Patent Description:
The present invention generally relates to the portable computing devices, and more particularly, to portable computing device docking stations.

Portable computing devices (PCDs) are ubiquitous. These devices may include cellular telephones, portable digital assistants (PDAs), portable game consoles, palmtop computers, and other portable electronic devices. As technology increases, PCDs are becoming increasingly powerful and rival laptop computers and desktop computers in computing power and storage capabilities.

One drawback to using a PCD, however, is the small form factor typically associated therewith. As the PCD gets smaller and is made more easily portable, using the PCD may become increasingly difficult. Further, the small form factor of a PCD may limit the amount of ports, or connections, that may be incorporated in the shell, or housing, of the PCD. As such, even as PCDs become more powerful and have increased capabilities, access to the power and capabilities may be limited by the sizes of the PCDs.

Accordingly, what is needed is an improved for system and method for taking advantage of the computing capabilities provided by a PCD.

Prior art devices are disclosed in <CIT>, <CIT>, <CIT> and <CIT>.

In the figures, like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various views unless otherwise indicated.

In this description, the term "application" may also include files having executable content, such as: object code, scripts, byte code, markup language files, and patches.

The term "content" may also include files having executable content, such as: object code, scripts, byte code, markup language files, and patches. In addition, "content" referred to herein, may also include files that are not executable in nature, such as documents that may need to be opened or other data files that need to be accessed.

As used in this description, the terms "component," "database," "module," "system," and the like are intended to refer to a computer-related entity, either hardware, firmware, a combination of hardware and software, software, or software in execution. For example, a component may be, but is not limited to being, a process running on a processor, a processor, an object, an executable, a thread of execution, a program, and/or a computer. By way of illustration, both an application running on a computing device and the computing device may be a component. One or more components may reside within a process and/or thread of execution, and a component may be localized on one computer and/or distributed between two or more computers. In addition, these components may execute from various computer readable media having various data structures stored thereon. The components may communicate by way of local and/or remote processes such as in accordance with a signal having one or more data packets (e.g., data from one component interacting with another component in a local system, distributed system, and/or across a network such as the Internet with other systems by way of the signal).

Referring initially to <FIG>, an exemplary portable computing device (PCD) is shown and is generally designated <NUM>. As shown, the PCD <NUM> may include a housing <NUM>. The housing <NUM> may include an upper housing portion <NUM> and a lower housing portion <NUM>. <FIG> shows that the upper housing portion <NUM> may include a display <NUM>. In a particular aspect, the display <NUM> may be a touchscreen display. The upper housing portion <NUM> may also include a trackball input device <NUM>. Further, as shown in <FIG>, the upper housing portion <NUM> may include a power on button <NUM> and a power off button <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the upper housing portion <NUM> of the PCD <NUM> may include a plurality of indicator lights <NUM> and a speaker <NUM>. Each indicator light <NUM> may be a light emitting diode (LED).

In a particular aspect, as depicted in <FIG>, the upper housing portion <NUM> is movable relative to the lower housing portion <NUM>. Specifically, the upper housing portion <NUM> may be slidable relative to the lower housing portion <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the lower housing portion <NUM> may include a multi-button keyboard <NUM>. In a particular aspect, the multi-button keyboard <NUM> may be a QWERTY keyboard. The multi-button keyboard <NUM> may be revealed when the upper housing portion <NUM> is moved relative to the lower housing portion <NUM>. <FIG> further illustrates that the PCD <NUM> may include a reset button <NUM> on the lower housing portion <NUM>. <FIG> also illustrates a first plurality of user interface objects <NUM> displayed at the display <NUM> of the PCD <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the PCD <NUM> may include a multi-pin connector array <NUM> established, or otherwise disposed, in a short end of the PCD <NUM>, e.g., a bottom of the PCD <NUM>. Alternatively, as illustrated in <FIG>, the PCD <NUM> may include a multi-pin connector array <NUM> established, or otherwise disposed, in a long end of the PCD <NUM>, e.g., a left side of the PCD <NUM> or a right side of the PCD <NUM>. In a particular aspect, the multi-pin connector array <NUM>, <NUM> may provide connectivity between the PCD <NUM> and an aspect of a PCD docking station, described in detail below.

Referring to <FIG>, an exemplary, non-limiting aspect of a portable computing device (PCD) is shown and is generally designated <NUM>. As shown, the PCD <NUM> includes an on-chip system <NUM> that includes a digital signal processor <NUM> and an analog signal processor <NUM> that are coupled together. The on-chip system <NUM> may include more than two processors. For example, the on-chip system <NUM> may include four core processors and an ARM <NUM> processor, i.e., as described below in conjunction with <FIG>. It may be appreciated that the on-chip system <NUM> may include other types of processors, e.g., a CPU, a multi-core CPU, a multi-core DSP, a GPU, a multi-core GPU, or any combination thereof.

As illustrated in <FIG>, a display controller <NUM> and a touchscreen controller <NUM> are coupled to the digital signal processor <NUM>. In turn, a touchscreen display <NUM> external to the on-chip system <NUM> is coupled to the display controller <NUM> and the touchscreen controller <NUM>.

<FIG> further indicates that a video encoder <NUM>, e.g., a phase alternating line (PAL) encoder, a sequential couleur a memoire (SECAM) encoder, or a national television system(s) committee (NTSC) encoder, is coupled to the digital signal processor <NUM>. Further, a video amplifier <NUM> is coupled to the video encoder <NUM> and the touchscreen display <NUM>. Also, a video port <NUM> is coupled to the video amplifier <NUM>. As depicted in <FIG>, a universal serial bus (USB) controller <NUM> is coupled to the digital signal processor <NUM>. Also, a USB port <NUM> is coupled to the USB controller <NUM>. A memory <NUM> and a subscriber identity module (SIM) card <NUM> may also be coupled to the digital signal processor <NUM>. Further, as shown in <FIG>, a digital camera <NUM> may be coupled to the digital signal processor <NUM>. In an exemplary aspect, the digital camera <NUM> is a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera or a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) camera.

As further illustrated in <FIG>, a stereo audio CODEC <NUM> may be coupled to the analog signal processor <NUM>. Moreover, an audio amplifier <NUM> may coupled to the stereo audio CODEC <NUM>. In an exemplary aspect, a first stereo speaker <NUM> and a second stereo speaker <NUM> are coupled to the audio amplifier <NUM>. <FIG> shows that a microphone amplifier <NUM> may be also coupled to the stereo audio CODEC <NUM>. Additionally, a microphone <NUM> may be coupled to the microphone amplifier <NUM>. In a particular aspect, a frequency modulation (FM) radio tuner <NUM> may be coupled to the stereo audio CODEC <NUM>. Also, an FM antenna <NUM> is coupled to the FM radio tuner <NUM>. Further, stereo headphones <NUM> may be coupled to the stereo audio CODEC <NUM>.

<FIG> further indicates that a radio frequency (RF) transceiver <NUM> may be coupled to the analog signal processor <NUM>. An RF switch <NUM> may be coupled to the RF transceiver <NUM> and an RF antenna <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, a keypad <NUM> may be coupled to the analog signal processor <NUM>. Also, a mono headset with a microphone <NUM> may be coupled to the analog signal processor <NUM>. Further, a vibrator device <NUM> may be coupled to the analog signal processor <NUM>. <FIG> also shows that a power supply <NUM> may be coupled to the on-chip system <NUM>. In a particular aspect, the power supply <NUM> is a direct current (DC) power supply that provides power to the various components of the PCD <NUM> that require power. Further, in a particular aspect, the power supply is a rechargeable DC battery or a DC power supply that is derived from an alternating current (AC) to DC transformer that is connected to an AC power source.

As shown in <FIG>, the PCD <NUM> may also include a global positioning system (GPS) module <NUM>. The GPS module <NUM> may be used to determine the location of the PCD <NUM>. Further, the GPS module <NUM> may be used to determine whether the PCD <NUM> is in motion by determining successive location information. Also, based on the successive location information the rate at which the PCD <NUM> is moving may be determined.

<FIG> indicates that the PCD <NUM> may include a management module <NUM>, e.g., within the memory <NUM>. The management module <NUM> may be used to manage the power of the PCD, the power of a PCD docking station, or a combination thereof.

