or personal contact list, select one of them, and be called by a simple command. This also includes generating all dial sequences and billing card numbers.

【0057】

The embodiment of FIG. 9 is an example of a smartphone configuration capable of accommodating the μPDA.

【0058】

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a cordless smartphone 149 with a replaceable DSP module 151 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The cordless smartphone 149 has essentially the same functions as the embodiments described above, and can perform the same functions as those described for the coded smartphones 13 of FIGS. 3 to 8. In addition, users of the cordless smartphone 149 can move around the room freely while using the device. In a cordless embodiment, the transceiver sends and receives radio signals to and from the local PBX 153 through a small antenna inside the smartphone device.

【0059】

Telephone-PBX communication in the example of Figure 10 is done through a personal communication system (PCS) with a cordless telephone interface 155, such as the well-known standard CT2. The PBX 153 has selective fax 157 and printer 159 connections. File server 161 is connected to PC 163 via a logical link through the PBX. For example, a user selects a number to dial on a PC and the PBX dials that number on a smartphone. One or more enhanced features on a PCMCIA card containing a selective DSP module are plugged into a PCMCIA coupling outlet located in the base or elsewhere on a cordless smartphone device.

【0060】

Similar to the coded smartphone embodiments in FIGS. 3-8, one or more additional devices, either as an embedded or independent mechanically mounted device, to facilitate future PCMCIA card expansion requests. A simple connection outlet can be easily added to the cordless smartphone 149. In a variant, a coupling outlet 141 for the μPDA device 139, as described for the alternative embodiment of FIG. 9, may be provided.

【0061】

Description of ultra-small personal portable information devices Various embodiments of the μPDA apparatus will be described below in various embodiments. These may be combined with a smartphone as described above to provide DSP capability and provide additional functionality to such a smartphone.

【0062】

FIG. 11A is a perspective view of the μPDA 1010 according to the embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the device is modeled on the PCMCIA standard Type II Scherrer and has a height D1 of about 5 millimeters. The body 1012, described in more detail below, has a recessed end to engage the connector's male coupling in the host computer and connect the μPDA internal circuitry directly to the host internal bus. It has a female part 1014 of the connector. The host device may be a notebook computer having a coupling outlet for μPDA. The coupling outlet may be provided on a desktop or other type of computer, or on other types of digital devices, some examples described below.

【0063】

Referring to FIG. 11 (A), in this embodiment there is a combination I / O interface 1016 configured on one side of the μPDA, which is soft with an interactive control routine that can operate on the μPDA in independent mode. It is equipped with a display device covered with a contact-sensitive planar structure that provides key movements.

【0064】

Although not shown in FIG. 11 (A), guides configured along the sides of the case of the host computer device may be provided to guide the module inside and outside the coupling slot of the host computer device. One or more mechanical mechanisms may be provided to facilitate the engagement and disengagement of the module at the coupling outlet.

【0065】

FIG. 11B is an upper plan view of the μPDA of FIG. 11A, showing a thumbwheel 1018 configured in one corner of the μPDA. The thumbwheel in this embodiment is an input device capable of providing inputs of both magnitude and directional characteristics, and in some cases rate characteristics. The thumbwheel has many uses in combination with the μPDA and I / O interface 1016. One such usage is controlled scrolling of icons, characters, menus, etc. on the display device of the device. The thumbwheel provides many functions of the pointer device.

【0066】

In this embodiment of the μPDA, a second external connector section 1020 is provided. This connector section is for engaging peripheral devices as part of an expansion bus interface.

【0067】

FIG. 12 is a brief cross-sectional view of the means for constructing a μPDA according to the present invention in a Type II PCMCIA or other relatively small package. IC1034 is confined inside the insulating protective material 1036, and interconnection is achieved by lines on the flexible polymer thin film 1032, which is shown to cover the internal sealing structure. In this structure, the IC is not packaged in the usual way with solder leads for assembly on printed circuit boards. Rather, the connection is made directly between the solder pad on the chip and the line on the Kapton thin film. In addition, there is no intention to relate the IC indicated by element number 1034 to a specific functional IC in μPDA. This cross section only illustrates the method of assembly.

【0068】

In this compact assembly, there are also lines on one side of the thin film 1032 to connect to other elements such as the display 1025 and the contact-sensitive screen 1027, apart from the internal connections for the CPU and memory.

【0069】

The LCD display device 1025 is configured on one side surface of the μPDA, and the contact-sensitive interface 27 is provided so as to cover at least a part of the LCD display device. The metal case 1038 and other suitable materials and material combinations surround the internal components and are compatible with the Type II PCMCIA Scherrer equation. This simple cross-section illustrates some of the principles of the structure that allow the required parts to be inexpensively adapted to the required small Scherrer equations. In other embodiments, using a relatively common technique such as PCB technology rather than the internal sealing structure just described, μPDA is a Scherrer equation for Type III (10 mm thick) PCMCIA equipment. It is configured. Various other structures, shape factors, and combinations are possible as well.

【0070】

FIG. 13 is a simple electrical block diagram of the μPDA of FIGS. 11 (A), 11 (B) and 12. The unique microcontroller 1011 acts as the CPU of the μPDA in independent mode, i.e. when the μPDA is not coupled to the host device. When the μPDA is coupled to the host computer, the microcontroller 1011 acts as a slave device that gives bus control to the host CPU. In combined mode, therefore, the host CPU often gains control of the μPDA's memory contents, subject to the security procedures described below. Therefore, the host computer can transfer data and software to and from the combined μPDA memory. In other embodiments, many other collaborative modes are achieved between the two CPUs and the accessible memory device.

【0071】

The memory 1013 is preferably a 1 to 2 megabyte non-volatile element in this embodiment, and both the application control routine and the data file are stored in this memory. The memory 1013 may be a flash memory, a CMOS ROM, a CMOS RAM with a battery, or a combination thereof, which includes software stored in the ROM and data stored in the flash memory. The memory device interfaces with the microcontroller 1011 via a dedicated bus structure 1017, and the microcontroller 1011 is configured to drive the memory bus 1017.

【0072】

Battery 1015 is a power source in independent mode and is recharged with one or more of several methods. The power line is not shown in Figure 13 but extends to all powered devices in the μPDA module. When the device is coupled to the host, the host power supply may be connected to the pins via the host interface to recharge the battery. Alternatively, additional means such as a solar panel may be provided to charge the battery and / or power the μPDA. Solar panels for electric power are described elsewhere in this disclosure. Also, the battery can be easily removed for periodic replacement.

【0073】

The host bus connector 1014, as previously described, is part of a host interface that includes a bus structure 1026 that provides a connection with the host in combined mode. In a preferred embodiment, the host interface complies with the PCMCIA Type II Third Modified Standard and can communicate in PCMCIA mode or a mode similar to PCI mode. PCI mode is related to the high-speed intermediate bus protocol developed by Intel Corporation and is expected to become the standard bus architecture and protocol in the industry. In this embodiment, the physical interface at the host is a slotted coupling outlet, similar to a typical known coupling outlet for PCMCIA devices. The coupling outlet may be configured as a coupling box for an embedded device such as a floppy® drive, or may take some other form.

【0074】

The connector section 1020 is part of the expansion bus interface described earlier and includes a dedicated bus structure 1040 connected to the microcontroller 1011. This interface can be configured in a number of different ways. The purpose of the selective expansion bus interface is to connect selective peripherals such as printers, fax modems, host cellular phones and the like. In the minimum embodiments of the present invention, the extended bus interface is not an essential configuration, but many embodiments provide highly extended functionality.

【0075】

The extended interface can take any of several forms. A preferred form is an extended enhanced parallel port and protocol based on the invention by the inventor disclosed in the reserved patent application. Another form is an indexed I / O port with 8-bit address and 8-bit data capability. The requirement for expansion ports is that the connection and communication protocols are compatible with expansion devices such as telephone modems, fax modems, scanners, etc. Many other forms are also possible.

【0076】

Selective devices, such as those listed in Box 1019, may be connected via an expansion bus for use with the μPDA. A selection of such devices may be incorporated into the μPDA in various embodiments to provide a variety of applicability. In the former case, the connection goes through path 1021 and the expansion bus interface via the connector section 1020. For embedded, the connection is an internal connection line of the μPDA as shown in path 1023.

【0077】

The I / O interface 1016 (Fig. 11 (B)) is for viewing μPDA application-related data and performing contact-sensitive input via softkeys. Softkeys act as input keys by making meaningful assignments of softkeys to specific contact-sensitive screen areas with various functional software. Labels on I / O interface 1016 identify the function of the contact sensitive area in various modes of operation according to the installed machine control routines. The LCD display device 1025 and the contact sensitive area 1027 are integrated to form the combination I / O interface 1016 described above.

【0078】

In some embodiments of the invention, data and program security is provided contained in an electrically erasable and programmable read-only memory (EEPROM) 1031 which is provided by a dedicated communication line to the microcontroller 1011. Connected to. To provide security for information transfer between the host and the μPDA, the EEPROM 1031 holds one or more codes that are installed at the time of manufacture. Since the purpose is to control access to the memory contents of the μPDA by the host, each μPDA may be configured independently. To achieve this, the join and bus master machine control routines are invoked at the time of join. This security process is described in more detail below. In other embodiments, the security code may be provided by a read-only memory (ROM) chip or other permanent or semi-permanent memory source.

【0079】

FIG. 14 is a plan view of the μPDA similar to FIG. 11 (B), showing the specific I / O interface 1016. The size and position of the I / O interface 1016 may be changed, but generally occupies a major part of one side of the module. In one embodiment, the I / O interface 1016 includes an LCD display device that displays 32 x 12 characters and has a resolution of 256 x 144 pixels in display screen size. In this embodiment, each character is displayed in an area 8 pixels wide and 12 pixels high. In other embodiments, the pixel resolution is 320x200, which corresponds to 40x16 characters.

【0080】

The contact-sensitive area of the contact-sensitive screen corresponds to the character area of the display device. By touching the area with your finger or stylus, you can enter data extremely quickly with minimal CPU dependency.

