Abstract:
In accordance with the present invention, there is provided multiple embodiments of a memory card, each embodiment including a case which is cooperatively engaged to a module comprising at least a printed circuit board having an electronic circuit device mounted thereto. In each embodiment of the present invention, the case is reinforced by a stiffener which effectively increases the mechanical strength of the fully fabricated memory card, thus providing the capability to withstand typical bending and twisting tests. The stiffener may be provided in any one of a plurality of different shapes or profiles, and may embedded within one or more of various locations within the case.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     Not Applicable 
     STATEMENT RE: FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT 
     Not Applicable 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to memory cards, and more particularly to a memory card (e.g., a multi-media card or secure digital card) which is manufactured to include an internal reinforcement structure adapted to provide increased mechanical strength to resist bending and twisting under a predetermined load, thus enhancing the durability of the memory card. 
     As is well known in the electronics industry, memory cards are being used in increasing numbers to provide memory storage and other electronic functions for devices such as digital cameras, MP3 players, cellular phones, and personal digital assistants. In this regard, memory cards are provided in various formats, including multi-media cards and secure digital cards. 
     Typically, memory cards include a module which itself comprises a printed circuit board (PCB) having a conductive wiring pattern disposed thereon. Attached to one side or surface of the PCB and electrically connected to the conductive pattern thereof is a plurality of electronic circuit devices, such as semiconductor packages, semiconductor dies, and/or passive elements. In most memory cards, these electronic circuit devices and a portion of the PCB are covered or encapsulated by an encapsulant material. The PCB also includes a plurality of input/output (I/O) pads disposed on the side or surface thereof opposite that having the electronic circuit devices thereon. These I/O pads are not covered by the encapsulant material, and thus are exposed in the completed module. Attached to the module is a skin or case of the memory card, such case generally defining the outer appearance of the memory card. The module is coupled to the case such that the I/O pads disposed on the PCB are not covered by the case, and thus remain exposed in the fully assembled memory card. These I/O pads of the memory card provide an external interface for an insertion point or socket. The completed memory card has a generally rectangular configuration, with most memory cards including a chamfer formed at one edge thereof which is adjacent to the I/O pads. 
     Memory cards as currently known can generally be sorted into two types based on the method used to mount the electronic circuit devices to the PCB during the fabrication of the memory card. The common categories include a surface mount technology (SMT) type memory card and a chip on board (COB) type memory card. In an SMT memory card, a semiconductor package (i.e., a semiconductor die which is already encapsulated in a package body of a hardened encapsulant material) is mounted and electrically connected to the PCB, and thereafter covered with the encapsulant material to form the above-described module. In a COB memory card, a semiconductor die is mounted and electrically connected to the PCB, and thereafter covered with the encapsulant material to form the above-described module. In the case of the COB memory card, the covering of the semiconductor die with the encapsulant material serves the dual purposes protecting the die and increasing the overall strength of the memory card. In the case of the SMT memory card, the covering of the semiconductor package with the encapsulant material is not primarily for the purpose of protecting the semiconductor package (which already includes a package body of a hardened encapsulant material), but rather for the purpose of increasing the overall strength of the memory card. Even in the COB memory card, the primary protection for the internal semiconductor die is provided by the case. Thus, in SMT memory cards and to a large extent in COB memory cards, the covering of the electronic circuit devices with the encapsulant material is for purposes of increasing the mechanical strength of the memory card, and not primarily for purposes of protecting such electronic circuit devices. As will be recognized, the added mechanical strength imparted to the memory card as a result of the inclusion of the hardened encapsulant material underneath the case makes the memory card less susceptible to bending or twisting under a predetermined load, thus allowing it to pass various mandated bending and twisting tests under predetermined conditions. 
     However, with particular regard to the SMT memory card wherein the encapsulant material is used only to impart increased mechanical strength to the memory card, the need to include the additional encapsulation step increases the number of manufacturing processes and hence the manufacturing cost for such memory card. Further, the need to include the encapsulant material under the case reduces the effective interior space in the memory card, which is undesirable due to the constant need for memory cards of increased capacity. The present invention addresses and overcomes these drawbacks by providing a memory card construction wherein a case of the memory card is provided with an internal reinforcement structure which effectively eliminates the need for an underlying layer of encapsulant material. These as well as other features and advantages of the present invention will be described in more detail below. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In accordance with the present invention, there is provided multiple embodiments of a memory card, each embodiment including a case which is cooperatively engaged to a module comprising at least a printed circuit board having an electronic circuit device mounted thereto. In each embodiment of the present invention, the case is reinforced by a stiffener which effectively increases the mechanical strength of the fully fabricated memory card, thus providing the capability to withstand typical bending and twisting tests. The stiffener may be provided in any one of a plurality of different shapes or profiles, and may embedded within one or more of various locations within the case. 
     The present invention is best understood by reference to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       These, as well as other features of the present invention, will become more apparent upon reference to the drawings wherein: 
         FIG. 1A  is a top perspective view of a memory card constructed in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 1B  is a bottom perspective view of the memory card shown in  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 1C  is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 1D  is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line B-B of  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 2  is a cross-sectional view of a memory card constructed in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 3  is a top perspective view of a memory card constructed in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 4A  is a cross-sectional view of a memory card constructed in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 4B  is a cross-sectional view of the memory card of the fourth embodiment similar to that shown in  FIG. 4A , but further illustrating the memory card as cooperatively engaged to an external device; 
         FIG. 5A  is cross-sectional view of a memory card constructed in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 5B  is a cross-sectional view of the memory card of the fifth embodiment similar to that shown in  FIG. 5A , but further illustrating the memory card as cooperatively engaged to an external device; 
         FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional view of a memory card constructed in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 7A  is a top perspective view of a memory card constructed in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 7B  is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C of  FIG. 7A ; 
         FIG. 8  is a cross-sectional view of a memory card constructed in accordance with an eighth embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 9  is a cross-sectional view of a memory card constructed in accordance with a ninth embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 10  is a cross-sectional view of a memory card constructed in accordance with a tenth embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 11  is a cross-sectional view of a memory card constructed in accordance with an eleventh embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 12  is a cross-sectional view of a memory card constructed in accordance with a twelfth embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 13  is a cross-sectional view of a memory card constructed in accordance with a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention; and 
         FIG. 14  is a cross-sectional view of a memory card constructed in accordance with a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     Common reference numerals are used throughout the drawings and detailed description to indicate like elements. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Referring now to the drawings wherein the showings are for purposes of illustrating preferred embodiments of the present invention only, and not for purposes of limiting the same,  FIGS. 1A-1D  depict a memory card  100  constructed in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention. The memory card  100 , as well as the memory cards of other embodiments of the present invention which will be described in more detail below, may be a multi-media card (MMC), a reduced size multi-media card (RSMMC), or a secure digital (SD) card. Additionally, though the memory card  100  and those memory cards of the other embodiments described below are each an SMT type memory card, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the features of the present invention are equally applicable to COB type memory cards as well. 
