Patent Publication Number: US-6217351-B1

Title: Adaptor module configured to be attached to a communication card

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention generally relates to electrical connectors and, in particular, to connectors for electrically coupling electrical devices and/or communication equipment to a computer. 
     2. Description of Related Art 
     Computers are widely used to perform a variety of different tasks and functions, and computers are frequently connected to other computers via communication systems and computer networks to allow information to be easily obtained and transmitted. In addition, portable computers are becoming more widely used because of their small size and easy portability. For example, portable computers are often used in the office and from airplanes, automobiles, hotels, home offices, etc. Therefore, there is a demand for reliable devices that allow portable computers to be connected to various computer systems and communication networks. Accordingly, a variety of different types of known electrical couplers have been developed to connect computers to various communication systems and computer networks. In general, these electrical couplers include a plug that is inserted into a corresponding jack. The jack typically includes an aperture or socket and an electrical connection is established when the plug is inserted into the jack. 
     Known electrical couplers are frequently designed for use with cards made according to specifications set forth by the Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA). These cards made in accordance with the PCMCIA specifications, often referred to as PC cards, provide compatibility between different types of computers and compute r manufacturers. As known, PC cards are typically inserted into corresponding slots or openings in a computer and the cards are electrically connected to the computer by a connector. Additionally, PC cards can be designed to perform various functions and a circuit board located within each card provides the necessary circuitry to perform the intended function. 
     Conventional PC cards have a thin, elongated rectangular body that is inserted into a corresponding slot in the computer. In particular, PC cards have a width of 54.0 mm, a length of 85.6 mm and a height that is dependant upon the type of card. For example, a Type I PC card has a height of 3.3 mm, a Type II PC card has a height of 5.0 mm and a Type III PC card has a height of 10.5 mm. Because PC cards only differ in height, a thinner card can be used in a thicker slot, but a thicker card cannot be used in a thinner slot. Additionally, PC cards have a 68-pin connector located at one end of the body and the connector is configured to be electrically coupled to the computer. The other end of the PC card typically includes an I/O connector configured to be coupled to communication system. 
     PC cards are frequently used because they allow a user to quickly and easily link a computer to a telephone system. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, a conventional adaptor assembly  10  is used to connect a telephone line  12  to a portable computer  14 . The adaptor assembly  10  includes an electrical connector plug  16  that is inserted into an I/O connector of a PC card  20  and a line  22  connects an external module  24  to the connector plug  16 . The external module  24  includes a housing  26  with an aperture  28  configured to receive an RJ-11 telephone jack  30  connected to an end of the telephone line  12 . Disposed within the PC card  20  is a printed circuit board (PCB) that provides the necessary circuitry to perform the intended function of the PC card. 
     Disadvantageously, the conventional adaptor assembly  10  is awkward to use because it requires the use of both the PC card  20  and the separate external structure including the plug  16 , line  22  and module  24  (frequently referred to as the “dongle”). If the dongle is lost or damaged, connection to the telephone line cannot be established. Thus, a new dongle must be purchased or the damaged dongle repaired, and this results in unnecessary delay and expense. Additionally, because the dongle is separate from the PC card, it requires additional space and it is susceptible to being dislodged from the computer. Further, the dongle is aesthetically displeasing and it is frequently damaged or broken because it extends outwardly from the body of the computer. 
     As shown in FIG. 2, another conventional device used for connecting a PC card to a telephone line is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,183,404 issued to Aldous, et al. and assigned to the same assignee as the present application. The Aldous patent, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, discloses a PC card  32  with a slidable thin plate  34 . The plate  34  includes an aperture  36  adapted to receive a telephone jack and a plurality of contact pins  38 . Each contact pin  38  has a first end that is freely exposed within the aperture and an opposed second end that is mounted to the thin plate  34 . A first end of a flexible wire ribbon is connected to the second end of the contact pins and an opposing second end of the wire ribbon is connected to a circuit board within the PC card  32 . The thin plate  34  is movable between an extended position and a retracted position. In the extended position, as shown in accompanying FIG. 2, the aperture  36  is exposed such that an RJ-11 telephone plug can be inserted. The plug (not shown) pushes against the contact pins  38  to establish electrical communication between the plug, contact pins, flexible wire ribbon and the PC card. When not in use, the plug is removed from the aperture  36  and thin plate  34  is retracted within the PC card  32 . 