【0081】

In one corner, the thumbwheel 1018 provides a two-way means of controlling the configuration of the display device according to an installed control routine. Menu 1070 represents the current status of any application in progress and is configured on one side to provide appropriate user menu selection. In a preferred embodiment, the input from the thumbwheel 1018 is used to scroll the menu 1070 and the active area may be indicated by the cursor. The user makes a menu selection by pressing the appropriate contact sensitive area. Specific inputs may be provided to display the menu area on either side of the display device according to the user's preference.

【0082】

In this embodiment, specific characters are displayed in the area 1074, and each character area is associated with a contact-sensitive input area. The selectable character-only area 1070 is too small to display all the characters on a standard keyboard, so input from the thumbwheel 1018 uses the area 1074 displaying the entire virtual standard keyboard. Allows you to bread. The movement of the thumb wheel 1018 in one direction pans the character area horizontally, and the movement of the wheel 1018 in the other direction pans the character area vertically. When it reaches one end, the window pans the virtual keyboard from the other end. In this way, the user can quickly pan the text window to display the entire standard keyboard and make selections with a finger or stylus. Of course, laying out the virtual keyboard in the standard keyboard format is not required for access. Characters, punctuation marks, etc. may simply be displayed in a single strip along the area of the display device and scrolled by input from a thumbwheel or other pointer type input device.

【0083】

In this embodiment, to avoid the delay caused by panning, if the thumbwheel is rotated quickly, it jumps rather than scrolls the character window to speed up the interface. Further, although a single font is preferred to minimize memory dependence, Menu 1070 may selectively provide character display in different fonts and sizes. It is clear to those skilled in the art that there are many alternatives to character selection and display, and that the thumbwheel 1018 can be configured in many ways to allow scrolling and panning.

【0084】

In this embodiment, the document window 1072 is provided at the top or bottom of the I / O interface 1016. For editing, the cursor positions the active position in the document. Menu 1070 provides a selection of available fonts, and input by thumbwheel 1018 controls the movement of the cursor on the document. In most cases, the text is much longer than the display capacity of area 1072, so you need to pan the document window in essentially the same way that you pan the keyboard window. For example, rotating the thumbwheel 1018 in one direction displays a horizontal band of text, while rotating the thumbwheel in the opposite direction causes the window to move the band of the same text vertically.

【0085】

Softkeys or selective hardkeys may be configured to switch between the document and keyboard window, scrolling left or right, up or down, switching between the document or keyboard, The same or other keys may be configured. Switch keys may be used to change the operating mode of the thumbwheel. Switch keys may be used in combination with float pointers to select characters and menu items. In this embodiment, the user can make all possible choices while placing his or her hand relatively stationary on the thumbwheel and switch keys. Use switch keys in combination with float pointers to facilitate the use of small fonts. A switch key may be incorporated as an additional hard key in a convenient location on the case 1012.

【0086】

It is self-evident to those skilled in the art that there are numerous ways to combine menu selection, switch keys, and I / O structures to provide a user-friendly user interface. Yet another embodiment of the present invention provides an I / O configuration application that allows the user to fully customize the display characteristics of the I / O area.

【0087】

As another to the disclosed thumbwheels, in different embodiments of the invention there are other different types of mechanical interfaces to provide pointer-type inputs. One is a four-way pressure-sensitive mouse button and a selection button, which may be located at opposite ends of the case 1012 under the I / O interface 1016. Each button is designed to be operated with one finger. A four-way pressure-sensitive mouse button can provide cursor menu scrolling, as well as keyboard and document window panning and / or indexing. The select button, on the other hand, can be used to select and edit according to the cursor position. This configuration minimizes hand movement and keeps the I / O area visible and clear.

【0088】

Configurations such as thumbwheels, pressure sensitive switches and buttons are technically known, including converting mechanical movements and pressures into electrical signals and providing such signals to microcontrollers. For this reason, details of such interfaces are not provided in this disclosure. However, such a combination of inputs with a display and an input area can be considered inventive.

【0089】

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the μPDA 1010 being coupled to a notebook computer 1172 via a Type II PCMCIA coupling port 1105 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As further described below, once the μPDA is combined, the host computer launches the μPDA and initiates a processing procedure to manage communications and verify that memory permissions are correct (security). To.

【0090】

The inventor considers access rights to be important for many reasons. First, through one or more specific code means unique to each μPDA, the user may protect the files stored in his module from access by unauthorized persons. Data and files are not authorized because the code can be used to control access to both data and files through the I / O interface 1016 and through the host bus interface. It is safe for access by the system.

【0091】

In the former case, the application routine can ask the user the access code to be entered in the I / O interface 1016 (Fig. 14) when the μPDA is powered on. If the code is not entered properly, access will be denied and power will be cut off. The code for this purpose may be stored in EEPROM 1031 (FIG. 13) or in any ROM device used for this purpose. In some embodiments, the code is mask programmed during manufacturing and cannot be modified. In other embodiments, the code is accessible and modifiable in the field by specific processing procedures.

【0092】

For host communication, a portable or desktop computer or some other device may have a coupled port that is physically configured to accept the μPDA, but is not configured to communicate with the μPDA. It is possible that. This is certainly the case when the μPDA is in PCMCIA shape. For disclosure and description, this specification refers to such devices as general hosts. If the device is configured to communicate with the μPDA, then the device is an enable host. If the host is configured for full access to a particular μPDA, then the host is a dedicated host.

【0093】

If the coupling device is a general host, no communication is made unless the person presenting the μPDA provides the host with a control routine. This is done to a general host, such as by transferring from a floppy disk or from another memory card via a combined port, and in some embodiments it can be transferred to the host to further facilitate communication. Some communication software resides in the combined μPDA memory 1013 (Figure 13).

【0094】

EEPROM 1031 (or other storage device) to confirm approval of data and program transfer between the host and μPDA if the combiner is actually an enable host, or if it is configured as an enable host after the join. You may use the storage code inside. In one embodiment, the processing procedure is in the following order. That is, first, when the μPDA is coupled to the compatible coupling port, a pin connection transmits a signal to both the μPDA microcontroller and the host CPU to which the module is coupled. Assuming an enable host, the fact of coupling initiates an initialization protocol on both systems.

【0095】

In most embodiments, if the coupling device is not the host, i.e., if it cannot communicate with the combined module, nothing happens and the user simply retrieves the combined module. If the computer is an enable host, an application is initiated to form host access to the μPDA data files via the μPDA microcontroller. A user interface, more fully described below for a particular embodiment, is displayed on the host monitor 1104 (FIG. 15). Like other application menus, the host interface menu may be partially formatted as a display of μPDA's I / O interface 1016, as seen in Figure 14 and explained in the attached text. .. In some embodiments, the combined μPDA can be manipulated in its original position by manipulating the input area of the μPDA displayed on the host display screen.

【0096】

If the host is not the home device of the combined module, that is, the host does not have a built-in ID code that matches what is stored in the combined module, the visitor protocol is initiated. In this case, a visitor menu is displayed on the host display device 1104 for further input, such as a password question, to select a restricted data access area in the combined module. In this case, the user can also get full access to the memory registers of the combined module by entering the appropriate password.

【0097】

If the host is a fully compliant host home device, then full access is immediately granted to the host so that the host can access the memory contents, including the program area of the module to which the host is attached. Then both the data and the program are exchanged.

【0098】

In any case, if the μPDA is removed from or removed from the coupling port, the on-board module microprocessor regains full control of the internal μPDA bus structure.

【0099】

FIG. 16 is a simple block diagram of the μPDA coupled to the host computer, and FIG. 17 is a basic logical flow diagram of the steps including coupling the μPDA to the host computer 1066 according to an embodiment of the present invention. is there. The host computer 1066 is displayed in its most common form and includes a host CPU 1024, an input device 1060 such as a keyboard, a mass storage device 1028 such as a hard disk drive, and system RAM 1062. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many hosts have more complex architectures and the architectures shown are for illustration purposes.

【0100】

When the μPDA device is coupled, the connector 1014'in FIG. 16 is a connector for engaging the portion 1014 shown in FIGS. 11 (B) and 13 with the portion 1014 at port 1105 (FIG. 15). Includes part and. The engagement of another part of the connector creates a direct connection between the μPDA bus 1026 and the host bus 1026'. Then, there is a direct bus path between the microcontroller 1011 and the host CPU 1024 (Fig. 16).

【0101】

As previously described, connector 1014 has a dedicated (not shown) pin configuration for signaling that the modules are coupled. In FIG. 17, step 1042 represents the insertion of the μPDA module into the coupling port. In step 1044, the signal transmission pin morphology means that the physical coupling has been achieved. In step 1046, the host interface bus 1026 containing the combined host bus 1026'in the host is activated.

【0102】

At step 1048 (FIG. 17), microcontroller 1011 in the μPDA initiates a pre-programmed POST processing procedure. The microcontroller 1011 in this embodiment has a page of RAM 1068 configured on the microcontroller chip. In other embodiments, the RAM may be used in other locations. In step 1050, the POST routine loads the bootstrap program into RAM1068, which contains the security verification code. This code contains, for example, a serial number.

【0103】

In step 1054, the bootstrap program starts running in microcontroller 1011, and in step 1056, the microcontroller looks up the password from the host through the host interface bus 1026 (Figure 16).

【0104】

Assuming an enable host or a dedicated host, the fact of the join also gives rise to a communication routine, which, for example, to display on the user interface on the monitor screen 1104 of the host device, as partially described above. , Accessed from the host's mass storage device 1028. It is this communication program that makes the general host an enable host.

【0105】

Assuming an enabled host, but not a dedicated host, the user interface queries the user to enter one or more passwords. After successful entry of that password, the host sends the input to microcontroller 1011 for comparison with the serial number and possibly other code accessed from EEPROM 1031 during the bootstrap of the μPDA.

【0106】

According to the code sent from the host to the coupling module, the microcontroller 1011 allows the host CPU full access to memory 1031 in function 1052 of FIG. 17 and the code received (or in function 1058) in function 1058. Allow some level of limited access as specified by (code that does not match at all).

【0107】

Access protocols and processing procedures that allow partial or direct access to the μPDA memory 1013 are technically relatively well-known processing procedures, such as bus master technology, which need to be reproduced in detail here. There is no. In addition to a simple code comparison, there are other technologies that can be incorporated to improve the security integrity of the communication between the μPDA and the host. For example, relocating executable code, code keys used with executable code from other sources, and memory locations within the storage capacity of EEPROM and other non-volatile sources. Since simple maps etc. are also uploaded to the on-board RAM1068, each μPDA is a truly unique device.