     The memory card  100  comprises a circuit board  110 , which itself includes an insulative layer  113  defining a generally planar lower surface  111  and an opposed, generally planar upper surface  112 . Formed on the lower surface  111  of the insulative layer  113  in close proximity to one of the peripheral edge segments thereof is a plurality of input/output (I/O) pads  114 . Formed on the upper surface  112  of the insulative layer  113  is a conductive pattern (not shown) which is placed into electrical communication with the I/O pads  114  on the lower surface  111  through a conductive medium (not shown) formed through and/or upon the insulative layer  113 . Such conductive medium may include conductive vias which extend through the insulative layer  113 , conductive traces which extend along the upper and lower surfaces  112 ,  111  of the insulative layer  113 , or combinations thereof. The circuit board  110  can be a hardened printed circuit board, a flexible printed circuit board, or any equivalent thereto, the present invention not being restricted to any particular type of circuit board  110 . 
     Mounted to the upper surface  112  of the insulative layer  113  of the circuit board  110  is an electronic circuit device  120 . As best seen in  FIG. 1C , the electronic circuit device  120  comprises a semiconductor package  121  (which itself includes an internal semiconductor die) and various passive components  122 ,  123  such as a resistor and a condenser. As depicted, the passive components  122 ,  123  are each mounted to the upper surface  112  through the use of an adhesive  128 , and are electrically connected to the conductive pattern formed on the upper surface  112 . The semiconductor package  121  is itself mounted to the upper surface  112  and electrically connected to the conductive pattern thereon through the use of the conductive leads  125  of the semiconductor package  121 . As will be recognized, the conductive pattern of the circuit board  110  may be used to facilitate the placement of the components  121 ,  122 ,  123  of the electronic circuit device  120  into electrical communication with each other in any desired pattern or arrangement, and into electrical communication with the I/O pads  114  in any desired pattern or arrangement. Those of ordinary skill in the art will further recognize that the type, number and arrangement of the components  121 ,  122 ,  123  included in the electronic circuit device  120  as shown in  FIG. 1C  is exemplary only, in that only one component or multiple components of any type may be mounted and electrically connected to the circuit board  110  in any number, combination or pattern depending on the desired application for the memory card  100 . All that is necessary is that the circuit board  110  be configured to facilitate the electrical communication between any component(s) and the I/O pads  114  in a prescribed manner. For example, the electronic circuit device  120  can comprise only a semiconductor package and/or a semiconductor die without any passive component(s). Along these lines, the number of I/O pads  114  included in the circuit board  110  is also variable, in that the number of such I/O pads  114  may be varied according to the particular application for the memory card  100 . 
     In the memory card  100 , the electronic circuit device  120  is not covered or encapsulated by a layer of encapsulant material. As a result, the circuit board  110 , and in particular the insulative layer  113  thereof, does not need to be sized so as to provide a prescribed space or area for accommodating the encapsulant material and the resultant, hardened encapsulation part. Thus, the circuit board  110  can be fabricated in a relatively small size, the required space or area defined by the upper surface  112  thereof being limited to that which is needed to accommodate the electronic circuit device  120  alone, as opposed to the combination of the electronic circuit device  120  and a hardened encapsulation part. Since the circuit board  110  represents a considerable portion of the material cost of the memory card  100 , the effective reduction in the size of the circuit board  110  facilitates a corresponding reduction in the cost of the memory card  100 . 
     The memory card  100  of the first embodiment further comprises a case  130  which is mounted to the circuit board  110 . The case  130  has a plate-like shape of predetermined thickness, and defines a recess  134  which is sized and configured to accommodate the electronic circuit device  120  mounted to the upper surface  112  of the circuit board  110  when the circuit board  110  is advanced into the lower portion of the recess  134  in the manner shown in  FIG. 1C . More particularly, a peripheral portion of the upper surface  112  of the insulative layer  113  extending along the peripheral edge thereof is secured to a stepped portion or shoulder  135  defined by the case  130  through the use of a layer of adhesive  129 . The case  130  is sized relative to the circuit board  110  such that when the insulative layer  113  is secured to the shoulder  135  via the adhesive layer  129  in the above-described manner, the generally planar rim  132  of the case  130  extends in substantially co-planar relation to the first surface  111  of the insulative layer  113 . As will be recognized, the thickness of the side walls of the case  130  can be increased as needed to provide the memory card  100  with an overall shape or profile of certain dimensions or proportions, despite a reduction in the size of the circuit board  110 . Additionally, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the recess  134  can be provided in any one of a multiplicity of differing shapes, the sole requirement being that the shape of the recess  134  correspond to and be able to accommodate the configuration of the circuit board  110  and electronic circuit device  120  mounted thereto. 
     As seen in  FIGS. 1A ,  1 C, and  1 D, the case  130  of the memory card  100  includes an internal stiffener  140 . The stiffener  140  has a shape corresponding to that of the case  130 , and is disposed in the interior thereof. More particularly, the stiffener  140  includes an upper plate  142  which extends within the upper portion  131  of the case  130 . In addition to the upper plate  142 , the stiffener  140  includes an opposed pair of side plates  144  which extend along respective ones of an opposed pair of sides edges of the upper plate  142 . More particularly, as seen in  FIGS. 1A and 1C , one of the side plates  144  extends along the leading edge of the case  130  which is disposed closest to the I/O pads  114 , with the remaining side plate  144  extending along the opposite trailing edge of the case  130 . Though the side plates  144  and the upper plate  142  are preferably integrally connected to each other, it is contemplated that the side plates  144  may comprise separate components which are embedded in respective side walls of the case  130  in spaced relation to the upper plate  142 . 
     As further seen in  FIGS. 1A ,  1 C and  1 D, the area of the upper plate  142  is smaller than the horizontal cross-sectional area of the case  130 . Similarly, the areas of the side plates  144  are smaller than the vertical, cross-sectional width of the case  130  as viewed along the line B-B of  FIG. 1A . The stiffener  140  is fabricated to be of predetermined thickness according to the mechanical strength required in the memory card  100 , and is further sized so as not to be exposed in the case  130 . The desirability of preventing the exposure of the stiffener  140  in the case  130  is particularly significant in those instances wherein the stiffener  140  is made of a conductive metal material. In this regard, any exposure to the conductive metal stiffener  140  to the inside of the recess  134  could potentially damage the electronic circuit device  120  residing in the recess  134 , or could induce an electrical short. Further, any protrusion or exposure of a conductive metal stiffener  140  to the outside of the case  130  could result in the generation of an electrical short between the memory card  100  and an external device when the memory card  100  is inserted into such external device. 
