Patent Publication Number: US-7721962-B2

Title: Removable memory card bridge

Description:
CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
   This application is a Continuation-in-Part of International Application PCT/CA2007/000783 filed May 4, 2007, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/798,322, filed May 8, 2006. 

   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   1. Field of the Invention 
   This invention relates to improvements to a storage card (memory card) reader system, and more particularly relates to a readily replaceable and exchangeable memory card bridge for insertion in the receiver of the reader to protect it from damage and to provide easy replacement and/or substitution of memory card bridges to accommodate different types of memory cards. 
   2. Background 
   Storage cards (sometimes referred to as memory cards or data storage devices) are increasingly popular as an electronic storage medium in various devices. They are used both to store data and also to transfer the data to other devices. These storage cards may be read and written to by card readers having receivers or connectors that are configured to be compatible with a specific type of storage card. Card readers can be contained within digital cameras, desktop computers, notebook computers, video cameras, televisions, and various audio and video players; virtually any modern electronic devices which utilizes a removable storage system for storing data for which a compact size is advantageous. 
   Currently there are many types of storage cards available on the market such as a PCMCIA Card, Compact Flash Card (CF card), Smart Media Card (SM Card), Memory Stick (MS card), Memory Stick Duo (MS Duo Card), Memory Stick Micro, Multimedia Card (MMC), Reduced-Size Multimedia Card (RS-MMC), Multimedia Micro Card (MMC micro), Secure Digital Card (SD card), mini Secure Digital Card (mini SD card), micro Secure Digital Card (micro SD card), xD-Picture Card (xD card) and so on. Further types of storage cards may be developed in the future. 
   As a consequence many different kinds of card readers are required, each configured to read a specific type or types of storage card as most of these storage cards are incompatible with each other having receivers (or input ports) for receiving a storage card of one type, or perhaps several types, of storage cards. These card readers may be internal and external and either accept only one type of storage card or several types of storage cards. As these card readers are sensitive electronic devices they are prone to damage or inoperability due to excessive or careless use by users. This is particularly so considering that these card readers are often used with portable devices due to the small size of the storage cards. Those portable devices are often more prone to be handled roughly, dropped or otherwise damaged through use. 
   As there are many types of storage cards, when a user moves data from one device to another device using a storage card, the user may become confused. Furthermore users can have difficulty in locating a correct card reader compatible with the type of storage card containing the data to be transferred. In order to overcome this problem many card readers include several individual card readers as a multiple system in order to accept and read (or write to) different types of storage cards using that card reader. 
   In many cases an individual user will prefer one or perhaps two types of storage cards for that individual&#39;s storage needs. That user will make use of only one or two slots and corresponding connectors (sometimes called receivers) in a multiple card reader system. The other slots and connectors of that user&#39;s card reader will remain unused or little used. As a consequence only one or two connectors of the card reader will become worn out, damaged or unusable through repeated use or misuse, leaving the other connectors of the system undamaged and usable. The user is forced to either replace the card reader in its entirety, which is unnecessarily expensive given the number of usable components that must be discarded, or if he is technically astute, remove and replace only the damaged or inoperable connector of the card reader, a process requiring considerable skill and time. Either method is unsatisfactory. If the damaged or inoperable connector could be easily and cheaply replaced with a new connector by an unskilled individual, significant time and expense could be saved. 
   In another situation, in the event of failure of the card reader embedded in an expensive electronic device, such as a digital camera, the entire camera must usually be replaced as the cost of repair can often approach or exceed the cost of replacement. If the receiver (connector) of the card reader of digital camera could be easily and cheaply replaced with a new connector, then a user would not need to waste money by purchasing a new digital camera or undertaking expensive repairs. 
   These types of card readers are also embedded in many types of self-standing user activated commercial stations such as kiosks and the like. This can include photo kiosks, banking kiosks, payment kiosks and so on. Generally the kiosk itself is expensive as it contains many complex and expensive electronic components to provide relevant services or products to a user. They are not easily removed for repair or maintenance and when they are removed the service or products are unavailable to the user. This adversely impacts the commercial enterprise that is using the kiosk to service its customers, both in foregoing income from the kiosk and in customer dissatisfaction when attending the premises of the commercial enterprise only to find that the kiosk has been removed for repair or is inoperable. A damaged or inoperable receiver (connector) of a card reader in a kiosk can result in the inoperability of the kiosk, or at least inoperability by users with storage cards compatible with the inoperable connector. If the defective receiver (connector) of the card reader of a kiosk could be easily and cheaply replaced with a new receiver (connector), these problems could be overcome. 
   In all of these situations the replacement of the damaged receiver (connector) of the card reader is a difficult, expensive and time consuming task which must be undertaken by trained individuals. 
   In typical memory card readers having multiple inputs the type of memory card is predetermined for each input slot in the reader. Because each receiver is fixed within the reader it is not possible to easily and cheaply replace an input slot of one type of memory card with that compatible with another type of memory card. This makes it difficult for users to change the type of memory card receiver in order to change the type of memory card which can be used with a particular reader, as for example, when a user purchases a new electronic device that uses a memory card that is incompatible with that previously used and for which the reader has no compatible receiver. In addition a user may wish to change the particular order of the compatible types of receivers within the reader or may chose to have multiple receivers that are compatible with the same type of memory card, in order to accommodate several memory cards of the same type simultaneously. 
