CA1165439A - Storage medium for electronic data processors - Google Patents
Storage medium for electronic data processorsInfo
- Publication number
- CA1165439A CA1165439A CA000359758A CA359758A CA1165439A CA 1165439 A CA1165439 A CA 1165439A CA 000359758 A CA000359758 A CA 000359758A CA 359758 A CA359758 A CA 359758A CA 1165439 A CA1165439 A CA 1165439A
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- module
- storage
- medium
- edge
- recording medium
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
A novel storage medium is provided herein for an electronic record and read-out apparatus. The medium includes a data recording medium comprising first and second surfaces having a plurality of edges.
The medium contains therein a multitude of storage elements corresponding to each of the respective edges of the medium for storing memory content in the data recording medium for use in recording and read out of digital information. A plurality of taps is arranged at each respective edge of the data recording medium which input information into, for recording, and initiate read-out from the storage elements. The recording medium is divided into a plurality of storage sections comprising the storage ele-ments corresponding to each edge of the recording medium for storing the memory content. Each of the storage sections is separately accessible via the taps depending upon which edge of the storage medium is inserted into a holder fitting for the record or read-out apparatus. In this way, the storage medium is insertable into at least four different positions of the record and read-out apparatus such that the storage section associated with the respective edge of the data recording medium corresponding to the position is recordable or readable.
A novel storage medium is provided herein for an electronic record and read-out apparatus. The medium includes a data recording medium comprising first and second surfaces having a plurality of edges.
The medium contains therein a multitude of storage elements corresponding to each of the respective edges of the medium for storing memory content in the data recording medium for use in recording and read out of digital information. A plurality of taps is arranged at each respective edge of the data recording medium which input information into, for recording, and initiate read-out from the storage elements. The recording medium is divided into a plurality of storage sections comprising the storage ele-ments corresponding to each edge of the recording medium for storing the memory content. Each of the storage sections is separately accessible via the taps depending upon which edge of the storage medium is inserted into a holder fitting for the record or read-out apparatus. In this way, the storage medium is insertable into at least four different positions of the record and read-out apparatus such that the storage section associated with the respective edge of the data recording medium corresponding to the position is recordable or readable.
Description
1 165~39 This invention relates to an information storage module for an electronic record and read-out apparatus.
Modern data processing utilizes various types of information storage modules. Among these are built-in memory units in computers, as well as peripheral storage modules, e.g., magnetic tape reels, magnetic discs, magnetic core storage units, and others.
A differentiation is also made between read-only memories, and those capable of repeated write operations, subsequent interrogation, and optional erasure.
- All storage modules should be easy to handle and the access time for the diverse data stored therein should be minimal.
Recent developments have tended increasingly to favour station-ary storage devices, i.e., devices wherein the data can be read out without movement of the storage medium. This type of data storage obviously has the advantage of dispensing with moving parts and drive mechanisms.
Small computers, as well as larger installations, already utilize such devices with internal storage capacities that will undoubtedly expand further with continued developments in VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration) technology.
It is, therefore, an object of an aspect of the present in~ention to provide a storage module for an electronic record and read-out appara-tus, in particular for recording an reproducing digitially stored langulage and music. By this aspect of the present invention, the module is adapted to be inserted in a compatible receptacle in such a manner that, depending on the manner in which itiis inserted, the access point of the memory is determined.
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1 1~5439 By a broad aspect of the present invention, a storage medium is provided for an electronic record and read~out apparatus which com-prises: a data recording medium comprising first and second surfaces having a plurality of edgesr the medium containing therein a multitude of storage elements corresponding to each of the respective edges of the medium for storing memory content in the data recording medium for use in recording and read-out of digital information; and a plurality of taps arranged at each respective edge of the data recording medium which input information into, for recording, and initiate read-out from the storage elements, the recording medium being divided into a plurality of storage sections comprising the storage elements corresponding to each edge of the recording medium for storing the memory content, each of the storage sections being separately accessible via the taps depending upon which edge of the storage medium is inserted into a holder fitting for the record or read-out apparatus, whereby the storage emdium is insertable into at least four different positions of the record and read-out appara-tus such that the storage section associated with the respective edge of the data recording medium corresponding to the position is recordable or readable.
By a variant thereof, the storage medium includes four memory content storage sections, each of which corresponds respectively to each - edge of the data recording medium with the related taps being accessed depending upon which edge of the storage medium is inserted into the holder fitting.
By another variant thereof, the storage medium includes eight memory content storage sections, two corresponding to each edge of the data recording medium in association with the respective surfaces thereof, ~ 2~
with the related taps being accessed depending upon which surface and edge of the storage medium is inserted into the holder fitting.
