Secure audio peripheral device

摘要

A secure audio peripheral device, coupled to a computer, capable of enabling a user to use audio devices such as a microphone, speakers or headset when the device is in operational state, while giving to the user a clear visual indication that the audio devices are enabled. The device simultaneously disables the microphone; and turns off the visual indication when the device is in secure state. The operational state is activated by the user by pressing a momentary push-button switch. A timer resets the device to a secure state after a short preset time. The device has anti-tempering functionality and becomes permanently disabled if tempered with. Optionally the device is coupled to the computer via a USB port that powers a USB CODEC chip and a LED used as the visual indicator.

主权项

1. A secure computer audio peripheral device comprising:
a microphone; at least one lighted indicator capable of providing visual user indication when said microphone is active; a computer interface, cable connecting the secure computer audio peripheral device to a coupled computer; and; a switch capable of setting the secure computer audio peripheral device in a secure state by simultaneously: disabling said microphone; and turning off said lighted indicator; and said switch is capable of setting the secure computer audio peripheral device in an operational state by simultaneously: enabling transfer of audio data from said microphone to said coupled computer; and turning on said lighted indicator, wherein said switch is activated by a user through a momentary push-button, and wherein said switch is controlled by a first timer determining a time delay of a predefined time duration, said first timer is activated by said momentary push-button to set the secure computer audio peripheral device in said operational state, and said switch automatically sets the secure computer audio peripheral device in said secure state after expiration of the time delay to prevent inadvertent prolonged microphone activation, and further comprising a second timer, said second timer operative to prevent inadvertent prolonged microphone activation when said momentary push-button undesirably stays pressed for a prolonged time duration by causing the secure computer audio peripheral device to be switched to said secure state.