   This is not readily possible with traditional memory card readers as they have fixed receivers of a particular type and are also not configured in a manner which addresses the differences in size of each type of memory card. 
   If a purchaser desires a pre-configured card reader with 6 slots (for example, SD, CF, MS, SM, xD, MMC slots) as manufactured in accordance with the prior art, the manufacturer would manufacture a card reader with slots in the desired position fixed to the integrated circuit board in a manner which is substantially permanent, that is changes would be undertaken with considerable difficulty. However, if a user would like to have a different card reader (for example SD, MS, SM, CF, xD, MMC), the manufacturer would have to redesign the card reader to provide these alternate fixed positions. At that time, significant design cost and manufacturing cost would be required. This embodiment of the invented card reader does not need to be redesigned in this manner. If the sequence of slots is to be changed, the manufacturer can accomplish this quickly and cheaply by changing the bridge. Only the face plate needs to be changed in accordance with the sequence of desired slots. 
   Also, if a new type of memory card is introduced into the market, the manufacturer can readily design a new card reader to accommodate the new type of memory card. The prior art card reader discussed above will require significant design cost and manufacturing cost to accommodate a new type of memory card. And in some cases, the actual system containing the old card reader must be replaced. In that case, the replacement cost would be significant. However, this embodiment of the invented card reader only requires a change of the bridge and face plate to adapt the reader to a new type of memory card. For example, if a new type of mini-SD card is introduced into the market, the invented card reader requires only a newly designed bridge accommodating the new style mini-SD card in order to function with the existing invented card reader. The design and manufacturing costs of the bridge would be far less than the cost of redesigning and replacing the entire card reader. If this invented card reader is in use by a purchaser, then a newly designed memory card bridge accommodating the new type of mini-SD card could be provided to the user to insert into an available slot of the invented card reader. A replacement face plate with an appropriate slot for the new type of mini-SD card could also be provided. The replacement of the entire card reader system is not required in order to accommodate the new type of memory card, the only required change is the addition or replacement with the new bridge and the possible change of the face plate. The results in significant cost savings at the manufacturing stage as well as for users wishing to upgrade. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   Applicant has developed a card bridge and card reader system and method which may be employed to address these serious problems. 
   In an aspect of the invention a memory card bridge for connecting a memory card to a memory card receiver of a memory card reading device; the bridge includes a card receiving section configured to receive and operatively connect to a pre-determined type of memory card for transmitting data from and to the memory card; a receiver insertion section connectable to the memory card receiver configured to operatively connect to a predetermined type of memory card receiver for transferring data between the memory card and the receiver, the predetermined type of receiver configured to operatively connect to the said predetermined type of memory card; the card receiving section is operatively connected to the receiver insertion section so that when the type of memory card is operatively inserted in the card receiving section and when the receiver insertion section is operatively connected to the receiver, data may be transmitted between the memory card and the receiver, and the card receiving section comprises a housing with an opening dimensioned to receive the type of memory card for operative connection to the card receiving section for transmission of data between the memory card and the receiver wherein the housing comprises upper and lower planar members connected by opposed sides all dimensioned to provide a guide to ensure proper insertion of the memory card into the card receiving section and operative connection between the memory card and the card receiving section. 
   Alternatively the receiver comprises an opening dimensioned to receive the type of memory card for operative connection of the receiver to a memory card of the type of memory card and wherein the card receiving section comprises an opening dimensioned to be identical to the opening of the receiver. 
   The housing length may be at least 50% of the length of the type of memory card. 
   The housing length may be approximately the length of the type of memory card such that when the memory card is operatively connected to the card receiving section the housing completely covers the memory card. 
   The type of memory card may be a connector dimensioned to operatively connect to the receiver and wherein the receiver insertion section is dimensioned to be identical to the dimensions of the connector. 
   The type of memory card may be a connector segment dimensioned to operatively connect to the opening of the receiver and wherein the receiver insertion section is dimensioned to be identical to the dimensions of the connector. 
   The receiver insertion section may be dimensioned for friction fit connection to the receiver. 
   Alternatively, the card receiving section includes a plurality of electrical contact connection members configured to match the electrical contact connectors of the type of memory card. 
   the receiver insertion section may include a plurality of electrical contact connection members configured to match the electrical contact connectors of the receiver. 
   In another aspect of the invention a memory card reader, includes a frame member comprising a removable face plate, the face plate including a face plate opening dimensioned to receive a pre-determined type of memory card; a memory card receiver configured to operatively connect to the predetermined type of memory card connected to the frame and aligned with the face plate opening for receiving the predetermined type of memory card through the opening and for transmitting data between the predetermined type of memory card and the receiver, the receiver spaced from the face plate a pre-determined distance. A memory card bridge includes: (i) a card receiving section configured to receive and operatively connect to the pre-determined type of memory card for transmitting data from and to the memory card; (i) a receiver insertion section connectable to the memory card receiver configured to operatively connect to the memory card receiver for transferring data between the memory card and the receiver; (ii) the card receiving section is operatively connected to the receiver insertion section so that when the type of memory card is operatively inserted in the card receiving section and when the receiver insertion section is operatively connected to the receiver, data may be transmitted between the memory card and the receiver, and (iii) the memory card bridge is dimensioned in length equivalent to the pre-determined distance so that when the receiver insertion section is operatively connected to the memory card receiver the opposite end of the memory card bridge is aligned on the side of the face plate facing the memory card receiver. In normal operation the memory card receiver is aligned with the face plate opening and the face plate is oriented with respect to the frame in a normal position which prevents the removal of the memory card bridge from the receiver and replacement with another like memory card bridge, and wherein such removal and replacement is permitted when the face plate is moved from its normal position. 
