Patent Publication Number: US-2009224034-A1

Title: Information processing apparatus

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is based upon and claims the benefit of priority from Japanese Patent Application No. 2008-058460, filed Mar. 7, 2008, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
     BACKGROUND 
     1. Field 
     One embodiment of the invention relates to an information processing apparatus in which a communication device, which executes wireless communication with a non-contact type IC card, is mounted. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     In recent years, there are known information processing apparatuses, such as personal computers, in which communication devices, which execute wireless communication non-contact type IC cards, are mounted. Some types of non-contact type IC cards have functions of use as tickets for transport facilities such as trains, or as electronic money in on-line shopping via general shops or networks. 
     The non-contact type IC card executes data transmission/reception by generating power by electromagnetic induction, on the basis of radio waves which are emitted from a communication device. Hence, in the state in which the non-contact type IC is placed close to the communication device, no power is generated since no variation occurs in magnetic field, and the non-contact type IC cannot be used. Thus, the user is required to perform, each time the communication is executed, an operation of holding the non-contact type IC card over the communication device (i.e. an operation of approaching the non-contact type IC card from a position apart from the communication device to a predetermined distance to the communication device, and then moving the non-contact type IC card away from the communication device). 
     Conventionally, there has been devised a data communication method which enables copying of the content of one non-contact type IC card to another non-contact type IC card. For example, in a data communication method disclosed in Jpn. Pat. Appln. KOKAI Publication No. 2002-24778, two IC cards are laid over a reader/writer, and the antenna of the reader/writer is coupled with the antennas of the two IC cards, thereby realizing copying of data between the two IC cards. 
     As described above, in the conventional information processing apparatus, in the case of receiving and processing data from the non-contact type IC card, it is necessary for the user to perform the operation of holding the non-contact type IC card over the communication device that is provided on the information processing apparatus. Thus, in the case of using the non-contact type IC card twice or more, the same operation has to be repeated each time, and the handling of the IC card is not easy. 
     In a data communication method of Jpn. Pat. Appln. KOKAI Publication No. 2002-24778, data copy between two IC cards is realized by placing the two IC cards on the reader/writer. Prior to executing the copy, however, it is necessary to execute a process for each IC card. Specifically, a first IC card is placed on the reader/writer and a predetermined process is executed by reading data from the first IC card, following which the placement of a second IC card is instructed. If the second IC card is placed on the reader/writer, the second IC card is recognized, and the content stored in the memory is confirmed. In short, in the conventional data communication method, it is necessary to perform an operation of individually placing two IC cards on the reader/writer. Thus, when the work of copying data between two IC cards is executed twice or more, it is necessary to perform, at each time of copy, the operation of placing the two IC cards on the reader/writer, and the handling of the IC cards is not easy. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       A general architecture that implements the various feature of the invention will now be described with reference to the drawings. The drawings and the associated descriptions are provided to illustrate embodiments of the invention and not to limit the scope of the invention. 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view showing an example of the state in which a display unit of a computer according to an embodiment of the present invention is opened; 
         FIG. 2  shows an example of the cross section along line A-A in  FIG. 1  in the embodiment; 
         FIG. 3  is a block diagram showing an example of the system configuration of the computer according to the embodiment; 
         FIG. 4  shows an example of the relationship between hardware and software for controlling an IC card reader/writer in the embodiment; 
         FIG. 5  is a block diagram showing an example of the structure of a non-contact type IC card in the embodiment; 
         FIG. 6  shows an example of the relative positional relationship between the IC card reader/writer, a non-contact type IC card and another non-contact type IC card, as viewed from the lateral side, in the embodiment; 
         FIG. 7  shows an example of the positional relationship between the IC card reader/writer and external and built-in non-contact type IC cards in the embodiment; 
         FIG. 8  shows an example of time periods of communication between two non-contact type IC cards and the IC card reader/writer in the embodiment; 
         FIG. 9  is a flow chart illustrating an example of a built-in IC card detection process in the embodiment; 
         FIG. 10  is a flow chart illustrating an example of a IC card process for executing card settlement by a non-contact type IC card having a charge settlement function (e.g. electronic money) in the embodiment; 
         FIG. 11  shows an example of a first IC card process for a transaction of data between two non-contact type IC cards via the IC card reader/writer in the embodiment; 
         FIG. 12  shows an example of a second IC card process for a transaction of data between two external non-contact type IC cards via the IC card reader/writer and a built-in non-contact type IC card in the embodiment; 
         FIG. 13  is a flow chart illustrating an example of the first IC card process in the embodiment; and 
         FIG. 14  is a flow chart illustrating an example of the second IC card process in the embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Various embodiments according to the invention will be described hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. In general, according to one embodiment of the invention, there is provided an information processing apparatus comprising: a communication device which is provided in a casing and executes wireless communication with a non-contact type IC card; and a storing module which stores the non-contact type IC card, the storing module being provided at such a position that communication is enabled between the non-contact type IC card that is stored and the communication device. 
     An embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. 
     To begin with, referring to  FIG. 1  and  FIG. 2 , the structure of an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention is described. The information processing apparatus is realized, for example, as a battery-powerable notebook portable personal computer  10  (hereinafter referred to simply as “computer  10 ”). 
       FIG. 1  is a perspective view that shows the state in which a display unit of the computer  10  is opened. The computer  10  comprises a computer main body  11  and a display unit  12 . A display device that is composed of an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)  17  is built in the display unit  12 . The display screen of the LCD  17  is positioned at an approximately central part of the display unit  12 . A pair of speakers (tweeters)  19   a  are disposed on both sides of the LCD  17 . 