Further, in another aspect, the management module <NUM> may be used to manage the memory <NUM> within the PCD <NUM>, a memory within a PCD docking station, or a combination thereof. Specifically, the management module <NUM> may be used to manage one or more applications stored within the PCD <NUM>, one or more content items stored within the PCD <NUM>, one or more applications stored within a PCD docking station, one or more content items stored within a PCD docking station, one or more application download requests received from a PCD <NUM>, one or more content item download requests received from a PCD <NUM>, one or more application download requests received from a PCD docking station, one or more content item download requests received from a PCD docking station, or a combination thereof.

In yet another aspect, the management module <NUM> may also be used to manage security between the PCD <NUM> and a PCD docking station, e.g., a mated PCD docking station, an unmated PCD docking station, or a combination thereof. Further, the management module <NUM> may also be used to manage the display <NUM> within the PCD <NUM>, a display within a PCD docking station, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the management module <NUM> may be used to manage calls received at the PCD <NUM>, e.g., while the PCD <NUM> is docked or undocked with a PCD docking station. The management module <NUM> may be used to manage calls transmitted from the PCD <NUM>, e.g., while the PCD <NUM> is docked or undocked with a PCD docking station. The management module <NUM> may also be used to manage other data transmission to and from the PCD <NUM> while the PCD <NUM> is docked or undocked, e.g., via a Wi-Fi network, a WPAN, a cellular network, or any other wireless data network.

In still another aspect, the management module <NUM> may be used to manage processors within the PCD <NUM>, e.g., when the PCD <NUM> is docked with a PCD docking station, when the PCD <NUM> is undocked with a PCD docking station, or a combination thereof. The management module <NUM> may also be used to manage the execution of applications within the PCD <NUM> when the PCD is docked or undocked with a PCD docking station. For example, the management module <NUM> may manage the execution of primary application versions, secondary application versions, standard application versions, enhanced application versions, or a combination thereof.

<FIG> indicates that the PCD <NUM> may further include a sensor <NUM> connected to the DSP <NUM>. The sensor <NUM> may be a motion sensor, a tilt sensor, a proximity sensor, a shock sensor, or a combination thereof. The sensor <NUM> may be used for situational awareness applications. For example, the sensor <NUM> may be used to detect the motion of a user lifting the PCD <NUM> to his or her ear and at the apex of the motion automatically connecting an incoming call. Further, the sensor <NUM> may detect a prolonged lack of motion of the PCD <NUM> whereas the PCD <NUM> may be automatically powered down, or placed in a sleep mode. The sensor <NUM> may remain powered so that when motion is once again detected, the PCD <NUM> may be switched from the sleep mode, or an off mode, into an active mode.

The sensor <NUM> may be used with tilt sensing applications. For example, the sensor <NUM> may be used for user interface applications in which movement is relevant. The sensor <NUM> may be used to sense picture, or screen, orientation. Further, the sensor <NUM> may be used to navigate, scroll, browse, zoom, pan, or a combination thereof based on tilt sensing. The sensor <NUM> may also be used in conjunction with gaming applications. In another application, the sensor <NUM> may be used for shock detection in order to protect a hard disk drive within the PCD <NUM> or a hard disk drive within a PCD docking station in which the PCD <NUM> is docked, or otherwise, engaged. Further, the sensor <NUM> may be used for tap detection.

<FIG> further indicates that the PCD <NUM> may also include a network card <NUM> that may be used to access a data network, e.g., a local area network, a personal area network, or any other network. The network card <NUM> may be a Bluetooth network card, a WiFi network card, a personal area network (PAN) card, a personal area network ultra-low-power technology (PeANUT) network card, or any other network card well known in the art. Further, the network card <NUM> may be incorporated into a chip, i.e., the network card <NUM> may be a full solution in a chip, and may not be a separate network card <NUM>.

As depicted in <FIG>, the touchscreen display <NUM>, the video port <NUM>, the USB port <NUM>, the camera <NUM>, the first stereo speaker <NUM>, the second stereo speaker <NUM>, the microphone <NUM>, the FM antenna <NUM>, the stereo headphones <NUM>, the RF switch <NUM>, the RF antenna <NUM>, the keypad <NUM>, the mono headset <NUM>, the vibrator <NUM>, and the power supply <NUM> are external to the on-chip system <NUM>.

In a particular aspect, one or more of the method steps described herein may be stored in the memory <NUM> as computer program instructions. These instructions may be executed by a processor <NUM>, <NUM> in order to perform the methods described herein. Further, the processors, <NUM>, <NUM>, the display controller <NUM>, the touchscreen controller <NUM>, the memory <NUM>, the management module <NUM>, the network card <NUM>, or a combination thereof may serve as a means for performing one or more of the method steps described herein.

Referring now to <FIG>, a first aspect of a PCD docking station is shown and is generally designated <NUM>. As shown, the PCD docking station <NUM> may include a housing <NUM> having a generally flat, boxed shaped lower housing portion <NUM> and a generally flat, boxed shaped upper housing portion <NUM>. In a particular aspect, the upper housing portion <NUM> may be connected to the lower housing portion <NUM> by a first hinge <NUM> and a second hinge <NUM>. The upper housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> may rotate around the hinges <NUM>, <NUM> with respect to the lower housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. Accordingly, the upper housing portion <NUM> may be rotated, or otherwise moved, relative to the lower housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> between a closed position, or closed configuration, shown in <FIG>, and an open position, or open configuration, shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. It may be appreciated that the open position may include a plurality of open positions in which the upper housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> is rotated away from the lower housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> and disposed at a plurality of angles with respect to the lower housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>.

Although, the PCD docking station <NUM> is shown with hinges <NUM>, <NUM> coupling the upper housing portion <NUM> to the lower housing portion <NUM>. It may be appreciated that the upper housing portion <NUM> may be coupled, or otherwise connected, to the lower housing portion <NUM> via a slide assembly (not shown). The upper housing portion <NUM> may slide relative to the lower housing portion <NUM> in order to reveal one or more components within the lower housing portion <NUM>, the upper housing portion <NUM>, or a combination thereof. Further, the upper housing portion <NUM> and the lower housing portion <NUM> may snap together or be coupled, or otherwise connected, via various other coupling mechanisms well known in the art.

As shown in <FIG>, the PCD docking station <NUM> may include a first front foot <NUM> and a second front foot <NUM>. Further, the PCD docking station <NUM> may also include a first rear foot <NUM> and a second rear foot <NUM>. Each foot <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be made from a polymer, rubber, or other similar type of material to support the PCD docking station <NUM> when placed on a desk or table and to prevent the PCD docking station <NUM> from slipping with respect to the desk or table.

As illustrated in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the PCD docking station <NUM> may include a latch assembly <NUM>. The latch assembly <NUM> may include a first hook <NUM> and a second hook <NUM> extending from the upper housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The first hook <NUM> and the second hook <NUM> may be connected to each other and a slider <NUM>. The latch assembly <NUM> may also include a first hook pocket <NUM> and a second hook pocket <NUM> formed within the lower housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The first hook pocket <NUM> and the second hook pocket <NUM> may be sized and shaped to receive and engage the first hook <NUM> and the second hook <NUM>. The slider <NUM> may be moved, or otherwise slid, relative to the upper housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> in order to release the hooks <NUM>, <NUM> from the hook pockets <NUM>, <NUM> and unlock the PCD docking station <NUM> in order to allow the upper housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> to be rotated with respect to the lower housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates that the lower housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> may include a plurality of external device connections <NUM>. For example, the lower housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> may include an IEEE <NUM> connection <NUM>, a first universal serial bus (USB) connection <NUM>, a second USB connection <NUM>, a registered jack (RJ) <NUM> connection <NUM>, an RJ-<NUM> connection <NUM>, a microphone jack <NUM>, and a headphone/speaker jack <NUM>. Further, the lower housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> may include an S-video connection <NUM>, a video graphics array (VGA) connection <NUM>, and an alternating current (AC) power adapter connection <NUM>. The lower housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> may include other connections, described elsewhere herein.