   Optionally, the receiver and face plate are oriented such that the outer end of the receiver is substantially co-planar with the face plate. 
   In a further aspect of the invention a reader for a plurality of data storage devices is provided including an integrated circuit board controlling the exchange of data from and to the data storage devices, the integrated circuit board having a front edge. A face plate communicating with the front edge of the circuit board having a plurality of openings to accept the data storage devices. A plurality of connectors connected to the circuit board each one spaced the same predetermined distance from the front edge, the connectors configured to operatively exchange data between any type of conventional memory card and the circuit board and having electrical contacts in a connector electrical contact pattern which is the same for each connector. A plurality of removable bridges, each includes (i) a data storage device receiving section adjacent a first end of each bridge configured to receive and operatively connect to a pre-determined type of data storage device having data storage device electrical contacts in a pattern of a contact standard of a type of data storage device so as to permit the exchange of data with the data storage device; (ii) a connector insertion section adjacent a second end of each bridge, opposite the first end, configured to operatively connect to any one of the plurality of connectors and having electrical contacts in an electrical contact pattern compatible with the connector electrical contact pattern so as to permit the exchange of data with the circuit board; and (iii) a series of electrical contacts connecting the electrical contacts of the data storage device receiving section and the electrical contacts of the connector insertion section. The distance between the first end and the second end of each bridge is substantially equal to the pre-determined distance so that when the connector insertion section of a bridge is operatively connected to a connector the data storage device receiving section of the bridge is positioned adjacent the face plate. 
   As an alternative, when in normal operation the face plate is oriented with respect to the circuit board in a normal position which prevents the removal of the bridge from the connector and replacement with another bridge, and wherein such removal and replacement is permitted when the face plate is moved from its normal position to an open position. 
   The bridge may also include an integrated circuit for converting data transmitted between the data storage device receiving section and the connector insertion section to a form which permits exchange of data between the data storage device and the integrated circuit board of the reader. 
   As a further alternative the connector electrical contact pattern is not compatible with a pattern of a contact standard of a type of data storage device. 
   Alternatively the data storage device receiving sections of more than one of the bridges have an identical data storage device electrical contact patterns. 
   Optionally, the data storage device receiving sections of more than one of the bridges have different data storage device electrical contact patterns. 
   As a further alternative the data storage device receiving section may include a housing with an opening dimensioned to receive the type of memory card for operative connection to the data storage device receiving section for transmission of data between the data storage device and the receiver wherein the housing comprises upper and lower planar members connected by opposed sides all dimensioned to provide a guide to ensure proper insertion of the data storage device into the data storage device receiving section and operative connection between the data storage device and the data storage device receiving section. 
   As another alternative the plurality of openings are uniform in size and dimensioned to accept any type of data storage device. 
   By employing such a reader system users can readily remove the face plate thereby permitting access to and removal of a bridge compatible with a particular type of data storage device and replace it with a bridge compatible with a data storage device of another type. Users can use a variety of bridges compatible with desired data storage devices, which will all fit into a receiver that is the same for all types of bridges of the system. The distance between the face plate and the receivers is the same, consistent with the length of the bridge. In an alternate embodiment this is a length which can accommodate the largest in length of data storage device either preferred by a manufacturer or customers or which are in use in the market. The face plate prevents removal of a bridge, until and unless the face plate is moved (or removed) in a manner which permits the removal and substitution of another bridge. Such a bridge has the added advantage of being easily replaced by a like compatible bridge when an existing bridge is worn out due to repeated or improper use. 

   
     DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       FIG. 1  is a front perspective view depicting a memory card reader having multiple receivers each configured to read and write to a specific type of memory card. The specific type of memory card for each such receiver is shown inserted into the corresponding receiver; 
       FIG. 2  is a rear exploded view of a memory card reader having multiple receivers each configured to read and write to a specific type of memory card. The specific type of memory card for each such receiver is shown separately, aligned with the corresponding receiver; 
       FIG. 3  depicts several types of card bridges configured for use with corresponding separate types of memory cards and associated receivers; 
       FIG. 4  is an exploded view of a memory card reader having multiple receivers with corresponding multiple memory card bridges oriented behind a plate or member bezel; 
       FIG. 5  depicts the internal structure of a type of memory card bridge suitable for use with an SD (Scan Digital) type of memory card and a receiver for operatively receiving a SD type of memory card; 
       FIG. 6  depicts the SD memory card bridge of  FIG. 5  with an SD memory card inserted in the card receiving section of the bridge; 
       FIG. 7  depicts a side sectional view of an SD memory card, an SD memory card bridge and SD memory card receiver of the card reader all connected together for use; 
       FIG. 8  depicts an exemplary manner of use of the memory card bridge using an SD memory card about to be inserted into the card receiving section of the SD bridge; 
       FIG. 9  depicts the exemplary manner of use of  FIG. 8  with the SD memory card inserted into the SD memory card bridge which is connected to the receiver of a card reader; 
       FIG. 10A  is a schematic top view of the memory card reader of another embodiment of the subject invention; 
       FIG. 10B  is a front plan view of a face plate of the embodiment of  FIG. 10A ; 
       FIG. 11  is a schematic top view of the embodiment of  FIG. 10A  with components separated and depicting a plurality of bridges of an embodiment of the subject invention; 
       FIG. 12  is a schematic top view of the embodiment of  FIG. 11  showing schematically the internal components of the plurality of bridges; 
       FIG. 13  is a top view of the embodiment of  FIG. 11  with a plate with openings corresponding to adjacent bridges; 
       FIG. 14  is a top view of the embodiment of  FIG. 11  showing various memory cards associated with corresponding bridges of the embodiment of  FIG. 11 ; 
       FIG. 15  depicts schematically the embodiment of  FIG. 11  with memory cards inserted into corresponding bridges; 
       FIG. 16  is a schematic diagram showing the connections between an xD type of memory card receiving section, corresponding bridge and a J14 pin 20×2 for connection with the integrated circuit board of the card reader of  FIG. 10A ; 
       FIG. 17  is a schematic diagram showing the connections between a Secure Digital type of memory card receiving section, corresponding bridge and a J14 pin 20×2 for connection with the integrated circuit board of the card reader of  FIG. 10A ; 
       FIG. 18  is a is a schematic diagram showing the connections between an memory stick type of memory card receiving section, corresponding bridge and a J14 pin 20×2 for connection with the integrated circuit board of the card reader of  FIG. 10A ; and 
       FIG. 19  is a is a is a schematic diagram showing the connections between an smart media type of memory card receiving section, corresponding bridge and a J14 pin 20×2 for connection with the integrated circuit board of the card reader of  FIG. 10A . 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
   In an embodiment, the presented invention generally provides an improvement to card reader system by adding a card bridge between a storage or memory card and the connector or receiver of a memory card reader. 