【0108】

As part of the communication routine introduced above, there are additional and unique features provided in one aspect of the invention. One such feature is the automatic update and reciprocal processing of current and new files in both computers under the control of the host system, which has direct bus access to all memory systems. Is. The automatic update process includes automatic update processing based only on clock identification characteristics, flag processing of new files before transfer, and both old and new versions of files before discarding old ones for new ones. There are various options, such as editing methods that allow the user to revisit. The automatic or semi-automatic update process for this file between the satellite and the host addresses a long-standing problem. The update processing routine may include a backup as an option to save the old files.

【0109】

Another useful feature in host / μPDA communication is that it allows the user to select a set of executable program files to download to μPDA and replace or complement existing executable routines. It is a means to compose a mixture of them. Users can have a variety of different program lists for downloading as batch files that make up the convenient scope of μPDA across a wide variety of expected work environments.

【0110】

Applications such as databases, spreadsheets, documents, travel files such as currency exchange, fax processing and other communication programs, time clocks, address and phone records, etc. make up a customized list of your preferred applications. ..

【0111】

In other embodiments, the unbound μPDA can transfer data directly to the host via the selective expansion bus 1040 (FIG. 13). Hosted through an auxiliary port on the host, such as a serial port, through an expansion bus interface, in special cases such as μPDA users who do not have access to the PCMCIA interface on their host (notebook or desktop) computer. Can be connected to. Even in this case, the μPDA requests a password from the host and controls access to its on-board memory according to the received password.

【0112】

Selective extended interfaces may be used in some embodiments while the μPDA is dominated by the host, in which case the host efficiently sends data through the μPDA's bus structure.

【0113】

Software Vending Machines: In another aspect of the invention, software vending machines with very large electronic storage capabilities are provided, in which μPDA users can combine modules into a μPDA environment. You can purchase and download compatible software routines.

【0114】

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of such a vending machine 1061 having a coupling slot 1063 for μPDA, a credit card slot 1065, and a bill slot 1067. Display device 1069, along with select buttons such as buttons 1071 along both sides of the display device, provides a user interface for reviewing software and purchasing from vending machines. In another embodiment, the display device may have a contact screen, and in some embodiments, the μPDA I / O region may be emulated on a larger scale.

【0115】

In operation, in this embodiment, the user simply reviews the software for sale, combines his μPDA device with the vending machine, and selects from the menu on display device 1069. Menus allow users to browse through all available applications and list new applications with previously entered data. The user can select some applications, try them at least in a simulation, and then select the application to buy.

【0116】

Once all the requirements, such as identifying and paying for the appropriate application, have been met, the vending machine copies the selected application to the memory of the μPDA or to a floppy disk provided by the user or the vending machine. .. In this case, the vending machine also has a floppy disk drive 1073 and port 1075 that sells formatted floppy to customers for use with the disk drive. This mode is useful when the user's μPDA is loaded beyond the capacity to receive the desired software, or when the user simply wants to mix the software on their own with their host computer.

【0117】

Provide backup options so that users can instruct the vending machine to read and copy all or selected files to one or more floppy disks before installing new files or data. You may.

【0118】

As previously described, in this embodiment the vending machine will include an EEPROM or other storage device that uniquely identifies the μPDA by serial number or other code, as each user's μPDA will include an EEPROM or other storage device. It can be configured to provide software in one of several modes.

【0119】

Users can purchase a demo copy of the application for a very small cost. This demo copy does not provide the full capabilities of the application, but it does give users the opportunity to test and familiarize themselves with the application before purchase. The user can also purchase a version of the same application that matches the ID key of the loaded μPDA and can only run on that μPDA. In other embodiments, the software is capable of transferring between groups of keyed μPDAs or "opening" a limited number of times. In these cases, the application is sold at a lower cost than the unlocked version. The unlocked version runs on any μPDA and / or host / μPDA system. The higher price for the unlocked version compensates for the possibility of sharing of the sold application by unauthorized persons.

【0120】

Vending machines can also provide a keyed version customized to operate only on a μPDA coupled to a software vending machine, or on a group of μPDAs. Due to the independent and unique nature of each μPDA, this keyed version is possible, even if this μPDA has at least a unique serial number and other security programming as described above. Good. This allows the vending machine to prepare and download a customized copy of the application that runs only on the particular module in which the application was sold.

【0121】

As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, there are many different ways in which these unique things can be done. The standard version stored in the vending machine's memory equipment can be re-edited during the download process, for example, using a unique code from the combined or identified μPDA as a key in editing, so run. Only certain μPDAs can execute the program by using the same unique key to order the instructions while doing so. Keys for scrambling or customizing an application may include other code and / or executable code sequences that are uniquely stored in the μPDA.

【0122】

Yet another aspect related to vending machines is the printer output port 1077, which prints a hard copy manual for the user. Of course, the software sold does not have to be specific to μPDA. The application may be sold to other types of machines, may be placed in the μPDA's memory, or carried on a floppy disk or the like. In this embodiment, even non-μPDA users can acquire a wide variety of software assortments.

【0123】

Software vending machines also function as selective information display centers in locations such as airfields, station buildings, convention centers, and hotels. When inserting the μPDA, users interface directly and, but are not limited to, regional, national and global news; stock quotes and financial reports; weather; transportation schedules; road maps. Language translation; Currency exchange application; You can upload current information including emails and other direct online services.

【0124】

Customized vending machines are tailored to suit business travelers, allowing quick access to relevant information and allowing users to download files for transmission via email. In another aspect of the invention, the vending machines are linked to each other, allowing the user to send a message to a companion who is traveling to the location of the associated vending machine. Such dedicated μPDA emails are immediately downloaded to a particular μPDA when it is bound. The sender has a unique encoding key of the companion μPDA as an identification mark, or some other dedicated identification means for email.

【0125】

In other embodiments, when each colleague arrives at the airfield, they are in a custom vending machine in that location through an infrared interface selectively installed (not shown) on their μPDA. Stimulate. Custom vending machines are also equipped for infrared communication, receiving signals and sending or receiving any waiting message.

【0126】

Extended Display Device: FIG. 19 is a plan view of the extended I / O interface device 1079 according to the viewpoint of the present invention. The interface device 1079, which has a diagonal length of about 5 inches, includes a combination LCD display that is at least partially covered by a contact-sensitive input screen and has an I / O area of 1080 in a manner very similar to that in a μPDA. providing. The four coupling ports 1081,1083,1085 and 1087 are provided at the left and right ends of the interface device 1079 in this embodiment and are configured for PCMCIA Type II modules. One of these outlets is used to combine the μPDA according to the present invention, and the other three are larger CPUs, additional memory, and battery power by combining functional PCMCIA modules. , Provide peripherals such as modems.

【0127】

The interface device 1079 is a framework for assembling a special computer through a coupled PCMCIA device containing a μPDA according to the present invention. In other embodiments where the μPDA takes other Scherrer equations, the binding outlet is adapted accordingly.

【0128】

The coupled μPDA in this embodiment is configured to generate its I / O display in the I / O region 1080. The thumbwheel on the μPDA is accessible when coupled, in which case it works as described above in independent mode. In another aspect, the extended display has a reconfigured output, which is the contact screen alone and / or an additional hardware selection button, and / or a dedicated bus port or coupled μPDA. Allows the user to interact with data from a standard keyboard connected to the extended display device through the extended port of. In another embodiment, the extended display device comprises a dedicated mouse port and / or a dedicated thumbwheel.

【0129】

In yet another embodiment, the interface device 1079 comprises an inexpensive, replaceable ordinary battery and / or a rechargeable battery. In another aspect, the interface device 1079 cross-references data files between the μPDAs according to a control routine that can combine two or more independent μPDAs and manipulate mutually unlocked files. Can be done. Furthermore, the interface device 1079 is arranged and structurally supported for easy viewing on a dedicated standard or miniaturized keyboard and is connected to the keyboard as an input device. Then, the keyboard automatically functions as an input device.

【0130】

The interface device 1079 for the μPDA is small enough to slip into a pocketbook or briefcase, compact and extremely portable, but provides a very powerful computer.

【0131】

Microphone / Voice Note: Figure 20 is a plan view of the μPDA1110 with I / O interface 1116, expansion port 1120, and host interface connector 1114. The μPDA1110 has all the features described above and an additional microphone 1088. In this embodiment, the control routine in the μPDA uses Linear Predictive Coding (LPC) method to convert the analog input from the microphone into digital speech recording. This method uses minimal memory, but can reproduce human voice-like audio inputs within recognizable limits.

【0132】

In another embodiment, a two-step integrator is used to separate the analog signals and synthesize a more faithful digital reproduction for better quality audio recording.

【0133】

The μPDA configured in this way allows the user's voice notes to be recorded and later uploaded to the host for processing. In a promising embodiment, the digital signal is either converted to text or transmitted as voice mail over the network. In yet another embodiment, a microphone is integrated with the speaker for editing.

【0134】

Cellular Telephone Interface: FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the μPDA 1010 coupled to a dedicated cellular telephone 1045 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Telephone 1045 includes a coupling port 1049 for μPDA according to the present invention. In this embodiment, port 1049 is on one side of the telephone 1045 and has a window 1051 to access the μPDA I / O interface 1016 after coupling. The combined μPDA makes all the software and memory of the μPDA available to the phone, and the user can operate the phone through the I / O interface 1016.

【0135】

In this aspect of the invention, unique control routines and display configurations are provided to extend the use of cellular phones. For example, a collection of users such as telephone numbers, associated credit card numbers, access codes, etc. are all readily available and can be accessed and used quickly and conveniently. In one aspect, a simple input device displays alphabetic characters for selection, and once a character is selected, a partial list of parties that may be called is displayed. The list can be scrolled and highlighted entries can be selected by touching the input device or by using the μPDA thumbwheel. No phone number is required to be displayed.

【0136】

Once the person to be called is selected, the μPDA dials for that call, including the necessary credit card information stored in the μPDA's memory for this purpose.

【0137】

In another embodiment, the call is timed and time stamped, and a comprehensive record is recorded along with the area for notes during and after the call.