Referring now to <FIG> and <FIG>, the upper housing portion <NUM> of the PCD docking station <NUM> may include a display <NUM> incorporated therein. For example, the display <NUM> may be a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light emitting diode (LED) display, a backlit-LED display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED) display, or any other type of display. The lower housing portion <NUM> of the PCD docking station <NUM> may include a keyboard <NUM> incorporated therein. The keyboard <NUM> may be a fully QWERTY keyboard. The lower housing portion <NUM> of the PCD docking station <NUM> may include a touch pad mouse <NUM> incorporated therein. Further, the lower housing portion <NUM> of the PCD docking station <NUM> may include a first mouse button <NUM> and a second mouse button <NUM> incorporated therein. The mouse buttons <NUM>, <NUM> may be proximal to the touch pad mouse <NUM>. Additionally, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the lower housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> may include a first speaker <NUM> and a second speaker <NUM> incorporated therein. The lower housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> may also include a fingerprint reader <NUM> incorporated therein. <FIG> also shows a second plurality of user interface objects <NUM> displayed at the display <NUM> of the PCD docking station <NUM>.

In a particular aspect, the first plurality of user interface objects <NUM>, shown in <FIG>, may be a subset of the second plurality of user interface objects <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. Further, when a PCD <NUM> (<FIG>) is docked with a PCD docking station <NUM>, a user interface may display a larger number of user interface objects than a number of user interface objects displayed when the PCD <NUM> is undocked. Moreover, the capabilities of the user interface may be expanded when the PCD <NUM> is docked with a PCD docking station <NUM>. As such, a first user interface may be displayed when the PCD <NUM> is undocked and a second user interface may be displayed when the PCD <NUM> is docked with a PCD docking station <NUM>. The first user interface may be an abbreviated, or standard, user interface and the second user interface may be an expanded, or enhanced, user interface.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the lower housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> may include an open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> formed in the surface thereof. In this aspect, the open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> may be sized and shaped to receive a correspondingly sized and shaped PCD, e.g., the PCD <NUM> shown in <FIG>. The open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> may be a depression or hole formed in the lower housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. As shown, the open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> may be an open space, or a volume, formed within a left side wall <NUM>, a right side wall <NUM>, a rear side wall <NUM>, a front side wall <NUM>, and a bottom surface <NUM>.

<FIG> indicates that the open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> may include a multi-pin connector array <NUM>. The multi-pin connector array <NUM> may be formed in, extend from (or a combination thereof), one of the side walls <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. In the aspect as shown in <FIG>, the multi-pin connector <NUM> may extend from the left side wall <NUM> of the open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM>. The multi-pin connector array <NUM> may be sized and shaped to removably engage a correspondingly sized and shaped multi-pin connector array, e.g., the multi-pin connector array <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, the multi-pin connector array <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, a combination thereof, or some other type of multi-pin connector array known in the art.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the open-faced, closed-ended PCD docket pocket <NUM> may also include a latch assembly <NUM> that extends over an edge of one of the side walls <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. In the aspect as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the latch assembly <NUM> may extend over the edge of the right side wall <NUM> of the open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> opposite the left side wall <NUM> of the open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM>. The latch assembly <NUM> may be spring loaded and slidably disposed in the surface of the lower housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. In the aspect as shown, the latch assembly <NUM> may be moved in a direction, e.g., to the right, in order to allow a PCD, e.g., the PCD <NUM> shown in <FIG>, to be inserted into the open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM>. Thereafter, when released, the latch assembly <NUM> may move in the opposite direction, e.g., to the left. The latch assembly <NUM> may then engage an upper surface of the PCD <NUM> in order to maintain the PCD <NUM> within the PCD docking pocket <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the PCD <NUM> engaged with the PCD docking station <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the PCD <NUM> may be installed within the open-faced, closed-ended docking pocket <NUM> as described herein. Depending on the orientation of the multi-pin connector array <NUM>, the PCD <NUM> may be installed face up or face down within the open-faced, closed-ended docking pocket <NUM>. When the PCD <NUM> is installed within the docking pocket <NUM>, the multi-pin connector array <NUM> of the PCD <NUM> may be engaged with the multi-pin connector array <NUM> formed in the open-faced, closed-ended docking pocket <NUM>. Further, when the PCD <NUM> is installed face up within the docking pocket <NUM>, the display <NUM> within the PCD docking station <NUM> may operate as a primary display and the PCD <NUM> may operate as a secondary display.

For example, an executing application may be displayed on the primary display and one or more commands may be displayed on the secondary display. In another aspect, in a video mode, video may be displayed on the primary display and a video list and one or more video controls may be displayed on the secondary display. In yet another aspect, in an audio player mode, album art may be displayed on the primary display and one or more audio controls may be displayed in the secondary display.

In a phone mode, a contacts list, a call history, a caller photo, a call number, or a combination thereof may be displayed on the primary display and a numeric keypad may be displayed on the secondary display. When a call occurs, an application manager, e.g., within the PCD <NUM> may switch from the current application displayed on the secondary display to a phone application displayed on the secondary display. The call may be answered through the PCD <NUM> by undocking the PCD <NUM>. Alternatively, the call may be answered through the PCD docking station <NUM>, e.g., through the speakers <NUM>, <NUM> and a microphone connected to the PCD docking station. Moreover, the call may be answered through a headset, e.g., a Bluetooth headset coupled to the PCD <NUM>.

In yet another aspect, in an email application, a current email may be displayed on the primary display and a list of other emails may be displayed on the secondary display. In a game application, the executing game may be displayed on the primary display and the game controls may be displayed on the secondary display.

It may be appreciated that when the PCD <NUM> is docked with the PCD docking station <NUM> the combination may be considered a mobile computing device (MCD), e.g., a laptop computing device. Further, the combination of the PCD <NUM> and the PCD docking station <NUM> is portable and the housing <NUM> of the PCD docking station <NUM> may be closed while the PCD <NUM> is docked with the PCD docking station <NUM>. Also, the PCD docking station <NUM> may include a switch, e.g., a push button switch, within the open-faced, closed-ended docking pocket <NUM>. When the PCD <NUM> is installed within the open-faced, closed-ended docking pocket <NUM>, the PCD <NUM> can close the switch and cause the PCD docking station <NUM> to be powered on, e.g., energized. When the PCD <NUM> is ejected, or otherwise removed, from the open-faced, closed-ended docking pocket <NUM>, the PCD docking station <NUM> may be powered off. In another aspect, simply engaging the PCD <NUM> with the multi-pin connector array <NUM> may cause the PCD docking station <NUM> to be powered on. Disengaging the PCD <NUM> from the multi-pin connector array <NUM> may cause the PCD docking station <NUM> to be powered off.

Referring now to <FIG>, a second aspect of a PCD docking station is shown and is generally designated <NUM>. In general, the PCD docking station <NUM> shown in <FIG> is configured in a manner similar to the PCD docking station <NUM> described in conjunction with <FIG>. However, the PCD docking station <NUM> shown in <FIG> does not include a open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> (<FIG>).

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the PCD docking station <NUM> may include a housing <NUM> having a lower housing portion <NUM> and an upper housing portion <NUM>. In this aspect, the lower housing portion <NUM> may include an open-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> formed therein. The open-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> may be sized and shaped to receive a correspondingly sized and shaped PCD, e.g., the PCD <NUM> shown in <FIG>. The open-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> may be a depression or hole formed in the lower housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. As shown, the open-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> may be an open space, or a volume, formed within a left side wall <NUM>, a rear side wall <NUM>, a front side wall <NUM>, and a bottom surface <NUM>. Further, the open-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> is open on one side, e.g., the right side, in order to allow a PCD to be slid, or otherwise moved, into the open-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM>.

<FIG> indicate that the open-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> may include a multi-pin connector array <NUM>. The multi-pin connector array <NUM> may be formed in, extend from (or a combination thereof), one of the side walls <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. In the aspect as shown in <FIG>, the multi-pin connector <NUM> may extend from the left side wall <NUM> of the open-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM>. The multi-pin connector array <NUM> may be sized and shaped to removably engage a correspondingly sized and shaped multi-pin connector array, e.g., the multi-pin connector array <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, the multi-pin connector array <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, a combination thereof, or some other type of multi-pin connector array known in the art.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, a PCD, e.g., the PCD <NUM> shown in <FIG>, may be slid into the open-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> from the open, right side of the open-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM>. The PCD may be moved to the left until a multi-pin connector array on the PCD engages the multi-pin connector array <NUM> that extends into the open-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM>. When fully engaged with the open-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM>, as depicted in <FIG>, a touchscreen display within the PCD may be accessible to the user.