     It is contemplated that the stiffener  140  can be fabricated of various materials, including a metal such as iron or aluminum, or a plastic which is of a strength stronger than the resin used to form the case  130 . Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the material of the stiffener  140  is not limited to these particular examples, with any one of various materials having a mechanical strength stronger than that of the case  130  being suitable for use in relation to the stiffener  140 . Thus, the stiffener  140  can be formed of any suitable material according to the mechanical strength required in the memory card  100 . Since the stiffener  140  is formed of a material having a mechanical strength stronger than the case  130 , the stiffener  140  effectively increases the mechanical strength of the case  130 . As a result, the mechanical strength of the memory card  100  is increased due to the stiffener  140 , the memory card  100  therefore being able to satisfy a bending test or a twist test without a separate encapsulant layer being applied to the electronic circuit device  120  and located underneath the case  130  within the recess  134 . Indeed, if the material of the stiffener  140  is properly selected, the memory card  100  may possess structural integrity greater than that required for passing a standard bending test or twist test. 
     The memory card  100 , the circuit board  110  and the electronic circuit device  120  mounted to the upper surface  112  of the insulative layer  113  are collectively referred to as a “module.” Since the inclusion of the stiffener  140  in the case  130  eliminates the need to encapsulate the module for the reasons described above, the memory card  110  can be produced more efficiently and economically. Other manufacturing economies are achieved by the elimination of the need to apply an encapsulant layer to the module, such economies also including greater ease in mass producing modules through the implementation of a sawing process. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , there is shown a memory card  100   a  constructed in accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention. The memory card  100   a  of the second embodiment bears substantial similarity in construction to the memory card  100  of the first embodiment, with the 100 series reference numerals in  FIG. 2  being used to identify the same structures identified by the corresponding 100 series reference numerals included in  FIGS. 1A-1D . In this regard, only the distinctions between the memory cards  100   a ,  100  will be discussed below. 
     In the memory card  100   a , an adhesive layer  150  is coated onto the top surfaces of certain components of the electronic circuit device  120 , and in particular the top surface of the semiconductor package  121  and the top surface of the passive component  122 . The adhesive layer  150  is further bonded to the underside of the upper portion  131  of the case  130  which defines the innermost surface of the recess  134 . Each adhesive layer  150  is preferably formed of a heat-conductive liquid glue so that the heat generated in the electronic circuit device  120  can be transferred to ambient air through the case  130  and the stiffener  140 . Since those surfaces of the components  121 ,  122  to which the adhesive layers  150  are applied are generally planar, the flow of the liquid glue of the adhesive layer  150  is not hampered. Thus, if the liquid glue is sufficiently coated on such surfaces, the glue will flow substantially uniformly on such surfaces. Further, since the adhesive layers  150  eliminate the need for the use a film type of adhesive which is relatively expensive, the memory card  100   a  can be manufactured at a reduced cost. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3 , there is shown a memory card  200  constructed in accordance with a third embodiment of the present invention. The memory card  200  of the third embodiment also bears substantial similarity in construction to the memory card  100  of the first embodiment, with the 200 series reference numerals in  FIG. 3  being used to identify the same structures identified by the corresponding 100 series reference numerals included in  FIGS. 1A-1D . In this regard, only the distinctions between the memory cards  200 ,  100  will be discussed below. 
     In the memory card  200 , the stiffener  240  has an upper plate  242  which, like the upper plate  142  described above, is embedded in the upper portion of the case  230 . In addition to the upper plate  242 , the stiffener  240  includes side plates  244  which are analogous to and disposed in the same orientations described above in relation to the side plates  144  of the stiffener  140 . However, in addition to the side plates  244 , the stiffener  240  also includes a pair of side plates  246  which are integrally connected to and extend along respective ones of the remaining two longitudinally extending peripheral edge segments of the upper plate  242 . As a result, the stiffener  240  of the memory card  200  is substantially box-shaped and imparts increased mechanical strength to the memory card  200 , thus effectively preventing the memory card  200  from being bent or twisted. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 4A and 4B , there is shown a memory card  300  constructed in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention. The memory card  300  of the fourth embodiment also bears substantial similarity in construction to the memory card  100  of the first embodiment, with the 300 series reference numerals in  FIGS. 4A and 4B  being used to identify the same structures identified by the corresponding 100 series reference numerals included in  FIGS. 1A-1D . 
     The memory card  300  comprises a circuit board  310 , which itself includes an insulative layer  313  defining a generally planar lower surface  311  and an opposed, generally planar upper surface  312 . Formed on the lower surface  311  of the insulative layer  313  in close proximity to one of the peripheral edge segments thereof is a plurality of input/output (I/O) pads, one of which comprises a ground pad  314 . The remaining I/O pads are signal pads used for the input and output of electrical signals. When the memory card  300  is connected to an external device  390  (as shown in  FIG. 4B ), the ground pad  314  connects the ground of the memory card  300  to a ground line to the external device  390 . Formed on the upper surface  312  of the insulative layer  313  is a conductive pattern (not shown) which is placed into electrical communication with the I/O pads on the lower surface  311  through a conductive medium (not shown) formed through and/or upon the insulative layer  313 . Such conductive medium may include conductive vias which extend through the insulative layer  313 , conductive traces which extend along the upper and lower surfaces  312 ,  311  of the insulative layer  313 , or combinations thereof. Also disposed on the upper surface  312  of the insulative layer  313  is a conductive pad  315 . The pad  315  is electrically connected to the conductive pattern, and is further electrically connected to the ground pad  314  by a conductive via  316  which extends through the insulative layer  313  of the circuit board  310 . The circuit board  310  can be a hardened printed circuit board, a flexible printed circuit board, or any equivalent thereto, the present invention not being restricted to any particular type of circuit board  310 . 
     Mounted to the upper surface  312  of the insulative layer  313  of the circuit board  310  is an electronic circuit device  320 . As best seen in  FIG. 4A , the electronic circuit device  320  comprises a semiconductor package  321  (which itself includes an internal semiconductor die) and various passive components  322 ,  323  such as a resistor and a condenser. As depicted, the passive components  322 ,  323  are each mounted to the upper surface  312  through the use of an adhesive  328 , and are electrically connected to the conductive pattern formed on the upper surface  312 . The semiconductor package  321  is itself mounted to the upper surface  312  and electrically connected to the conductive pattern thereon through the use of the conductive leads  325  of the semiconductor package  321 . As will be recognized, the conductive pattern of the circuit board  310  may be used to facilitate the placement of the components  321 ,  322 ,  323  of the electronic circuit device  320  into electrical communication with each other in any desired pattern or arrangement, and into electrical communication with the I/O pads in any desired pattern or arrangement. Those of ordinary skill in the art will further recognize that the type, number and arrangement of the components  321 ,  322 ,  323  included in the electronic circuit device  320  as shown in  FIG. 4A  is exemplary only, in that only one component or multiple components of any type may be mounted and electrically connected to the circuit board  310  in any number, combination or pattern depending on the desired application for the memory card  300 . All that is necessary is that the circuit board  310  be configured to facilitate the electrical communication between any component(s) and the I/O pads in a prescribed manner. 