     As shown in FIG. 3, another known device used to attach a standard telephone jack to a PC card is disclosed in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/271,620, filed Mar. 17, 1999, listing Oliphant, et al. as inventors and assigned to the same assignee as the present application. The Oliphant application, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, discloses a PC card  40  with a physical/electrical modular connector  42  that is configured to physically and electrically couple an RJ-11 telephone jack to the PC card. More specifically, the physical/electrical modular connector  42  includes a jack  44  that is mounted to a slide plate  46  which is movable between an extended position wherein an aperture  48  is configured to receive a telephone plug and a retracted position wherein the slide plate is positioned within the PC card  40 . The jack  44  includes a number of contact pins  50  that are configured to be electrically connected to a telephone plug inserted into the aperture  48 . The contact pins  50  are electrically connected to the PC card  40  when the jack is in the extended position and the pins are insulated from electrical connection with the PC card when the jack is in the retracted position. 
     A conventional device used to connect a PC card to a telephone line is also disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,509,811 issued to Homic. The Homic patent discloses an RJ-11 telephone socket that is physically and electrically connected to a PCMCIA modem card which is recessed a predetermined distance “X” within the computer housing. The telephone socket and the modem card are mechanically and physically connected by a connector block. The connector block includes a body portion that is mounted flush to the exterior surface of the computer enclosure and an end cap which protrudes downwardly and outwardly from the body portion. The end cap has a thickness “X” that is the same as the predetermined distance “X” that the modem card is recessed into the computer so that the exterior surface of the modem card is flush with the outer surface of the computer housing. Disadvantageously, this device requires that the modem card be recessed a predetermined distance “X” inside the body of the computer and it allows only a single RJ-11 telephone jack to be connected to the modem card. Thus, the modem assembly cannot be coupled to other type of connectors or communication systems. Additionally, because the RJ-11 telephone socket is integrally connected to the modem card and both the modem card and the connector block are recessed inside the computer, neither the modem card nor socket is readily repairable or replaceable. 
     Another conventional device used to connect a PC card to a telephone line is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,608,607 issued to Dittmer. The Dittmer patent discloses a structure this is inserted into dual PCMCIA card slots. The structure includes an attachment section that is removably connected to the PCMCIA card and a support body that is secured to the attachment section. The attachment section has a shape similar to the PCMCIA card and this section is positioned in a parallel, facing and closely adjacent relationship with the PCMCIA card. The Dittmer patent, however, only discloses a socket for a standard RJ-11 telephone plug and a socket for a standard cellular telephone connector plug in the attachment section. Thus, the usefulness of the device is limited because it can only be connected to a conventional telephone system or a cellular telephone system by standard plugs. 
     As shown in FIG. 4, yet another conventional device used to connect a PC card to a telephone line is an adaptable communication connector disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,773,332 issued to Glad. The communication connector disclosed in the Glad patent includes a communications card with the dimensions and configuration of a Type III PC card. The communication card  52  includes two sockets  54  and  56  with T-shaped cutout sections  58  and  60 , respectively, located in the upper surface of the card  52 . These cutout sections  58  and  60  are sized and configured to engage the biased clip  62  and ridge  64  of a conventional RJ-type communication plug  66 . Disadvantageously, the cutout sections  58  and  60  are sized and configured to receive only conventional RJ-type communication plugs and the card cannot be reconfigured to be coupled to other types of communication systems. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     A need therefore exists for an adaptor module that provides access to various computer systems and communication networks without the above-described disadvantages and problems. 
     One aspect of the present invention is an adaptor module that provides reliable, easy-to-use access to various computer systems and communication networks. Advantageously, the adaptor module can be used with different types of connectors to provide access to various communication systems such as conventional telephone systems, local area networks (LANs), Ethernet, cellular telephones, wireless networks, and other suitable networks and systems. 
     Another aspect is an adaptor module that allows communication to be established between a computer and two or more communication systems. For example, the adaptor module may provide an interface that allows communication with a telephone network and/or a LAN to be established. In particular, the module may include an RJ-11 jack for connection to a telephone network and an RJ-45 jack for connection to a LAN. The adaptor module may also include other types of connectors such as multiple pin interfaces and/or universal serial buses (USBs) to allow electrical communication with various peripheral devices or communication systems to be established. Alternatively, the adaptor module may include two or more connectors that are connectable to the same or different types of communication systems. Advantageously, the adaptor module can provide simultaneous communication with two or more communication systems. 