Depending on the orientation of the multi-pin connector array <NUM>, the PCD <NUM> may be installed face up or face down within the open-faced, open-ended docking pocket <NUM>. When the PCD <NUM> is installed face up within the docking pocket <NUM>, the display within the PCD docking station <NUM> may operate as a primary display and the PCD <NUM> may operate as a secondary display.

It may be appreciated that when the PCD <NUM> is docked with the PCD docking station <NUM> the combination may be considered a mobile computing device (MCD), e.g., a laptop computing device. Further, the combination of the PCD <NUM> and the PCD docking station <NUM> is portable and the housing <NUM> of the PCD docking station <NUM> may be closed while the PCD <NUM> is docked with the PCD docking station <NUM>. Also, the PCD docking station <NUM> may include a switch, e.g., a push button switch, within the open-faced, open-ended docking pocket <NUM>. When the PCD <NUM> is installed within the open-faced, open-ended docking pocket <NUM>, the PCD <NUM> can close the switch and cause the PCD docking station <NUM> to be powered on, e.g., energized. When the PCD <NUM> is ejected, or otherwise removed, from the open-faced, open-ended docking pocket <NUM>, the PCD docking station <NUM> may be powered off. In another aspect, simply engaging the PCD <NUM> with the multi-pin connector array <NUM> may cause the PCD docking station <NUM> to be powered on. Disengaging the PCD <NUM> from the multi-pin connector array <NUM> may cause the PCD docking station <NUM> to be powered off.

<FIG>, illustrate a third aspect of a PCD docking station, generally designated <NUM>. In general, the PCD docking station <NUM> shown in <FIG> is configured in a manner similar to the PCD docking station <NUM> described in conjunction with <FIG>. However, the PCD docking station <NUM> shown in <FIG> does not include a open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> (<FIG>).

As illustrated in <FIG>, the PCD docking station <NUM> may include a housing <NUM> having a lower housing portion <NUM> and an upper housing portion <NUM>. In this aspect, the lower housing portion <NUM> may include a closed-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> formed therein. The closed-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> may be sized and shaped to receive a correspondingly sized and shaped PCD, e.g., the PCD <NUM> shown in <FIG>. The closed-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> may be a depression or hole formed in the lower housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. As shown, the closed-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> may be an open space, or a volume, formed within a left side wall <NUM>, a rear side wall <NUM>, a front side wall <NUM>, a bottom surface <NUM>, and a top surface <NUM>. Further, the closed-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> may be open on one side, e.g., the right side, in order to allow a PCD to be slid, or otherwise moved, into the closed-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM>.

<FIG> indicate that the closed-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> may include a multi-pin connector array <NUM>. The multi-pin connector array <NUM> may be formed in, extend from (or a combination thereof), one of the side walls <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. In the aspect as shown in <FIG>, the multi-pin connector <NUM> may extend from the left side wall <NUM> of the closed-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM>. The multi-pin connector array <NUM> may be sized and shaped to removably engage a correspondingly sized and shaped multi-pin connector array, e.g., the multi-pin connector array <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, the multi-pin connector array <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, a combination thereof, or some other type of multi-pin connector array known in the art.

As shown in <FIG>, a PCD, e.g., the PCD <NUM> shown in <FIG>, may be slid into the closed-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> from the open, right side of the closed-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM>. The PCD <NUM> may be moved to the left until a multi-pin connector array on the PCD <NUM> engages the multi-pin connector array <NUM> that extends into the closed-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM>. When fully engaged with the closed-faced, open-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM>, the PCD <NUM> may not be accessible to the user.

As shown in <FIG>, the PCD docking station <NUM> may further include an eject button <NUM>. When the eject button <NUM> is pressed, the PCD <NUM> may be ejected from the PCD docking pocket <NUM> and the PCD docking station <NUM> for retrieval by a user. Depending on the orientation of the multi-pin connector array <NUM>, the PCD <NUM> may be installed face up or face down within the closed-faced, open-ended docking pocket <NUM>. When the PCD <NUM> is installed within the docking pocket <NUM>, the multi-pin connector array <NUM> of the PCD <NUM> may be engaged with the multi-pin connector array <NUM> formed in the closed-faced, open-ended docking pocket <NUM>.

It may be appreciated that when the PCD <NUM> is docked with the PCD docking station <NUM> the combination may be considered a mobile computing device (MCD), e.g., a laptop computing device. Further, the combination of the PCD <NUM> and the PCD docking station <NUM> is portable and the housing <NUM> of the PCD docking station <NUM> may be closed while the PCD <NUM> is docked with the PCD docking station <NUM>. Also, the PCD docking station <NUM> may include a switch, e.g., a push button switch, within the closed-faced, open-ended docking pocket <NUM>. When the PCD <NUM> is installed within the closed-faced, open-ended docking pocket <NUM>, the PCD <NUM> can close the switch and cause the PCD docking station <NUM> to be powered on, e.g., energized. When the PCD <NUM> is ejected, or otherwise removed, from the closed-faced, open-ended docking pocket <NUM>, the PCD docking station <NUM> may be powered off. In another aspect, simply engaging the PCD <NUM> with the multi-pin connector array <NUM> may cause the PCD docking station <NUM> to be powered on. Disengaging the PCD <NUM> from the multi-pin connector array <NUM> may cause the PCD docking station <NUM> to be powered off.

Referring to <FIG>, a fourth aspect of a PCD docking station is shown and is generally designated <NUM>. In general, the PCD docking station <NUM> shown in <FIG> is configured in a manner similar to the PCD docking station <NUM> described in conjunction with <FIG>. However, the PCD docking station <NUM> shown in <FIG> does not include a open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> (<FIG>).

As illustrated in <FIG>, the PCD docking station <NUM> may include a housing <NUM> having a lower housing portion <NUM> and an upper housing portion <NUM>. In this aspect, the lower housing portion <NUM> may include a PCD docking tray <NUM> extending therefrom. In particular, the PCD docking tray <NUM> may be slidably engaged with the lower housing portion <NUM> of the PCD docking station <NUM>. The PCD docking tray <NUM> may extend from a side of the lower housing portion <NUM>, e.g., a left side, a right side, or a front side. In a particular aspect, as shown, the PCD docking tray <NUM> may extend outwardly from the right side of the lower housing portion <NUM> of the PCD docking station <NUM>. Further, the PCD docking tray <NUM> may be movable between an open position, or extended position, in which the PCD docking tray <NUM> is extended from the PCD docking station <NUM> and a closed position, or retracted position, in which the PCD is retracted into the PCD docking station <NUM>.

The PCD docking tray <NUM> may include a generally flat, generally rectangular support plate <NUM> having a proximal end <NUM> and a distal end <NUM>. A face plate <NUM> may be attached to, or formed with, the distal end <NUM> of the support plate <NUM>. As shown, in a particular aspect, the face plate <NUM> may be perpendicular to the support plate <NUM>. <FIG> and <FIG> further show that the PCD docking tray <NUM> may be formed with a central opening <NUM>. In a particular aspect, the central opening <NUM> may be generally rectangular and may be oriented so that a long axis of the central opening <NUM> is substantially parallel to the proximal end <NUM> and the distal end <NUM> of the support plate <NUM>.

As shown, the PCD docking tray <NUM> may also include a support arm <NUM> that is sized and shaped to fit into the central opening <NUM> formed in the support plate <NUM>. The support arm <NUM> may be generally rectangular and may include a proximal end <NUM> and a distal end <NUM>. The proximal end <NUM> of the support arm <NUM> may be connected to the support plate <NUM> via a rod or pin (not shown) that passes through the proximal end <NUM> of the support arm <NUM> and into the support plate <NUM> on each side of the central opening <NUM> flanking the support arm <NUM>.

Further, as depicted, the support plate <NUM> may include a multi-pin connector array <NUM> adjacent to the central opening <NUM> and the support arm <NUM>. In a particular aspect, the multi-pin connector array <NUM> may be located adjacent to the proximal end <NUM> of the support arm <NUM>. The multi-pin connector array <NUM> may be sized and shaped to removably engage a correspondingly sized and shaped multi-pin connector array on a PCD, e.g., the multi-pin connector array <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, the multi-pin connector array <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, a combination thereof, or some other type of multi-pin connector array known in the art.