     The memory card  300  further comprises a case  330  which is mounted to the circuit board  310 . The case  330  defines a recess  334  which is sized and configured to accommodate the electronic circuit device  320  mounted to the upper surface  312  of the circuit board  310  when the circuit board  310  is advanced into the lower portion of the recess  334  in the manner shown in  FIG. 4A . More particularly, a peripheral portion of the upper surface  312  of the insulative layer  313  extending along the peripheral edge thereof is secured to a stepped portion or shoulder  335  defined by the case  330  through the use of a layer of adhesive  329 . The case  330  is sized relative to the circuit board  310  such that when the insulative layer  313  is secured to the shoulder  335  via the adhesive layer  329  in the above-described manner, the generally planar rim  332  of the case  330  extends in substantially co-planar relation to the first surface  311  of the insulative layer  313 . As will be recognized, the thickness of the side walls of the case  330  can be increased as needed to provide the memory card  300  with an overall shape or profile of certain dimensions or proportions, despite a reduction in the size of the circuit board  310 . Additionally, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the recess  334  can be provided in any one of a multiplicity of differing shapes, the sole requirement being that the shape of the recess  334  correspond to and be able to accommodate the configuration of the circuit board  310  and electronic circuit device  320  mounted thereto. 
     The memory card  300  also includes an internal stiffener  340 . In the memory card  300 , the stiffener  340  is fabricated from a conductive metal such as iron, copper or aluminum. The stiffener  340  has a shape corresponding to that of the case  330 . More particularly, the stiffener  340  includes an upper plate  342  which is formed and extends within the upper portion  331  of the case  330 . As seen in  FIG. 4A , a portion of the upper plate  342  of the stiffener  340  is exposed in a window or recess  333  formed in the upper portion  331  of the case  330 . The recess  333  is preferably formed in a location which is closer to the leading edge of the case  330  (which is disposed closest to the I/O pads) than to the trailing edge thereof. In addition to the upper plate  342 , the stiffener  340  includes an opposed pair of side plates  344  which are integrally connected to and extend along respective ones of an opposed pair of sides edges of the upper plate  342 . More particularly, as seen in  FIGS. 4A and 4B , one of the side plates  344  extends along the leading edge of the case  330 , with the remaining side plate  344  extending along the opposite trailing edge of the case  330 . In the memory card  300 , portions of the side plates  344  are exposed in the shoulder  335  defined by the case  330 . In this regard, the side plate  344  which extends along the leading edge of the case  330  includes a lower, distal end  344   a  which is disposed in electrical contact with the conductive pad  315  of the circuit board  310 . 
     As seen in  FIG. 4B , the memory card  300  is inserted into the external device  390 , and is electrically connected to the external device  390  in order to transmit and receive signals. A ground line  392  is formed at an upper portion of the external device  390 , with a signal line  394  being formed at a lower portion of the external device  390 . The ground line  392  is disposed closer to the entrance port or inlet of the external device  390  than is the signal line  394 . As such, when the memory card  300  is inserted or advanced into the external device  390 , the ground pad  314  of the I/O pads of the circuit board  310  is electrically connected to the ground line  392  of the external device  390  first. More particularly, when the memory card  300  is inserted into the external device  390 , the ground line  392  makes direct, electrical contact with the stiffener  340 , and more particularly to that portion of the upper plate  342  which is exposed in upper recess  333  of the case  330 . Since the stiffener  340  is electrically connected to the ground pad  314  by the pad  315  and conductive via  316 , the ground pad  314  of the memory card  300  is thus electrically connected to the ground line  392  of the external device  390 . Therefore, in the process in which the memory card  300  is inserted into external device  390 , since any static electricity is discharged to the external device  390  through the ground pad  314  and the ground line  392 , and at least one of the I/O pads comprising a signal pad is electrically connected to the signal line  394 , the memory card  300  is prevented from being damaged by static electricity. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 5A and 5B , there is shown a memory card  400  constructed in accordance with a fifth embodiment of the present invention. The memory card  400  of the fifth embodiment bears substantial similarity and construction to the memory card  300  of the fourth embodiment, with the 400 series reference numerals in  FIGS. 5A and 5B  being used to identify the same structures identified by the corresponding 300 series reference numerals in  FIGS. 4A and 4B . In this regard, only the distinctions between the memory cards  400 ,  300  will be discussed below. 
     The case  430  of the memory card  400  is mounted to the circuit board  410  thereof. The case  430  defines a recess  434  which is sized and configured to accommodate the electronic circuit device  420  mounted to the upper surface  412  of the circuit board  410  when the circuit board  410  is advanced into the lower portion of the recess  434  in the manner shown in  FIG. 5A . More particularly, a peripheral portion of the upper surface  412  of the insulative layer  413  extending along the peripheral edge thereof is secured to a stepped portion or shoulder  435  defined by the case  430  through the use of a layer of adhesive  429 . The case  430 , and in particular the shoulder  435  defined thereby, is sized relative to the circuit board  410  such that when the insulative layer  413  is secured to the shoulder  435  via the adhesive layer  429  in the above-described manner, the generally planar rim  432  of the case  430  extends in substantially co-planar relation to the first surface  411  of the insulative layer  413 . Moreover, the shoulder  435  overlaps the pad  415  of the circuit board  410 . As will be recognized, the thickness of the side walls of the case  430  can be increased as needed to provide the memory card  400  with an overall shape or profile of certain dimensions or proportions, despite a reduction in the size of the circuit board  410 . Additionally, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the recess  434  can be provided in any one of a multiplicity of differing shapes, the sole requirement being that the shape of the recess  434  correspond to and be able to accommodate the configuration of the circuit board  410  and electronic circuit device  420  mounted thereto. 
     The case  430  of the memory card  400  further includes a penetration hole  436  which is formed between the recess  434  and the leading edge of the case  430 . As seen in  FIG. 5A , one end of the penetration hole  436  extends to the rim  432  of the case  430 . The opposite end of the penetration hole  436  extends to the stiffener  440  of the memory card  400 , and in particular to the side plate  444  of the stiffener  440  which extends along the leading edge of the case  430 . 
     The internal stiffener  440  of the memory card  400  is fabricated from a conductive metal such as iron, copper or aluminum, and has a shape corresponding to that of the case  430 . The upper plate  442  of the stiffener  440  is formed and extends within the upper portion  431  of the case  430 . The opposed pair of side plates  444  of the stiffener  440  are integrally connected to and extend along respective ones of an opposed pair of sides edges of the upper plate  442 . As indicated above, one of the side plates  444  extends along the leading edge of the case  430 . The remaining side plate  444  extends along the opposite trailing edge of the case  430 . In the memory card  400 , portions of the side plates  444  are exposed in the shoulder  435  defined by the case  430 . In this regard, the side plate  444  which extends along the leading edge of the case  430  includes a lower, distal end  444   a  which is disposed in electrical contact with the conductive pad  415  of the circuit board  410 . 