【0138】

In other embodiments, the conversation is digitally recorded and filed for later processing. A promising embodiment includes a voice compression program within the host or cellular phone 1045. For example, a compressed voice file, such as a message to be distributed to a voicemail system, is either downloaded to the μPDA or delivered to a larger memory format inside the cellular phone. The μPDA then sends the file through the host or a dedicated modem fitted with a selective expansion bus 1040 (Figure 16) at connector 1020.

【0139】

In this particular embodiment, the cellular telephone comprises a bus port for digital transmission. In this case, a compression algorithm is also established at the receiving end of the transmission along with the voice system control routine to decompress the signal and distribute the individual messages.

【0140】

In another embodiment, voice messages are sent wirelessly from a cellular phone in an uncompressed digital compositing form, which automatically stimulates them or manually stimulates individual voice mail systems before each individual message. By doing so, it is semi-automatically distributed to the dedicated receiving host. In another aspect of wireless transmission, a microphone / voice note μPDA, such as Figure 20, sends a previously stored voice note after being coupled to a cellular telephone interface.

【0141】

In Europe and Asia, the telephone system is a usage known as CT2, operating on digital standards, and conforming cellular by simply having a person with a conforming cellular phone enter the activity area of the substation. Includes local substations that allow the person with the phone to access the station. From one aspect of the invention, the CT2 telephone is provided with a coupling outlet for the μPDA and is configured to work with the μPDA. In yet another aspect of the invention, in a CT2 telephone system applicable to other digital telephone systems, compression as disclosed above for digitally compressing a message before transmission on the CT2 telephone system. A utility is provided.

【0142】

It is roughly estimated that the dedicated compression algorithm can compress a 10-minute voice message to 1 minute using current CT2 technology. This saves a lot of phone bills. From this point of view, compatible extension equipment is required at the receiving station and should be incorporated into CT2 and other standard μPDA voicemail systems for digital transmission.

【0143】

In another embodiment, a control routine is provided to allow the microphone / voice note μPDA as shown in FIG. 20 to carry a compressed or decompressed digital voice note. When coupled to a CT2-compatible μPDA cellular phone, the μPDA in this embodiment is capable of transmitting digital voice notes in compressed form.

【0144】

Speaker / Pager: FIG. 22 is a plan view of the μPDA1210 with a microphone / speaker region 1090 and a pager interface 1092 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The μPDA has the ability to act as a standard pager, picking up the pager signal with the installed pager interface 1092 and alerting the user through the microphone / speaker 1090. Once the signal is received, the μPDA1210 can be combined with a compatible cellular phone as shown in FIG. 21, and the μPDA will automatically dial the caller's phone number. All other aspects are the same as described in Combined Mode for Cellular Phones.

【0145】

In other embodiments, the speaker / pager μPDA can be stimulated to produce DTMF tones. DTMF tones originate from the caller's phone number.

【0146】

The speaker / pager μPDA can store the pager request in its on-board memory. The speaker / pager μPDA can display all pager requests, including time and date stamps, caller identification if known, and other relevant information on I / O interface 1216. In this particular embodiment, the user can receive the page, respond immediately with a digital voice note on the μPDA through the speaker / microphone 1090, and then send the response from a dedicated μPDA compliant cellular phone or landline phone. ..

【0147】

Wireless Infrared Interface: FIG. 23 is a plan view of the μPDA1310 with an IR interface 1094 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the μPDA can communicate with an array of conventional appliances at home or in the office to provide remote control. A unique signal to the instrument is programmed into the μPDA in learn / receive mode and filed under user password protection. Once the correct password is entered, the icon display menu is displayed in user-friendly format in the I / O area 1316. The master routine first queries the user which device to access. For example, in residential applications, icons are displayed for things like overhead garage doors, security systems, automatic gates, VCRs, televisions, and stereos.

【0148】

In another aspect of the invention, receiving stations such as host computers and peripheral interfaces have the ability to communicate direct data from nearby μPDAs over an infrared interface. In another embodiment, the μPDA interfaces with the cellular network and acts as a wireless modem.

【0149】

·Peripheral equipment The μPDA acts as a platform for various peripheral accessories through expansion port 1020 (Figure 11 (B) and other figures). When attached to a peripheral, a dedicated pin in the expansion port 1020 signals the microcontroller 1011 to run the peripheral bootstrap application. The interface processing control routine that resides in the peripheral or μPDA memory is then executed, and after the link processing is complete, the μPDA I / O interface displays the associated menu-driven options.

【0150】

Scanner: FIG. 24 is a plan view of the μPDA1010 with scanner attachment 1055 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The scanner attachment is assembled to the μPDA and has an electrical connection through expansion port 1020. In this embodiment, the physical interface of the scanner is formed for secure attachment to the μPDA. The scanner attachment 1055 includes a roller wheel 1057 and other conversion sensors that interface with the μPDA wheel 1018 to perform conversion sensing processing for the resulting handheld scanner in operation. In another aspect, the scanner attachment 1055 comprises a converter that transmits a suitable signal through the expansion port 1020. The scanner bar is on the underside and has one or more batteries 1059 inside the scanner attachment to provide the extra power needed to generate the light.

【0151】

From the point of view of the scanner of the present invention, scanner attachments 1055 of different width D2 are provided for different purposes. The bar is not wider than the μPDA or is at least 8 inches wide to scan the full width of US letter-sized documents or international A4 paper documents. A unique control routine displays operational information on the μPDA's I / O area 1016 for scanning, provides a user interface to set various choices such as scanner bar width, and μPDA when scanning results are sent. Provides identification for files generated in memory. The scan data stored in the μPDA memory is quickly transferred to the host through host interface 1014 when the μPDA is combined. A unique routine is provided to automate the process so that the user does not have to search the file and start the entire transfer process.

【0152】

Facsimile Options: FIG. 25 is a plan view of a μPDA with a fax modem module 1089 installed according to an embodiment of the present invention. The fax modem 1089, which interfaces to the expansion bus interface 1020, provides fax and telecommunications capabilities to the μPDA over a regular telephone line. The fax modem includes an internal circuit for converting the bus state of the expansion bus to the fax protocol and a telephone plug interface 1091. In another aspect, the μPDA can be combined into the host and used in combination with the fax modem 1089 to provide fax processing and file transfer for both the host and the μPDA data files. In this case, the fax modem routine is displayed on the host monitor.

【0153】

Printer: FIG. 26 is a plan view of a μPDA with a Centronics adapter interface according to an embodiment of the present invention. The printer connector 1093 is engaged to the expansion interface 1020 by the connector 1095 through the cable 1097. The conversion capability resides in the circuit within connector 1093, which is physically configured as a Centronics connector to engage a standard port on the printer.

【0154】

Bar Code Reader and Data Acquisition Peripheral Device: FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the μPDA1010 coupled to the barcode reader and data acquisition peripheral device 1100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The μPDA1010 is coupled to the coupling outlet 1149. The I / O interface 1016 displays information through aperture 1147 according to a specialized data acquisition application. In this particular embodiment, the peripheral device 1100 comprises an IR interface 1094, a microphone 1103, a scanner port 1101 (not shown), a battery pack 1105, and a numeric keypad 1096 implemented as a contact-sensitive array.

【0155】

The application routine allows the data acquisition peripheral to operate, for example, as a mobile inventory management device. The user can scan the barcode label with the scanner 1101 and input information such as the total number by voice input through the keypad 1096 or the microphone 1103. Peripheral 1100 applications are so specialized that only a limited speech recognition system is needed. Speech recognition systems likewise stimulate other command routines within the master application.

【0156】

When inventory is collected, the database is displayed and can be manipulated directly through the I / O area 1016 within opening 1147, or information can be quickly downloaded to nearby hosts through IR interface 1094.

【0157】

Instead of frequent data transmission, data may be stored in an auxiliary optional memory location in the peripheral device 1100.

【0158】

In another aspect, the data acquisition peripheral may be interfaced to the analog output of a monitoring device such as a band chart recorder and the incoming analog signal may be digitized and stored.

【0159】

Solar Battery Charger: FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the μPDA 1010 on the opposite side of the I / O interface, with the solar battery charger panel 1098 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Panels so that when the μPDA1010 is in strong light such as sunlight, the solar battery charger absorbs the solar energy and converts this solar energy into electricity to recharge the battery 1015 inside the μPDA. 1098 is placed. The solar battery charger 1098 is permanently wired to the μPDA circuit or attached by other means and is connected to a dedicated electrical port or expansion port. The solar cell charger is placed so that the μPDA is fully coupled to the coupling port and the panel is in the correct position. In another aspect, the removable solar cell charger is unplugged before binding the μPDA, after which the removable charger becomes a larger surface area.

【0160】

Game / Conference Center: Figure 29 is a book for connecting several μPDA devices (1037,1039,1041 and 1043) to each other to allow competitive or interactive games by one or more μPDA users. This is a large-scale representation of the game center device 1033 according to the viewpoint of the invention. In this particular embodiment, the arcade device 1033 is controlled by an 80486 CPU. Through a connector such as connector 1035, the μPDA is connected to the center unit by cabling through the expansion bus or host interface of each μPDA. The drawing shows four connectors, but may be two, and any number of two or more is convenient.

【0161】

As another aspect of the present invention, the arcade device may function as a conference center device in which a large number of μPDAs exchange information. In this way, the administrator can update the μPDA of a large number of salesmen, for example, through an executable custom routine stored in center device 1033. Updates include, but are not limited to, product databases, spreadsheets, price sheets, job assignments, customer profiles, address books, phone books, itineraries, and other relevant business information during meetings.

【0162】

Standard keyboard: Figure 30 is a perspective view of the keyboard 1151 connected to the μPDA1010 by a cord and connector 1153 through the expansion port 1020. In this example, the keyboard is a mechanical keyboard with a full-size standard key array, an on-board controller, and an interface for communicating with the μPDA. In other embodiments, the keyboard may take many other forms, including a two-layer, flexible roll-up keyboard, as taught in US Pat. No. 5,220,521.

【0163】

In addition to the keyboard, other input devices such as writing tablets may also interface to the μPDA through expansion port 1020.