In a particular aspect, the PCD docking tray <NUM> is movable between an open position, shown in <FIG>, in which the PCD docking tray <NUM> extends fully from within the housing <NUM>, and a closed position in which the PCD docking tray <NUM> is retracted into the housing <NUM>. In the closed position, the face plate <NUM> of the PCD docking tray <NUM> may be flush with the side of the housing <NUM>.

Moreover, in a particular aspect, the support arm <NUM> may pivot within the central opening <NUM> of the support plate <NUM> between a first position and a second position. In the first position, shown in <FIG>, in which the support arm <NUM> fits into the central opening <NUM> of the support plate <NUM> and the support arm <NUM> is flush with the support plate <NUM>, i.e., an upper surface of the support arm <NUM> is even with an upper surface of the support plate <NUM>, a lower surface of the support arm <NUM> is even with a lower surface of the support plate <NUM>, or a combination thereof.

In the second position, the support arm <NUM> may form an angle with respect to the support plate <NUM>. In a particular aspect, the support arm <NUM>, the support plate <NUM>, or a combination thereof may include a detent (not shown), spring (not shown), or other similar mechanism to hold the support arm <NUM> in the second position. By applying pressure on the distal end <NUM> of the support arm <NUM> the force of detent, or spring, may be overcome and the support arm <NUM> may be returned to the first position.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, in the second position, a PCD, e.g., the PCD <NUM> shown in <FIG> may rest on the support arm <NUM> and a multi-pin connector array on the PCD <NUM> may engage the multi-pin connector array <NUM> on the PCD docking tray <NUM>. The support arm <NUM> may support the PCD <NUM> at an angle to facilitate viewing of the PCD <NUM> during operation of the PCD <NUM> and the PCD docking station <NUM>.

In a particular aspect, as shown in <FIG>, the PCD docking station <NUM> may further include an eject button <NUM>. The eject button <NUM> may be incorporated into the PCD docking tray <NUM>. Alternatively, the eject button <NUM> may be incorporated into the PCD docking station <NUM> adjacent to the PCD docking tray <NUM>. When the eject button <NUM> is pressed, the PCD docking tray <NUM> may be moved from the closed position to the open position. In the open position, the PCD <NUM> may be docked with and supported by the PCD docking tray <NUM>.

When the PCD <NUM> is engaged within the PCD docking tray <NUM>, the display within the PCD docking station <NUM> may operate as a primary display and the PCD <NUM> may operate as a secondary display.

It may be appreciated that when the PCD <NUM> is docked with the PCD docking station <NUM> the combination may be considered a mobile computing device (MCD), e.g., a laptop computing device. Further, the combination of the PCD <NUM> and the PCD docking station <NUM> is portable.

Referring to <FIG>, a fifth aspect of a PCD docking station is shown and is generally designated <NUM>. In general, the PCD docking station <NUM> shown in <FIG> is configured in a manner similar to the PCD docking station <NUM> described in conjunction with <FIG>. However, the PCD docking station <NUM> shown in <FIG> does not include a open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> (<FIG>).

As illustrated in <FIG>, the PCD docking station <NUM> may include a housing <NUM> having a lower housing portion <NUM> and an upper housing portion <NUM>. In this aspect, the upper housing portion <NUM> may include a PCD docking tray <NUM> extending therefrom. In particular, the PCD docking tray <NUM> may be slidably engaged with the upper housing portion <NUM> of the PCD docking station <NUM>. The PCD docking tray <NUM> may extend from a side of the upper housing portion <NUM>, e.g., a left side, a right side, or a front side (i.e., a top side when the upper housing portion <NUM> is open). In a particular aspect, as shown, the PCD docking tray <NUM> may extend outwardly from the right side of the upper housing portion <NUM> of the PCD docking station <NUM>.

The PCD docking tray <NUM> may include a generally flat, generally rectangular support plate <NUM> having a proximal end <NUM> and a distal end <NUM>. A face plate <NUM> may be attached to, or formed with, the distal end <NUM> of the support plate <NUM>. In a particular aspect, the face plate <NUM> may be perpendicular to the support plate <NUM>. <FIG> and <FIG> further show that the PCD docking tray <NUM> may include a support lip <NUM> formed along a bottom edge of the support plate <NUM>. In a particular aspect, the support lip <NUM> may be generally "L" shaped and provide a pocket between the support lip <NUM> and the support plate <NUM> in which an end of a PCD may fit and rest during use.

Further, as depicted in <FIG>, the upper housing portion <NUM> of the PCD docking station <NUM> may include a multi-pin connector array <NUM> adjacent to the PCD docking tray <NUM>. In a particular aspect, the multi-pin connector array <NUM> may be located adjacent to the proximal end <NUM> of the support plate <NUM>. The multi-pin connector array <NUM> may be sized and shaped to removably engage a correspondingly sized and shaped multi-pin connector array on a PCD, e.g., the multi-pin connector array <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, the multi-pin connector array <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, a combination thereof, or some other type of multi-pin connector array known in the art.

In a particular aspect, the PCD docking tray <NUM> is movable between a open position, or extended position, shown in <FIG>, in which the PCD docking tray <NUM> extends fully from within the housing <NUM>, e.g., the upper housing portion <NUM>, and a closed position, or retracted position, in which the PCD docking tray <NUM> is retracted into the housing <NUM>, e.g., the upper housing portion <NUM>. In the retracted position, the face plate <NUM> of the PCD docking tray <NUM> may be flush with the side of the upper housing portion <NUM>.

In the extended position, as shown in <FIG>, the PCD <NUM> may rest on the PCD docking tray <NUM> and a multi-pin connector array on the PCD <NUM> may engage the multi-pin connector array <NUM> on the upper housing portion <NUM>. The PCD docking tray <NUM> may support the PCD <NUM> at the same angle as the upper housing portion <NUM> is relative to the lower housing portion <NUM> to facilitate viewing of the PCD <NUM> during operation of the PCD <NUM> and the PCD docking station <NUM>.

In a particular aspect, as shown in <FIG>, the PCD docking station <NUM> may further include an eject button <NUM>. The eject button <NUM> may be incorporated into the PCD docking station <NUM> adjacent to the PCD docking tray <NUM>. Alternatively, the eject button <NUM> may be incorporated into the PCD docking tray <NUM>. When the eject button <NUM> is pressed, the PCD docking tray <NUM> may be moved from the closed position to the open position. In the open position, the PCD <NUM> may be docked with and supported by the PCD docking tray <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG> and <FIG>, a sixth aspect of a PCD docking station is shown and is generally designated <NUM>. In general, the PCD docking station <NUM> shown in <FIG> and <FIG> is configured in a manner similar to the PCD docking station <NUM> described in conjunction with <FIG>. However, the PCD docking station <NUM> shown in <FIG> and <FIG> does not include a touch pad mouse <NUM>, a first mouse button <NUM>, a second mouse button <NUM>, or a combination thereof.

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the PCD docking station <NUM> may include a housing <NUM> having a lower housing portion <NUM> and an upper housing portion <NUM>. The lower housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM> may include an open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> formed in the surface thereof. In this aspect, the open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> may be sized and shaped to receive a correspondingly sized and shaped PCD, e.g., the PCD <NUM> shown in <FIG>.

In a particular aspect, the open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> may be a depression or hole formed in the lower housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. As shown, the open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> may be an open space, or a volume, formed within a left side wall <NUM>, a right side wall <NUM>, a rear side wall <NUM>, a front side wall <NUM>, and a bottom surface <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> may also include a latch assembly <NUM> that extends over an edge of one of the side walls <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. In the aspect as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the latch assembly <NUM> may extend over the edge of the right side wall <NUM> of the open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM> opposite the left side wall <NUM> of the open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM>. The latch assembly <NUM> may be spring loaded and slidably disposed in the surface of the lower housing portion <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. In the aspect as shown, the latch assembly <NUM> may be moved in a direction, e.g., to the right, in order to allow a PCD, e.g., the PCD <NUM> shown in <FIG>, to be inserted into the open-faced, closed-ended PCD docking pocket <NUM>. Thereafter, when released, the latch assembly <NUM> may move in the opposite direction, e.g., to the left. The latch assembly <NUM> may then engage an upper surface of the PCD <NUM> in order to maintain the PCD <NUM> within the PCD docking pocket <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates the PCD <NUM> engaged with the PCD docking station <NUM>.

