Patent ID: 6286107
Filing Date: 2001-09-04
Classification: G06F,Y02D

Abstract:
An interface apparatus which connects between a host system and a data processing device and includes a parallel interface function for transmitting data, command, and status signals which are communicated therebetween, comprising:an energy saving mode controller which selectively switches the apparatus to an energy saving mode from an idling mode in response to a predefined condition and, in said energy saving mode, cuts off power for driving an interface circuit, except for a minimal power required to be supplied to at least one predefined portion of the interface circuit; andan interface circuit controller which notifies said host system of a status of said interface apparatus using at least one of said status signals and, after having entered said energy saving mode, maintains said at least one status signal at a logic level which is reversed from a usual logic level thereof in said idling mode.