     Still another aspect is an adaptor module that provides an interface for use with electronic devices such as a personal computers (PCs), portable computers, laptop computers, notebook computers and palmtop computers. The adaptor module can also be used with other types of electronic devices such as cellular telephones, personal data assistants (PDAs), personal information managers (PIMs) and the like. 
     Yet another aspect is an adaptor module that is releasably attached to a PC card by one or more clips. The clips may be positioned in any desired location and the clips permit, for example, one adaptor module to be easily interchanged with another module having a different configuration. In a preferred embodiment, the clips include one or more extensions that are releasably connected to one or more corresponding apertures. The extensions and apertures, for example, may be located on the front and back surface or sides of the adaptor module and PC card. 
     Advantageously, if an adaptor module is not attached to the PC card, the PC card functions as a regular PC card. Thus, the PC card can perform its normal functions and known cables and other types of connectors can be used to connect the PC card to communication systems such as LANs, modems, etc. On the other hand, if the adaptor module is attached to the PC card, the adaptor module provides additional circuitry and connectors to permit additional features and functions to be performed. Desirably, the host computer recognizes if the adaptor module is attached to the PC card and the computer determines the configuration and capabilities of the adaptor module and PC card assembly. 
     A further aspect is an adaptor module that is permanently or integrally attached to a PC card to form a one-piece unit. Advantageously, the one-piece unit is easy to use because it can be simply inserted into PC card slot in a computer. Additionally, the integral unit has no moving parts to break and it is fully integrated for convenience. Further, the adaptor module and PC card may contained within a single housing and the electrical components may be directly connected. 
     Another aspect is an adaptor module that can be inserted into standard sized PC card slots in a computer. In particular, the PC card is preferably a Type II card and the adaptor module preferably has dimensions that are the same as or smaller than a Type II PC card. Thus, the connected adaptor module and PC card are preferably sized and configured to be inserted into dual or aligned Type II PC card slots or a Type III PC card slot. Alternatively, all or a portion of the adaptor module may be located external to the PC card slot and/or computer. For example, the adaptor module may be hingably attached to the PC card and the adaptor module may be located exterior to the PC card slot, or the adaptor may be spaced from the PC card and interconnected by a cable. 
     Yet another aspect is an adaptor module with a connector on a lower surface which is configured to be electrically coupled to a connector on an upper surface of a PC card. In particular, the lower surface of the adaptor module includes one or more contacts such as spring pins or surface pads which are configured to engage one or more contacts such as fingers or extensions on the upper surface of the PC card to establish electrical communication. Advantageously, the connectors on the adaptor module and PC card can be any suitable type of male/female connects that allow electrical communication to be established between the adaptor module and PC card. Alternatively, the contacts could be positioned on an upper surface of the adaptor module and on the lower surface of the PC card. Additionally, the adaptor module may include one or more contacts that are configured to be electrically coupled to contacts on a front surface of a PC card. 
     Another aspect is an adaptor module that includes one or more indicators, such as incandescent lights or light emitting diodes (LED), that indicate use or mode of operation of the adaptor module. The indicators may also be used for other purposes such as installation and repair of the adaptor module. The indicators are preferably positioned on a front face of the adaptor module to facilitate viewing of the indicators by the user. 
     A further aspect is an adaptor module that includes an antenna for wireless communication. The antenna may be configured, for example, for cellular telephone communication, digital telephone communication, wireless LANs, radio communication, etc. The adaptor module may also contain a recess to hold the antenna when not in use and the module may contain circuitry used by the antenna such as a radio frequency (RF) adaptor. Advantageously, the adaptor module may be configured to provide both wireless and wired communication. 
     Advantageously, the adaptor module provides additional ports and circuitry to a PC card. This allows for further product development, future expansion and additional options to the user. Significantly, if the adaptor module is releasably attached to a PC card, the user can readily use the PC card by itself or interchange the adaptor modules. This increases the flexibility and options available to the user because, for example, the computer can easily be connected to various communication systems by different types of connectors. 
     In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus facilitates communication between an electrical device and a communication system. The apparatus includes a communication card having a generally rectangular body with an upper surface. lower surface, front surface, rear surface, left surface and right surface. The communication card is configured to be at least partially inserted into an opening in the electrical device and a coupling is located on an upper surface of the communication card. An adaptor module is connected to the communication card and the adaptor includes one or more connectors capable of being electrically connected to a communication system. The adaptor module also includes a bottom surface with a coupling which is configured to be electrically connected to the coupling on the upper surface of the communication card. Preferably, the coupling on the bottom surface of the adaptor module includes one or more spring pins which are configured to engage one or more fingers in the coupling on the upper surface of the communication card. 