As shown, the PCD <NUM> may be installed within the open-faced, closed-ended docking pocket <NUM> as described herein. When the PCD <NUM> is installed within the docking pocket <NUM>, the multi-pin connector array <NUM> of the PCD <NUM> may be engaged with the multi-pin connector array <NUM> formed in the open-faced, closed-ended docking pocket <NUM>.

In a particular aspect, when the PCD <NUM> is docked with the PCD docking station <NUM>, the PCD <NUM> may be used as a supplemental display. Further, the PCD <NUM> may be used as an input device, e.g., the PCD <NUM> may be used as a mouse pad and may include a first mouse button and a second mouse button. Also, the PCD <NUM> may be used as a supplemental display and as a mouse pad with corresponding mouse buttons.

<FIG> depicts a first aspect of a PCD system, generally designated <NUM>. As shown, the PCD system <NUM> may include a PCD <NUM> and a PCD docking station <NUM>. In a particular aspect, the PCD <NUM> may be removably engaged with the PCD docking station <NUM> via a dock connector <NUM>. The dock connector <NUM> may provide electronic connectivity between one or more components within the PCD <NUM> and one or more components within the PCD docking station <NUM>. Additionally, the dock connector <NUM> may be a multi-pin dock connector <NUM>. Further, the dock connector <NUM> may be one of the multi-pin connector arrays described herein.

As shown in <FIG>, the PCD <NUM> may include a printed circuit board (PCB) <NUM> that may include the PCD electronic components. The PCD electronic components may be packaged as a system-on-chip (SOC) or some other appropriate device that integrates and connects the electronic components in order to control the PCD <NUM>. The PCB <NUM> may include one or more of the components described in conjunction with <FIG>. A battery <NUM> may be coupled to the PCB <NUM>.

<FIG> indicates that the PCD docking station <NUM> may include a battery <NUM> connected to the dock connector <NUM>. A power management module <NUM> may be connected to the battery <NUM>. Further, an alternating current (AC) power connection <NUM> may be connected to the power management module <NUM>. The AC power connection <NUM> may be connected to an AC power source (not shown).

<FIG> further shows that a first universal serial bus-high speed (USB-HS) port <NUM> may be connected to the dock connector <NUM>. A first USB connector <NUM> may be connected to the first USB-HS port <NUM>. As depicted in <FIG>, the PCD docking station <NUM> may also include a second USB-HS port <NUM>. A keyboard <NUM> may be connected to the second USB-HS port <NUM>. In particular, the keyboard <NUM> may be a keyboard/ touchpad combination.

<FIG> indicates that the PCD docking station <NUM> may also include a display <NUM> connected to the dock connector <NUM>. As shown, the dock connector <NUM> may be further connected to a ground connection <NUM>.

In a particular aspect, the dock connector <NUM> may include forty-four (<NUM>) pins. For example, the dock connector <NUM> may include eight (<NUM>) pins for the battery <NUM>, four (<NUM>) pins for the first USB-HS port <NUM>, four (<NUM>) pins for the second USB-HS port <NUM>, twenty (<NUM>) pins for the display <NUM>, and eight (<NUM>) pins for the ground connection <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a second aspect of a PCD system is shown and is generally designated <NUM>. As shown, the PCD system <NUM> may include a PCD <NUM> and a PCD docking station <NUM>. In a particular aspect, the PCD <NUM> may be removably engaged with the PCD docking station <NUM> via a dock connector <NUM>. The dock connector <NUM> may provide electronic connectivity between one or more components within the PCD <NUM> and one or more components within the PCD docking station <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the PCD <NUM> may include a printed circuit board (PCB) <NUM> that may include the PCD electronic components. The PCD electronic components may be packaged as a system-on-chip (SOC) or some other appropriate device that integrates and connects the electronic components in order to control the PCD <NUM>. Further, the PCB <NUM> may include one or more of the components described in conjunction with <FIG>. A battery <NUM> may be coupled to the PCB <NUM>.

<FIG> indicates that the PCD docking station <NUM> may include a battery <NUM> connected to the dock connector <NUM>. A power management module <NUM> may be connected to the battery <NUM>. Further, an alternating current (AC) power connection <NUM> may be connected to the power management module <NUM>. The AC power connection <NUM> may be connected to an AC power source (not shown). An audio input/output (I/O) <NUM> may be connected to the dock connector <NUM> and one or more speakers <NUM> may be connected to the audio I/O <NUM>.

As illustrated, a Gigabit Ethernet Media Access Controller (GbE MAC) <NUM> may also be connected to the dock connector <NUM>. An Ethernet port <NUM> may be connected to the GbE MAC <NUM>. In a particular aspect, the Ethernet port <NUM> may be an RJ45 jack.

<FIG> further shows that a first universal serial bus-high speed (USB-HS) port <NUM> may be connected to the dock connector <NUM>. A first USB connector <NUM> may be connected to the first USB-HS port <NUM>. As depicted in <FIG>, the PCD docking station <NUM> may also include a second USB-HS port <NUM>. A second USB connector <NUM> may be connected to the second USB-HS port <NUM>. Moreover, as depicted, a third USB-HS port <NUM> may be connected to the dock connector <NUM>. A keyboard <NUM> may be connected to the third USB-HS port <NUM>. In particular, the keyboard <NUM> may be a keyboard/ touchpad combination.

<FIG> indicates that the PCD docking station <NUM> may also include a display <NUM>. Additionally, the PCD docking station <NUM> may include an RGB(A) connector <NUM> coupled to the dock connector <NUM>. A D-sub connector <NUM> may be connected to the RGB(A) connector <NUM>. As shown, the dock connector <NUM> may be connected to a ground connection <NUM>.

In a particular aspect, the dock connector <NUM> may include one hundred nineteen (<NUM>) pins. For example, the dock connector <NUM> may include ten (<NUM>) pins for the battery <NUM>, three (<NUM>) pins for the audio I/O <NUM>, thirty-six (<NUM>) pins for the GbE MAC <NUM>, four (<NUM>) pins for the first USB-HS port <NUM>, four (<NUM>) pins for the second USB-HS port <NUM>, four (<NUM>) pins for the third USB-HS port <NUM>, twenty (<NUM>) pins for the display <NUM>, twenty-eight (<NUM>) pins for the RGB(A) connector <NUM>, and ten (<NUM>) pins for the ground connection <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a third aspect of a PCD system, generally designated <NUM>. As shown, the PCD system <NUM> may include a PCD <NUM> and a PCD docking station <NUM>. In a particular aspect, the PCD <NUM> may be removably engaged with the PCD docking station <NUM> via a dock connector <NUM>. The dock connector <NUM> may provide electronic connectivity between one or more components within the PCD <NUM> and one or more components within the PCD docking station <NUM>.

As further illustrated in <FIG>, a mobile display digital interface (MDDI) <NUM> may be connected to the dock connector <NUM>. A camera <NUM> may be connected to the MDDI <NUM>. Further, a Gigabit Ethernet Media Access Controller (GbE MAC) <NUM> may also be connected to the dock connector. An Ethernet port <NUM> may be connected to the GbE MAC <NUM>. In a particular aspect, the Ethernet port <NUM> may be an RJ45 jack.

<FIG> further shows that a first universal serial bus-high speed (USB-HS) port <NUM> may be connected to the dock connector <NUM>. A USB hub <NUM> may be connected to the first USB-HS port <NUM>. A first USB connector <NUM> and a second USB connector <NUM> may be connected to the USB hub <NUM>. Additionally, a keyboard <NUM> may be connected to the USB hub <NUM>. In particular, the keyboard <NUM> may be a keyboard/ touchpad combination.

As depicted in <FIG>, the PCD docking station <NUM> may also include a second USB-HS port <NUM>. A first serial advanced technology attachment (SATA) to USB converter <NUM> may be connected to the second USB-HS port <NUM>. A digital video disk (DVD) drive <NUM> may be connected to the first SATA-USB converter <NUM>. Further, the PCD docking station <NUM> may include a third USB-HS port <NUM>. A second SATA-USB converter <NUM> may be connected to the third USB-HS port <NUM> and a hard disk drive (HDD) <NUM> may be connected to the third USB-HS port <NUM>.