By still another variant thereof, the taps are arranged in such a way near the edges of the data recording medium so as to record and read-out the digital information from the storage elements in a cyclic-series fashion.
By a further variant thereof, the dat recording medium comprises a printed circuit board inclusive of the storage elements, with the tap means being in contact with corresponding storage elements.
By yet a further variant thereof, the storage medium includes means associated with the taps for preventing the erasure of the digital information stored in the storage elements.
By another variant thereof, the means for preventing the erasure of the stored digital information comprises: interruptable connecting leads connecting each of the taps with corresponding storage elements such that electrical current supply between one of the taps and a corresponding storage element is interrupted, thereby open circuiting the respective con-necting lead.
By yet another variant thereof, the means for preventing the erasure of the stored digital information comprises a mechanical contact means located within the holder fitting for interrupting the supply of erasing current when one edge of the data recording medium comes into contact therewith.
By a further variant thereof, the storage medium further in-cludes-label identifying means present at the outer edge of the data re-cording medium for identifying the digital information stored therein.
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~ 3 -.
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1 16543g 9y another variant thereof, the taps are arranged around an inner zone on at least one of the surfaces of the data recording medium and further including label identifying means arranged around the taps on the respective surface.
By another variant thereof, the data recording medium is square in sahpe.
By another variant thereof, the data recording medium is flexible and has a relatively small thickness dimension.
By another variant thereof, the storage medium further includes means for locking the data recording medium into the holder fitting means when the data recording medium is inserted thereinto.
By another`aspect of this invention, a plate-like module is provided for supporting a digital storage device for electrical data, the module being adapted for insertion into a compatible receptacle providing means for operating the storage device and being of polygonal shape having two major surfaces and a plurality of edges, the storage device being supported by the dule and being electrically connected to a plurality of contact means on the module, each plurality of contact means being disposed in a predetermined manner on a major surface of the module along an edge thereof; a plurality of associated contacts on the receptacle, the contacts being compatible with an associated respective plurality of con-tact means each plurality of contact means being associated with a pre-determined section of the storage device; whereby, upon insertion of the module into the receptacle with an edge thereof associated with the re-ceptacle the associated predetermined section of the storage device is ; made accessible to the means for operating the storage device.
;~ By a variant thereof, the plurality of contact means i5 disposed on both the two major surfaces, so that, upon turning the module over and 1 16~43g reir.serting it into the receptacle with the edge associated with the receptacle, a different portion of the digital storage device is made accessible.
By another variant thereof, the module includes means r pro-vided in the digital storage device for providing continuous access to at lèast two predetermined sections, one after the other, without the neces-sity of repositioning the module within the receptacle.
By a further variant thereof, the module is in the shape of a square having at least one edge which does not permit access to other sections of the digital storage device, and having at least one other edge permitting such access.
By still another variant thereof, the module is in the shape of a square printed circuit board having the pluralities of contact means at its periphery.
By yet another variant thereof, the module is a printed circuit board, and further including means for precluding erasure of information stored in the digital storage device.
By still another variant thereof, the module is a printed circuit board, having interruptable`printed connections for precluding erasure of inormation stored in the digital storage device by being in-terrupted by scratching.
By yet a further variant thereof, the module is a printed circuit board, having an edge portion thereof broken off to prevent erasure of information stored in the digital storage device in cooperation with switch means in the receptacle.
By still another variant thereof, the module is of polygonal shape and labels along an edge of at least one of its two major surfaces 1 ~6543~
identifying information stored in the predetermined section of the digital storage device~
By a still further variant thereof, the digital storage device is centrally located on the module.
By other variants, the module may be in the shape of a square, or in the form of a thin flexible plate.
By yet another variant thereof, the receptacle has a switch activated through module insertion to switch on the means for operating the digital storage device.
By a still further variant thereof, the receptacle has locking means for retaining the module in place therein.
The construction of the storage module according to one aspect of this invention as a square plate permits the association of at least four storage sections of the memory s-upported by the module with the four sides of the square~ The plate may be flexible and have a relatively small thickness dimension.
A further aspect of the invention is that upon turning the module over and reinserting it into the receptacle, four additional memory sections or access points are associated with each side of the square in that position. By such arrangement of the memory taps and the module, it is thus possible to sub-divide the memory into eight distinct storage sections enabiing direct access thereto.
For the optimal utilization of whatever storage capacity is supported by the mdoule, it is often desirable according to another a~pect of this invention to arrange the memory section cyclically (as further dis-cussed below), each corresponding to a module edge, maintaining continuity therebetween. It remains the designer's choice, however, to determine .