     In this preferred embodiment, the one or more connectors are preferably located on the front surface of the adaptor module and the connectors are sized and configured to receive RJ-type connectors such as RJ-11 or an RJ-45 type connectors. Alternatively, the connectors may include multiple pin interfaces, universal serial buses (USBs), cable connectors or other type of input/output connectors. Additionally, the adaptor module is preferably releasably connected to the communication card by clips. The clips are inserted into slots near the front and back surfaces of the communication card. The clips are releasable, for example, to allow different adaptor modules to be attached to the communication card. 
     In another preferred embodiment, an adaptor module is configured to be electrically coupled to a communication card. The adaptor module includes an elongated body with top, bottom, front, rear and side surfaces; a coupling attached to an outer surface of the body and two connectors located on the front surface of the body, each of the connectors being sized and configured to receive a communications connector. The adaptor module desirably includes one or more indicators attached to the front surface of the body to provide information to a user and a plurality of clips for releasably attaching the adaptor module to the communication card. 
     In still another preferred embodiment, an interface between a communication connector and a communication card for an electrical device includes a body with top, bottom, front, rear and side surfaces; and a plurality of receiving portions positioned in the front surface of the body portion, each of the receiving portions configured to receive a communication connector. The interface also includes a coupling on the lower surface of the body configured to be electrically connected to a coupling on the upper surface of the communication card. The interface is preferably releasably attached to the communication card by clips located proximate the front and rear surfaces of the interface and the assembly is desirably sized and configured to fit into dual Type II PC card slots or a Type III PC card slot. 
     In another preferred embodiment, an electrical coupling system for establishing communication between a computer and a communication system includes an adaptor module including one or more receiving portions, each of the receiving portions configured to be releasably coupled to a communication plug. The adaptor module is configured to be electrically connected to a communication card through a communication port. The adaptor module preferably includes one or more indicators to provide information to a user and the module is preferably releasably connected to the communication card such that the communication card can be used by itself or in combination with the adaptor. 
     In yet another preferred embodiment, an adaptor module establishes an electrical connection with a communication card. The adaptor module includes a body with a communication port in an outer surface configured to be electrically coupled to a communication port in an outer surface of the communication card. The adaptor module also includes a plurality of clips that are sized and configured to be releasably connected to a plurality of apertures in the communication card to facilitate attachment of the adaptor module to the communication card. One or more connectors in the body of the adaptor allow electrical connection to one or more communication networks. For example, one connector may be configured to receive an RJ-11 type plug and another connector may be configured to receive an RJ-45 type plug. 
     Advantageously, the adaptor module is easy-to-use and provides an interface that can be quickly and conveniently connected to different communication cards and to a variety of communication systems. The adaptor module is also reliable, flexible and provides a variety of options to the user. In addition, the adaptor module is compatible with a wide variety of computers, operating systems, etc. Further, the adaptor module may be used to provide connection to a communication network at any time and from any suitable location. Finally, the adaptor module preferably does not include any moving parts and that increases the useful life of the module. 
     Further aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     In order that the manner in which the above-recited and other aspects, features and advantages of the invention are obtained, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which: 
     FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a known device for connecting a computer to a telephone line using a PC modem card; 
     FIG. 2 is a top plan view of another known device for connecting a computer to a telephone line using a PC modem card; 
     FIG. 3 is a perspective view of still another known device for connecting a computer to a telephone line using a PC modem card; 
     FIG. 4 is a perspective view of yet another known device for connecting a computer to a telephone line using a PC modem card; 
     FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an adaptor module in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the adaptor module connected to an exemplary PC card; 
     FIG. 6 is a cross sectional side view of an adaptor module in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the adaptor module positioned adjacent to an exemplary PC card; 
     FIG. 7 is a top plan view of the adaptor module and PC card shown in FIG. 5, illustrating exemplary connectors in a retracted position; 
     FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the adaptor module and PC card shown in FIG. 5, illustrating the exemplary connectors in an extended position; 
     FIG. 9 is a front view of the adaptor module and PC card shown in FIG. 5, illustrating the exemplary connectors in the retracted position; 
     FIG. 10 is a left side view of the adaptor module and PC card shown in FIG. 5, illustrating the exemplary connector in the extended position; 
     FIG. 11 is a right side view of the adaptor module and PC card shown in FIG. 5, illustrating the exemplary connectors in the retracted position; 
     FIG. 12 is a bottom plan view of the adaptor module and PC card shown in FIG. 5, illustrating the exemplary connectors in the extended position; 
     FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of the adaptor module in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
     FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an adaptor module in accordance with yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention; 
     FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an adaptor module in accordance with still another preferred embodiment of the present invention; and 
     FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an adaptor module in accordance with a further preferred embodiment of the present invention. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     The present invention involves an adaptor module that allows communication between a communication system and an electrical device such as a computer to be established. The principles of the present invention, however, are not limited to adaptor modules for computers. It will be understood that, in light of the present disclosure, the adaptor module disclosed herein can be successfully used in connection with other types of electronic devices such as cellular telephones, digital telephones, personal data assistants, personal information managers and the like. 