     Disposed within the penetration hole  436  of the case  430  is a connecting terminal  450  which is fabricated from a conductive metal material. One end of the connecting terminal  450  is electrically connected to the stiffener  430 , and more particularly to the side plate  444  thereof which extends along the leading edge of the case  430 . The opposite end of the connecting terminal  450  extends to the rim  432  of the case  430 , and is electrically connected to a terminal pad  452  which is formed on the rim  432  in close proximity to the leading edge of the case  430  as seen in  FIG. 5A . 
     As seen in  FIG. 5B , the memory card  400  is inserted into the external device  490 , and is electrically connected to the external device  490  in order to transmit and receive signals. A ground line  492  and a signal line (not shown) are each formed at a lower portion of the external device  490 . When the memory card  400  is inserted or advanced into the external device  490 , the terminal pad  452  is electrically connected to the ground line  492  of the external device  490  first. Since the stiffener  440  is electrically connected to the terminal pad  452  by the connecting terminal  450 , the ground pad  414  of the memory card  400  is thus electrically connected to the ground line  492  of the external device  490  by the conductive via  416 , the pad  415 , the stiffener  440 , the connecting terminal  450  and the terminal pad  452 . Therefore, in the process in which the memory card  400  is inserted into external device  490 , since any static electricity is discharged to the external device  490  through the ground pad  414  and the ground line  492  before any one of the I/O pads comprising a signal pad is electrically connected to a signal line of the external device  490 , the memory card  400  is prevented from being damaged by static electricity. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 6 , there is shown a memory card  500  constructed in accordance with a sixth embodiment of the present invention. The memory card  500  of the sixth embodiment also bears substantial similarity in construction to the memory card  300  of the fourth embodiment, with the 500 series reference numerals in  FIG. 6  being used to identify the same structures identified by the corresponding 300 series reference numerals included in  FIGS. 4A and 4B . In this regard, only the distinctions between the memory cards  500 ,  300  will be discussed below. 
     In the memory card  500 , the internal stiffener  540  of the case  530  is fabricated from a conductive metal such as iron, copper or aluminum. The stiffener  540  has a shape corresponding to that of the case  530 . More particularly, the stiffener  540  includes an upper plate  542  which is formed and extends within the upper portion  531  of the case  530 . As seen in  FIG. 6 , a portion of the upper plate  542  of the stiffener  540  is exposed in the recess  533  formed in the upper portion  531  of the case  530 . The recess  533  is preferably formed in a location which is closer to the leading edge of the case  530  (which is disposed closest to the I/O pads) than to the trailing edge thereof. In addition to the upper plate  542 , the stiffener  540  includes an opposed pair of side plates  544  which are integrally connected to and extend along respective ones of an opposed pair of sides edges of the upper plate  542 . One of the side plates  544  extends along the leading edge of the case  530 , with the remaining side plate  544  extending along the opposite trailing edge of the case  530 . In the memory card  500 , portions of the side plates  544  are exposed in the shoulder  535  defined by the case  530 . In this regard, the side plate  544  which extends along the leading edge of the case  530  includes a lower, distal end  544   a  which is disposed adjacent the conductive pad  515  of the circuit board  310 . Disposed within the side plate  544  which extends along the leading edge of the case  530  is a resilient member  545  which preferably comprises a spring. The resilient member  545  is itself fabricated from a conductive metal such as iron, copper or aluminum. A predetermined portion of the resilient member  545  protrudes from the distal end  544   a  of the corresponding side plate  544 . 
     When the circuit board  510  of the memory card  500  is advanced into the lower portion of the recess  534  of the case  530  in the manner shown in  FIG. 6 , a peripheral portion of the upper surface  512  of the insulative layer  513  extending along the peripheral edge thereof is secured to the shoulder  535  defined by the case  530  through the use of the layer of adhesive  529 . Upon the insulative layer  513  being secured to the shoulder  535  via the adhesive layer  529 , the generally planar rim  532  of the case  530  extends in substantially co-planar relation to the first surface  511  of the insulative layer  513 , with the resilient member  545  (and hence the stiffener  540 ) being in electrical contact with the conductive pad  515  of the circuit board  510  which is itself electrically connected to the ground pad  514  by the via  516 . Advantageously, the inclusion of the resilient member  545  in the side plate  544  provides firm electrical contact between the stiffener  540  and the pad  515  of the circuit board  510 , thus substantially ensuring electrical communication between the ground pad  514  and the ground line of the external device when the memory card  500  is inserted into the external device, and preventing the memory card  500  from being damaged by static electricity. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 7A and 7B , there is shown a memory card  600  constructed in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the present invention. The memory card  600  of the seventh embodiment bears substantial similarity in construction to the memory card  100  of the first embodiment, with the 600 series reference numerals in  FIGS. 7A and 7B  being used to identify the same structures identified by the corresponding 100 series reference numerals included in  FIGS. 1A-1D . In this regard, only the distinctions between the memory cards  600 ,  100  will be discussed below. 
     The memory card  600  comprises a case  630  which is mounted to the circuit board  610 . The case  630  includes an upper plate  630   a  which defines the upper portion  631  thereof, and multiple side plates  630   b  which are integrally connected to the upper plate  630   a . The case  630  also has a plate-like shape of predetermined thickness, and defines a recess  634  which is sized and configured to accommodate the electronic circuit device  620  mounted to the upper surface  612  of the circuit board  610  when the circuit board  610  is advanced into the lower portion of the recess  634  in the manner shown in  FIG. 7B . More particularly, the peripheral portion of the upper surface  612  of the insulative layer  613  extending along the peripheral edge thereof is secured to the shoulder  635  defined by the case  630  through the use of the layer of adhesive  629 . The case  630  is sized relative to the circuit board  610  such that when the insulative layer  613  is secured to the shoulder  635  via the adhesive layer  629  in the above-described manner, the generally planar rim  632  of the case  630  (which is defined by the side plates  630   b ) extends in substantially co-planar relation to the first surface  611  of the insulative layer  613 . As will be recognized, the thickness of the side plates  630   b  of the case  630  can be increased as needed to provide the memory card  600  with an overall shape or profile of certain dimensions or proportions, despite a reduction in the size of the circuit board  610 . Additionally, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the recess  634  can be provided in any one of a multiplicity of differing shapes, the sole requirement being that the shape of the recess  634  correspond to and be able to accommodate the configuration of the circuit board  610  and electronic circuit device  620  mounted thereto. 