. , 1 1~543g the capacities of the individual sections, while maintaining direct access to each memory section.
In certain applications, according to yet another aspect of this invention, it may be desirable to select each section individuaoly, yet still to have the capability of coupling the memory section in series.
This would be of interest, for example, should a number of musical -selections be involved, which are to be played either individually or as a succession of musical selections.
For this purpose, according to another aspect of this invention, it is-provided that, depending on the edge with which the module is in-serted in the receptacle, the memory section associàted with that edge are activated or interrogated without cyclic continuation, and at least one other position is additionally provided wherein, aftèr insertion of the module, the input and/or read-out procedure is continued cyclically.
It is of importance for practical usage in accordance with still another aspect of this invention that the module have arrangements by means of which erasure of stored information is prevented.
Such arrangements are known for tape recorder cassettes, both by electrical and mechanical means. In order to prevent the erasure of stored information, according to aspects of this invention, the memory erase connections may be arranged on the module such that they may be interrupted, for instance by scraping. This measure provides an electri~
cal remedy. A mechanical device is likewise possible. Parts from the storage module, for example at its edges, may be broken off, thus blocking erasing signals from the receptacle. This is accomplished in a well-known manner, for example, by means of a scanning lever which opens or closes a ~; switch.
B
1165~39 According to still another aspect of this invention, a clear labeling or characterization of the data contents is likewise of special significance. AccordinglyJ this problem may be solved by arranging labels or characteristic sym~ols denoting the associated data content on the outer~rim of the square plate. It is, of course, well known that the labeling or characterization is clearly recognizable while the storage module is in the receptacle.
To protect the taps, particularly if they are electrical contact pads, from contamination and damage during use, it is proposed, according to another aspect of this invention, to arrange these taps in the inner zone of the square area. Thus, the outer rim remains preserved for label-ing or characterizing symbols.
In the accompanying drawings, Figure 1 Is a schematic representation of an aspect of this invention of a square module having a plurality of contact taps tapping a memory (not shown) supported by the module;
Figure 2 shows the module of Figure 1 from its back side;
Figure 3 shows schematically a module in its receptacle;
Figure 4 is a schematic of a simple access circuit for the memory on a module;
Figure 5 is an alternate version of the module in Figure l; and Figure 6 is a frontal pictorial view of a module in its recep-tacle.
1 1f~5~
Fi~ure 1 shows a square, plate~ e module having abutting its edge taps 2 and 4 as indicated on or in the one side, and 3 on or in the other side. m e letters "A", ~'B", "C", "D" are associated with the four sides of the square on one side of the module as characterizing symbols.
Figure~2 shows the same module of Figure 1 from the back, so that the taps 3 are now located on top. The same taps may, of course, also appear on both sides of the module as shown in Figures 1 and 2.
The characterization of the edges of the other sdie of the module with the letters "E", "F", "G", and "H" is likewise illustrated.
Figure 1 and Figure 2 do not show the actual storage elements which may be, for example, ~ubble memories, that are arranged on the module board and connected to the taps in the manner of printed circuit boards.
Me ry contents represented as 7,7', 7", 7' " , 8, 8', 8", 81'', 9, 9', 9", 9' " and 10, 10', 10", 10 " '. The plate 1 is inserted into the holder (Figs. 3 or 6) in the directions indicated by the arrows.
Figure 3 shows schematically a storage module 1 inserted in a housing 5, wherein the pads 2 and 4 correspond to associated receptacle contacts 6.
The individual read-out of specific storage contents and/or the cyclic series connection of the memory sections performed by means of well-known circuits and is illustrated schematically in Figure 4.
The memory sections designated 7, 8, 9 and 10 are individually activated by means of one of the ~ontacts or taps 11, 12, 13, or 14, upon insertion of the module into the receptacle. The contact pad 12, for example, is connected to its counter contact in the receptacle and the ~, ,~ ~, 1 ~543~
memory section 8 is re1eased for read-out and, afeer read-out has been accomplished, this process is terminated. The same process takes place in case of the other memory sections 7, 9 and 10. In contrast thereto, if the interrogation procedure is started via the contact pad 15, then all four storage contents 7 through 10 are released for read-out, and they may be read out cyclically. The diodes 18 serve electr~cally to separate the commands. Of course, other known circuits may be used to accomplish the same results.
Figure l and Figure 2 illustrate an embodiment of the module as a printed circuit board, with the taps along the edge of the board, where~
by the storage elements or media are disposed and protected between the two module surfaces.