     Additionally, to assist in the description of the adaptor module, words such as top, bottom, front, rear, right and left are used to describe the accompanying figures. It will be appreciated, however, that the present invention can be located in a variety of desired positions—including various angles, sideways and even upside down. 
     Further, one skilled in the art will recognize that the various components described in connection with the preferred embodiments may be placed in different positions and locations. Thus, for example, the various connectors, contacts, receiving portions, communication ports, adaptor modules, communication cards, clips and apertures may be positioned in any desired location. 
     Finally, it will be understood that in the following description numerous details are set forth, such as specific types of communication connectors or plugs, specific numbers of pins and electrical contacts, particular types of communication cards, etc., to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. One skilled in the art will recognize, however, that the adaptor module may be used in conjunction with various communication systems, networks, connectors, plugs, contacts, receiving portions, communication cards, ports, etc. 
     As shown in FIG. 5, an adaptor module  100  is attached to a communication card  102  in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. As discussed in greater detail in connection with FIG. 13, the adaptor module  100  is preferably releasably attached to the communication card  102 . Thus, if the adaptor module  100  is not connected to the card  102 , then the card desirably functions according to its normal operation. On the other hand, if the adaptor module  100  is connected to the card  102 , then the adaptor module provides additional circuitry and connectors such that the assembly can perform additional features and functions. Alternatively, as discussed in connection with FIG. 14, the adaptor module  100  and communication card  102  can be integrally connected to form a one-piece unit. 
     The adaptor module  100  and communication card  102  are preferably sized and configured to be connected to a portable computer such as a laptop computer, notebook computer, hand-held computer or palmtop computer. The module  100  and card  102 , however, can be used with any suitable computer or electronic device such as cellular telephones, digital communication systems, personal data assistants and the like. Preferably, the communication card  102  complies with applicable specifications set forth by the Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA). More preferably, the communication card  102  is a Type II compatible PC card. Specifications regarding PC card technology are described in detail in the PC Card Standard published by PCMCIA, which is available from the PCMCIA international headquarters in San Jose, California or from the PCMCIA Internet web site www.pc-card.com. The PC Card Standard, which provides physical, electrical and software specifications for PC card technology, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. It will be understood, however, that while the adaptor module  100  and communication card  102  are described with respect to PC card specifications, the adaptor module may be used with other types of circuit cards and adaptor cards such as small PC cards, miniature cards, compact flash cards, smart media cards, multimedia cards, etc. Additionally, while these cards are preferably a miniature type, any suitable size of card may be used. 
     In greater detail, the communication card  102  has a thin, elongated body with a front surface  104 , rear surface  106 , top surface  108 , bottom surface  110 , right side  112  and left side  114 . The card  102  has a length of about 85.6 mm (3.4 inches), a width of about 54.0 mm (2.1 inches) and a thickness of about 5.0 mm (0.2 inches), but the card may have any suitable dimensions. The card  102  is configured to be inserted into a PC card slot in a computer and it includes a connector such as a 68-pin connector (not shown) in the rear surface  106  of the card which is configured to be electrically connected to the computer. The front surface  104  of the card  102  may include one or more connectors that can be coupled to peripheral devices such as a communication network. Located within the body of the card  102  is circuitry which connects the connectors on the front surface  104  of the card with the 68-pin connector in the rear surface  106  of the card. The circuitry allows the intended functions of the card, such as modem functions, to be performed. The right side  112  and left side  114  of the card  102  include outwardly extending rails  116  and  118 , respectively, that are used to position the card in the PC card slot in the computer. 