【0164】

There are numerous additional ways to combine different embodiments of μPDA for useful function. For example, an IR-equipped μPDA mounted on a scanner 1055 can transfer large graphic files to a host computer in near real time. If the file is text, the host also automatically processes the file through an Optical Character Recognition (OCR) application and sends the significantly reduced ASCII file back to the μPDA. As already discussed, μPDA family devices have the ability to be bus-dominated by host computer systems for many applications and establish software security and distribution protocols.

【0165】

Modular Computer Perspective: A computer with a coupling outlet can take many other forms within the technical scope of the invention. For example, the computer portion of a smartphone system according to the present invention may have the outer shape of a desktop device to which a smartphone is attached (FIGS. 4, 5 and 7). The computer portion may take the form of a portable computer, such as a laptop, notebook or palmtop computer, with one or more coupling outlets. In this case, the smartphone circuitry (Figures 4 and 7) is integrated inside the computer case, and the DSP module and the intelligent μPDA module are coupled into one or more coupling outlets. In another embodiment, the smartphone element may be part of a μPDA functional module that can be coupled to a computer.

【0166】

The following disclosure teaches the concept of various portable computers with coupling outlets that accept functional modules.

【0167】

General Description of Computer Architecture: FIG. 31 (A) is a perspective view of a notebook computer skeleton 2011 according to the present invention. The skeleton 2011 includes a rear housing 2013, a tilt-up flat panel display 2015 shown closed, a keyboard 2017 and multiple module outlets for inserting functional modules. The rear housing 2013 includes a power supply that converts a wide variety of electrical inputs into the form required by the computer. For example, there is a port (not shown) for connecting to a standard household outlet that has an alternating current of 120V, 60Hz . The power supply converts the input to the output as required by the computer bus and functional modules. There are also input ports for DC 6V, DC 12V, DC 9V and others, and the power supply device of one embodiment of the present invention identifies the input characteristics by sampling and makes it a suitable mounting circuit to use the input. It is possible to switch.

【0168】

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 31 (A), four module outlets 2019, 2021, 2023 and 2025 are shown on one side of the skeleton. On the other side of the skeleton, opposite the module outlet shown, there are four more module outlets. There may be more or fewer module outlets, but eight are convenient, well-balanced under the requirement of being small and easy, and also have adequate versatility.

【0169】

31 (B) is an end view of the skeleton of the notebook computer of FIG. 31 in the direction of arrows 31B-31B of FIG. 31 (A). Each module outlet is equipped with a set of guide / positioning rails such as the rails 2027, 2029 of the outlet 2019. The rail positions and guides the functional module inserted into the module slot. Each rail in the set is equipped with a return retainer, such as a return retainer 2031, to hold the module in place when the module is fully inserted into the slot. Each outlet also has a connector, such as the connector 2033 in the outlet 2019. This connector is for coupling to a combination connector on a functional module inserted into the outlet. It is clear to those with ordinary knowledge of the art that there are many equal methods in which guide rails, reversals and couplings can be achieved.

【0170】

FIG. 32 is a plan sectional view just above the module insertion port along the cross-sectional line 32-32 of FIG. 31 (B). Outlets 2019, 2021, 2023 and 2025 are shown on one side of the cross section, and outlets 2035, 2037, 2039 and 2041 are shown on the other side. The printed circuit board structure 2057 is stopped at a position substantially vertically lowered from the center of the frame 2059. The connectors 2033, 2043, 2045, 2047, 2049, 2051, 2053 and 2055 are connected to the printed circuit board structure, revealing their pin structure outward towards their respective outlets. In the embodiment just described, the internal connector is a male connector, which is not what the present invention requires.

【0171】

As also shown in FIG. 31 (A), each module outlet comprises a set of opposing rails that are located vertically at approximately midpoint of the height of the module outlet. Rails 2027 and 2029 serve module outlets 2019, with similar rails located at each of the other module outlets.

【0172】

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of the functional module 2061 according to the present invention, which is aligned with the module outlet 2025 of the skeleton 2011. Module 2061 includes guides 2063 and 2065 on opposite sides to allow module 2061 to engage rails 2067 and 2069 when inserted into outlet 2025. The module has two spring-loaded return levers (lever 2073 is shown) to engage the setbacks in the guide rails 2067 and 2069 when the module is fully inserted. The return stop 2071 is shown on rail 2067 in Figure 33.

【0173】

Each module outlet is equipped with a compression spring mechanism that is engaged by a functional module when the module approaches full insertion, and an outward force acts on the module when the return lever engages the return retainer. Mechanism 2075 (Fig. 32) is a typical example. To insert the module, align the guide of the module with the guide rail and push the module into the module slot until the retainer engages. Button 2079 on the front 2077 of the module is for retracting the module's return rail, in which case the spring mechanism pops the module out, as is often the case with floppy disk drives.

【0174】

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the functional module 2061 showing the rear surface 2081 opposite the front surface 2077. The rear surface, in a preferred embodiment, is a recessed female connector socket 2083 for combination with a male connector located at each sheath-shaped outlet, such as connector 2033 in FIGS. 31 (B) and 32. Includes. The second retaining lever 2074 is the opposite lever 2073 in FIG.

【0175】

In the above embodiments, and in many other embodiments, the skeleton of the notebook computer of the present invention is a frame, a power supply, and a frame with the above-mentioned module outlets and connectors for "plug-in" functional modules. Includes other peripherals. The skeleton also includes Display 2015, Keyboard 2017, and an internal bus structure later named Note Bus. Notebus is an additional detail in the section entitled "Notebus Structure".

【0176】

Functional modules, such as those represented by module 2061 in FIGS. 33 and 34, are provided in a wide variety of different types that allow a wide variety of different functions. For example, Frame 2011 does not have an "implemented" CPU, battery power, or system memory. These features, and all other features, are provided by different models of functional modules that are inserted into any one or combination of available module outlets. Other types of functional modules that are inserted are special modules such as floppy disk drives, hard disk drives, "flash card" memory modules, LAN / modem adapters, fax modules, data acquisition modules suitable for specific devices, and Includes many more. Functional modules are also described in more detail in the following sections entitled "Functional Modules".

【0177】

Electronic configuration FIG. 35 is a block diagram showing the internal elements of a notebook computer skeleton 2011 connected to show the electronic architecture of a notebook computer according to the present invention. The power input / converter 2085 is surrounded by a rear housing 2013 (Fig. 31 (A)) and has a port 2087 for power input. Device 2085 senses the input state and selects the appropriate circuit to convert the input to the voltage needed to power the rest of the system. The output from the converter is directed to Notebus 2089, which contains paths for power as well as digital information such as data and addresses.

【0178】

Due to the wide variety of functional modules, a notebook bus generally requires one or more power lines, as shown above and described in more detail below. For example, the notebook computers of the present invention preferably include hard disk drives, and these modules do not have their own "implementation" power supply. Since motor drives for hard disks require different power supplies (voltages and currents) than, for example, CPUs, notebook buses have parallel power lines of different sizes and voltage levels. A typical notebook bus may include, for example, a plurality of ground wires, as well as a DC 24V line, a DC 12V line, and a DC 5V line.

【0179】

Note bus 2089 is connected to video display controller 2091, which includes video random access memory (VRAM) to power and control display device 15, and in a preferred embodiment, display device 2015 is on analog bus 2093. It is a flat panel display device driven by an analog drive line. The Notebus 2089 also connects to the keyboard controller 2095, which powers and controls Keyboard 2017 through Link 2097. Keyboard controller 2095 receives keystrokes and converts them to digital data for transmission to Notebus 2089. The keyboard controller is physically implemented on the keyboard or in skeleton 2011.

【0180】

As shown in FIG. 35, the Notebus 2089 also connects to each module outlet, such as the outlet 2019, via a connector, such as connector 2033. When a functional module such as the module 2061 is inserted into the module outlet, the combination connector on the back of the functional module is combined with the connector from the note bus, and the circuit inside the functional module is connected to the note bus. ..

【0181】

Note bus structure As mentioned above, the note bus consists of a power supply and a data path. Digital lines carry 32 addresses and can carry data in 32-bit word length. Addresses and data are multiplexed into a set of trace lines in the overall bus structure to minimize the number of pins and the complexity of route specification. Those with normal knowledge of the art will recognize that this type of bus is known in the art as a small number of pins or compression buses. In this type of bus, different types of signals, such as addresses and data signals, share a signal path by multiplexing. For example, the same set of data lines is used to carry both 32-bit addresses and 32-bit long data words.

【0182】

In the note bus of the present invention, some control signals such as interrupt arbitration signals also share data lines. A typical example of a bus that can be used for a note bus (except for the power supply analog lines in the note bus) is the "S Bus", Digital Equipment Corporation, implemented by Sun Microsystems. A "turbo channel" bus from, and a bus compatible with the IEEE-488 standard.

【0183】

The note bus is a high-speed backplane bus for internally connecting processors, memory and peripheral modules. The notebook bus also supplies standard operation and standby power supply voltage and electrical grounding to all module outlets.

【0184】

Functional module As mentioned above, FIGS. 33 and 34 are two different views of the functional module according to the present invention. Also, as mentioned above, functional modules have many different functions. In fact, there are as many different features as possible for separate peripherals, positive power supplies and CPU modules. Individual functional modules are provided for each function, and in each case the functional modules have a physical size and shape compatible with outlets, guide rails and connectors for "plugging" into skeleton 2011. I have.

【0185】

The "front" of a functional module, the front exposed to the outside when the module is "inserted" (see front 2077 in Figure 33), has elements that identify the type of module. For example, a CPU module has no indicator or other elements on the front, while a floppy disk module typically has an opening for inserting a floppy disk and a "key" or button for releasing and ejecting the floppy disk.

【0186】

A unique feature of the present invention is that a CPU for a notebook computer is equipped as a CPU function module. This gives the user the ability to adapt CPU power to applications for other modules and notebook computers, making it easier to upgrade to a more powerful CPU.

【0187】

FIG. 36 is a block diagram of the CPU module 2099 inserted into the slot of a notebook computer according to the present invention. In this case (see Figure 32), the module is plugged into outlet 2019 with connector 2033. This is a classic example of how the module can be plugged into any opening in the skeleton 2011. The internal elements of the CPU module are connected to Notebus 2089 by plugging into connector 2033 or another module connector.