Figure 5 shows a different realization of the storage module having the taps in the inner zone of the square and carrying the labels and/or characterizations on the periphery.
Such arrangement has the advantage of protecting the pads by being in the inner zone. The labeling may also be easier to recognize while the module is in use.
Figure 6 shows a different version of the labeling on a module, na~lely on the narrow sides of the module. The module is inserted in a slot 17 of the receptacle 16 so that the narrow side with its labeling, for example "Tango", is readily readable. In such case, one of the eight labels is visible but is inverted, since there are only four edges with two labels each.
In Figure 6, a resilient hinged flap l9 is indicated in dashed lines, permitting a mechanical locking of the inserted module in the receptacle and thereby covering the inverted label.
~ ,o~3 -- 1 0 1 ~5439 Figure 3 also illustrates schematically how a storage module, already storing information, may be protected from unintentional erasure.
The corner 20 of the module is broken off thus contact 21 would remain open even if the module has been inserted in the housing 5. As long as the corner 20 has not been broken off, thè module 1 actuates the contact 21 upon insertion which in turn causes circuitry to permit introduction of information to be~written in the ~emory. Alternatively, erasure of the information can be prevented by a mechanical contact located within the holder fitting for interrupting the supply of erasing currents when one edge of the plate comes into contact therewith.
Another arrange~ent for preventing the unintended erasing of data is shown schematically in Figure 1. The bridges 22 each lead to the terminals 23 and thus establish the actual connection to the storage units. If, now, one of the uncovered connecting lines or bridges 22 is interrupted, for example by being scraped off, then further writing of data for storage is prevented.
An auxiliary contact, e.g. contact 21 shown in Figure 3, may be associated with an auxiliary function in such a way that when the module has been inserted, i.e., when the contact 21 is closed, the total instal~
lation or the entire unit is turned on by means of this contact~
The module of an aspect of the present invention is, of course, also suitable for dictating devices, word processing, video programs, as well as for applications wherein it is important to have available for direct access digitally stored data in an easily retrievable characterized and labeled manner.
Modern data processing utilizes various types of information storage modules. Among these are built-in memory units in computers, as well as peripheral storage modules, e.g., magnetic tape reels, magnetic discs, magnetic core storage units, and others.
A differentiation is also made between read-only memories, and those capable of repeated write operations, subsequent interrogation, and optional erasure.
- All storage modules should be easy to handle and the access time for the diverse data stored therein should be minimal.
Recent developments have tended increasingly to favour station-ary storage devices, i.e., devices wherein the data can be read out without movement of the storage medium. This type of data storage obviously has the advantage of dispensing with moving parts and drive mechanisms.
Small computers, as well as larger installations, already utilize such devices with internal storage capacities that will undoubtedly expand further with continued developments in VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration) technology.
It is, therefore, an object of an aspect of the present in~ention to provide a storage module for an electronic record and read-out appara-tus, in particular for recording an reproducing digitially stored langulage and music. By this aspect of the present invention, the module is adapted to be inserted in a compatible receptacle in such a manner that, depending on the manner in which itiis inserted, the access point of the memory is determined.
'~
- !qF
1 1~5439 By a broad aspect of the present invention, a storage medium is provided for an electronic record and read~out apparatus which com-prises: a data recording medium comprising first and second surfaces having a plurality of edgesr the medium containing therein a multitude of storage elements corresponding to each of the respective edges of the medium for storing memory content in the data recording medium for use in recording and read-out of digital information; and a plurality of taps arranged at each respective edge of the data recording medium which input information into, for recording, and initiate read-out from the storage elements, the recording medium being divided into a plurality of storage sections comprising the storage elements corresponding to each edge of the recording medium for storing the memory content, each of the storage sections being separately accessible via the taps depending upon which edge of the storage medium is inserted into a holder fitting for the record or read-out apparatus, whereby the storage emdium is insertable into at least four different positions of the record and read-out appara-tus such that the storage section associated with the respective edge of the data recording medium corresponding to the position is recordable or readable.
By a variant thereof, the storage medium includes four memory content storage sections, each of which corresponds respectively to each - edge of the data recording medium with the related taps being accessed depending upon which edge of the storage medium is inserted into the holder fitting.
By another variant thereof, the storage medium includes eight memory content storage sections, two corresponding to each edge of the data recording medium in association with the respective surfaces thereof, ~ 2~
with the related taps being accessed depending upon which surface and edge of the storage medium is inserted into the holder fitting.