     The adaptor module  100  includes a body  120  with a front surface  122 , rear surface  124 , top surface  126 , bottom surface  128 , right side  130  and left side  132 . Extending from the rear surface  124  of the body  120  is an extension  134  with a rear surface  136 , top surface  138 , bottom surface  140 , right side  142  and left side  144 . As seen in the accompanying figures, some of these surfaces and sides are rounded and tapered. It will be understood that the adaptor module and extension can have any suitable shape or configuration, including rounded, tapered or curved sides, ends, comers, etc. The top surface  138  of the extension  134  includes a plurality of openings  146 , but the openings are not required. The body  120  and the extension  134  are preferably integrally formed as a single unit, but the body and the extension could be constructed from separate components. 
     The adaptor module  100  preferably has a height of about 5.0 mm (0.2 inches) or less, a width of about 54.0 mm (2.1 inches) or less, and a length of about 85.6 mm (3.4 inches) or less such that the adaptor module  100  fits within a Type II compatible PC card slot. One skilled in the art, however, will appreciate that the module  100  may have any desired dimensions depending, for example, upon the type of communication card and intended use of the module. As shown in FIG. 5, the bottom surfaces  128  and  140  of the body  120  and extension  134 , respectively, are generally parallel and positioned proximate the top surface  108  of the card  102 . It will be understood that the top surfaces  126  and  138  of the module  100  and extension  134 , respectively, could also be positioned generally parallel and proximate the bottom surface  110  of the card  102 . 
     Desirably, the adaptor module  100  and communication card  102  are sized and configured to be inserted into two stacked Type II PC card slots or a Type III PC slot. As shown in FIG. 5, the communication card  102  and adaptor module  100  are positioned generally parallel to each other and the front surfaces  104  and  122  of the module and card, respectively, are aligned. The adaptor module  100  and communication card  102 , however, may be spaced apart or positioned at any desired angle. Additionally, the module  100  and card  102  may be recessed into the body of the computer or configured to extend outwardly from the body of the computer. 
     The communication card  102  is held inside a PC card slot in a computer by rails  116  and  118  that protrude outwardly from the sides of the card. In particular, the rails  116  and  118  are configured to be inserted into receiving notches or C-shaped portions in the PC card slot such that the card  102  is securely held within the slot. The adaptor module  100  is held within the PC card slot because the module is connected to the communication card  102 . Alternatively, as seen in FIG. 6, the adaptor module  100  may include rails  148  and  150  that extend outwardly from the right side  130  and the left side  132 , respectively, of the body  120 . The rails  116  and  118  of the card  102  and the rails  148  and  150  of the body  120  are configured to be inserted into receiving members  152  and  154 . The receiving members  152  and  154  have a generally C-shaped cross-section and are sized and configured to slidably receive the rails  116 ,  118 ,  148  and  150 . 
     In a preferred embodiment, as best seen in FIG. 13, the adaptor module  100  is releasably attached to the card  102  by one or more attachment members or clips  156  that are inserted into corresponding openings or apertures  158  in the card  102 . The attachment members  156  are preferably sized and configured to engage the apertures  158  to prevent the unintended removal of the module  100  from the card  102 . For example, the attachment members  156  may be held in the apertures  158  by a friction or interference fit, or the attachment members may include a curved or expanded portion which engages an inner portion of the aperture. Although the attachment members  156  and apartures  158  shown in the accompanying figures are located on the front surface of the adaptor module  100  and communication card  102 , respectively, it will be understood that the attachment members and apartures can be placed in any desired location on either the module or card. One skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous known ways in which the adaptor  100  can be releasably or permanently attached to the card  102 . For example, the adaptor  100  can be attached to the card  102  by various latches, catches, clasps, adhesives, etc. Advantageously, the releasable attachment of the module  100  to the card  102  allows different modules with different configurations to be readily attached to the card. Additionally, because the adaptor module  100  is releasably attached to the card  102 , the module can be quickly and easily removed for repair or replacement. 
     As seen in FIG. 13, the top surface  108  of the communication card  102  includes a coupling or port  160 . The coupling  160  includes one or more contacts  162  such as outwardly extending fingers or surface pads that are electrically connected to circuitry located within the card  102 . The bottom surface  128  of the adaptor module  100  includes a coupling or port  164  and the coupling includes one or more contacts  166 . The contacts  16 o are preferably spring pins or surface pads that are configured to engage the outwardly extending fingers  162  on the upper surface  108  of the card  102 . One skilled in the art will recognize any desired type of connectors may be used to couple the adaptor module  100  to the communication card. 