     The display unit  12  is attached to the computer main body  11  such that the display unit  12  is freely rotatable between an open position where the top surface of the computer main body  11  is exposed and a closed position where the top surface of the computer main body  11  is covered. The computer main body  11  has a thin box-shaped casing in which a battery can be detachably mounted. 
     A keyboard  13 , a power button  14  for powering on/off the computer  10 , a touch pad  15 , an audio/video (AV) operation panel  16 , an AV controller, a volume control dial  18  and a pair of speakers  19   b  are disposed on the top surface of the casing of the computer main body  11 . The keyboard  13  has a plurality of keys including four direction keys (upward, downward, leftward and rightward keys) and other various keys (alphabet keys, numeral keys, auxiliary keys, etc.). 
     The computer  10  has an AV function for playing back various media such as TV broadcast programs, moving picture data, still images and music. The AV operation panel  16  includes a plurality of buttons for controlling the AV function of the computer  10 . Each of these buttons is composed of an electrostatic switch. An LED light-transmission area is disposed at a central part of each electrostatic switch. Light from an LED, which is provided in association with each of the electrostatic switches, is emitted to the outside through the associated LED light-transmission area. 
     The buttons of the AV operation panel  16  include a TV button, a CD/DVD button and an LED on/off button. The TV button is a button for instructing the start of a TV function for viewing/listening to or recording TV broadcast programs. The CD/DVD button is a button for instructing the start of a CD/DVD function for playing back content stored in CD media or DVD media. The LED on/off button is a button for controlling each LED in the AV operation panel  16 . 
     An IC card reader/writer  21  (communication device) is provided on a top surface portion of the computer main body  11  of the computer  10  according to the embodiment. The IC card reader/writer  21  executes data transmission/reception by wireless communication with a non-contact type IC card  25 . The IC card reader/writer  21  includes a magnetic field radiation module which radiates an induction magnetic field, and generates a constant magnetic field in a case where data transmission/reception is executed with the non-contact type IC card  25 . If the user performs an operation of holding the non-contact type IC card  25  over the IC card reader/writer  21  (i.e. approaching the non-contact type IC card  25  to the IC card reader/writer  21 ), electric power is induced by the magnetic field that is generated from the IC card reader/writer  21 . The IC card reader/writer  21  executes an operation for data transmission/reception by the induced power. 
     The computer  10  according to the present embodiment is provided with a storing module. The storing module can receive the non-contact type IC card  25 , which is inserted from a non-contact type IC card slot  22  that is provided on a side (a left side in  FIG. 1 ) of the casing of the computer main body  11 . The storing module is provided under the IC card reader/writer  21  which is provided on the upper surface of the casing of the computer main body  11 . The storing module is disposed near the IC card reader/writer  21  so as to enable stable communication between the non-contact type IC card  25 , which is stored in the storing module, and the IC card reader/writer  21 . 
       FIG. 2  is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A in  FIG. 1 .  FIG. 2  shows the state in which the non-contact type IC card  25  is accommodated in the storing module. 
     As is shown in  FIG. 2 , the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored in the storing module from the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . Thereby, the non-contact type IC card  25  is built in the computer main body  11  at a position close to the IC card reader/writer  21 . 
     In the storing module, a card detection sensor  26  is provided, for example, at a deepest part thereof. The card detection sensor  26  detects whether the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . The card detection sensor  26  is disposed at a position where the card detection sensor  26  is put in contact with an end portion of the non-contact type IC card  25  when the non-contact type IC card  25  is completely stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . 
     It should be noted, however, that since the non-contact type IC card  25  executes wireless communication with the IC card reader/writer  21 , the non-contact type IC card  25  can execute data transmission/reception with the IC cad reader/writer  21  even in the state in which the non-contact type IC card  25  is not completely stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . Thus, it should suffice if the card detection sensor  26  can detect that the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored in such a position that the non-contact type IC card  25  can execute wireless communication with the IC card reader/writer  21 . 
       FIG. 2  omits depiction of a mechanism for stably holding the non-contact type IC card  25  that is inserted in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 , or a mechanism for taking out the non-contact type IC card  25  from the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . 
     In  FIG. 2 , the card detection sensor  26  is provided to physically detect the non-contact type IC card  25 . Alternatively, it is possible to detect, by other methods, that the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22  (for example, a built-in IC card detection process is illustrated in  FIG. 10 ). In this case, the card detection sensor  26  may be omitted from the structure shown in  FIG. 2 . 
     In  FIG. 2 , the IC card reader/writer  21  is described as being provided on the top surface of the computer main body  11 . However, it should suffice if an antenna for transmitting/receiving radio waves to/from the non-contact type IC card  25  is provided on the top surface of the computer main body  11 . The parts of the IC card reader/writer  21 , which is other than the antenna, may be configured to be disposed at other positions, and these parts may be connected to the antenna by a cable or the like. 
     In addition, in order to stabilize the state of wireless communication between the IC card reader/writer  21  and the non-contact type IC card  25  that is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 , it is possible to constitute the upper surface part of the non-contact type IC card slot  22  by a member which does not hinder wireless communication, or to form an opening in the upper surface part of the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . Besides, it is possible to provide a member which covers the surrounding of the IC card reader/writer  21  and the non-contact type IC card slot  22  (non-contact type IC card  25 ), thereby to eliminate the influence of electromagnetic waves which are generated from other electronic components disposed in the computer main body  11 . 
     Next, referring to  FIG. 3 , the system configuration of the computer  10  is described. 