     As further seen in  FIGS. 7A and 7B , the case  630  of the memory card  600  includes an internal stiffener  640 . The stiffener  640  comprises a plurality of elongate, cylindrically configured support bars which each have a generally circular cross-sectional configuration and are preferably of substantially equal length. The support bars are each embedded within the upper plate  630   a  of the case  630 , and extend in spaced, generally parallel relation to each other and to the leading and trailing edges (i.e., the front and back side plates  630   b ) of the case  630 . The spacing between the support bars is preferably at predetermined intervals. It is contemplated that the support bars of the stiffener  640  can be fabricated of various materials, including a metal such as an iron alloy, a copper alloy, a nickel alloy or an aluminum alloy, or a plastic which is of a strength stronger than the resin used to form the case  630 . Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the material of the stiffener  640  is not limited to these particular examples, with any one of various materials having a mechanical strength stronger than that of the case  630  being suitable for use in relation to the stiffener  640 . Thus, the stiffener  640  can be formed of any suitable material according to the mechanical strength required in the memory card  600 . Since the stiffener  640  is formed of a material having a mechanical strength stronger than the case  630 , the stiffener  640  effectively increases the mechanical strength of the case  630 . As a result, the mechanical strength of the memory card  600  is increased due to the stiffener  640 , the memory card  600  therefore being able to satisfy a bending test or a twist test without a separate encapsulant layer being applied to the electronic circuit device  620  and located underneath the case  630  within the recess  634 . 
     In the memory card  600 , the lengths of the support bars of the stiffener  640  are less than the width of the upper plate  630   a  (i.e., the distance between the outer surfaces of the longitudinally extending sides plates  630   b  of the case  630  extending generally perpendicularly from the trailing edge or back side plate  630   b ), with the diameters of the support bars being less than the thickness of the upper plate  630   a  as seen in  FIG. 7B . As a result, the support bars are not exposed in the case  630 , and in particular the upper plate  630   a  thereof. The desirability of preventing the exposure of the stiffener  640  in the case  630  is particularly significant in those instances wherein the stiffener  640  is made of a conductive metal material. In this regard, any exposure to the conductive metal stiffener  640  to the inside of the recess  634  could potentially damage the electronic circuit device  620  residing in the recess  634 , or could induce an electrical short. Further, any protrusion or exposure of a support bar of the stiffener  640  to the outside of the case  630  could result in the generation of an electrical short between the memory card  600  and an external device when the memory card  600  is inserted into such external device, or could impede the ability to insert the memory card into the external device. 
     It is further contemplated that the support bars of the stiffener  640  can be fabricated to be of shapes differing from the generally cylindrical shape shown in  FIGS. 7A and 7B , and may be provided in a number differing from the nine depicted. For example, the support bars may have quadrangular or triangular cross-sectional configurations, or may be provided in combinations of various configurations. The sole requirement is that the support bars of the stiffener  640  are sized relative to the upper plate  630   a  so as not to be exposed therein for the reasons discussed above. Moreover, the case  630  may alternatively be fabricated such that the support bars of the stiffener  640  extend in spaced, generally parallel relation to the longitudinally extending side plates  630   b  of the case  630  extending generally perpendicularly from the trailing edge or back side plate  630   b , as opposed to extending in generally perpendicular relation to such longitudinally extending sides plates  630   b.    
     Referring now to  FIG. 8 , there is shown a memory card  700  constructed in accordance with a eighth embodiment of the present invention. The memory card  700  of the eighth embodiment bears similarity in construction to the memory card  600  of the seventh embodiment, with the 700 series reference numerals in  FIG. 8  being used to identify the same structures identified by the corresponding 600 series reference numerals included in  FIGS. 7A and 7B . In this regard, only the distinctions between the memory cards  700 ,  600  will be discussed below. 
     As seen in  FIG. 8 , the case  730  of the memory card  700  includes an internal stiffener  740 . The stiffener  740  comprises at least two support bars of predetermined size and shape which are each embedded within respective ones of the front and back side plates  730   b  of the case  730 . It is contemplated that the support bars of the stiffener  740  can be fabricated of any suitable material having a mechanical strength stronger than the case  730  so as effectively increases the mechanical strength of the case  730 . 
     In the memory card  700 , the support bars of the stiffener  740  each preferably have a column like shape with a cross-sectional configuration generally corresponding to that of the front and back side plates  730   b  of the case  730  in which they are embedded. In this regard, the width of the each of the support bars of the stiffener  740  is less than the width of the upper plate  730   a  (i.e., the distance between the outer surfaces of the longitudinally extending sides plates  730   b  of the case  730  extending generally perpendicularly from the trailing edge or back side plate  730   b ) such that the support bars are not exposed in the case  730 , and in particular the outer surfaces of any of the side plates  730   b  thereof. 
     It is contemplated that the support bars of the stiffener  740  can be fabricated to be of shapes differing from that shown in  FIG. 8 . The sole requirement is that the support bars of the stiffener  740  are sized relative to the case  730  so as not to be exposed therein. Moreover, the case  730  may alternatively be fabricated such that an additional two support bars of the stiffener  740  are embedded within respective ones of the longitudinally extending side plates  730   b  of the case  730  extending generally perpendicularly from the trailing edge or back side plate  730   b.    
     Referring now to  FIG. 9 , there is shown a memory card  800  constructed in accordance with a ninth embodiment of the present invention. The memory card  800  of the ninth embodiment bears similarity in construction to the memory card  700  of the eighth embodiment, with the 800 series reference numerals in  FIG. 9  being used to identify the same structures identified by the corresponding 700 series reference numerals included in  FIG. 8 . In this regard, only the distinctions between the memory cards  800 ,  700  will be discussed below. 
     As seen in  FIG. 9 , the case  830  of the memory card  800  includes an internal stiffener  840 . The stiffener  840  comprises at least two support bars of predetermined size and shape which are each partially embedded within respective ones of the front and back side plates  830   b  of the case  830 . The support bars of the stiffener  840  are each further partially embedded with the upper plate  830   a  of the case  830 . As such, the support bars generally reside and extend within those portions of the case  830  which define the junction between the upper plate  830   a  and side plates  830   b . It is contemplated that the support bars of the stiffener  840  can be fabricated of any suitable material having a mechanical strength stronger than the case  830  so as effectively increases the mechanical strength of the case  830 . 
     In the memory card  800 , the support bars of the stiffener  840  each preferably have a generally cylindrical shape with a generally circular cross-sectional configuration. The width of the each of the support bars of the stiffener  840  is less than the width of the upper plate  830   a  (i.e., the distance between the outer surfaces of the longitudinally extending sides plates  830   b  of the case  830  extending generally perpendicularly from the trailing edge or back side plate  830   b ), with the diameter being sized such that, based on the width thereof, the support bars are not exposed in the case  830 . 
     It is contemplated that the support bars of the stiffener  840  can be fabricated to be of shapes differing from that shown in  FIG. 8 . For example, the support bars may have quadrangular or triangular cross-sectional configurations, or may be provided in combinations of various configurations. The sole requirement is that the support bars of the stiffener  840  are sized relative to the case  830  so as not to be exposed therein. Moreover, the case  830  may alternatively be fabricated such that an additional two support bars of the stiffener  840  are embedded in the case  830  within the junction between the upper plate  830   a  and respective ones of the longitudinally extending sides plates  830   b  extending generally perpendicularly from the trailing edge or back side plate  830   b.    
