Patent ID: 7174408

Claim:
An interface connectable as a default host interface to a peripheral or as a default peripheral interface to a host, for serial data communication between a host and a peripheral during a session, and comprising: a power signal contact; at least one data signal contact; first automated means for periodically checking a connection by periodically starting a session when connected as a default host interface; second automated means for periodically checking a connection by periodically requesting a session when connected as a default peripheral interface; and wherein when connected as a default host interface, the first automated means for periodically checking a connection is operable to periodically apply a voltage to the power signal contact and to receive a response via the data signal contact, and when connected as a default peripheral interface, the second automated means for periodically checking a connection is operable to periodically request a session via the power signal contact and the data signal contact and receive a response via the power signal contact.