Patent ID: 6779067
Filing Date: 2004-08-17
Classification: G06F,G11B

Abstract:
An apparatus, comprising:a cartridge having a data storage section and having a first coupling portion which is operatively coupled to said data storage section; and a receiving section that includes: a cartridge receiving portion which can removably receive said cartridge; a first control circuit; a bus controlled by said first control circuit; a second control circuit; a second coupling portion operatively coupled to said second control circuit and positioned so that said second control circuit can communicate with said data storage section through said first and second coupling portions when said cartridge is removably received in said cartridge receiving portion; a bus switch operatively coupled between said bus and said second control circuit, said switch having first and second operational modes in which said switch respectively effects and inhibits an operative coupling of said second control circuit to said bus; and an auxiliary circuit operatively coupled to said bus and to said bus switch, said auxiliary circuit being responsive to switch control information received from said first control circuit through said bus for causing said switch to operate in a selected one of said first and second operational modes which is specified by said switch control information.