【0188】

The internal elements for module 2099 consist of CPU2103, state converter 2105 and RAM memory 2113. The CPU2103 is any of a wide variety of technically available CPUs (sometimes also referred to as MPUs). For example, Intel 80386 and 80486 models, MIPS, RISC runs, and many others. The CPU 2103 exchanges information with the state converter 2105 via the path 2107, and the state converter 2105 exchanges information with the connector 2033 via the bus 2109 inside the module and thus with the note bus 2089. Bus 2109 is an extension of Bus 2089 when the module is plugged into Bus 2089.

【0189】

The state converter 2105 is a chip or chipset designed to convert CPU commands and requests into commands and requests that are compatible with the notebook bus. We have already mentioned that the CPU 2103 is any one of a wide variety of CPUs and the Note Bus 2089 is any one of a wide variety of compression buses. For those with ordinary knowledge of the art, it is clear that there is a wider variety of state converters 2105 that perform conversions between the CPU and the note bus. State converters are theoretically different devices for each of the possible combinations of CPU and note bus.

【0190】

The RAM memory module 2113 consists of a normal RAM chip mounted on a PCB, as is known in the art, and is connected to the state converter 2105 by a plug such as an end connector or a connector interface. It is possible. The purpose of "implementing" a RAM module into a CPU module is to provide quick memory access. This memory access will be very slow if RAM is available within another module at one of the other module outlets. The memory at the other module outlets is on the note bus and is susceptible to bus conflicts and wait states. Depending on the nature of the RAM device plugged into the CPU module, the amount of memory that should be installed in the CPU module in the notebook computer of the present invention can be different.

【0191】

As mentioned above, Notebus 2089 consists of power and ground connections as well as shared data and address lines for modules plugged into various outlets. Therefore, paths 2109 and 2107 consist of a power supply and a ground wire for the CPU 2103 and converter 2105.

【0192】

If, for example, the CPU2103 is an Intel 80486 microprocessor, the state converter 2105 is a converter for adapting the 80486 state device to a notebook bus state device. This note bus is any one of the above buses for bus 2089, or any other compressed bus. There are many equal ways in which a transducer can be implemented for a particular case. Given the available design information for the CPU and equivalent information for the bus 2089, making the required connection with the transducer is normal in the art without undue experimentation. It is the technical scope of those who have knowledge. This is a conventional technique. It is unique to the present invention to implement a transducer on a module with a CPU for plugging into a module slot in a notebook computer.

【0193】

In the present invention, the state converter is implemented with a single chipset or circuit set that allows conversion between many CPUs and many potentially different buses. For example, design and configure a transducer with the necessary circuitry and information to convert between three different CPUs and three different compression buses. The state converter is programmed to select one CPU and one bus from the available choices at a convenient time in the manufacturing cycle, or even when selecting modules to configure a notebook computer. Possible hardware or software.

【0194】

As an example of a hardware programmable transducer, the transducer is made by cutting a trace line near the final manufacturing process as a way to choose a combination of CPU and bus. The transducer is programmable by the mounted EPROM or EEPROM device. As an example of software programming capabilities, transducers can be implemented with microprocessor technology and software programs. For example, before embedding in a notebook computer according to the present invention, a command to plug a CPU module into a connector on a special programming device and set the implementation software to convert between the desired CPU and bus. Can be sent. For those with ordinary knowledge of the art, it is clear that there are many feasible variations in the configuration of the transducer.

【0195】

FIG. 37 shows the power supply module 2111 plugged into the slot of a notebook computer according to an embodiment of the present invention. The purpose of a power supply module is to provide a power source for a computer that contains any module that is plugged into a module outlet. Technically common in notebook computers, there is a battery that is typically rechargeable within skeleton 2011, and the battery is replaceable and can also be recharged via power input line 87. For mounted battery packs, you have the freedom of choice to use them at all module outlets rather than power packs.

【0196】

The skeleton 2011 without functional modules has no power capacity other than the power plugged into one of the input lines 2087, which is converted to the power characteristics required by the computer and distributed to the power lines of the notebook bus. Is desirable. For portability, power is typically supplied by one (or more) power supply modules 2111 plugged into one or more module outlets.

【0197】

Module 2111 comprises a battery pack 2101 connected to connector 2033 (in this case, for example) through wire 2117, and thus to Notebus 2089. Because the notebook bus has several power lines that power the functional modules with different voltage and current capacities, the power lines in the notebook bus for connecting the power supply module 2111 are for powering the modules. Not the same as the line of. There is instead a separate set of power lines to the pins on the module outlet connector, such as the connector that connects to the power input / converter 2085 as an input as it is connected to the input port 2087.

【0198】

In Figure 37, lines 2119 and 2121 connect the power supply module 2111 to converter 2085, and the power input from the power supply module is perceived as a power source, similar to that made to power input line 2087. Will be handled. This power is converted to the required voltage and current capacity, output on the power supply output line and returned to the module outlet. In Figure 37, line 2119 is grounded and arrow 2123 represents all of the data / address, control and power output lines to the module outlet. The line represented by arrow 2123, and lines 2119 and 2121, are Notebus 2089. Although not shown in Figure 37, there are connections to wire 2119 and wire 2121 for each of the module outlet connectors.

【0199】

Power modules such as Module 2111 plug into a connector on a charging module that is separate from the notebook computer, using the same connector that is used to plug into the notebook bus through the module outlet in Frame 2011. Rarely, it is recharged for later use in a modular notebook computer according to the invention. This allows the user to hold a spare power supply module ready for use and charge the module without connecting the computer itself to the charging device. In addition, if a power supply module is provided, the user can increase the carrying time for the notebook computer to some extent by using one or more power supply modules.

【0200】

FIG. 38 shows a floppy disk drive (FDD) module 2125 plugged into a module slot of a notebook computer according to an embodiment of the present invention. Module 2125 incorporates the usual circuitry mounted within a case 2130 with connectors, guides, and reversals that can be combined with connector 2033 so that it can be plugged into the module slot of the notebook computer of the present invention. Includes a regular FDD device 2129 for nominal 3.5 inch disks. The case consists of an opening 2131 for inserting and removing the floppy disk, and an eject button 2133 for ejecting the floppy disk.

【0201】

Controller 2127 exchanges information with device 2129 through wire 2126 and with connector 2033 (hence notebus 2089) through wire 2128. The controller also draws power from the appropriate pins on the connector 2033, but these pins and wires are not shown. Controller 2127 is an ASIC chip or chipset for conversion between the notebook bus and the FDD device. Given the data storage standard of the FDD device and the characteristics of bus 2089, configuring controller 2127 without experimentation is within the technical scope of those with ordinary knowledge of the art.

【0202】

FIG. 39 shows a hard disk drive (HDD) module 2135 plugged into bus 2089 in the module slot of the skeleton 2011 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The HDD module 2135 is composed of a normal HDD device 2139 mounted in a case 2137 which is plug-in compatible with a notebook computer according to the present invention. As in the case of the FDD module described above, a controller 2141 is provided for conversion between the notebook bus 2089 and the HDD device. The controller 2141 exchanges information with the HDD device 2139 through the wire 2143 and with the connector 2033 through the wire 2145. Connector 2033 is a classic example of any one of the module connectors in a notebook computer.

【0203】

Given the characteristics of HDD device 2139 and Notebus 2089, the realization of controller 2141 without experimentation is within the technical scope of those with ordinary knowledge of the art. Power line connections are not shown. There are several protocols used to implement controller 2141. One is the technically known ST506 standard. Others are technically known IDE standards. Yet another is an extended IDE known to the inventor called EIDE, which is the subject of another patent application filed. In the EIDE protocol, there are multiple IDE devices that are chained together and treated as a second IDE device with an additional selection number.

【0204】

FIG. 40 shows a flash card memory module 2147 plugged into connector 2033 of a notebook computer of the present invention. A "flash card" is a technically known RAM memory card that can typically be plugged into a parallel port to connect to the computer's internal bus structure. Module 2147 includes a regular "flash card" 2151 mounted in case 2149 compatible with the module outlet of a notebook computer according to the present invention.

【0205】

As in the case described above, controller 2153 is required to exchange information between the memory structure of the "flash card" and bus 2089. Controller 2153 exchanges information with the "flash card" device 2151 through wire 2155 and with connector 2033 through wire 2157. A case 2149 is optionally provided with an opening 2159 and a device 2151 is optionally provided with a connector (not shown) for inserting and removing the flash card, and a relatively large data storage device is inserted if desired. Instead, the interface is a modular interface provided by plug module 2147. Again, given the known characteristics of the flash card and bus 2089, the realization of a controller is a problem for those with ordinary knowledge of the art.

【0206】

FIG. 41 shows a LAN module 2161 plugged into connector 2033 of a notebook computer according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 41, in case 2163, a normal LAN card, such as an Ethernet® card, is plugged into a module outlet of a notebook computer according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is implemented.

【0207】

The LAN card 2167 exchanges information with the normal connector 2165 on the front of the case of the module 2161, which is exposed to the outside when the module is plugged into the slot. This is a commonly known type of connector for connecting to computers on a network.

【0208】

In the first alternative method within module 2161, the regular LAN card 2167 interfaces with the controller 2169, which exchanges information through lines 2171 and 2173, and the controller performs the conversion between bus 2089 and the regular LAN card. Do. In the second alternative, the LAN card has a built-in conversion and no separate controller is required. The first alternative method is preferred.

【0209】

FIG. 42 shows a modem module 2175 plugged into connector 2033 in a notebook computer outlet according to an embodiment of the present invention. The modem module 2175 includes a regular modem card 2181 mounted in case 2177, which is plug-in compatible with the module outlet. The term "ordinary" is used in connection with a card or device in this case, and in the other cases above, to mean that the circuits and functions are ordinary. The size is adjusted to be compatible with the module case for plugging into the outlet of a notebook computer according to the present invention.

【0210】

Modem card 2181 connects through line 2183 to telephone interface 2179, which contains one or more "jacks" to allow the handset to connect. The card 2181 exchanges information with the note bus 2089 through lines 2187 and 2189 via a controller 2185 that converts between a normal card and the compression bus. Alternatively, the conversion may be achieved on a single card with a modem circuit.