   The addition of a bridge will significantly improve the reliability, reparability, and life cycle of any electronic device which utilizes a card reader. This improvement makes the maintenance of these devices much cheaper and simpler to the benefit of manufacturers, assemblers, distributors, service companies and users of these devices. 
     FIG. 1  depicts memory card reader  12  which includes various types of individual receivers  14  with compatible storage cards  20  inserted directly into each receiver  14  through the corresponding housing slot  16  of the bezel or plate member  18 . It should be understood that this is one example of a card reader  12 . Card reader  12  may be internal or external, some can read different types of storage cards  20  (as depicted in  FIG. 1 ) and some can only read one type of storage card  20 . Card readers  12  can be embedded in various electronic devices such as digital cameras, computers, cell phones, video cameras, printers, scanners, PDA&#39;s, handheld computers, Notebook PC&#39;s, MP3 players, game machines, televisions, and so on, whether internally or externally. Card readers are also often included with commercial stations containing computing systems such as kiosks and the like. 
     FIG. 1  depicts several types of storage cards  20  with corresponding receivers  14  for each of those cards  20 . The types of storage cards  20  include (but are not limited to) PCMCIA Cards, Compact Flash Cards (CF cards), Smart Media Cards (SM Cards), Memory Sticks (MS cards), Memory Stick Duo (MS Duo Cards), Memory Stick Micro, Multimedia Cards (MMC), Reduced-Size Multimedia Cards (RS-MMC), Multimedia Micro Cards (MMC micro), Secure Digital Cards (SD cards), mini Secure Digital Cards (mini SD cards), micro Secure Digital Cards (micro SD cards), xD-Picture Cards (xD cards). Further types of storage cards  20 , with corresponding receivers  14 , may be developed in the future and this invention would be equally applicable to those storage cards  20  and receivers  14 , through appropriate configuration of the bridge as will become apparent. 
     FIG. 2  is an exploded view of memory card reader  12  of  FIG. 1  having multiple receivers  14  each configured to read and write to a specific type of memory card  20 . The specific type of memory card  20  for each such receiver  14  is shown separately, aligned with its corresponding receiver  14 . 
   The basic internal structure of a typical card reader includes housing  22 , a PCB (printed circuit board)  24  with receivers  14  operatively connected thereto. Printed circuit board  24  contains the necessary electronic components and circuitry to read and write to memory cards  20  when inserted into corresponding receivers  14 . A face plate  18  (sometimes called a plate member) contains a plurality of slots  16  (sometimes called openings). Users may insert a storage card  20  (sometime called a memory card, smart card and so on) through slot  16  in face plate  18  to connect storage card  20  with the corresponding receiver  14  on the printed circuit board  24 . 
   As there are many types of storage cards  20 , users sometimes mishandle the card reader  12  by attempting to force the wrong storage card  20  into a receiver  14  not configured to accept that type of storage card  20 . Users may also cause damage to the receiver  14  by improperly inserting a storage card  20  into a receiver  14  which is properly configured for that type of storage card  20 . Receivers  14  may also be damaged or rendered unusable through normal “wear and tear”, that is through repeated use which eventually wears out the components of receiver  14 , including through abrasion of the internal parts of receiver  14 . This occurs despite the best efforts of manufacturers to minimise the occurrence of misuse and the effects of misuse as well as damage resulting from normal wear and tear on receiver  14 . These problems can cause receiver  14  to malfunction rendering that receiver  14  unavailable for use in reading and writing to storage cards  20 . In most cases the problems associated with the misuse and wear and tear occur at the receiver  14  which, absent the subject invention, is in direct contact with a storage card  20 . 
   Often the malfunction or inability to function of receiver  14  of card reader  12  requires either the replacement of the entire device associated with that card reader (for example a kiosk, computer, digital camera, etc.) or expensive repairs requiring the expertise of a specialized technician to remove the inoperable or malfunctioning receiver  14  and replacing it with a new receiver  14 . This is an expensive and time consuming process. 
