Patent ID: 6035350
Filing Date: 2000-03-07
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
A computer system comprising:a computer housing enclosing a processor;a docking station;a detachable input/output (I/O) device that detachably docks to the docking station and functions (1) as a connected computer interface when docked to the docking station and (2) as a remote control for wirelessly communicating commands to the processor and controlling operations of the processor when detached from the docking station;the docking station for the detachable I/O device adapted to receive wireless communication of commands from the detachable I/O device and transfer the received commands to the processor;wherein the detachable I/O device includes a rechargeable battery, and is a detachable trackpad, trackball, or mouse I/O device;wherein the computer system includes a charger for recharging the battery when the detachable I/O device is docked to the docking station;wherein the detachable I/O device includes:a microphone for generating audio signals; anda multiplexer for multiplexing the audio signals with the commands, the detachable I/O device communicating the multiplexed audio signals and commands to the docking station; andthe docking station includes a demultiplexer for demultiplexing the audio signals from the commands for performance of the audio signals.