Palmtop computer docking system
US6364697B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 12, 2000 |
| Grant date | Apr 2, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 12, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S439/929
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method and system for coupling to a palmtop computer that supports both mobile computing and desktop use. A palmtop computer docking system is disclosed that includes a cable assembly and a base. The cable assembly includes a cable dock that is connected to a serial connector via an electrical cable. The cable dock includes a connector receptacle that mates with a corresponding connector on a palmtop computer. The cable assembly is adapted to engage the base so as to produce a fully functional docking cradle. In operation, once the cable assembly is engaged with the base, the serial connector is then coupled to the desired computing device (typically either a portable computer or a full-size computer). The resulting docking cradle facilitates desktop use such as, for example, communication with a full size computer. The cable assembly can be removed from the base and can be used independently of the base for mobile computing.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.