   The card bridge of Applicant&#39;s invention, described below, is interposed between the storage card  20  and receiver  14  and is replaceable cheaply and easily by a person with little technical expertise. By replacing a defective bridge of applicant&#39;s invention, rather than receiver  14 , that replacement can be undertaken at significantly reduced cost, both in component costs and the time cost of an experienced technician. This can be undertaken on-site without removal of the device to a repair centre and with minimal disruption to the use of the device. 
     FIG. 3  depicts several types of memory card bridges  26  of the subject invention, configured for different types of storage cards  20  and associated receivers  14  ( FIGS. 1 and 2 ). The shape, size and type could be modified depend on the configuration of a particular storage card  20  and its associated receiver  14 . 
   Each bridge  26  includes a storage card receiving section  28  for operatively receiving a memory card  20  of the type associated with that particular bridge  26 . Each bridge  26  further includes a receiver insertion section  30  for operatively inserting into a receiver  14  of the type associated with that particular bridge  26 . 
     FIG. 4  depicts one manner of implementing the bridge system.  FIG. 4  is similar to  FIG. 2 , but shows the bridges  26  of the subject invention interposed between receivers  14  and storage cards  20 . A plurality of bridges  26  are positioned between a plurality of receivers  14  and storage cards  20 . Receiver insertion section  30  of each bridge  26  slips into a corresponding opening  34  ( FIG. 7 ) (sometimes called a socket) in receiver  14  configured for that type of storage card  20  and is positioned in the card reader housing  22  behind face plate  18  aligned with corresponding slot  16 . A space exists between receiver  14  and face plate  18  dimensioned with respect to bridges  26  so that bridges  26  are positioned behind the face plate  18  when reader  12  is assembled. Card receiving sections  28  of bridges  26  include an opening  32  dimensioned to accept a storage card  20  of the same type as the type of receiver  14  into which the particular bridge  26  is inserted. In this embodiment the existence of bridges  26  interposed between receivers  14  and face plate  18  will not be readily apparent to a user, nor would bridges  26  be removable by users without the removal of face plate  18 , minimising the opportunity for bridges  26  to be removed in an unauthorised manner thereby defeating their purpose. 
   However, the invention is not limited to such an internal bridge  26 . Bridge  26  could be located wholly or partially on the opposite side of face plate  18  from receiver  14 , particularly in applications where unauthorised removal of bridge  26  is not a problem and as well in applications involving the retrofitting of bridges  26  for use in an existing reader  12 . In that situation a substantial part of bridge  26  would be exposed outside of the card reader  12  face plate  18  extending from slot  14 . 
     FIG. 5  depicts the internal structure of bridge  26 . In this example bridge  26  is configured for use with an SD type memory card and corresponding SD type receiver  14 . The receiver insertion section  30  is positioned at one end of bridge  26  and includes the number, position and size of individual internal receiver insertion connectors  36  as is found at the connection end  38  ( FIG. 9 ) of an SD type memory card in order to slip into and connect with the opening  34  ( FIG. 7 ) (sometimes called the socket) of receiver  14  configured for an SD memory card. The card receiving section  28  is positioned at the opposite side of bridge  26  from receiver insertion section  30 . Card receiving section  28  includes opening  32  which includes a plurality of card receiving connectors  40 . Connectors  40  are the same in number, position and size as the individual connectors in a receiver  14  configured for an SD memory card to enable the SD memory card to slip into opening  32  to connect to card receiving connectors  40 . Each electrical contact connection member of connectors  40  is connected to a corresponding respective individual electrical contact connection member of connectors  36  through a central region of bridge  26  to permit data to pass through bridge  26  between the receiver  14  and the SD memory card  20 . For example individual electrical contact connection member  42  of connectors  36  is directly connected to individual electrical contact connection members  44  of connectors  40 . 
     FIG. 6  depicts an SD memory card  20  inserted into opening  32  of bridge  26  configured for an SD memory card. Bridge  26  will hold the SD card  20  in operative electrical connection with connectors  40 . Receiver insertion section  30  is connectable to receiver  14  of card reader  12  configured for an SD memory card. Connectors  36  will then be in electrical connection with internal connectors (not shown) inside opening  34  of receiver  14  configured for an SD memory card. 
     FIGS. 5 and 6  also depict a further advantage of this invention in showing how opening  32  of card receiving section  28  of the bridge  26  includes a rectangular extension  46  as a part of opening  32  that acts as a guide to assist in the proper alignment of the SD memory card  20  into opening  32  for proper connection with the individual electrical contact connection members  44  of connectors  40  the bridge  26 . In this embodiment, at least 50% of the length of the SD memory card  20  is within extension  46 . This feature reduces the risk of damage to the SD card  20  or the card receiving section  28  and related internal connectors  40  of bridge  26  thereby lengthening the useful life of bridge  26 . 
     FIG. 7  is a cross-sectional view depicting bridge  26  interposed between memory card  20  and receiver  14  when in use. Memory card  20  is shown inserted into opening  32  of card receiving section  28 . The connectors (not shown) at connection end  38  of memory card  20  are in electrical contact with connectors  40  of card receiving section  28 . Connectors  36  of receiver insertion section  30  are in electrical connection with connectors  48  of receiver  14 . In this example all three of memory card  20 , bridge  26  and receiver  14  are configured for an SD memory card  20 . 