     Referring now to  FIG. 10 , there is shown a memory card  900  constructed in accordance with a tenth embodiment of the present invention. The memory card  900  of the tenth embodiment bears similarity in construction to the memory card  800  of the ninth embodiment, with the 900 series reference numerals in  FIG. 10  being used to identify the same structures identified by the corresponding 800 series reference numerals included in  FIG. 9 . In this regard, only the distinctions between the memory cards  900 ,  800  will be discussed below. 
     As seen in  FIG. 10 , the upper portion  931  of the case  930  includes an integral pair of elongate, bar-like protrusions  939  which extend along the underside thereof in spaced, generally parallel relation to each other and to the front and back side plates  930   b  of the case  930 . As such, the protrusions  939  reside in the recess  934  defined by the case  930 . Each of the protrusions  939  has a generally quadrangular cross-sectional configuration, and is formed to be of a prescribed height which is adapted not to interfere with the electronic circuit device  920  when the circuit board  910  is attached to the case  930  (i.e., the peripheral portion of the upper surface  912  of the insulative layer  913  extending along the peripheral edge thereof is secured to the shoulder  935  defined by the case  930  through the use of the layer of adhesive  929 ). The protrusions  939  are further sized to span the width of the recess  934 , and are spaced from each other at a predetermined interval. 
     The memory card  900  also includes an internal stiffener  940 . The stiffener  940  comprises at least two support bars of predetermined size and shape which are each embedded and extend within a respective one of the protrusions  939 . Though not shown in  FIG. 10 , it is contemplated that the support bars of the stiffener  940  may be sized so as to extend slightly into the upper plate  930   a  of the case  930 . It is contemplated that the support bars of the stiffener  940  can be fabricated of any suitable material having a mechanical strength stronger than the case  930  so as effectively increases the mechanical strength of the case  930 . 
     In the memory card  900 , the support bars of the stiffener  940  each preferably have a generally cylindrical shape with a generally circular cross-sectional configuration. The width of the each of the support bars of the stiffener  940  is less than the width of the upper plate  930   a  (i.e., the distance between the outer surfaces of the longitudinally extending sides plates  930   b  of the case  930  extending generally perpendicularly from the trailing edge or back side plate  930   b ), with the diameter being sized such that, based on the width thereof, the support bars are not exposed in the case  930 . 
     It is contemplated that the support bars of the stiffener  940  can be fabricated to be of shapes differing from that shown in  FIG. 10 . For example, the support bars may have quadrangular or triangular cross-sectional configurations, or may be provided in combinations of various configurations. The sole requirement is that the support bars of the stiffener  940  are sized relative to the case  930  so as not to be exposed therein. Moreover, the case  930  may alternatively be fabricated such that more than two protrusions  939  and corresponding support bars of the stiffener  940  are included therein. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 11 , there is shown a memory card  1000  constructed in accordance with an eleventh embodiment of the present invention. The memory card  1000  of the eleventh embodiment bears similarity in construction to the memory card  900  of the tenth embodiment, with the 1000 series reference numerals in  FIG. 11  being used to identify the same structures identified by the corresponding 900 series reference numerals included in  FIG. 10 . In this regard, only the distinctions between the memory cards  900 ,  800  will be discussed below. 
     As seen in  FIG. 11 , in the memory card  1000 , the electronic circuit device  1020  attached to the upper surface  1012  of the insulative layer  1013  of the circuit board  1010  is covered by a body  1028  formed of a hardened layer of an encapsulant material. The upper portion  1031  of the case  1030  includes an integral pair of elongate, bar-like protrusions  1039  which extend along the underside thereof in spaced, generally parallel relation to each other and to the front and back side plates  1030   b  of the case  1030 . Each of the protrusions  1039  has a generally quadrangular cross-sectional configuration, and is formed to be of a prescribed height which is sized such that the outermost, distal surfaces of the protrusions  1039  contact the generally planar top surface of the body  1028  when the circuit board  1010  is attached to the case  1030  (i.e., the peripheral portion of the upper surface  1012  of the insulative layer  1013  extending along the peripheral edge thereof is secured to the shoulder  1035  defined by the case  1030  through the use of the layer of adhesive  1029 ) in the manner shown in  FIG. 11 . The protrusions  1039  are further sized to span the width of the recess  1034 , and are spaced from each other at a predetermined interval. 
     In the memory card  1000 , an adhesive layer  1050  is coated onto the top surface of the body  1028 . The adhesive layer  1050  is further bonded to the underside of the upper portion  1031  of the case  1030  which defines the innermost surface of the recess  1034 . The adhesive layer  1050  is preferably formed of a liquid glue. Since that surface of the body  1028  to which the adhesive layer  1050  is applied is generally planar, the flow of the liquid glue of the adhesive layer  1050  is not hampered. Thus, if the liquid glue is sufficiently coated on such surface, the glue will flow substantially uniformly thereon. Further, since the adhesive layer  1050  eliminates the need for the use a film type of adhesive which is relatively expensive, the memory card  1000  can be manufactured at a reduced cost. 
     The memory card  1000  also includes an internal stiffener  1040 . The stiffener  1040  comprises at least two support bars of predetermined size and shape which are each embedded and extend within a respective one of the protrusions  1039 . As shown in  FIG. 11 , the support bars of the stiffener  1040  may be sized so as to extend slightly into the upper plate  1030   a  of the case  1030 . It is contemplated that the support bars of the stiffener  1040  can be fabricated of any suitable material having a mechanical strength stronger than the case  1030  so as effectively increases the mechanical strength of the case  1030 . 
     In the memory card  1000 , the support bars of the stiffener  1040  each preferably have a generally cylindrical shape with a generally circular cross-sectional configuration. The width of the each of the support bars of the stiffener  1040  is less than the width of the upper plate  1030   a  (i.e., the distance between the outer surfaces of the longitudinally extending sides plates  1030   b  of the case  1030  extending generally perpendicularly from the trailing edge or back side plate  1030   b ), with the diameter being sized such that, based on the width thereof, the support bars are not exposed in the case  1030 . 
     It is contemplated that the support bars of the stiffener  1040  can be fabricated to be of shapes differing from that shown in  FIG. 11 . For example, the support bars may have quadrangular or triangular cross-sectional configurations, or may be provided in combinations of various configurations. The sole requirement is that the support bars of the stiffener  1040  are sized relative to the case  1030  so as not to be exposed therein. Moreover, the case  1030  may alternatively be fabricated such that more than two protrusions  1039  and corresponding support bars of the stiffener  1040  are included therein. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 12 , there is shown a memory card  1100  constructed in accordance with a twelfth embodiment of the present invention. The memory card  1100  of the twelfth embodiment bears substantial similarity in construction to the memory card  100  of the first embodiment, with the 1100 series reference numerals in  FIG. 12  being used to identify the same structures identified by the corresponding 100 series reference numerals included in  FIGS. 1A-1D . In this regard, only the distinctions between the memory cards  100   a ,  100  will be discussed below. 