By still another variant thereof, the taps are arranged in such a way near the edges of the data recording medium so as to record and read-out the digital information from the storage elements in a cyclic-series fashion.
By a further variant thereof, the dat recording medium comprises a printed circuit board inclusive of the storage elements, with the tap means being in contact with corresponding storage elements.
By yet a further variant thereof, the storage medium includes means associated with the taps for preventing the erasure of the digital information stored in the storage elements.
By another variant thereof, the means for preventing the erasure of the stored digital information comprises: interruptable connecting leads connecting each of the taps with corresponding storage elements such that electrical current supply between one of the taps and a corresponding storage element is interrupted, thereby open circuiting the respective con-necting lead.
By yet another variant thereof, the means for preventing the erasure of the stored digital information comprises a mechanical contact means located within the holder fitting for interrupting the supply of erasing current when one edge of the data recording medium comes into contact therewith.
By a further variant thereof, the storage medium further in-cludes-label identifying means present at the outer edge of the data re-cording medium for identifying the digital information stored therein.
.
~ 3 -.
`
1 16543g 9y another variant thereof, the taps are arranged around an inner zone on at least one of the surfaces of the data recording medium and further including label identifying means arranged around the taps on the respective surface.
By another variant thereof, the data recording medium is square in sahpe.
By another variant thereof, the data recording medium is flexible and has a relatively small thickness dimension.
By another variant thereof, the storage medium further includes means for locking the data recording medium into the holder fitting means when the data recording medium is inserted thereinto.
By another`aspect of this invention, a plate-like module is provided for supporting a digital storage device for electrical data, the module being adapted for insertion into a compatible receptacle providing means for operating the storage device and being of polygonal shape having two major surfaces and a plurality of edges, the storage device being supported by the dule and being electrically connected to a plurality of contact means on the module, each plurality of contact means being disposed in a predetermined manner on a major surface of the module along an edge thereof; a plurality of associated contacts on the receptacle, the contacts being compatible with an associated respective plurality of con-tact means each plurality of contact means being associated with a pre-determined section of the storage device; whereby, upon insertion of the module into the receptacle with an edge thereof associated with the re-ceptacle the associated predetermined section of the storage device is ; made accessible to the means for operating the storage device.
;~ By a variant thereof, the plurality of contact means i5 disposed on both the two major surfaces, so that, upon turning the module over and 1 16~43g reir.serting it into the receptacle with the edge associated with the receptacle, a different portion of the digital storage device is made accessible.
By another variant thereof, the module includes means r pro-vided in the digital storage device for providing continuous access to at lèast two predetermined sections, one after the other, without the neces-sity of repositioning the module within the receptacle.
By a further variant thereof, the module is in the shape of a square having at least one edge which does not permit access to other sections of the digital storage device, and having at least one other edge permitting such access.
By still another variant thereof, the module is in the shape of a square printed circuit board having the pluralities of contact means at its periphery.
By yet another variant thereof, the module is a printed circuit board, and further including means for precluding erasure of information stored in the digital storage device.
By still another variant thereof, the module is a printed circuit board, having interruptable`printed connections for precluding erasure of inormation stored in the digital storage device by being in-terrupted by scratching.
By yet a further variant thereof, the module is a printed circuit board, having an edge portion thereof broken off to prevent erasure of information stored in the digital storage device in cooperation with switch means in the receptacle.
By still another variant thereof, the module is of polygonal shape and labels along an edge of at least one of its two major surfaces 1 ~6543~
identifying information stored in the predetermined section of the digital storage device~
By a still further variant thereof, the digital storage device is centrally located on the module.
By other variants, the module may be in the shape of a square, or in the form of a thin flexible plate.
By yet another variant thereof, the receptacle has a switch activated through module insertion to switch on the means for operating the digital storage device.
By a still further variant thereof, the receptacle has locking means for retaining the module in place therein.
The construction of the storage module according to one aspect of this invention as a square plate permits the association of at least four storage sections of the memory s-upported by the module with the four sides of the square~ The plate may be flexible and have a relatively small thickness dimension.
A further aspect of the invention is that upon turning the module over and reinserting it into the receptacle, four additional memory sections or access points are associated with each side of the square in that position. By such arrangement of the memory taps and the module, it is thus possible to sub-divide the memory into eight distinct storage sections enabiing direct access thereto.
For the optimal utilization of whatever storage capacity is supported by the mdoule, it is often desirable according to another a~pect of this invention to arrange the memory section cyclically (as further dis-cussed below), each corresponding to a module edge, maintaining continuity therebetween. It remains the designer's choice, however, to determine .
. , 1 1~543g the capacities of the individual sections, while maintaining direct access to each memory section.