   It can also be seen that memory card  20  is housed within opening  32  with a substantial amount of memory card  20  inside opening  32  as defined by extension  46 . In this embodiment, the substantial amount is more than 50% of its length. This ensures that memory card  20  enters opening  32  and connects with connectors  40  in a parallel fashion with the sides of opening  32  to connect with connectors  40  in a manner which reduces the abrasion and damage on connectors  40  as well as the connectors (not shown) of memory card  20 . 
     FIGS. 8 and 9  depict bridge  26  configured for an SD memory card  20  which is retrofitted externally to a type of card reader  12  which as not been pre-configured for use with bridge  26 . In this embodiment at least a portion of bridge  26  extends outside of face plate  18  and housing  22 . Bridge  26  slips into housing slot  16  configured in this example for an SD memory card  20  to connect internally into opening  34  of receiver  16  also configured for an SD memory card  20 . A substantial part of bridge  26 , including opening  32  of bridge  26  extends outwardly from face plate  18 . SD memory card  20  can be inserted into the opening  32  to be connected to connectors  40  of bridge  26 . Bridge  26  is, in turn, inserted into opening  34  of receiver  14  to provide electrical contact between connectors  36  of Bridge  26  and connectors  48  of receiver  14 . 
     FIG. 9  depicts SD memory card  20 , bridge  26  and card reader  12  oriented in this manner, with bridge  26  retrofitted externally to card reader  12 . Card reader  12  may then read from and write to SD memory card  20  through bridge  26 . 
   As regards the internal bridge  26  of an embodiment of this invention, when in use if there is malfunction of bridge  26  for whatever reason, including to abrasion of contacts  40  of bridge  26  or mishandling of memory card  20 , the face plate  18  or the housing  22  of the card reader  12  can be easily removed. The inoperative bridge  26  can then be easily removed by pulling it from opening  34  of receiver  14  and a new bridge  26  can be inserted into opening  34  to take its place. This can all be undertaken by untrained personnel simply, quickly and cheaply. If bridge  26  is in a card reader of a digital camera or other electronic device, and there is a problem with that bridge  26  through use or misuse, only bridge  26  need be replaced and the digital camera or other device is ready for continued use. 
   As regards the external bridge  26  of an embodiment of this invention preferred for retrofitting to an existing card reader  12 , when in use bridge  26  remains in receiver insertion section  30  of receiver  14  and memory card or cards  20  are inserted and removed from card receiving section  28 , as desired by a user. If there is malfunction of bridge  26  for whatever reason, including to abrasion of contacts  40  of bridge  26  or mishandling of storage card  20 , the inoperative bridge  26  can be easily removed by pulling it from opening  34  of receiver  14  through slot  16  and a new bridge  26  can be inserted through slot  16  into opening  34  to take its place. Face plate  18  is not removed. This can all be undertaken by untrained personnel simply, quickly and cheaply. 
   An alternate embodiment of the invention will now be described with reference to  FIGS. 10A ,  10 B and  11  through  19 . 
   In this embodiment, a plurality of bridges are provided with each configured to accept a particular type of memory card at an end. The bridges have a uniform other end for insertion into the integrated circuit board connectors of a reader to facilitate easy substitution of bridges compatible with any particular type of memory cards in the card reader. 
   Referring to  FIG. 10A , reader  100  is shown schematically in a top view. Reader  100  consists of a boxed housing with upper surface  102  shown. A series of schematic representations  104  of various types of memory cards is printed on surface  102 . In this embodiment this includes representations of MS (memory stick) card  106 , CF (compact flash),  108 , SD (secure digital) card  110 , xD card  112 , MMC (multi-media) card  114 , and SM (smart media) card  116 . 
   Each of these types of memory cards have predetermined sizes, that is length, width and thickness as well as electrical contacts in predetermined standard electrical contact pattern. These standard sizes and electrical contact patterns are unique for each type of memory card and a card reader configured to accept and communicate with one type of memory card is generally unsuitable for communication with another type of memory card in a prior art system. Many of the different types of memory cards and their different sizes and electrical contact patterns are described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,152,801, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference. 
   Reader  100  includes face plate  118  which is connected to the front of reader  100  to enclose reader  100  from the front. It should be noted that while face plate  118  is shown separated from upper surface  102  in  FIG. 10A . However, face plate  118  is connected to upper surface  102 , as well as end faces  134  and  136  and bottom surface (not shown) to form an enclosed front face of reader  100 . Four screw members  138  removably attach face plate  118  to reader  100 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 10B , face plate  118  is depicted with a plurality of openings  120 . Openings  120  are of varying width and height to accommodate particular memory cards therein. In the example depicted in  FIG. 10B , opening  122  is configured to accept a memory stick into opening  122 . Opening  124  is configured to accept a compact flash memory card into opening  124 . Opening  126  is configured to accept a secure digital memory card into opening  126 . Opening  128  is configured to accept an xD memory card. Opening  130  is configured to accept a multi-media memory card. Finally, opening  132  is configured to accept a smart media card through opening  132 . It can be seen that schematic representations  104  depict memory cards which correspond to the memory cards which are accepted through corresponding openings  120  of face plate  118 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 11 , when upper surface  102  is separated from reader  100 , integrated circuit board  140  is revealed. Integrated circuit board  140  controls the signals received from the various memory cards for communication with the particular device connected to reader  100 , such as a computer or other device which is used to read data from the memory cards or transfer data to the memory cards for storage. Integrated circuit board  140  includes a series of connectors  142  which in this embodiment are identical to one another. Connectors  142  are connected to integrated circuit board by appropriate electrical connections for operative connection of reader  100  to corresponding type of memory cards in order to communicate with the memory card. In the preferred embodiment, connector  142  can be a J14 pin 20×2 with one end connected to the integrated circuit board and the other end comprising receivers  144 . Receivers  144  are identical for each of the plurality of connectors  142 . Connectors of the type J14 pin 20×2 have the advantage of being inexpensive and contain sufficient electrical connections to accommodate most types of memory card contact requirements. 
