Patent ID: 6195670
Filing Date: 2001-02-27
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
An apparatus for converting an only one open architecture computer into both an open and a closed architecture computer, the converted open architecture computer including a housing defining a housing space and a computer processor disposed in the housing space of the housing, the apparatus comprising:a modular computer peripheral capable of communicating with the converted open architecture computer, the modular computer peripheral comprising:a housing defining a plurality of module bays;at least one module, each of the modules being disposable in one of the module bays and at least one of the modules comprising a closed architecture computer which is capable of operating independently of the converted open architecture computer, and executing at least a portion of an application program responsive to receiving a request for at least the portion of the application program to be executed by the modular computer peripheral;a controller communicating with at least one of the modules and capable of simultaneously controlling a plurality of the modules; andinterface means connected to the controller and at least one of the modules when the modules are disposed in the module bays of the housing for permitting communication between the controller and the modules; andcommunication means capable of communicating with the converted open architecture computer and the modular computer peripheral for establishing communication between the computer processor of the open architecture computer and the controller of the modular computer peripheral.