Accessory device identification method

摘要

A portable electronic device may identify an accessory device coupled thereto and its corresponding functionality utilizing a single channel utilized to provide power to the accessory device. Upon establishing a connection between the portable electronic device and the accessory device, the accessory device may transmit a message to the portable electronic device. The message may be decoded in order to identify the specific accessory device connected to the portable electronic device. Subsequently, the portable electronic device may alter its behavior to suit an application or function of the accessory device, thus leading to a more positive user experience.

主权项

1. An electronic book (eBook) reader device, comprising:
a connection port configured to facilitate a power channel between the eBook reader device and an accessory device, the power channel enabling the eBook reader device to provide power to, and to exchange communication with, the accessory device; a circuit configured to identify a modulation of a load of the power channel; a decoder module configured to decode the modulation into a decoded message; and a microcontroller configured to:
process the decoded message to determine, from multiple types of connections associated with the connection port, a type of connection between the connection port of the eBook reader device and the accessory device, the type of connection being utilized to determine a functionality of the accessory device; andalter, based at least in part on the functionality of the accessory device, a behavior of the eBook reader device.