     The computer  10  comprises a CPU  111 , a north bridge  114 , a main memory  115 , a graphics processing unit (GPU)  116 , a south bridge  117 , a BIOS-ROM  120 , a hard disk drive (HDD)  121 , an optical disc drive (ODD)  122 , a sound controller  123 , a TV tuner  124 , an embedded controller/keyboard controller IC (EC/KBC)  140 , and a power supply circuit  141 . 
     The CPU  111  is a processor that is provided for controlling the operation of the computer  10 . The CPU  111  executes an operating system (OS)  112  and various applications, such as an application program  113  that makes use of the non-contact type IC card  25 , which are loaded from the HDD  121  into the main memory  115 . The CPU  111  also executes a BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) that is stored in the BIOS-ROM  120 . 
     The north bridge  114  is a bridge device that connects a local bus of the CPU  111  and the south bridge  117 . The north bridge  114  includes a memory controller that access-controls the main memory  115 . The north bridge  114  also has a function of executing communication with the graphics processing unit (GPU)  116  via, e.g. a PCI Express bus. 
     The graphics processing unit (GPU)  116  is a display controller which controls the LCD  17  that is used as a display monitor of the computer  10 . The GPU  116  generates a video signal, which forms a screen image that is to be displayed on the LCD  17 , on the basis of display data that is written in a video memory (VRAM)  116 A by the OS or the application program. 
     The south bridge  117  includes an IDE (Integrated Drive Electronics) controller or a Serial ATA controller for controlling the hard disk drive (HDD)  121  and optical disc drive (ODD)  122 . 
     The sound controller  123  is a sound source device and executes a process for outputting sound, which corresponds to various audio data, from the speakers  19   a  and  19   b.  The TV tuner  124  receives broadcast program data which is broadcast by a TV broadcast signal. 
     The embedded controller/keyboard controller IC (EC/KBC)  140  is a 1-chip microcomputer in which an embedded controller for power management and a keyboard controller for controlling the keyboard (KB)  13  and touch pad  15  are integrated. The EC/KBC  140  is always supplied with operation power from the power supply circuit  141  even in the state in which the computer  10  is powered off. The EC/KBC  140  functions as a controller for controlling the AV operation panel  16 , AV controller  20  and IC card reader/writer  21 . Communication between the EC/KBC  140  and AV controller  20  is executed via, e.g. a serial bus. 
     The EC/KBC  140  has a function of powering on/off the computer  10  in response to the user&#39;s operation of the power button switch  14 . The power on/off control of the computer  10  is executed by cooperation of the EC/KBC  140  and power supply circuit  141 . The power supply circuit  141  uses power from a battery  142  which is mounted in the computer main body  11  or power from an AC adapter  143  which is connected to the computer main body  11  as an external power supply, thereby generating operation powers to the respective components. 
     Next, referring to  FIG. 4 , the relationship between the hardware and software for controlling the IC card reader/writer  21  is described. 
     As has been described above, the keyboard  13 , touch pad  15  and IC card reader/writer  21  are connected to the EC/KBC  140 . A key code, which corresponds to a pressed key on the keyboard  13 , is sent to the application program via the EC/KBC  140  and OS  112 . In addition, data, which is input from the non-contact type IC card  25  by the IC card reader/writer  21 , is sent to the application program  113 , which utilizes the non-contact type IC card  25 , for example, via the EC/KBC  140  and the OS  112 . 
     In accordance with an instruction from the application program  113 , the OS  112  controls the operation of the IC card reader/writer  21  via the EC/KBC  140 . For example, in accordance with an instruction from the application program  113 , the OS  112  can cause the IC card reader/writer  21  to generate an induction magnetic field. Specifically, in the case where a built-in non-contact type IC card  25  is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22  (the non-contact type IC card  25  in this stored state is referred to as “built-in non-contact type IC card  25 ”), no induction power can be generated by a constant magnetic field which is radiated from the IC card reader/writer  21 . Thus, when data transmission/reception with the built-in non-contact type IC card  25  is executed, the OS  112  causes the IC card reader/writer  21  to generate such an induction magnetic field as to produce an induction power in the built-in non-contact type IC card  25  in the stop state. 
     In the case where the IC card reader/writer  21  is provided with a magnetic field radiation function which can arbitrarily radiate not only a constant magnetic file but also an induction magnetic field, the induction magnetic field can be radiated by controlling the IC card reader/writer  12  as described above. On the other hand, in the case where the IC card reader/writer  21  is provided with a magnetic field radiation function which can radiate only a constant magnetic field, it is possible to adopt such a structure that a magnetic field radiation function for radiating an induction magnetic field is provided in the vicinity of the non-contact type IC card slot  22  (and IC card reader/writer  21 ). This magnetic field radiation function includes, e.g. an antenna which is disposed near the non-contact type IC card slot  22 , and is driven by a controller which can be controlled by, e.g. the OS  112 . An induction magnetic field is generated by this magnetic field radiation function, and thereby electric power is induced in the non-contact type IC card  25  and the non-contact type IC card  25  is set in a state in which wireless communication with the IC card reader/writer  21  is enabled. 
     Next, the structure of the non-contact type IC card  25  is described. 
       FIG. 5  is a block diagram showing an example of the structure of the non-contact type IC card  25 . The non-contact type IC card  25  is provided with, for instance, an antenna (loop antenna)  30  and a capacitor  31 , as shown in  FIG. 5 , and the non-contact type IC card  25  transmits/receives a signal to/from the IC card reader/writer  21 . 