     In the memory card  1100 , in addition to the case  1130  being secured to the circuit board  1110 , a cover  1160  is secured to the circuit board  1110  as well. As seen in  FIG. 12 , the cover  1160  has a substantially plate-like shape, and includes a second stiffener  1165  embedded therein. The cover  1160  is preferably formed of a material which is the same or similar to that used to fabricate the case  1130 , and is bonded and fixed to portions of the lower rim  1132  of the case  1130  and the lower surface  1111  of the insulative layer  1113  of the circuit board  1110 . Thus, the cover  1160  prevents at least a portion of the circuit board  1110  from being exposed in the completed memory card  1100 . Thus, the cover  1160  assists in preventing any damage to the circuit board  1110  during use of the memory card  1100 . 
     The second stiffener  1165  itself has a substantially plate-like shape which is complementary to that of the cover  1160 , but is sized having an area less than that of the cover  1160  so as not to be exposed in the cover  1160  when embedded therein. The second stiffener  1165  is also formed of a material having a strength stronger than that of the cover  1160 , and preferably the same material used to form the stiffener  1140  embedded within the case  1130 . As will be recognized, the second stiffener  1165  reinforces the strength of the cover  1160 , thereby reinforcing the strength of the memory card  1100 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 13 , there is shown a memory card  1200  constructed in accordance with a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention. Many of the components included in the memory card  1200  are the same as those included in the memory card  100  of the first embodiment, with the 1200 series reference numerals included in  FIG. 13  being used to identify the same structures identified by the corresponding 100 series reference numerals included in  FIGS. 1A-1D . 
     The memory card  1200  shown in  FIG. 13  is commonly referred to as a chip array land grid array MMC (CALGA MMC). The circuit board  1210  of the memory card  1200  includes an insulative layer  1213  having opposed, generally planar lower and upper surfaces  1211 ,  1212 . Performed on the lower surface  1211  along one of the peripheral edge segments defined by the insulative layer  1213  is a plurality of I/O pads  1214 . Formed on the upper surface  1212  of the insulative layer  1213  is a conductive pattern (not shown) which is placed into electrical communication with the I/O pads  1214  on the lower surface  1211  through a conductive medium (not shown) formed through and/or upon the insulative layer  1213 . Such conductive medium may include conductive vias which extend through the insulative layer  1213 , conductive traces which extend along the upper and lower surfaces  1212 ,  1211  of the insulative layer  1213 , or combinations thereof. 
     Mounted to the upper surface  1212  of the insulative layer  1213  of the circuit board  1210  is an electronic circuit device  1220 . The electronic circuit device  1220  is electrically connected to the conductive pattern of the circuit board  1210  through the use of conductive wires  1215 . Additionally, the electronic circuit device  1220  is covered or encapsulated by a body  1228  formed from a layer of a hardened encapsulant material. The circuit board  1210 , electronic circuit device  1220 , wires  1215  and body  1228  collectively form a module of the memory card  1200 . 
     The memory card  1200  further includes a case  1230  which has a block-like shape of predetermined thickness and area. The case  1230  includes a lower surface  1232  and an upper surface which is defined by the upper portion  1231  of the case  1230 . As shown in  FIG. 13 , formed in the upper surface defined by the upper portion  1231  of the case  1230  is a recess  1237  which is sized and configured to accommodate a label. Formed in the lower surface  1232  of the case  1230  in close proximity to one of the side surfaces thereof is a recess  1234  which is sized and configured to accommodate the above-described module. In this regard, the depth of the recess  1234  is preferably sized such that the lower surface  1211  of the insulative layer  1213  of the circuit board  1210  is substantially flush or continuous with the lower surface  1232  of the case  1230  when the module is fully inserted into the recess  1234 . Since the module is offset toward the front side or leading edge of the case  1230 , a solid portion  1236  of the case  1230  is defined between the module and the backside or trailing edge of the case  1230 . 
     In the memory card  1200 , the case  1230  is typically formed of an organic material such as plastic, and thus is relatively weak and generally incapable of passing a bending or memory card twist test. To alleviate this problem, embedded in the case  1230  is a stiffener  1240 . The stiffener  1240  includes an upper plate  1242  which extends within the upper portion  1231  of the case  1230 . In addition to the upper plate  1242 , the stiffener  1240  includes an opposed pair of side plates  1244  which extend along respective ones of an opposed pair of side edges of the upper plate  1242 . More particularly, as seen in  FIG. 13 , one of the side plates  1244  extends along the leading edge of the case  1230 , with the remaining side plate  1244  extending along the opposite trailing edge of the case  1230 . The stiffener  1240  is sized relative to the case  1230  such that no portion of the stiffener  1240  is exposed in the case  1230 . Due to the inclusion of the stiffener  1240  in the case  1230 , the strength of the memory card  1200  is substantially improved, thus rising to a level sufficient to satisfy typical bending test and twist test requirements. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 14 , there is shown a memory card  1300  constructed in accordance with a fourteenth embodiment of the present invention. The memory card  1300  of the fourteenth embodiment bears substantial similarity in construction to the memory card  1200  of the thirteenth embodiment, with the 1300 series reference numerals in  FIG. 14  being used to identify the same structures identified by the corresponding 1200 series reference numerals included in  FIG. 13 . In this regard, only the distinctions between the memory cards  1300 ,  1200  will be discussed below. 
     In the memory card  1300 , the stiffener  1340  comprises an upper stiffener  1342  which is formed in the interior of the upper portion  1331  of the case  1330 , and a lower stiffener  1344  which is formed in the interior of the lower, solid portion  1336  of the case  1330  extending between the backside or trailing edge of the case  1330  and the recess  1334 . The upper stiffener  1342  has a plate-like configuration, and is of a thickness which is less than the distance separating the upper surface of the case  1330  defined by the upper portion  1331  thereof from the recess  1334 . As seen in  FIG. 14 , the upper stiffener  1342  may include upwardly extending flange portions  1346  which are used to effectively increase the strength/rigidity thereof. The lower stiffener  1344  has a substantially block-like shape, and is embedded within the solid portion  1336  of the case  1330  described above. The lower stiffener  1344  is separated from the upper stiffener  1342  by a predetermined distance, and extends in generally parallel relation to the upper stiffener  1342 . 
     This disclosure provides exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The scope of the present invention is not limited by these exemplary embodiments. Numerous variations, whether explicitly provided for by the specification or implied by the specification, such as variations in structure, dimension, type of material and manufacturing process, may be implemented by one skilled in the art in view of this disclosure.