In a particular aspect, the dock connector <NUM> may include one hundred twenty-seven (<NUM>) pins. For example, the dock connector <NUM> may include ten (<NUM>) pins for the battery <NUM>, five (<NUM>) pins for the audio I/O <NUM>, six (<NUM>) pins for the MDDI <NUM>, thirty-six (<NUM>) pins for the GbE MAC <NUM>, four (<NUM>) pins for the first USB-HS port <NUM>, four (<NUM>) pins for the second USB-HS port <NUM>, four (<NUM>) pins for the third USB-HS port <NUM>, twenty (<NUM>) pins for the display <NUM>, twenty-eight (<NUM>) pins for the RGB(A) connector <NUM>, and ten (<NUM>) pins for the ground connection <NUM>. The dock connector <NUM> may also include an additional three (<NUM>) pins for the SATA <NUM> connected to the second USB-HS port <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, a fourth aspect of a PCD system is shown and is generally designated <NUM>. As shown, the PCD system <NUM> may include a PCD <NUM> and a PCD docking station <NUM>. In a particular aspect, the PCD <NUM> may be removably engaged with the PCD docking station <NUM> via a dock connector <NUM>. The dock connector <NUM> may provide electronic connectivity between one or more components within the PCD <NUM> and one or more components within the PCD docking station <NUM>.

<FIG> indicates that the PCD docking station <NUM> may also include a display <NUM>. Additionally, the PCD docking station <NUM> may include an RGB(A) connector <NUM> coupled to the dock connector <NUM>. A D-sub connector <NUM> may be connected to the RGB(A) connector <NUM>. A high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) <NUM> may also be connected to the dock connector <NUM>. As shown, the dock connector <NUM> may be connected to a ground connection <NUM>.

In a particular aspect, the dock connector <NUM> may include one hundred forty-six (<NUM>) pins. For example, the dock connector <NUM> may include ten (<NUM>) pins for the battery <NUM>, five (<NUM>) pins for the audio I/O <NUM>, six (<NUM>) pins for the MDDI <NUM>, thirty-six (<NUM>) pins for the GbE MAC <NUM>, four (<NUM>) pins for the first USB-HS port <NUM>, four (<NUM>) pins for the second USB-HS port <NUM>, four (<NUM>) pins for the third USB-HS port <NUM>, twenty (<NUM>) pins for the display <NUM>, twenty-eight (<NUM>) pins for the RGB(A) connector <NUM>, nineteen (<NUM>) pins for the HDMI <NUM>, and ten (<NUM>) pins for the ground connection <NUM>. The dock connector <NUM> may also include an additional three (<NUM>) pins for the SATA <NUM> connected to the second USB-HS port <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a PCD processor system is shown and is generally designated <NUM>. As shown, the PCD processor system <NUM> may include a first core processor <NUM>, a second core processor <NUM>, a third core processor <NUM>, and a fourth core processor <NUM>. Further, the PCD processor system <NUM> may include a <NUM>-bit processor <NUM>, e.g., an ARM <NUM> processor.

As shown, one or more hardware peripherals <NUM> may be connected to the first core processor <NUM>, the second core processor <NUM>, the third core processor <NUM>, the fourth core processor <NUM>, the <NUM>-bit processor <NUM>, or a combination thereof. In a particular aspect, a process monitor and load leveler <NUM> may be connected to the first core processor <NUM>, the second core processor <NUM>, the third core processor <NUM>, and the fourth core processor <NUM>. As described herein, the process monitor and load leveler <NUM> may act as a processor manager to turn the core processors <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> on and off depending on operational requirements, whether a PCD is docked, whether a PCD is undocked or a combination thereof. The process monitor and load leveler <NUM> may act as a means for executing one or more of the method steps described herein.

<FIG> further indicates that a first process <NUM> and a second process <NUM> may be executed by the <NUM>-bit processor <NUM>. A third process <NUM>, a fourth process <NUM>, a fifth process <NUM>, a sixth process <NUM>, a seventh process <NUM>, and an Nth process <NUM> may be executed by the first core processor <NUM>, the second core processor <NUM>, the third core processor <NUM>, the fourth core processor <NUM>, or a combination thereof via the process monitor and load leveler <NUM>.

The PCD processor system <NUM> may further include a modem real-time operating system (RTOS) <NUM> that may operate above the first process <NUM> and the second process <NUM>. An application RTOS <NUM> may operate above the third process <NUM>, the fourth process <NUM>, the fifth process <NUM>, the sixth process <NUM>, the seventh process <NUM>, and the Nth process <NUM>. In a particular aspect, the application RTOS may be an RTOS provided by Linux™. A plurality of applications <NUM> may be executed by the modem RTOS <NUM> and the application RTOS <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, a method of managing applications within a PCD and a PCD docking station is shown and is generally designated <NUM>. Commencing at block <NUM>, a do loop may be entered in which when an application is selected, the succeeding steps may be performed. At decision <NUM>, an application management module may determine whether the PCD is docked or undocked with a PCD docking station. If the PCD is undocked, the method <NUM> may continue to decision <NUM> and the application management module may determine whether a partial application version, e.g., a first application version, is available. If not, the method <NUM> may continue to block <NUM> and the application management module may execute a full application version, e.g., a second application version. For example, a full application version may be an editing version of an application and a partial application version may be a reader version of an application.

Moreover, in a particular aspect, a partial application version may be an abbreviated version of a full application version and may not have the same capabilities of an enhanced application version. Typically, a full application version may require more computing capability than a partial application version. Further, a user interface associated with a full application version may be more extensive than a user interface associated with a partial application version. The user interface associated with a full application version may display more user interface objects than a user interface associated with a partial application version. Also, the user interface of a partial application version may display user interface objects that are a subset of the user interface objects displayed by the user interface of a full application version.

From block <NUM>, the method <NUM> may continue to decision <NUM> and the application management module may determine whether another application is selected. If so, the method <NUM> may return to decision step <NUM> and the method <NUM> may continue as described herein.

Returning to decision <NUM>, if a partial application version is available, the method <NUM> may proceed to block <NUM> and the application management module may execute a partial application version. Then, the method <NUM> may continue to decision <NUM>. At decision <NUM>, if another application is not selected, the method <NUM> may move to decision <NUM>.

At decision <NUM>, the application management module may determine whether the application is closed. If so, the method <NUM> may end. Conversely, if the application is not closed, the method <NUM> may proceed to decision <NUM> and the application manager may determine whether the PCD is docked. If not, the method <NUM> may proceed to block <NUM> and the application management module may continue executing the current application version. If the PCD is docked, the method <NUM> may move to decision <NUM> and the application management module may determine whether the full application version is currently being executed or the partial application is currently being executed. If the full application version is being executed, the method <NUM> may proceed to block <NUM> and continue as described herein. Otherwise, if the partial application version is being executed, the method <NUM> may move to block <NUM> and the application management module may switch the application to the full application version. Thereafter, the method <NUM> may end.

Returning to decision <NUM>, decision <NUM> if the PCD is docked with the PCD docking station, the method <NUM> may move directly to decision <NUM> of <FIG>. At decision <NUM>, the application management module may determine whether a full application version is available. If not, the method <NUM> may continue to block <NUM> and the application management module may execute a partial application version.

Thereafter, the method <NUM> may continue to decision <NUM> and the application management module may determine whether another application is selected. If so, the method <NUM> may return to decision step <NUM> and the method <NUM> may continue as described herein.

Returning to decision <NUM>, if a full application version is available, the method <NUM> may proceed to block <NUM> and the application management module may execute a full application version. Next, the method <NUM> may continue to decision <NUM>. At decision <NUM>, if another application is not selected, the method <NUM> may move to decision <NUM>.