     An interface module  37  detects a signal which is received via the antenna  30 , and outputs the detected signal to a demodulation module  38 . In addition, the interface module  37  transmits a signal, which is modulated by a modulation module  40 , from the loop antenna  30 . Further, the interface module  37  stabilizes the power, which is induced by the antenna  30 , and supplies the power to the respective modules. Moreover, the interface module  37  generates, e.g. a clock signal which is necessary for operations, and supplies the clock signal to the respective modules. 
     A CPU  33  develops a control program, which is stored in a ROM  34 , in a RAM  35 , and controls the overall operation of the non-contact type IC card  25 . For example, if radio waves, which are radiated from the IC card reader/writer  21 , are received by the antenna  30  and power is supplied from the interface module  37 , the CPU  33  transmits a card ID that is identification information and other data, which are set in an EEPROM  36  or ROM  34 , to the IC card reader/writer  21  via a data transmission module  41 . In addition, the CPU  33  processes data from the IC card reader/writer  21 , which is input via a data reception module  39 . The CPU  33  not only sends the card ID to the IC card reader/writer  21  (computer  10 ), but also executes various processes, such as an authentication process between itself and the IC card reader/writer  21 , and an encryption/decryption process for data that is transmitted/received. For example, in the case where the non-contact type IC card  25  is used as electronic money, the CPU  33  executes a process of managing the electronic money (balance). The CPU  33  records data, which is indicative of the balance, in the EEPROM  36 , and manages the data. 
     Next, the positional relationship between the IC card reader/writer  21 , which is mounted on the computer  10 , and the non-contact type IC card  25  is described. 
       FIG. 6  shows the relative positional relationship between the IC card reader/writer  21  which is disposed in the casing of the computer main body  11 , a non-contact type IC card  25   a  which is used outside the computer main body  11 , and a non-contact type IC card  25   b  which is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 , as viewed from the lateral side.  FIG. 7  shows the positional relationship between the IC card reader/writer  21  and the external and built-in non-contact type IC cards  25   a  and  25   b,  as viewed from above. 
     The IC card reader/writer  21  has such directivity as to be able to stably transmit/receive electromagnetic waves (signals) in the vertical direction in the state in which the computer  10  is horizontally disposed. The non-contact type IC card slot  22  is provided under the IC card reader/writer  21 , and thereby signal transmission/reception can stably be executed with the non-contact type IC card  25  that is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . In addition, the non-contact type IC card  25   a  is used in such a manner that the user holds the non-contact type IC card  25   a  over the position where the IC card reader/writer  21  is provided. Accordingly, the IC card reader/writer  21  can execute wireless communication with two non-contact type IC cards  25   a  and  25   b  in the upward and downward directions in which stable signal transmission/reception can be executed. 
     In the computer  10  according to the present embodiment, each of the non-contact type IC cards  25   a  and  25   b  may not only be used independently, but the two non-contact type IC cards  25   a  and  25   b  may also be used at the same time, as shown in  FIG. 6  and  FIG. 7 . In the case where the two non-contact type IC cards  25   a  and  25   b  are used at the same time, there are a first mode and a second mode. In the first mode of use, in the state in which the non-contact type IC card  25   b  is stored in advance, the non-contact type IC card  25   a  is held over the IC card reader/writer  21 . In the second mode of use, in the state in which the non-contact type IC card  25   b  is stored, the non-contact type IC card  25   a  is placed on the position on the top surface of the computer main body  11 , where the IC card reader/writer  21  is provided. 
     Next, a description is given of the timing of wireless communication between the IC card reader/writer  21  and each non-contact type IC card  25   a,    25   b,  in the case where the two non-contact type IC cards  25   a  and  25   b  are used at the same time. 
       FIG. 8  shows time periods of communication between the two non-contact type IC cards  25   a  and  25   b  and the IC card reader/writer  21 . In the description below, the above-described second mode of use is described by way of example. 
     While a constant magnetic field is generated in the state in which the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22  or placed on the computer main body  11 , the IC card reader/writer  21  cannot execute data transmission/reception with the non-contact type IC card  25 . 
     In this case, as shown in  FIG. 8 , in accordance with a request from the OS  112  (application program  113 ), the IC card reader/writer  21  generates an induction magnetic field which can cause the non-contact type IC card  25  to produce power. Thereby, the non-contact type IC cards  25   a  and  25   b,  which are positioned inside and outside the computer main body  11 , produce power, respectively, and start operations for data transmission/reception with the IC card reader/writer  21  (parts ( 1 ) and ( 2 ) in  FIG. 8 ). 
     When the non-contact type IC card  25  receives the signal from the IC card reader/writer  21  and starts the operation, the non-contact type IC card  25  generates, for instance, a random number, and start the operation for data transmission/reception at a timing corresponding to the value of the random number. Specifically, the non-contact type IC card  25  starts the operation for data transmission/reception with the IC card reader/writer  21  at a random timing which is determined individually. Thus, even if the IC card reader/writer  21  generates the induction magnetic field and thereby the two non-contact type IC cards  25   a  and  25   b  produce power at the same time and start operations, the timing of the start of the operation for data transmission/reception can be displaced between the two non-contact type IC cards  25   a  and  25   b.    
     For example, part ( 1 ) of  FIG. 8  shows a communication period of the first non-contact type IC card  25  which has first started the data transmission/reception operation. As shown in part ( 1 ) of  FIG. 8 , after the passing of a time (RND 1 ) from the start of operation, the first non-contact type IC card  25  executes communication with the IC card reader/writer  21 . On the other hand, part ( 2 ) of  FIG. 8  shows a communication period of the second non-contact type IC card  25  which has subsequently started the data transmission/reception operation. As shown in part ( 2 ) of  FIG. 8 , after the passing of a time (RND 2 ) which is longer than the time (RND 1 ), the second non-contact type IC card  25  starts the operation for data transmission/reception. In other words, the second non-contact type IC card  25  executes carrier sense after the passing of the time (RND 2 ). The second non-contact type IC card  25  starts communication with the IC card reader/writer  21  after the end of communication between the first non-contact type IC card  25  and the IC card reader/writer  21 . 
