Patent ID: 6438638
Filing Date: 2002-08-20
Classification: G06F,G06K,H05K

Abstract:
A single-slot multi-flash-card reader comprising:a personal computer interface for transferring data to a personal computer; a converter means, coupled to the personal computer interface, for converting multiple flash-card interfaces to a format used by the personal computer interface; wherein the multiple flash-card interfaces include a CompactFlash interface and smaller interfaces having fewer pins that the CompactFlash interface; a CompactFlash connector, coupled to the converter means, for receiving a CompactFlash card through a single slot in the single-slot multi-flash-card reader, the CompactFlash connector making electrical connection with the CompactFlash card for signals in the CompactFlash interface; an adapter, having a physical shape to removably insert into the CompactFlash connector, the adapter having a mating CompactFlash connector that fits the CompactFlash connector, the adapter also having a smaller connector, the smaller connector for fitting to other flash-memory cards having the smaller interfaces; and wiring means, in the adapter, connected between the smaller connector and the mating CompactFlash connector, for directly connecting signals from the smaller connector in the smaller interface with signals in the mating CompactFlash connector; whereby the adapter allows the other flash-memory cards having the smaller interfaces to fit into the CompactFlash connector through the single slot to be read by the converter means.