In certain applications, according to yet another aspect of this invention, it may be desirable to select each section individuaoly, yet still to have the capability of coupling the memory section in series.
This would be of interest, for example, should a number of musical -selections be involved, which are to be played either individually or as a succession of musical selections.
For this purpose, according to another aspect of this invention, it is-provided that, depending on the edge with which the module is in-serted in the receptacle, the memory section associàted with that edge are activated or interrogated without cyclic continuation, and at least one other position is additionally provided wherein, aftèr insertion of the module, the input and/or read-out procedure is continued cyclically.
It is of importance for practical usage in accordance with still another aspect of this invention that the module have arrangements by means of which erasure of stored information is prevented.
Such arrangements are known for tape recorder cassettes, both by electrical and mechanical means. In order to prevent the erasure of stored information, according to aspects of this invention, the memory erase connections may be arranged on the module such that they may be interrupted, for instance by scraping. This measure provides an electri~
cal remedy. A mechanical device is likewise possible. Parts from the storage module, for example at its edges, may be broken off, thus blocking erasing signals from the receptacle. This is accomplished in a well-known manner, for example, by means of a scanning lever which opens or closes a ~; switch.
B
1165~39 According to still another aspect of this invention, a clear labeling or characterization of the data contents is likewise of special significance. AccordinglyJ this problem may be solved by arranging labels or characteristic sym~ols denoting the associated data content on the outer~rim of the square plate. It is, of course, well known that the labeling or characterization is clearly recognizable while the storage module is in the receptacle.
To protect the taps, particularly if they are electrical contact pads, from contamination and damage during use, it is proposed, according to another aspect of this invention, to arrange these taps in the inner zone of the square area. Thus, the outer rim remains preserved for label-ing or characterizing symbols.
In the accompanying drawings, Figure 1 Is a schematic representation of an aspect of this invention of a square module having a plurality of contact taps tapping a memory (not shown) supported by the module;
Figure 2 shows the module of Figure 1 from its back side;
Figure 3 shows schematically a module in its receptacle;
Figure 4 is a schematic of a simple access circuit for the memory on a module;
Figure 5 is an alternate version of the module in Figure l; and Figure 6 is a frontal pictorial view of a module in its recep-tacle.
1 1f~5~
Fi~ure 1 shows a square, plate~ e module having abutting its edge taps 2 and 4 as indicated on or in the one side, and 3 on or in the other side. m e letters "A", ~'B", "C", "D" are associated with the four sides of the square on one side of the module as characterizing symbols.
Figure~2 shows the same module of Figure 1 from the back, so that the taps 3 are now located on top. The same taps may, of course, also appear on both sides of the module as shown in Figures 1 and 2.
The characterization of the edges of the other sdie of the module with the letters "E", "F", "G", and "H" is likewise illustrated.
Figure 1 and Figure 2 do not show the actual storage elements which may be, for example, ~ubble memories, that are arranged on the module board and connected to the taps in the manner of printed circuit boards.
Me ry contents represented as 7,7', 7", 7' " , 8, 8', 8", 81'', 9, 9', 9", 9' " and 10, 10', 10", 10 " '. The plate 1 is inserted into the holder (Figs. 3 or 6) in the directions indicated by the arrows.
Figure 3 shows schematically a storage module 1 inserted in a housing 5, wherein the pads 2 and 4 correspond to associated receptacle contacts 6.
The individual read-out of specific storage contents and/or the cyclic series connection of the memory sections performed by means of well-known circuits and is illustrated schematically in Figure 4.
The memory sections designated 7, 8, 9 and 10 are individually activated by means of one of the ~ontacts or taps 11, 12, 13, or 14, upon insertion of the module into the receptacle. The contact pad 12, for example, is connected to its counter contact in the receptacle and the ~, ,~ ~, 1 ~543~
memory section 8 is re1eased for read-out and, afeer read-out has been accomplished, this process is terminated. The same process takes place in case of the other memory sections 7, 9 and 10. In contrast thereto, if the interrogation procedure is started via the contact pad 15, then all four storage contents 7 through 10 are released for read-out, and they may be read out cyclically. The diodes 18 serve electr~cally to separate the commands. Of course, other known circuits may be used to accomplish the same results.
Figure l and Figure 2 illustrate an embodiment of the module as a printed circuit board, with the taps along the edge of the board, where~
by the storage elements or media are disposed and protected between the two module surfaces.
Figure 5 shows a different realization of the storage module having the taps in the inner zone of the square and carrying the labels and/or characterizations on the periphery.