     Next, a description is given of a method of detecting that the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . 
     In the case where the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 , in order to execute communication with the non-contact type IC card  25 , it is necessary, as described above, to generate the induction magnetic field from the IC card reader/writer  21 . In order to determine whether it is necessary to generate the induction magnetic field by the IC card reader/writer  21 , the computer  10  detects whether the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . 
     (a) Method of Detection Using the Card Detection Sensor  26 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the card detection sensor  26  is disposed in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 , thereby to detect whether the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . For example, the card detection sensor  26  reports the detection of the storage of the non-contact type IC card  25  to the CPU  111  via the EC/KBC  140 . The OS  112  or application program  113  records data which indicates that the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored, and manages the state of the non-contact type IC card  25 . 
     (b) Method of Detection by a Built-In IC Card Detection Process. 
     The CPU  111  of the computer  10  executes a built-in IC card detection process, which is illustrated in a flow chart of  FIG. 9 , thereby managing whether the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . The built-in IC card detection process may be executed by the application program  113 , or may be executed by the OS  112  in accordance with a request from the application program  113 . 
     The built-in IC card detection process, which is executed by the CPU  111 , will now be described with reference to the flow chart of  FIG. 9 . 
     The CPU  111  executes a block A 1 , and generates, as a steady state, a constant magnetic field by the IC card reader/writer  21 . In this state, when the non-contact type IC card  25  is approached to the IC card reader/writer  21 , data transmission/reception between the IC card reader/writer  21  and the non-contact type IC card  25  is enabled. 
     If data from the non-contact type IC card  25  is received in a block A 2 , the CPU  111  executes a block A 3 , receives a card ID from the non-contact type IC card  25  via the IC card reader/writer  21 , and records the card ID. In this case, it cannot be determined whether the card ID has been received since the external non-contact type IC card  25   a  has been moved to the vicinity of the IC card reader/writer  21 , or the card ID has been received since the non-contact type IC card  25   b  has been inserted in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . 
     After the passing of a predetermined time, the CPU  111  executes a block A 4 , and causes the IC card reader/writer  21  to generate an induction magnetic field. The predetermined time, in this case, is normally set at a time (e.g. about 2 seconds) which is long enough to complete an operation on the IC card reader/writer  21  in the case where the external non-contact type IC card  25   a  is used. 
     If no data is received from the non-contact type IC card  25  when the induction magnetic field is generated after the predetermined time (No in block A 5 ), the CPU  111  determines that the non-contact type IC card  25  is not stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . 
     On the other hand, if data is received from the non-contact type IC card  25  when the induction magnetic field is generated after the predetermined time (Yes in block A 5 ), the CPU  111  compares, in block A 6 , the received card ID and the previously received card ID. If the compared card IDs are not identical (No in block A 7 ), the computer  10  determines that the non-contact type IC card  25  is not stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . 
     If the compared card IDs are identical (Yes in block A 7 ), the computer  10  determines that the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 , and records, in block A 8 , data which indicates the state in which the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored. 
     Specifically, when the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 , the card ID is received by the IC card reader/writer  21 . Then, if the same non-contact type IC card  25  remains in the stored state in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 , the card ID is received from the same non-contact type IC card  25  by the generation of the induction magnetic field. Therefore, if the same card ID is received when the constant magnetic field is generated and the induction magnetic field is generated, it can be determined that the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . 
     Thereafter, the computer  10  causes the IC card reader/writer  21  to generate a constant magnetic field (block A 9 ). If the card ID is received from the non-contact type IC card  25  (Yes in block A 1 ) and this card ID is identical to the card ID of the built-in non-contact type IC card  25  (Yes in block All), the CPU  111  determines that the non-contact type IC card  25  has been taken out of the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . In block A 12 , the CPU  111  erases the data that indicates the state in which the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored. 
     As has been described above, the magnetic field that is generated from the IC card reader/writer  21  is switched between the constant magnetic field and the induction magnetic field. On the basis of the card IDs which are read from the non-contact type IC card  25  when the constant magnetic field is generated and when the induction magnetic field is generated, it is possible to detect whether the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . 
     In the above description, it is detected whether the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored in advance in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . However, the above-described process may be omitted in the case where the non-contact type IC card  25  does not need to be stored in advance in the non-contact type IC card slot  22  in the application process that is executed by the application program  113 , that is, in the case where data may be read from whichever of the external and built-in non-contact type IC cards  25   a  and  25   b.    
     In this case, an induction magnetic field is generated at a time point when data transmission/reception with the non-contact type IC card  25  has become necessary. At this time, if data from the non-contact type IC card  25  is not received, it is determined that the non-contact type IC card  25  is not stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 , and a constant magnetic field is generated from the IC card reader/writer  21 . Then, a transition occurs to a standby state for waiting for data reception from the non-contact type IC card  25 , which occurs when the user holds the non-contact type IC card  25  over the IC card reader/writer  21 . 
     Next, a description is given of a specific process using the non-contact type IC card  25  of the computer  10  according to the present embodiment. 
       FIG. 10  is a flow chart illustrating a IC card process for executing card settlement by the non-contact type IC card  25  having a charge settlement function (e.g. electronic money). 