At decision <NUM>, the application management module may determine whether the application is closed. If so, the method <NUM> may end. Conversely, if the application is not closed, the method <NUM> may proceed to decision <NUM> and the application manager may determine whether the PCD is undocked. If not, the method <NUM> may proceed to block <NUM> and the application management module may continue executing the current application version. If the PCD is undocked, the method <NUM> may move to decision <NUM> and the application management module may determine whether the full application version is currently being executed or the partial application is currently being executed. If the partial application version is being executed, the method <NUM> may proceed to block <NUM> and continue as described herein. Conversely, if the full application version is being executed, the method <NUM> may move to decision <NUM> and the application management module may determine whether a partial application version is available. If not, the method <NUM> may proceed to block <NUM> and continue as described herein. If a partial application version is available, the method <NUM> may move to block <NUM> and the application management module may switch the application to the partial application version. Thereafter, the method <NUM> may end.

Referring to <FIG>, a method of managing applications within a PCD and a PCD docking station is shown and is generally designated <NUM>. Commencing at block <NUM>, a do loop may be entered in which when an application is selected, the succeeding steps may be performed. At decision <NUM>, an application management module may determine whether the PCD is docked or undocked with a PCD docking station. If the PCD is docked, the method <NUM> may continue to decision <NUM> and the application management module may determine whether an enhanced application version is available. If not, the method <NUM> may continue to block <NUM> and the application management module may execute a standard application version. In a particular aspect, a standard application version may be an abbreviated version of an application and may not have the same capabilities of an enhanced application version. For example, a standard version may be a file reader version and an enhanced application version may be a version that allows the editing of a file. Typically, an enhanced application version may require more computing capability than a standard application version. Further, a user interface associated with an enhanced application version may be more extensive than a user interface associated with a standard application version. The user interface associated with an enhanced application version may display more user interface objects than a user interface associated with a standard application version. Also, the user interface of a standard application version may display user interface objects that are a subset of the user interface objects displayed by the user interface of an enhanced application version.

Returning to decision <NUM>, if an enhanced application version is available, the method <NUM> may proceed to block <NUM> and the application management module may execute the enhanced application version. Then, the method <NUM> may continue to decision <NUM>. At decision <NUM>, if another application is not selected, the method <NUM> may move to decision <NUM>.

At decision <NUM>, the application management module may determine whether the application is closed. If so, the method <NUM> may end. Conversely, if the application is not closed, the method <NUM> may proceed to decision <NUM> and the application manager may determine whether the PCD is undocked. If not, i.e., the PCD remains docked, the method <NUM> may proceed to block <NUM> and the application management module may continue executing the current application version. If the PCD is undocked, the method <NUM> may move to decision <NUM> and the application management module may determine whether the standard application version is currently being executed or the enhanced application is currently being executed. If the standard application version is being executed, the method <NUM> may proceed to block <NUM> and continue as described herein. Otherwise, if the enhanced application version is being executed, the method <NUM> may move to block <NUM> and the application management module may switch the application to the standard application version. Thereafter, the method <NUM> may end.

Returning to decision <NUM>, if the PCD is no docked, i.e., undocked, with the PCD docking station, the method <NUM> may move directly to decision <NUM> of <FIG>. At decision <NUM>, the application management module may determine whether a standard application version is available. If not, the method <NUM> may continue to block <NUM> and the application management module may execute an enhanced application version.

Returning to decision <NUM>, if a standard application version is available, the method <NUM> may proceed to block <NUM> and the application management module may execute a standard application version. Next, the method <NUM> may continue to decision <NUM>. At decision <NUM>, if another application is not selected, the method <NUM> may move to decision <NUM>.

At decision <NUM>, the application management module may determine whether the application is closed. If so, the method <NUM> may end. Conversely, if the application is not closed, the method <NUM> may proceed to decision <NUM> and the application manager may determine whether the PCD is docked, e.g., with a PCD docking station. If not, the method <NUM> may proceed to block <NUM> and the application management module may continue executing the current application version. If the PCD is docked, the method <NUM> may move to decision <NUM> and the application management module may determine whether the standard application version is currently being executed or the enhanced application is currently being executed. If the enhanced application version is being executed, the method <NUM> may proceed to block <NUM> and continue as described herein. Conversely, if the standard application version is being executed, the method <NUM> may move to decision <NUM> and the application management module may determine whether an enhanced application version is available. If not, the method <NUM> may proceed to <NUM> and continue as described herein. If an enhanced application version is available, the method <NUM> may move to block <NUM> and the application management module may switch the application to the enhanced application version. Thereafter, the method <NUM> may end.

With the configuration described herein, the PCD/PCD docking station combination provides feature segmentation between the PCD and the PCD docking station. A PCD may be engaged with a PCD docking station in one of the manners described herein. For example, a PCD may be engaged with a PCD engagement mechanism, e.g., a PCD docking pocket, a PCD docking tray, or a similar mechanism. Further, dual display usage is provided, e.g., by a display in a PCD and a display in a PCD docking station. When engaged with a PCD docking station, a PCD may be charged by the PCD docking station. Moreover, seamless user interface and application transition may be provided as the PCD is docked or undocked.

In a particular aspect, user interface features may be provided when a PCD is docked or undocked. One such aspect, is a "fish-eye" bubble that may be provided across all applications displayed on the PCD. Additionally, application layer scaling may be provided. For example, a full application version may be executed when a PCD is docked and a partial application version may be executed when a PCD is undocked. Alternatively, a standard application version may be executed when a PCD is undocked and an enhanced application version may be executed when a PCD is docked. In an undocked mode, a PCD may execute less computational intensive, smaller footprint applications. In a docked mode, full functionality applications may be executed by the PCD. Whether a PCD is docked or undocked may be automatically detected and the appropriate application versions may be executed when available.

When a PCD is undocked, two low power processors may be used for small screen applications and the PCD operating system (OS). Further, two high performance processors may be used to execute larger applications when the PCD is docked with a PCD docking station. In another aspect, when the PCD is docked, one processor may be used for mouse controls and graphical user interface controls, i.e., touch screen controls; one processor may be used for shared input/output controls; one processor be used for a PCD OS; and one processor may be used for a desktop OS stored on a PCD docking station. In yet another aspect, each processor may run a different OS and framework.

A PCD docking station may be connected to a home network and when a PCD is docked with the PCD docking station, the PCD may, in turn, be connected to the home network. Moreover, data, e.g., applications, content, or a combination thereof, may be automatically backed up to a PCD docking station when a PCD is docked with the PCD docking station. A PCD docking station may include a display, a display buffer, a HDD, additional memory, LAN capabilities, WLAN capabilities, one or more USB ports, printer connections, a keyboard, a mouse, etc. The PCD docking station may include a large screen application memory. A large screen application and an OS state may be retained in the PCD docking station memory when the PCD is undocked in order to enable instant-on when the PCD is again docked. A large screen application may include a browser application, a word processor application, a spreadsheet application, a presentation application, an email application, a calendar application, a video application, or a combination thereof. A small screen application may include a media player application, a phone application, a control application, or a combination thereof.

When a PCD is docked with a PCD docking station, a user can take advantage of a relatively larger display incorporated into the PCD docking station. Further, a user may use a full keyboard and mouse to access data stored in the PCD. A PCD docking station may be incorporated into a vehicle, a kiosk, a set top box, etc. and a PCD may be docked therewith.

It is to be understood that the method steps described herein need not necessarily be performed in the order as described. Further, words such as "thereafter," "then," "next," etc. are not intended to limit the order of the steps. These words are simply used to guide the reader through the description of the method steps.

In one or more exemplary aspects, the functions described may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readable media may comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that may be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that may be accessed by a computer.

Claim 1:
A method of managing applications by a portable computing device, PCD, and a PCD docking station, the method comprising:
when an application is selected (<NUM>; <NUM>), the application having a first application version and a second application version, wherein the second application version requires more computing capability and has a more extensive user interface than the first application version,
determining (<NUM>; <NUM>), by the PCD, whether the PCD is docked or not docked with the PCD docking station;
determining (<NUM>; <NUM>) whether the second application version is available when the PCD is docked;
when the PCD is docked, executing (<NUM>; <NUM>) the first application version when the second application version is unavailable and executing (<NUM>; <NUM>) the second application version when the second application is available;
determining (<NUM>; <NUM>), the PCD, whether the first application version is available when the PCD is not docked;
when the PCD is not docked, executing (<NUM>; <NUM>), by the PCD, the second application version when the first application version is unavailable and executing (<NUM>; <NUM>), by the PCD, the first application version when the first application is available.