Method and apparatus for connecting peripherals having various size plugs and functions
US6141212A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 14, 1997 |
| Grant date | Oct 31, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 14, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01R2201/06
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A multiple function peripheral connecting device that allows more functionality in the limited port space of a computer is disclosed. The connecting device provides the capability for external devices having different functions to be connected to the computer through a single port. This is accomplished by wiring a first function, internal to the computer, to certain pins of a modular connector, and wiring a second function, also internal to the computer, to a certain different combination of pins on the same modular connector. Because differently sized plugs can fit with the modular connector, peripherals associated with different types of systems can connect with the computer through the same single jack. Also, an adapter may be connected to the computer to allow simultaneous use of the two internal functions.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.