     To begin with, the CPU  111  executes an application process relating to card settlement, according to the application program  113  (block B 1 ). For example, the CPU  111  executes the application program  113 , and executes, e.g. confirmation of a charge that is to be settled by the non-contact type IC card  25 , in accordance with an instruction from the user. In the case where an instruction for settlement by the non-contact type IC card  25  is input by the user, that is, in the case where a request for access to the non-contact type IC card  25  occurs (Yes in block B 2 ), the CPU  111  causes the IC reader/writer  21  to execute communication with the non-contact type IC card  25 . 
     In the case where the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22  in the computer main body  11  (Yes in block B 3 ), the CPU  111  causes, in block B 4 , the IC card reader/writer  21  to generate an induction magnetic field according to the application program  113  (or the OS  112 ), thereby enabling data transmission/reception between the IC card reader/writer  21  and the non-contact type IC card  25 . It is assumed that whether the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored or not has been detected in advance by the above-described card detection sensor  26  or the built-in card detection process. 
     In the case where data (e.g. card ID) is received from the non-contact type IC card  25  (Yes in block B 5 ), the CPU  111  causes, according to the application program  113 , the IC card reader/writer  21  to execute data transmission/reception with the non-contact type IC card  25  in connection with the card settlement, and executes a process for card settlement on the data received from the non-contact type IC card  25  (block B 8 ). For example, in the case where the non-contact type IC card  25  is equipped with a pre-paid type charge payment function, the CPU  111  calculates post-settlement data (i.e. the balance) in block B 9 , and sends the data to the non-contact type IC card  25  via the IC card reader/writer  21 . 
     If the non-contact type IC card  25  is not stored in the computer main body  11  (No in block B 3 ) or if no data is received from the non-contact type IC card  25  even when the induction magnetic field is generated (No in block B 5 ), the CPU  111  causes, according to the application program  113  (or the OS  112 ), the IC card reader/writer  21  to generate a constant magnetic field, thus waiting for data reception from the external non-contact type IC card  25   a  (block B 6 ). Specifically, the CPU  111  waits for the user&#39;s operation of approaching the non-contact type IC card  25   a  to the IC card reader/writer  21 . 
     In the case where data is received from the non-contact type IC card  25  (Yes in block B 7 ), the CPU  111  executes, in block B 8  and block B 9 , a process on the data received from the non-contact type IC card  25 , in the same manner as described above, and sends the processed data to the non-contact type IC card  25  via the IC card reader/writer  21 . 
     As has been described above, in the computer  10  according to the present embodiment, if the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 , the card process can be executed without the user&#39;s operation of holding (approaching) the non-contact type IC card  25  over the IC card reader/writer  21  at the time of card settlement. Thus, even in the case where card settlement needs to be performed twice or more, it should suffice if the non-contact type IC card  25  remains in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 , and the handling of the non-contact type IC card  25  by the user becomes easier. 
     Next, a description is given of specific examples of the case of using two non-contact type IC cards  25  at the same time in the computer  10  according to the present embodiment. 
     In the computer  10  according to the present embodiment, in the state in which the non-contact type IC card  25   b  is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 , data transmission/reception with the external non-contact type IC card  25   a  can be executed by the IC card reader/writer  21 . By making use of this feature, it is possible to execute a first IC card process shown in  FIG. 11  and a second IC card process shown in  FIG. 12 . 
       FIG. 11  illustrates the first IC card process in which a data transaction is executed between two non-contact type IC cards  25   a  and  25   b  via the IC card reader/writer  21 . For example, assume that the non-contact type IC cards  25   a  and  25   b  have electronic money functions, and money values can be charged in the IC cards  25   a  and  25   b.  In this example, a process of transferring the money value, which is charged in the built-in non-contact type IC card  25   b,  into the external non-contact type IC card  25   a  is executed. It is assumed that the external non-contact type IC card  25   a  is placed on a position on the computer main body  11 , where the IC card reader/writer  21  is provided. 
       FIG. 12  illustrates the second IC card process for a data transaction between two external non-contact type IC cards  25   a   1  and  25   a   2  via the IC card reader/writer  21  and the built-in non-contact type IC card  25   b.  In this example, points recorded in the non-contact type IC card  25   a   1  are transferred to the other non-contact type IC card  25   a   2  via the built-in non-contact type IC card  25   b.    
       FIG. 11  and  FIG. 12  are views showing the relationship between the IC card reader/writer  21  and the non-contact type IC card  25   a,    25   b,  and are not views showing the relative physical positions thereof. 
     To begin with, the IC card process shown in  FIG. 11  is described with reference to a flow chart of  FIG. 13 . 
     The CPU  111  executes the application program  113 , and executes settings of non-contact type IC cards  25  that are objects of the process, for example, by the user&#39;s operation on the keyboard  13  or touch pad  15  (block C 1 ). For example, the CPU  111  registers in advance the non-contact type IC cards  25  that are objects of the first IC card process, by the process of the application program  113 . Specifically, the CPU  111  reads in the card IDs from the non-contact type IC cards  25  and records the card IDs (block C 2 ). The CPU  111  prompts the user to select the charge source and the transfer destination of money values from among the plural pre-registered non-contact type IC cards  25  (card IDs). 
     In addition, the CPU  111  sets the content of the card process. In this example, the money value (amount), which is transferred from the non-contact type IC card  25  that is the charge source of the money value to the non-contact type IC card  25  that is the transfer destination, is set in accordance with the user&#39;s instruction. 
     The data relating to the users of the respective non-contact type IC cards  25  is recorded in advance in association with the card ID. Thereby, such an instruction can be issued as to transfer the money value of 5000 yen from the non-contact type IC card  25 , which is possessed by the father, to the non-contact type IC card  25 , which is possessed by a child. 
