Patent ID: 6687778
Filing Date: 2004-02-03
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
A peripheral device for information processing, which has a first shape that allows the device to be put in a first slot formed in an information processing apparatus, comprising:a data processing section; a first connecting section that interfaces the data processing section with the information processing apparatus, when the peripheral device is put in the first slot; a second slot that receives an information device having a second shape; a second connecting section that interfaces the data processing section with the information device, when the information device is put in the second slot; a communication section that allows the data processing section to communicate with the information processing apparatus, when the peripheral device is not put in the first slot; a first function section having a peripheral equipment function that pre-processes or post-processes data in cooperation with the data processing section, for the information processing apparatus; and a second function section having an independent equipment function that processes data in cooperation with the data processing section, independently of the information processing apparatus.