【0211】

FIG. 43 shows a fax module 2191 inserted into the connector 2033 of the module insertion port according to the embodiment of the present invention. Module 2191 includes a regular fax card 2199 mounted in Case 2193, which is plug-in compatible with the module slot of the present invention. Fax card 2199 exchanges information with telephone interface 2195 through line 2197. As with the modem module described above, the telephone interface 2195 has more than a single telephone "jack".

【0212】

Controller 2201 provides an interface between the card and Notebus 2089 via lines 2203 and 2205 for regular fax cards. Instead, the controller can be implemented on the same card as the fax circuit. Yet another variant is that the fax and modem capabilities described above can be achieved with a single module.

【0213】

FIG. 44 shows a special data acquisition module 2207 that is plugged into connector 2033 at the module slot of a notebook computer according to an embodiment of the present invention. Module 2207 includes the circuit card 2215 mounted in Case 2209, which is plug-in compatible with the module slot. Card 2215 exchanges information through line 2213 with interface 2211, which contains one or some acquired leads to connect to an external device. For example, the data module is provided to track the output of the oscilloscope's vertical and horizontal sweeps, one with vertical sweep quotes and one with at least two input leads for horizontal sweep quotes.

【0214】

Card 2215 exchanges information with connector 2033, and thus with notebus 2089, through wire 2217. The circuitry on card 2215 is designed to digitize the input and be compatible with Notebus 2089 if the input is analog. Given the characteristics of the signal being measured and the characteristics of the Notebus 2089, the realization of such a card is within the scope of those with ordinary knowledge of the art.

【0215】

The embodiments of the present invention described above are primarily related to notebook type computers. However, the present invention has broader applications. The principles of the present invention can also be applied to a portable computer known as a palmtop computer, further embodiments will be described below.

【0216】

FIG. 45 (A) is a perspective view of a modular palmtop computer 2221 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The computer 2221 is about half the size of a standard sheet of paper (approximately 5.5 inches x 8.5 inches), and in a preferred embodiment, the case 2223 is plugged with four Personal Computer Memory Cards International Association (PCMCIA) Type II modules. It has a flat array of mouths.

【0217】

Case 2223 of this embodiment has a combination I / O region 2225 configured on one side of the computer 2221, which combination I / O region 2225 includes a display device covered with a contact sensitive planar structure. There is. In other embodiments, the display may be a flat panel display attached to the case with a swivel axis or a separate monitor communicating with the case 2223. Contact screens provide "softkey" operations along with interactive control logic. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the control logic resides in static or dynamic memory in Case 2223, but may reside as part of an installed PCMCIA type peripheral. A power supply (not shown) is enclosed within Case 2223 to convert electrical inputs from a wide variety of standards into the form required by a computer. For example, there is a port (not shown) for connecting to a standard household outlet that has an alternating current of 120V, 60Hz. The power supply converts the inputs to the outputs as required by the computer bus and functional modules. There are also input ports for DC 6V, DC 12V, DC 9V and others, and the power supply device of one embodiment of the present invention identifies the input characteristics by sampling and makes it a suitable mounting circuit to use the input. It is possible to switch.

【0218】

In the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 45 (A), two module outlets 2227, 2229 are provided on one side of the case 2223. There are two more module outlets along the other side of the case opposite the indicated module outlets. In other embodiments, the outlet may be open to the other edge of the case. This configuration provides a good balance between the need to remain small and simple and also to have the right variety. In another embodiment, other modular configurations, such as PCMCIA Type III and others, can also be used. In another configuration, the configuration of the planar array of modules also changes.

【0219】

FIG. 45 (B) is a diagram of computer 2221 in the direction of arrows 45B-45B of FIG. 45 (A). I / O area 2225 is located on the upper surface of case 2223. Module outlet 2227 includes a set of guide slots 2230A and 2230B. The guide slot positions and guides the PCMCIA module card inserted into the module slot. Each module outlet in this embodiment is configured for PCMCIA size and connection standards, and secures a conforming PCMCIA card according to these standards. In this embodiment of the invention, Case 2223 has an outlet configured in the PCMCIA Type 2, Modified B standard. In other embodiments of the invention, the case may have other types of PCMCIA module outlets, and may have outlets configured in one standard or another dedicated standard.

【0220】

Each module outlet has a bus connector, such as connector 2231. In this embodiment, connector 2231 is a standard PCMCIA connector that accepts PCMCIA cards and is electrically connected to the palmtop's internal bus. It is clear to those with ordinary knowledge of the art that there are many equal methods for connecting functional modules.

【0221】

FIG. 46 is a simplified cross-sectional view of computer 2221 taken along section lines 46-46 of FIG. 45 (B). Frame 2228 forms four PCMCIA module outlets 2222, 2224, 2227 and 2229 configured in a planar array. The printed circuit board structure 2235 is fixedly positioned in the center of the frame 2228. The connectors 2231, 2232, 2234 and 2236 are connected to the printed circuit board and reveal their pin structure outward towards their respective outlets. In the embodiment just described, the internal connector is a male connector, which is not what the present invention requires.

【0222】

Slots 2230A and 2230B help guide the PCMCIA type card to the module outlet 2227, with similar slots located in each of the other module outlets shown by the dashed lines in the cross section. A set of three AA batteries 2237 is typically arranged in the plane of the module outlet to provide a portable power supply in one embodiment. In another embodiment, an external power source powers the computer 2221 as described above.

【0223】

FIG. 47 is a partial perspective view of the functional module 2240 according to an embodiment of the present invention, aligned with the module outlet 2227 of the computer 2221. Arrow 2241 indicates the insertion direction of the functional module. The I / O area 2225 is formed on the upper surface of the case 2223 in a plane parallel to the plane of the module insertion port. Module 2240 is a Type 2 PCMCIA card with the thickness of T1. The opening of the module outlet 2227 has a width W1 and a height H1. The length of the functional module 2240 is L1. In this embodiment of the invention, these sizes conform to the PCMCIA industry standard. In another embodiment of the invention, the module outlet 2227 may be resized to accommodate other standards or dedicated modules.

【0224】

Module outlet 2227 engages functional module 2240 in a fully inserted position according to PCMCIA standards. In another embodiment of the invention, a reversal may be provided, similar to that in FIG. 33 for a large notebook computer embodiment. Many methods are technically known for positioning and fixing small modules. Module fixation can also be achieved by other means, such as clamp tightening, wedge fastening, and / or close-fitting mechanisms.

【0225】

FIG. 48 is an enlarged perspective view of the functional module 2240 according to the Type 2 PCMCIA standard. The rear surface 2252 includes a female connector 2253 for use with a male connector located at each module outlet, such as connector 2231 in FIGS. 45 (B) and 46. The connectors 2231 and 2253 are PCMCIA connectors that interface according to their industry standards. Guides 2251A and 2251B are made to a certain size according to the PCMCIA standard.

【0226】

Functional modules are offered in many models capable of a wide range of functions. For example, the computer 2221 of one embodiment does not have an on-board CPU or system memory. These functions are provided by a functional module that is inserted into any one of the available module outlets. Other types of functional modules inserted include speech-based, pen-based, and keyboard-based input I / O system modules. Special modules such as floppy disk drives, hard disk drives, flash card memory modules, LAN and modem adapters, FAX modules, data acquisition modules suitable for specific devices, special video modules, modules that adapt scanner peripherals to computers, telephones There are adapters and much more.

【0227】

In the case of I / O modules, the required software, and in some cases firmware and hardware, is connected to the internal bus structure by inserting the module. For example, in one embodiment, a module including an induction coil and a controller is provided to decode a signal received through a changing magnetic field and supply a code to the internal bus of the computer. The changing magnetic field is generated by a stand-alone keyboard, in which case the keystrokes are coded and transmitted as a signal over the magnetic field.

【0228】

In other embodiments, a similar module is provided for communication from the auxiliary pen-based input pad. In yet another embodiment, the plug module provides a microphone, DSP circuitry, and the required software to accept voice input from the user and translate the voice input into machine-readable code. Providing the software and circuits required in these examples in modular form provides maximum flexibility and upgrade capability for modular systems according to the present invention.

【0229】

Electronic architecture FIG. 49 is a block diagram showing the internal elements of a palmtop computer 2221 connected to show the electronic architecture of a modular computer according to an embodiment of the present invention. The power input and / or converter 2257 is enclosed in a case 2223 (FIG. 45 (A)) and is provided with a power input port 2259. The power input may be from the AA battery 2237 (Figure 46) or from a selective converter via an external power source. The converter 2257 senses the input state and selects the appropriate circuit to convert the input to the voltage needed to power the elements of the system. The output from the converter is directed to bus 2255, which contains paths for power as well as digital information such as data and addresses.

【0230】

Due to the wide variety of functional modules, bus 2255 generally requires one or more power lines, as shown above and described in more detail below. For example, computer 2221 uses hard disk drive modules, which are preferably provided without an on-board power supply. Bus 2255 has parallel power lines of different sizes and voltage levels, because motor drives for hard disks require different power configurations (voltages and currents) than, for example, CPUs require. The bus 2255 may have, for example, a plurality of ground wires, as well as a DC 24V line, a DC 12V line, and a DC 5V line.

【0231】

Bus 2255 connects to the I / O area 2225 and carries the video signal from the video controller. The video controller may be integrated into the functional module, which is illustrated as the video controller 2301 in the CPU functional module 2300, and the video controller may be configured in the case, which is the selective video controller 2301. It is illustrated as (a). As previously described in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the I / O region 2225 is a combination display device with an overlaid contact sensitive screen. In another aspect, the I / O area may include an active matrix display device, in which case a dedicated analog drive line from the video controller 2301 is connected to the display device. The I / O area 2225 may include a conventional LCD display device, in which case the I / O control logic is a function of the installed dedicated I / O peripheral module. In another embodiment, the video controller 2301 is embedded in case 2223 (FIG. 45 (A)) and is directly connected to bus 2225, similar to the modular notebook computer described above.

【0232】

Bus 2225 is connected to module outlets 2229, 2227, 2222 and 2224 (Fig. 46) through connectors 2232, 2234, 2236 and 2231, respectively. When a functional module such as the CPU module 2300 is inserted into the module slot, the female connector 2253 (Figure 48) couples with the male connector 2232 located at the module slot, and the circuit inside the CPU module goes to bus 2255. Be connected.

