Smart card which operates with the USB protocol
US6581122B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 7, 2000 |
| Grant date | Jun 17, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 7, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06K19/07733
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A smart card that is compatible with the USB protocol and may be compatible with multiple different protocols includes a standard set of contacts that comply with the protocols of a published standard. Another contact, not designated by the standard, may be added and used to indicate whether the card is to operate in one of a number of protocol modes. When the card is to operate in the USB mode, a simple start-up procedure is employed which does not require strict timing constraints, enabling a less expensive interface device to be used. The interface device can be connected to any bus of a computer which operates in accordance with a desired protocol. Due to the flexibility and functionality offered by smart cards that have microprocessors incorporated therein, the multi-protocol smart card can be used to drive, or otherwise communicate with, any of a variety of peripheral devices, whether or not a personal computer is present in the system. The smart card can also be configured to function as a hub between a computer CPU and peripheral devices connected to the USB by being fitted with two USB ports to allow for simultaneous communication between the CPU and the peripheral devices…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.