Patent ID: 6141212
Filing Date: 2000-10-31
Classification: G06F,H01R

Abstract:
A computer system, comprising:a computer housing;a first internal circuit associated with performing a first function, said first internal circuit being located within said computer housing;a second internal circuit associated with performing a second function, said second internal circuit being located within said computer housing; anda connector located on a peripheral portion of said computer housing, said connector being shared by said first and second internal circuits,wherein the first and second functions are different,wherein when a first plug associated with a first external system is received at said connector without an interface device, said first internal circuit is coupled to the first external system,wherein when a second plug associated with a second external system is received at said connector without an interface device, said second internal circuit is coupled to the second external system,wherein said computer system is a portable computer system having a limited surface area on the peripheral portion of said computer housing to support port connectors, including said connector,wherein said connector minimizes the use of the limited surface area by supporting both said first and second internal circuits with a single connector, andwherein the size of the first plug being received at said connector is different than the size of the second plug being received at said connector.