Patent ID: 7734841
Filing Date: 2010-06-08
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
1. A system comprising: a connector component that provides a plurality of signal lines, wherein the connector component is configured to mate with a connector component of another device to receive identification information from the other device and extend communications with the other device using the plurality of signal lines; and a physical layer coupled to the connector component, wherein when the connector component is mated with the connector component of the other device, the physical layer is configured to: (i) receive one or more input signals from the other device via the plurality of signal lines, (ii) make a determination as to whether the other device is a passive media device or an active media device based at least in part on the identification information received from the other device, and (iii) output signals to the other device over the plurality of signal lines, with respective drive strengths based on the determination as to whether the other device is the passive media device the physical layer enabling use of the plurality of signal lines in multiple modes, including (i) a first mode in which the plurality of signal lines include a pair of signal lines for communicating digital data, an identity line for identification information, and a voltage supply line, and (ii) a second mode wherein the plurality of signal lines and the identity line are configured to communicate a respective analog media signal, concurrently, including analog video data on at least one of the pair of signal lines or identity line.