   Each connector  142  is spaced from front edge  146  of integrated circuit board  140  the same distance  148 . When in use, face plate  118  is positioned adjacent edge  146 . 
     FIG. 11  also depicts a plurality of bridges  150  with each bridge  150  corresponding to an adjacent connector  142 . Bridges  150  are identical in external dimensions. In addition, bridges  150  are large enough in cross-sectional area to be greater than the area of the largest of the openings  120  of face plate  118 . This prevents the removal of bridge  150  from reader  100  unless face plate  118  is removed, or moved to a position that permits that removal. 
   The length of  152  of bridges  150  is identical to distance  148 . Bridges  150  include connector insertion section  154  configured physically and electrically to operatively connect to receiver  144  of connectors  142 . Each connector insertion section  154  is identical to the other connector insertion sections  154  of bridges  150 . This enables any bridge  150  to be connected to any connector  142  of reader  100 . Because distance  148  is identical to length  152 , when section  154  is inserted into receiver  144  of a connector  142 , front face  156  of each bridge  150  is in co-planar alignment in a vertical plane with front edge  146 . When face plate  118  is attached to reader  100 , inner edge  158  of face plate  118  is generally in co-planar alignment with front edge  146  and front face  156 . Inner edge  158  is positioned adjacent front face  156  of each bridge  150  inserted into a corresponding connector  142  of reader  100 . 
   Referring to  FIGS. 12 and 13 , it can be seen that all connectors  142  are positioned the same distance  148  from edge  146 . As seen in  FIG. 12 , bridges  150  include housing  160  as well as base member  162 . 
     FIG. 13  depicts reader  100  without housing  160  for ease of reference. Each base member  162  is identical in size with an identical connector insertion section  154  for insertion into connectors  142 . Each base member  162  includes electrical connections (see  FIGS. 16-19 ) to connect a memory card to section  154  for electrical connection to connector  142 . 
   Each connector insertion section is adjacent a second end  164  of base member  162  and thereby of bridge  150 . Second end  164  is opposite front face  156  (sometimes identified as a first end) of bridge  150 . Connector insertion section  154  is configured to operatively connect to any one of the plurality of connectors  142  with electrical contacts in an electrical contact pattern which is compatible with the electrical contact pattern of the plurality of connectors  142 . This permits the exchange of data between bridge  150  and integrated circuit board  140 . 
   Each base member  162  of bridge  150  includes a data storage device receiving section  166  adjacent front face  156  of bridge  150 . Receiving section  166  is configured to receive and operatively connect to a predetermined type of data storage device (memory card) having data storage device electrical contacts in a pattern of a contact standard of that type of data storage device. This permits the exchange of data between that type of data storage device and receiving section  166 . 
   In the example depicted in  FIG. 13 , receiving section  168  is particularly configured to operatively connect to a secure data type of data storage device. When in use, receiving section  168  is aligned with opening  122  so that a secure digital type of data storage device may be inserted through opening  126  into receiving section  168  to operatively connect the secure digital type of data storage device with receiving section  168 . When bridge member  150  containing receiving section  168  is inserted into any one of connectors  142 , a secure digital type of data storage device inserted into receiving section  168  may communicate with integrated circuit board  140  to send and receive data between that secure digital type of data storage device and integrated circuit board  140 . 
   In a similar manner, receiving section  170  is configured to operatively accept a compact flash type of data storage device through opening  124 . Receiving section  172  is configured to operatively accept a memory stick type of data storage device through opening  122 . 
   It can be seen that each type of bridge  150  can be positioned anywhere along the length of reader  100  provided that face plate  118  contains openings  120  which correspond to a particular type of memory card compatible with the particular receiving section  166  of bridge  150 . Comparing  FIG. 10B  to  FIG. 13 , it can be seen that the left most opening is opening  122  in  FIG. 10B  and is opening  126  in  FIG. 13 . Bridge  150  behind face plate  118  would have receiving section  172  (compatible with a memory stick type of data storage device) behind face plate  118  of  FIG. 10B  whereas it would have receiving section  168  (compatible with a secure digital type of data storage device) behind face plate  118  in  FIG. 13 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 14 , face plate  118  is shown with opening  126  adjacent base member  162  having a secure digital receiving section  168 . A secure digital type of data storage device  180  is depicted adjacent opening  126  for insertion through opening  126  into receiving section  168  to operatively connect to integrated circuit board  140  when the corresponding bridge  150  with receiving section  16 , is connected to connector  142 . 
   Opening  124  is to the right of opening  126  configured for a compact flash type of storage device  182 . Base member  162  having receiving section  170  configured to accept compact flash storage device  182  is positioned adjacent opening  124 . 