Such arrangement has the advantage of protecting the pads by being in the inner zone. The labeling may also be easier to recognize while the module is in use.
Figure 6 shows a different version of the labeling on a module, na~lely on the narrow sides of the module. The module is inserted in a slot 17 of the receptacle 16 so that the narrow side with its labeling, for example "Tango", is readily readable. In such case, one of the eight labels is visible but is inverted, since there are only four edges with two labels each.
In Figure 6, a resilient hinged flap l9 is indicated in dashed lines, permitting a mechanical locking of the inserted module in the receptacle and thereby covering the inverted label.
~ ,o~3 -- 1 0 1 ~5439 Figure 3 also illustrates schematically how a storage module, already storing information, may be protected from unintentional erasure.
The corner 20 of the module is broken off thus contact 21 would remain open even if the module has been inserted in the housing 5. As long as the corner 20 has not been broken off, thè module 1 actuates the contact 21 upon insertion which in turn causes circuitry to permit introduction of information to be~written in the ~emory. Alternatively, erasure of the information can be prevented by a mechanical contact located within the holder fitting for interrupting the supply of erasing currents when one edge of the plate comes into contact therewith.
Another arrange~ent for preventing the unintended erasing of data is shown schematically in Figure 1. The bridges 22 each lead to the terminals 23 and thus establish the actual connection to the storage units. If, now, one of the uncovered connecting lines or bridges 22 is interrupted, for example by being scraped off, then further writing of data for storage is prevented.
An auxiliary contact, e.g. contact 21 shown in Figure 3, may be associated with an auxiliary function in such a way that when the module has been inserted, i.e., when the contact 21 is closed, the total instal~
lation or the entire unit is turned on by means of this contact~
The module of an aspect of the present invention is, of course, also suitable for dictating devices, word processing, video programs, as well as for applications wherein it is important to have available for direct access digitally stored data in an easily retrievable characterized and labeled manner.
Claims (27)
PROPERTY OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. A storage medium for an electronic record and read-out apparatus which comprises:
a data recording medium comprising first and second surfaces having a plurality of edges, said medium containing therein a multitude of storage elements corresponding to each of said respective edges of said medium for storing memory content in said data recording medium for use in recording and read-out of digital information; and a plurality of taps arranged at each respective edge of said data recording medium which input information into, for recording, and initiate read-out from said storage elements, said recording medium being divided into a plurality of storage sections comprising said storage ele-ments corresponding to each edge of said recording medium for storing said memory content, each of said storage sections being separately accessible via said taps depending upon which edge of said storage medium is inserted into a holder fitting for said record or read-out apparatus, whereby said storage medium is insertable into at least four different positions of said record and read-out apparatus such that the storage section associated with said respective edge of said data record-ing medium corresponding to said position is recordable or readable.
a data recording medium comprising first and second surfaces having a plurality of edges, said medium containing therein a multitude of storage elements corresponding to each of said respective edges of said medium for storing memory content in said data recording medium for use in recording and read-out of digital information; and a plurality of taps arranged at each respective edge of said data recording medium which input information into, for recording, and initiate read-out from said storage elements, said recording medium being divided into a plurality of storage sections comprising said storage ele-ments corresponding to each edge of said recording medium for storing said memory content, each of said storage sections being separately accessible via said taps depending upon which edge of said storage medium is inserted into a holder fitting for said record or read-out apparatus, whereby said storage medium is insertable into at least four different positions of said record and read-out apparatus such that the storage section associated with said respective edge of said data record-ing medium corresponding to said position is recordable or readable.
2. The storage medium of claim 1, comprising four memory con-tent storage sections, each of which corresponds respectively to each edge of said data recording medium with the related taps being accessed depend-ing upon which edge of said storage medium is inserted into said holder fitting.
3. The storage medium of claim 11, comprising eight memory content storage sections, two corresponding to each edge of said data re-cording medium in association with the respective surfaces thereof, with the related taps being accessed depending upon which surface and edge of said storage medium is inserted into said holder fitting.
4. A storage medium in accordance with claim 1 wherein said taps are arranged in such a way near the edges of said data recording medium so as to record and read-out said digital information from said storage elements in a cyclic-series fashion.
5. A storage medium in accordance with claim 1 wherein said data recording medium comprises a printed circuit board inclusive of said storage elements, with said tap means being in contact with corresponding storage elements.
6. A storage medium in accordance with claim 1 further includ-ing in combination: means associated with said taps for preventing the erasure of said digital information stored in said storage elements.