     The engaged fingers  162  and spring pins  166  allow electrical communication between the adaptor module  100  and card  102  to be established. In greater detail, the fingers  162  and spring pins  166  have mating surfaces that provide high contact quality with low wear and abrasion characteristics. Additionally, the fingers  162  and spring pins  166  may be plated with materials such as gold to decrease contact resistance. It will be understood that the couplings  160  aid  164  may also be electrically connected by an extension, cable or other suitable type of connector. It will also be understood that the coupling  160  may be located on the front surface  104  of the communication card  102  and the coupling  164  may be located on the front surface  122  of the adaptor module  100 , or any other suitable locations. 
     The front surface  122  of the adaptor module  100  shown in FIG. 13 includes a pair of receiving portions or connectors  170  and  172 . The connectors  170  and  172  are preferably input/output (I/O) ports that allow one or more peripheral devices to be coupled to the adaptor module  100 . As shown in the accompanying figures, the connectors  170  and  172  are preferably slidable connectors such as XJACK® connectors available from the  3 COM Corporation of Santa Clara, Calif., the assignee of the present application. Exemplary slidable connectors are disclosed in Assignee&#39;s co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/271,620, entitled Electrical Connectors Having Dual Based Contact Pins, filed Mar. 17, 1999, listing Oliphant et al. as the inventors. The ports  170  and  172  may also include an electrical interface and configuration as disclosed in Assignee&#39;s co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/976,199, entitled Breakaway Physical/electrical Media Jack, filed Nov. 21, 1997, listing Garside as the inventor; or Assignee&#39;s co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/976,819, entitled Media Connector Interface for Electrical Apparatus, filed Nov. 24, 1997, listing Beckham, et al. as the inventors. Another example of a slidable connector is disclosed in Assignee&#39;s co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/033,270, filed Mar. 2, 1998. These pending applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. One skilled in the art will recognize that the adaptor module  100  may include any suitable type of ports or connectors such as multiple pin interfaces, USBs, pass-through ports, etc. 
     In greater detail, as seen in FIG. 8, the connector  170  is a slidable connector  174  and the connector is preferably sized and configured to receive a RJ-type connector such as an RJ-11 connector. The connector  172  is also a slidable connector  176  and this connector is preferably sized and configured to receive a RJ-type connector such as an RJ-45 connector. Thus, the connectors  170  and  172  allow the adaptor module  100  to be connected to communication systems such as a telephone network and/or a LAN. Preferably, the module  100  is configured to provide simultaneous communication with one of more communication systems, but the module can also be configured to communicate with only a single communication system at one time. 
     One skilled in the art will appreciate that the adaptor module  100  may include any number and type of connectors  170  and  172 . For example, the connectors  170  and  172  may comprise multiple pin interfaces with any number of desired pins such as  15 ,  26 , or  36 ; Universal Serial Buses (USBs) that allow various peripheral devices to be connected to the adaptor module  100 ; various types of cable connectors; pass-through connectors; antennas for wireless or cellular communication; etc. These connectors, for instance, may be used to connect the adaptor  100  to various network and communication systems such as LANs, Ethernet, cellular, wireless, and the like. It will also be appreciated that the adaptor  100  may include any combination of connectors  170  and  172 . 
     As shown in FIG. 13, the front surface  104  of the communication card  102  may include one or more connectors, ports or receiving portions  180 . For example, the communication card  102  may include one or more RJ-type connectors, USBs and/or multiple pin interfaces. In particular, the communication card  102  shown in FIG. 13 includes a first connector  182  which is an RJ-type connector  184  such as an RJ-11 or RJ-45 type connector. The communication card  102  also includes a second connector  186  which is an I/O connector  188  such as a multiple pin interface or USB. It will be understood that the connectors  182  and  186  can be configured to interface with any desired communication systems and the adaptor  100  may include any number or combination of connectors. Thus, the user has a wide variety of options because the connectors  170  and  172  in the adaptor module  100  can be connected to various peripheral devices and communication systems. Additionally, the user can use the connectors  180  and  182  to connect the card  102  to various peripheral devices and communication systems. These connectors provide the user with increased flexibility and convenience. Accordingly, the adaptor module  100  and card  102  allow the user to perform a wide variety of desired functions. 
