Reversible connector for accessory devices
US9367490B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 13, 2014 |
| Grant date | Jun 14, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 13, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F21/33
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Reversible connectors for accessory devices are described. In one or more implementations, a connector cable for an accessory of a host computing device is configured such that a head of the connector cable may be plugged into a corresponding port of the host in either orientation (straight or reverse). The host computing device is configured to sample signals associated with allocated pins of the connector to detect connection of the connector to an accessory port and to ascertain an orientation of the connector. A combination of high and low values of signals conveyed via these allocated pins upon insertion of the connector may be used by a controller of the host to distinguish between different types of devices and to resolve the orientation of the connector cable. A switching mechanism of the host computing device may then be configured to automatically route signals accordingly.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.