【0233】

Palmtop function CPU module The on-board video controller 2301 built into the CPU function module 2300 is a unique feature in one aspect of the invention. Users will be provided with the ability to adjust CPU power and the type of video controller for other modules and applications for Palmtop Computer 2221. It provides an easy way to upgrade by switching CPU functional modules. The video signal is local to the CPU, which increases the performance of the system.

【0234】

FIG. 50 is a more detailed view of the CPU module 2300 for computer 2221. The CPU module 2300 is functionally similar to the CPU module 2099 (Fig. 36), except for the addition of the video controller 2301. The on-board video controller 2301 is bus-connected to the state converter 2266 by wire 2263. In this embodiment of the invention, the state converter is configured to send and receive video signals and commands via bus 2255 through connector 2232, similar to other functions as described above.

【0235】

Other viewpoints and features The embodiments of the present invention described above specifically deal with notebook type and palmtop type computers. The embodiments described below address yet another aspect of the palmtop type computer.

【0236】

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention. The computer 2400 is equipped with an attached axis-swivelable display case 2401 and a fixed keyboard 2403. The display case rotates with respect to hinge 2405 and closes to a fixed stop position on the keyboard. The display device case 2401 includes a flat panel display device 2407. On one side of the case are two PCMCIA type module outlets 2412A and 2412B, and on the other side there are two more module outlets (not shown). The four PCMCIA module outlets are arranged in a planar array as described above. As described above, frame 2415 includes a bus structure (not shown) that internally connects all aspects of the PCMCIA type module outlet to the computer 2400. In this embodiment of the invention, a standard keyboard controller (not shown) enclosed in a frame 2415 connects the keyboard 2403 to an internal bus structure.

【0237】

As explained earlier, there are many architectures realized as a result of the combination of teachings in this disclosure. Smartphones, for example, have the form of a well-known telephone, as shown in FIG. 6 in general or substantially, with a modular outlet as shown for accepting DSP modules and other functional modules. May be provided at. The smartphone may be connected to a PBX or computer device as shown in FIGS. 4, 5 and 7 by ISDN or serial connection.

【0238】

A modular configuration as disclosed herein, with the elements of a smartphone (or equivalent) as shown in FIG. 7 implemented in the μPDA module, selectively with respect to the form of traditional phones. It may be coupled to the coupling slot of a desktop or portable computer. In this combination, some elements of the computer, such as speakers and microphones, share some degree of microprocessor and memory elements. The computer keyboard is used for dialing and managing calls and data transmissions, and a graphic interface may be provided on the computer display for input and feedback regarding calls and data transmission management.

【0239】

In another option, smartphone circuits such as those disclosed herein may be integrated directly into the computer of any portable device such as a desktop or notebook computer. As a result, the computer inherits the functions of the smartphone. In this embodiment, the disclosed PC interface is used or directly connected, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Coupling outlets may be used in this selection for an additional level of DSP capability. In this choice, the computer has a speaker and microphone (most have) that act as a handset for the phone, the keyboard is an input device for things like dialing, and the graphic interface is for managing data and control. Provided for.

【0240】

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that there will be relatively many changes made in the embodiments described without departing from the technical scope of the present invention. Some of the additional and alternatives have been mentioned earlier.

【0241】

Similarly, there are many equal ways to achieve some functionality without departing from the technical scope of the invention. For example, there are many alternative configurations that work with smartphones. For example, the PBX may transmit digital and analog data. Analog lines from PBXs in particular support older fax machines and other analog communication devices that are part of the user's system. Similarly, the PC may have an analog interface so that, for example, a document scanner can read the data into the PC and send the data to the smartphone. Other configurations do not even require a PBX. Smartphone input is instead made through standard payphone lines, such as ISDN lines. There are many types of cases and applications available. Different embodiments are made with different specifications. For example, the special plug-in RS-485 interface in Figure 5, originally conceived for the embodiment of a smartphone system, may become a hardware standard for PCs. There are many modifications that fall within the technical scope of the present invention.

【0242】

In addition to the above, there are many ways to implement a μPDA support structure and interconnect active components. One method is illustrated by FIG. 12 and described in the attached text. There are many alternatives to this preferred structure. Also, the size and shape factors that may be taken by the apparatus according to the present invention are in a wide range. Although the use of the well-known PCMCIA Scherrer equation has been disclosed, other sizes and factors may be provided in other embodiments. In a larger embodiment, on-board peripherals are configured.

【0243】

In addition to these alternatives, there are various ways in which a μPDA bus connection is provided. Although the well-known PCMCIA standard has been disclosed as preferred, other connections may be used in other embodiments. The memory type and size may be changed. The means of providing the security code may change. The characteristics of the internal bus may be changed. In fact, there are many variations that do not deviate from the technical scope of the invention.

【0244】

In the embodiments disclosed with respect to the modular computer architecture, there are many additional changes made without departing from the technical scope of the invention. For example, it may be more or less than the four module outlets described. It may be a two or more planar array of module outlets. In order to provide more coupling outlets in a compact arrangement, two or more plane levels may be provided with multiple coupling outlets in each plane. Similarly, there are many ways to make modules that should be coupled to the skeleton, such as computers 2011, 2221 and 2400, to form planar arrays. There are many different types of connectors available as well as many types of compression buses that can be used. There are many types of modules offered. Many other modifications are made without departing from the technical scope of the invention.

[Simple explanation of drawings]

[Figure 1]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a smart PBX system known to the inventor.

[Figure 2]

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a telephone communication system equipped with a DSP module in a PC, which is also known to the inventor.

[Fig. 3]

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a smartphone system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 4]

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a smartphone device in the system of FIG.

[Fig. 5]

FIG. 5 is a diagram of a special interface between a smartphone and a PC according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 6]

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplary smartphone according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing a user interface.

[Fig. 7]

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 8]

FIG. 8 is an approximation of the pin count for a smartphone ASIC as shown in FIG.

[Fig. 9]

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another smartphone according to the embodiment of the present invention, showing a user interface incorporating an ultra-small personal portable information device (μPDA).

[Fig. 10]

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a cordless smartphone according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 11]

FIG. 11 (A) is a perspective view of the μPDA according to the embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 11 (B) is a plan view of the μPDA of FIG. 11 (A).

[Fig. 12]

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the μPDA of FIGS. 11 (A) and 11 (B).

[Fig. 13]

FIG. 13 is a block diagram of the μPDA and some peripheral elements of FIG. 11 (A).

[Fig. 14]

FIG. 14 is a more detailed plan view of the μPDA of FIG. 11 (A), showing an LCD display device and a contact screen user interface, in particular, from the perspective of the present invention.

[Fig. 15]

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the μPDA and the host notebook computer from the viewpoint of the present invention, in which the μPDA is about to be coupled to the coupling slot of the notebook computer.

[Fig. 16]

FIG. 16 is a block diagram of a μPDA coupled to a coupling outlet of a host computer according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 17]

FIG. 17 is a logical flow diagram of a step of connecting a μPDA to a host computer according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 18]

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the μPDA software vending machine from the viewpoint of the present invention.

[Fig. 19]

FIG. 19 is an upper plan view of the μPDA extended user interface according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 20]

FIG. 20 is an upper plan view of the μPDA provided with a microphone according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 21]

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a μPDA coupled to a dedicated cellular or cordless telephone according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 22]

FIG. 22 is a plan view of a μPDA with a speaker and pager interface according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 23]

FIG. 23 is a plan view of the μPDA provided with an infrared communication interface according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 24]

FIG. 24 is a plan view of the μPDA provided with a scanner accessory according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 25]

FIG. 25 is a plan view of a μPDA with an attached fax modem according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 26]

FIG. 26 is a plan view of a μPDA with a printer adapter interface according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 27]

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a μPDA coupled to a barcode reader that provides a data acquisition peripheral according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 28]

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a μPDA provided with a solar cell charger according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 29]

FIG. 29 is a plan view of four μPDAs interfaced with a dedicated network console that provides inter-PDA communication according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 30]

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a μPDA according to the present invention connected to a standard size keyboard by an expansion port.

[Fig. 31]

FIG. 31 (A) is a perspective view of the framework of a modular notebook computer according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 31 (B) is from line 31B-31B on FIG. 31 (A) to FIG. 31. It is the figure which looked at the skeleton of the computer of (A).

[Fig. 32]

FIG. 32 is a cross-sectional view of the computer skeleton of FIG. 31 (A) taken along section lines 32-32 of FIG. 31 (B).

[Fig. 33]

FIG. 33 shows a functional module according to the invention associated with the docking outlet of the skeleton of FIG. 31 (A).

[Fig. 34]

FIG. 34 is another view of the functional module according to the present invention.

[Fig. 35]

FIG. 35 is a block diagram of the connection between the compression bus and the docking outlet of the computer frame according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 36]

FIG. 36 is a block diagram of a CPU function module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 37]

FIG. 37 is a block diagram of a power supply function module according to an embodiment of the present invention, which includes a display of connection to an internal bus and a power conversion device of a computer.

[Fig. 38]

FIG. 38 is a block diagram of the floppy disk drive function module used in the present invention.

[Fig. 39]

FIG. 39 is a block diagram of the hard disk drive module used in the embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 40]

FIG. 40 is a block diagram of a "flash card" memory module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 41]

FIG. 41 is a block diagram of a LAN module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 42]

FIG. 42 is a block diagram of a modem module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 43]

FIG. 43 is a block diagram of a fax module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 44]

FIG. 44 is a block diagram of a data acquisition module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 45]

FIG. 45 (A) is a perspective view of the framework of the modular palmtop computer according to the embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 45 (B) is from the line 45B-45B on FIG. 45 (A) to FIG. 45. It is the figure which looked at the skeleton of the computer of (A).

[Fig. 46]

FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional view of the computer skeleton of FIG. 45 (A) taken according to cross-sectional lines 46-46 of FIG. 45 (B).

[Fig. 47]

FIG. 47 is a diagram showing a functional module and a dedicated docking slot according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 48]

FIG. 48 is another diagram of a functional module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 49]

FIG. 49 is a block diagram of the connection between the compression bus and the docking slot of the computer skeleton according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 50]

FIG. 50 is a block diagram of a CPU function module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[Fig. 51]

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of a modular palmtop computer according to another embodiment of the present invention.