   To the right of opening  124 , opening  122  is configured to accept a memory stick type of storage device  184  for insertion into memory stick receiving section  172 . To the right of opening  122 , opening  132  is configured to accept smart media type of storage device  186  through opening  132  for operative connection to smart media receiving section  178 . 
   To the right of opening  132  is opening  128  to accept xD type of storage device  188  through opening  128  for operative connection to xD receiving section  174 . 
   To the right of opening  128  is opening  130  for receiving multi-media type of storage device  190  through opening  130  for operative connection to multi-media receiving section  176 . 
   It can be seen in comparing  FIGS. 10B ,  13  and  14  that openings and corresponding receiving sections can be oriented in any position along integrated circuit board  140  provided that face plate  118  is configured with appropriately-sized openings  120  to match corresponding receiving sections of bridges  150  to enable operative connection of each type of storage device with a corresponding receiving section. Connector insertion sections  154  which is the same for each bridge  150  may then be connected to a connector  142  for operative connection of a connected data storage device to integrated circuit board  140 . 
     FIG. 15  depicts base members  162  with corresponding data storage devices inserted for operative connection to each bridge  150 . The position of each type of storage device and its corresponding base member  162  is the same to that of  FIG. 14 . When each bridge  150  is inserted into a connector  142  though connector insertion sections  154 , front face  156  of each bridge  150  is in co-planar alignment with front edge  146  of integrated circuit board  140 . As well, when face plate  118  is connected to the other components of the housing of reader  100 , including upper surface  102 , inner edge  158  is also co-planar with front face  156  and front edge  146 . With face plate  118  attached in this manner, it is not possible to remove bridges  150  from reader  100 . They remain securely connected to each one of connectors  142 . Only when face plate  118  is removed or moved to an appropriate position may bridges  150  be removed from reader  100 . At the same time with the removal of face plate  118 , any bridge  150  may be easily removed and replaced by a bridge compatible with a different type of memory card, or with the same type of bridge, or may be moved to a different position along reader  100 . 
   It should also be noted that while the various storage devices  180  through  190  extend beyond front face  156 , they will extend through corresponding openings  120  in the face plate  118  in order to be readily inserted and removed by users through those openings. 
   It can also be readily seen that the position of the bridges along the length of reader  100  can be changed in accordance with the desires of users or manufacturers in order to accommodate particular types of storage devices along that length. Bridges  150  are readily removed and replaced when face plate  118  is removed. This permits manufacturers or users to change the type of memory card or cards which can be accommodated in reader  100  as desired. Reader  100  can be configured for multiple types of storage devices or the same type of storage device can be accommodated in more than one position along the length of reader  100 . 
   As well, as new types of storage devices are developed, it is a relatively simple matter to configure bridge  150  with a data storage device receiving section  166  which is configured to accommodate that new type of storage device. Connector storage section  154  remains the same and that bridge will readily fit within connector  142  to operatively connect that new type of storage device with integrated circuit board  140 . 
   This system provides an easy and inexpensive means for configuring storage device reader  100  to accommodate many different types of storage devices, reposition storage devices along the length of reader  100 , update reader  100  to accommodate new types of storage devices and replace worn out bridges with the same type of bridge to reduce “wear and tear” on connector  142  attached to integrated circuit board  140 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 16 , the electrical connection of xD card  188  to circuit board  140  is depicted schematically. When xD card  188  is inserted into xD receiving section  174  of bridge  150 , connections are made in the manner depicted between xD storage device  188  and xD receiving section  174 . xD receiving section  174  is connected through bridge  150  to connector insertion section  154  of bridge  150 . When bridge  150  is connected to connector  142  through connector insertion section  154 , electrical connection is made in the manner depicted between those two sections in  FIG. 16 . Connector  142 , in this example, is a J14 pin 20×2 which is, in turn, connected to integrated circuit board  140  for exchange of data between xD type storage device  188  and integrated circuit board  140 . 
     FIG. 17  depicts the connection between a secure digital type storage device  180  and integrated circuit board  140  through bridge  150 . Secure digital type storage device  180  is connected to secure digital receiving section  168  through connections  192 . The connection extends through bridge  150  to connector insertion section  154  when connector insertion section  154  is inserted into connector  142 , shown as a J14 pin 20×2. Connector  142  is, in turn, connected to integrated circuit board  140  in order that data may be exchanged between integrated circuit board  140  and secure digital type storage device  180 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 18 , memory stick type storage device  184  is connected to memory stick receiving section  172  of bridge  150 . Electrical connection extends through bridge  150  to connector insertion section  154  which is connected to connector  142  which is also a J14 pin 20×2. Connector  142  is then connected to integrated circuit board  140  in order to provide electrical connection between integrated circuit board  140  and memory stick type storage device  184 . 
     FIG. 19  depicts a connection of a smart media type storage device  186  to integrated circuit board  140 . Smart media type storage device  186  is electrically connected to smart media receiving section  178  of bridge  150 . Electrical connection continues through bridge  150  to connector insertion section  154  which is connected to connector  142  on circuit board  140 . Connector  142  is also a J14 pin 20×2 connector which is connected to integrated circuit board  140  by way of electrical connections. 
   As will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which the invention is addressed, the present invention may be embodied in forms other than those specifically disclosed above, without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of the invention. The particular embodiments of the invention described above and the particular details of the processes described are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative or exemplary only and not restrictive. Other configurations could be developed based on known systems with card readers, or as may in the future be developed. The scope of the present invention is as set forth in the complete disclosure rather than being limited to the examples set forth in the foregoing description.