Modular Control Interface

摘要

A modular portable device system and method improves the quality of the interface between a core device and an add-on module via an interconnection system specifically applicable to modular systems. A multi-pin connector array accessible from outside the base device is configured and located to electrically connect to a mating array on the add-on module when the two devices are docked. In an embodiment, the multi-pin connector array includes a command/control pin configured to support multiple functions such as, but not limited to, device detection, interrupt functions, mode changes and wake functions.

主权项

1. A modular device system including:
a base portable electronic communication device comprising: a multi-pin connector array accessible from outside the base portable communication device, the multi-pin connector array being substantially flush with the outside surface of the base portable communication device and being configured and located to electrically connect to a mating array on and substantially flush with an outside surface of an add-on module when the add-on module is docked to the base portable electronic communication device such that the outside surfaces of the base portable communication device and the add-on module substantially match and cover one another; and an application processor configured to control a plurality of device functions on the base portable electronic communication device, the application processor being configured to utilize a control and command pin of the multi-pin connector array to send and receive control and command instructions and data to and from the add-on module.