     Located within the adaptor module  100  is various circuitry, such as a printed circuit board, that allows the desired function to be performed. This circuitry can be used with various equipment such as modems, interfaces and antennas, which are discussed in more detail below. One skilled in the art will recognize the circuitry can be used in many different applications to perform many different functions. Preferably, the circuitry is recognized by the host computer and the computer can determine the configuration and capabilities of the adaptor module  100  and PC card  102 . 
     In another preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14 the adaptor module  100  is integrally formed with the communication card  102 . Thus, the adaptor module  100  and communication card  102  can be contained within a single housing or enclosure. Alternatively, the module  100  and card  102  can have separate enclosures, but the enclosures can be permanently attached to form a one-piece unit. The integral, one-piece arrangement is convenient and simple to use because the user does not have to attach the module  100  to the card  102 . 
     As seen in FIG. 15, in another preferred embodiment, the adaptor module  100  includes an antenna system  190  that is configured to be in communication with a wireless communications network. The wireless network, for example, may include wireless modems, wireless LAN, wireless Personal Area Network (PAN), cellular telephone networks, digital communication systems, etc. The wireless network may also include Bluetooth technology that allows a wide range of computing and telecommunication devices to be interconnected via wireless connections. Specifications and other information regarding Bluetooth technology are available at the Bluetooth Internet web site www.bluetooth.com. Additionally, specifications and other information regarding Bluetooth technology will be published in the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) Version 1.0. 
     The antenna system  190  includes a monopole antenna  192 , but any suitable type of antenna, such as dipole or slotted antenna, may also be used depending upon factors such as desired polarization and radiation patterns. Additionally, while the antenna system  190  may be used with any suitable wireless communication system, the antenna system is preferably configured to conform with applicable Bluetooth technology specifications and standards. For example, in accordance with the proposed Bluetooth standards, the antenna  192  is configured to use the Industrial Scientific and Medical (ISM) frequency band of 2.4 to 2.4835 gigahertz (GHz). One skilled in the art, however, will appreciate that the antenna  192  can be used with any suitable band or frequency depending, for example, upon the intended use of the antenna system  190 . 
     In greater detail, the antenna  192  includes a radiating element (not shown in the accompanying figures) which is constructed of a flexible, metallic material that permits repeated bending or flexing of the antenna. The radiating element is preferably constructed of spring steel having the desired characteristics, but it may be constructed from other suitable materials such as copper or bronze. The radiating element is preferably plated wit a conductive material such as copper and the plating desirably has a thickness of at least about 0.0003 inches, but the plating may be thicker or thinner and other suitable conductive materials may be used. The antenna  192  also includes a protective sheath or covering  194  that substantially encloses the radiating element. The sheath  194  is constructed of a flexible, elastic material which allows the radiating element to bend or deflect into the desired configuration. The body  120  of the module  100  includes a recess or depression  196  to hold the antenna  192  when it is not in use and a latch (not shown) may be used to secure the antenna in a storage position. Additionally, the housing of the module  100  may contain support structure and various circuitry for the antenna, such al a radio frequency (RF) adaptor or circuit board. While the antenna  192  is preferably a minimum size and configured to be used with any desired wireless system, the antenna can have any size and configuration depending, for example, upon the desired use of the antenna system  190 . 
     An exemplary antenna system  190  that may be used in conjunction with the adaptor module  100  is disclosed in Assignee&#39;s co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/322,870, filed on May 28, 1999, entitled Antenna for Portable Computers, listing Madsen et al. as inventors, and this application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. One skilled in the art will understand that other antennas and wireless communication systems may also be used with the adaptor module  100  of the present invention. 
     As best seen in FIGS. 8 and 9, the adaptor module  100  includes one or more indicators  200  to provide information to the user. The indicators  200  are preferably light sources such as incandescent lights or light emitting diodes (LEDs). The indicators  200  may provide various information such as use of the adaptor module  100  and/or the mode of operation of the adaptor module. The indicators  200  may also be used for other purposes such as installation, set-up, diagnostics and repair of the adaptor module  100 . The indicators  200 , for example, may be electrically connected to the circuitry located within the module  100  or electrically connected to the card  102 . 
     As seen in FIG. 16, in another preferred embodiment, the body  120  of the adaptor module  100  includes a screen display  210 . The screen display  210  is attached to the top surface  126  of the adaptor body  120  and it can provides information to the user, but the screen can be attached to any desired surface of the module  100  or card  102 . The screen display is preferably a liquid crystal display (LCD), but any suitable type of display may be utilized. The screen display  210  may also include sensors or other known devices to allow the user to input information to the adaptor module  100 . 
     The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.