     If the content of the process is thus set and the execution of the process is instructed, the CPU  111  informs the IC card reader/writer  21  of the card IDs (the charge source and transfer destination) of the non-contact type IC cards  25  that are the objects of the process, and the data indicative of the money value (amount) that is to be transferred. In addition, the OS  112  causes the IC card reader/writer  21  to generate an induction magnetic field (block C 3 ). 
     If the IC card reader/writer  21  receives the data including the card ID and the charge amount from the first non-contact type IC card  25  (block C 4 ), the process on the data received from the first non-contact type IC card  25  is executed (block C 5 ). 
     For example, if the card ID received from the first non-contact type IC card  25  is the card ID that is set as the charge source, an amount corresponding to the money value transfer that is instructed from the application program  113  is subtracted from the current charge amount. The IC card reader/writer  21  transmits the data, which is obtained after subtracting the amount corresponding to the money value transfer, to the first non-contact type IC card  25  (block C 6 ). 
     On the other hand, if the IC card reader/writer  21  receives the data including the card ID and the charge amount from the second non-contact type IC card  25  (block C 7 ), the process on the data received from the second non-contact type IC card  25  is executed (block C 8 ). 
     For example, if the card ID received from the second non-contact type IC card  25  is the card ID that is set as the transfer destination, the amount that has been subtracted from the charge amount of the first non-contact type IC card  25  (i.e. the amount instructed from the application program  113 ) is added to the current charge amount that is read out. The IC card reader/writer  21  transmits the data, which has been obtained after the process, to the second non-contact type IC card  25  (block C 9 ). 
     The above description is directed to the case in which data is first received from the non-contact type IC card  25  (built-in non-contact type IC card  25   b ) that is the charge source. However, there may be a case in which data is first received from the non-contact type IC card  25  (external non-contact type IC card  25   a ) that is the transfer destination. In this case, too, the same process as described above may be executed on the non-contact type IC cards that are the charge source and transfer destination. 
     As has been described above, by simplifying the handling of the non-contact type IC cards  25   a  and  25   b,  the data transaction can be executed between the non-contact type IC card  25   b,  which is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 , and the external non-contact type IC card  25   a  via the IC card reader/writer  21 . 
     In addition, since the data transaction between the non-contact type IC card  25   a  and non-contact type IC card  25   b  is executed via the IC card reader/writer  21 , the authenticity of data can be ensured. In other words, when the data transaction is executed between the non-contact type IC card  25   a,    25   b  and the IC card reader/writer  21 , a process, such as an authentication process or an encryption/decryption process, is performed as an intervening process, and therefore tampering of data, for example, can be prevented. 
     In the process shown in  FIG. 13 , the CPU  111  causes the IC card reader/writer  21  to generate the induction magnetic field once, thereby executing data transmission/reception of the two non-contact type IC cards  25   a  and  25   b  and completing the process. Alternatively, the data reception from the non-contact type IC card  25   a,    25   b  may be executed separately from the data transmission to the non-contact type IC card  25   a,    25   b,  and induction magnetic fields may be generated from the IC card reader/writer  21  at the time of data reception and at the time of data transmission, respectively. 
     For example, data is received from the two non-contact type IC cards  25   a  and  25   b  by the induction magnetic field that is generated at the first time, and the process on the data received therefrom is executed. At this time, which of the non-contact type IC cards  25  is to be chosen, the data from which is to be processed, and what kind of process is to be executed on this data, are determined on the basis of the card ID and the process content which are instructed in advance from the application program  113 . Subsequently, the IC card reader/writer  21  generates the induction magnetic field at the second time. At this time, the IC card reader/writer  21  transmits the processed data to each card, on the basis of the card ID that is received from the non-contact type IC card  25   a,    25   b.    
     In the case where the induction magnetic field is generated at the second time, it is possible that the communication between the IC card reader/writer  21  and the non-contact type IC card  25   a,    25   b  is executed in an order different from the order at the time when the induction magnetic filed is generated at the first time, as explained with reference to  FIG. 8 . However, the matching can be established on the basis of the card IDs. 
     Next, the second IC card process shown in  FIG. 12  is described with reference to a flow chart of  FIG. 14 . 
     The CPU  111  executes the application program  113 , and executes settings of non-contact type IC cards  25  that are objects of the process, for example, by the user&#39;s operation on the keyboard  13  or touch pad  15  (block D 1 ). The settings of the non-contact type IC cards  25  that are objects of the process are executed in the same manner as in the above-described first IC card process (block D 2 ). Then, the CPU  111  sets the content of the card process in accordance with an instruction from the user. In this example, all points recorded in the non-contact type IC card  25   a   1 , the communication with which occurs earlier, are transferred to the non-contact type IC card  25   a   2 , the communication with which occurs later. 
     If the process content is thus set and the execution of the process is instructed, the CPU  111  informs the IC card reader/writer  21  of the card IDs of the non-contact type IC cards  25  that are the objects of the process, and the data indicative of the process content (transfer of all points). In addition, the OS  112  causes the IC card reader/writer  21  to generate a constant magnetic field, thus enabling wireless communication with the external non-contact type IC card  25 . 
     If data is received from the external first non-contact type IC card  25  (non-contact type IC card  25   a   1 ) (block D 3 ), the IC card reader/writer  21  executes a process on the data that is received from the non-contact type IC card  25   a   1  (block D 4 ). Specifically, the non-contact type IC card  25   a   1 , which is the object of the process, is confirmed on the basis of the card ID, and the data indicative of the recorded points is acquired. Then, the points that are recorded in the non-contact type IC card  25   a   1  are decreased to zero. 