7. A storage medium in accordance with claim 6, wherein said means for preventing the erasure of said stored digital information com-prises: interruptable connecting leads connecting each of said taps with corresponding storage elements such that electrical current supply between one of said taps and a corresponding storage element is interrupted, there-by open circuiting said respective connecting lead.
8. A storage medium in accordance with claim 6, wherein said means for preventing the erasure of said stored digital information com-prises a mechanical contact means located within said holder fitting for interrupting the supply of erasing current when one edge of said data recording medium comes into contact therewith.
9. A storage medium in accordance with claim 1 further com-prising label identifying means present at the outer edges of said data recording medium for identifying the digital information stored therein.
10. A storage medium in accordance with claim 1, wherein said taps are arranged around an inner zone on at least one of said surfaces of said data recording medium and further including label identifying means arranged around said taps on said respective surface.
11. A storage medium in accordance with claim 1, wherein said data recording medium is square in shape.
12. A storage medium in accordance with claim 1, wherein said data recording medium is flexible and has a relatively small thickness dimension.
13. A storage medium in accordance with claim 1 further including means for locking said data recording medium into said holder fitting means when said data recording medium is inserted thereinto.
14. A plate-like module for supporting a digital storage device for electronic data, said module being adapted for insertion into a com-patible receptacle providing means for operating said storage device and being of polygonal shape having two major surfaces and a plurality of edges, said storage device being supported by said module and being electrically connected to a plurality of contact means on said module, each said plurality of contact means being disposed in a predetermined manner on a major surface of said module along an edge thereof;
a plurality of associated contacts on said receptacle, said contacts being compatible with an associated respective plurality of con-tact means each said plurality of contact means being associated with a predetermined section of said storage device;
whereby, upon insertion of said module into said receptacle with an edge thereof associated with said receptacle, said associated predetermined section of said storage device is made accessible to said means for operating said storage device.
a plurality of associated contacts on said receptacle, said contacts being compatible with an associated respective plurality of con-tact means each said plurality of contact means being associated with a predetermined section of said storage device;
whereby, upon insertion of said module into said receptacle with an edge thereof associated with said receptacle, said associated predetermined section of said storage device is made accessible to said means for operating said storage device.
15. The module of claim 14, wherein said plurality of contact means is disposed on both said two major surfaces, so that, upon turning said module over and reinserting it into said receptacle with said edge associated with said receptacle, a different portion of said digital storage device is made accessible.
16. The module of claim 15, including means is provided in said digital storage device for providing continuous access to at least two predetermined sections, one after the other, without the necessity of repositioning said module within said receptacle.
17. The module of claim 15 in the shape of a square having at least one edge which does not permit access to other sections of said digital storage device, and having at least one other edge permitting such access.
18. The module of claims 14, 15 or 16 wherein said module is in the shape of a square printed circuit board having said pluralities of contact means at its periphery.
19. The module of claims 14, 15 or 16 wherein said module is a printed circuit board, and further including means for precluding erasure of information stored in said digital storage device.
20. The module of claims 14, 15 or 16 wherein said module is a printed circuit board, having interruptable printed connections for precluding erasure of information stored in said digital storage device by being interrupted by scratching.
21. The module of claims 14, 15 or 16 wherein said module is a printed circuit board, having an edge portion thereof broken off to pre-vent erasure of information stored in said digital storage device in cooperation with switch means in said receptacle.
22. The module of claims 14, 15 or 16 wherein said module is of polygonal shape and has labels along an edge of at least one of its two major surfaces identifying information stored in said predetermined sec-tion of said digital storage device.
23. m e module of claims 14, 15 or 16 wherein said digital storage device is centrally-located on said module.
24. The module of claims 14, 15 or 16 in the shape of a square.
25. The module of claims 14, 15 or 16 in the form of a thin flexible plate.
26. The module of claims 14, 15 or 16 wherein said receptacle has a switch activated through module insertion to switch on said means for operating said digital storage device.
27. The module of claims 14, 15 or 16 wherein said receptacle has locking means for retaining said module in place therein.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000359758A CA1165439A (en) | 1980-09-03 | 1980-09-03 | Storage medium for electronic data processors |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000359758A CA1165439A (en) | 1980-09-03 | 1980-09-03 | Storage medium for electronic data processors |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1165439A true CA1165439A (en) | 1984-04-10 |
Family
ID=4117824
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000359758A Expired CA1165439A (en) | 1980-09-03 | 1980-09-03 | Storage medium for electronic data processors |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA1165439A (en) |
-
1980
- 1980-09-03 CA CA000359758A patent/CA1165439A/en not_active Expired
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKEX | Expiry |