     The IC card reader/writer  21  generates an induction magnetic field (block D 5 ) and transmits the points, which are received from the non-contact type IC card  25   a   1 , to the non-contact type IC card  25   b  which is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22  (block D 6 ). The non-contact type IC card  25   b  records the points which are received from the IC card reader/writer  21 . 
     Then, the IC card reader/writer  21  transitions to a data reception wait state by radiating a constant magnetic field, thereby to enable data communication with the external second non-contact type IC card  25  (non-contact type IC card  25   a   2 ) that is the destination of the transfer of points. 
     If the IC card reader/writer  21  receives the card ID from the external non-contact type IC card  25  and confirms that this IC card  25  is the non-contact type IC card  25   a   2  that is the object of the process (block D 7 ), the IC card reader/writer  21  generates an induction magnetic field in order to read out the points recorded in the built-in non-contact type IC card  25   b  (block D 8 ). 
     The IC card reader/writer  21  receives the data of the points from the non-contact type IC card  25   b  (block D 9 ) and sends the data to the non-contact type IC card  25   a   2  (block D 10 ). The non-contact type IC card  25   a   2  records the data of the points, which is received from the IC card reader/writer  21 . 
     As has been described above, the data transaction between the two non-contact type IC cards  25   a   1  and  25   a   2  can be executed via the non-contact type IC card  25   b  which is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . The process on the non-contact type IC card  25   b  can be executed in the state in which the non-contact type IC card  25   b  is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . Thus, even if three non-contact type IC cards  25  are used, the handling of the IC cards is not time-consuming. In addition, since the data transaction is executed via the non-contact type IC card  25   b,  the authenticity of data can be ensured. 
     In the above description, one non-contact type IC card slot  22  is provided. Alternatively, a plurality of slots (storing modules) may be provided, and a plurality of non-contact type IC cards  25  may be stored at the same time in the casing of the computer main body  11 . For example, the IC card reader/writer  21  (antenna unit) may be disposed in the casing of the computer main body  11 , and the non-contact type IC card slot  22  may be provided on each of the upper side and lower side of the IC card reader/writer  21 . In this case, a plurality of non-contact type IC cards  25  can be stored at the same time in the casing of the computer main body  11 . In this state, communication can be executed by the IC card reader/writer  21  between the plural non-contact type IC card  25 . 
     In the above description, the non-contact type IC card slot  22  is configured such that the non-contact type IC card  25  is detachably inserted in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . Alternatively, the non-contact type IC card  25  may be fixedly and irremovably stored. 
     In the case where the non-contact type IC card slot  22  is configured such that the non-contact type IC card  25  is detachably inserted in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 , a lock mechanism may be provided to prevent easily detachment of the non-contact type IC card  25 . Specifically, in the case where the non-contact type IC card  25  is usable as electronic money, if a third person takes possession of the non-contact type IC card  25  by a theft or the like, the non-contact type IC card  25  may possibly be unlawfully used. Thus, even if the user moves away from the computer  10 , the non-contact type IC card  25  is prevented from being easily taken out from the non-contact type IC card slot  22  by a third person. For example, in the case where the computer  10  is equipped with an authentication function for authenticating the user, unlocking is enabled only when it is confirmed by the authentication function that the user is authentic, so that the non-contact type IC card  25  may be taken out from the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . 
     In the above description, the non-contact type IC card  25 , which is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 , is connected by wireless communication via the IC card reader/writer  21 . Alternatively, the non-contact type IC card  25  may be physically connected. In this case, the non-contact type IC card  25  is provided with an external terminal which enables electrical connection. This external terminal may be provided on one of the upper and lower surfaces of the non-contact type IC card  25  or on one of the sides of the non-contact type IC card  25 . In addition, the non-contact type IC card slot  22  is provided with a connection terminal at such a position that the connection terminal comes in contact with the external terminal of the non-contact type IC card  25  when the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . Thereby, when the non-contact type IC card  25  is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 , the external terminal of the non-contact type IC card  25  is electrically connected to the connection terminal of the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . 
     By the electrical connection to the non-contact type IC card  25 , the computer  10  can detect that the non-contact type IC card  25  has been stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 . In addition, the computer  10  can control the operation of the non-contact type IC card  25 . For example, with the application of a predetermined voltage to the non-contact type IC card  25 , the computer  10  can switch the state of the non-contact type IC card  25  between an operable state and an inoperable state. Thereby, in accordance with the process content that is set by the application, the computer  10  renders the non-contact type IC card  25 , which is stored in the non-contact type IC card slot  22 , for example, in the inoperable state, so that only wireless communication with the external non-contact type IC card  25  may be enabled. 
     In the above description, the computer main body  11  is provided with the IC card reader/writer  21  that can execute data read/write from/to the non-contact type IC card  25 . However, in the case where the IC card process that is executed by the computer  10  (application program  113 ) does not require data write to the non-contact type IC card  25 , an IC card reader which reads data from the non-contact type IC card  25  may be mounted. 
     In the above description, the notebook portable personal computer  10  is taken as an example. The present invention, however, is applicable to various information processing apparatuses which are equipped which IC card reader/writers  21  (or IC card readers). 
     The various modules of the systems described herein can be implemented as software applications, hardware and/or software modules, or components on one or more computers, such as servers. While the various modules are illustrated separately, they may share some or all of the same underlying logic or code. 
     While certain embodiments of the inventions have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the inventions. Indeed, the novel methods and systems described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in the form of the methods and systems described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the inventions. The accompanying claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications as would fall within the scope and spirit of the inventions.