GB2443651A - Remote power control unit with a mass data reader for a computer. - Google Patents

Remote power control unit with a mass data reader for a computer. Download PDF

Info

Publication number
GB2443651A
GB2443651A GB0617583A GB0617583A GB2443651A GB 2443651 A GB2443651 A GB 2443651A GB 0617583 A GB0617583 A GB 0617583A GB 0617583 A GB0617583 A GB 0617583A GB 2443651 A GB2443651 A GB 2443651A
Authority
GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
computer
module
interface
remote
communication means
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.)
Withdrawn
Application number
GB0617583A
Other versions
GB0617583D0 (en
Inventor
David William Gilbert
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
POWERDESK Ltd
Original Assignee
POWERDESK Ltd
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by POWERDESK Ltd filed Critical POWERDESK Ltd
Priority to GB0617583A priority Critical patent/GB2443651A/en
Publication of GB0617583D0 publication Critical patent/GB0617583D0/en
Priority to PCT/GB2007/003413 priority patent/WO2008029174A2/en
Priority to JP2009527209A priority patent/JP2010503098A/en
Priority to EP07804211A priority patent/EP2062115A2/en
Priority to CNA2007800399984A priority patent/CN101529360A/en
Publication of GB2443651A publication Critical patent/GB2443651A/en
Priority to IL197478A priority patent/IL197478A0/en
Priority to NO20091407A priority patent/NO20091407L/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08C—TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS FOR MEASURED VALUES, CONTROL OR SIMILAR SIGNALS
    • G08C17/00—Arrangements for transmitting signals characterised by the use of a wireless electrical link
    • G08C17/02—Arrangements for transmitting signals characterised by the use of a wireless electrical link using a radio link
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
    • G06F1/26—Power supply means, e.g. regulation thereof
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/06—Digital input from, or digital output to, record carriers, e.g. RAID, emulated record carriers or networked record carriers
    • G06F3/08—Digital input from, or digital output to, record carriers, e.g. RAID, emulated record carriers or networked record carriers from or to individual record carriers, e.g. punched card, memory card, integrated circuit [IC] card or smart card
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08C—TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS FOR MEASURED VALUES, CONTROL OR SIMILAR SIGNALS
    • G08C17/00—Arrangements for transmitting signals characterised by the use of a wireless electrical link
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G08—SIGNALLING
    • G08C—TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS FOR MEASURED VALUES, CONTROL OR SIMILAR SIGNALS
    • G08C2201/00—Transmission systems of control signals via wireless link
    • G08C2201/50—Receiving or transmitting feedback, e.g. replies, status updates, acknowledgements, from the controlled devices

Abstract

Disclosed is remote module 100 for a computer, comprising a power control switch 110 for the user to input 120 the required power state for the computer. The switch is coupled to a communication device 150 which receives the control signal 114 and transmits the signal 114a to an interface mounted on the computer to control the computer. The module may have a mass data reader/writer such as a CD-rom, DVD player or a memory card reader that the module can read/write to and send/receive the data to/from the computer. The module may have an indicator to display an operating state of the computer. The module may communicate with the computer via a wireless link, which may be a ultra wide USB link. Also, disclosed is an interface for fitting to the motherboard of the computer to receive the signals from the module and turn on the computer.

Description

I
Title of the invention
COMPUTER REMOTE CONTROL MODULE, INTERFACE, SYSTEM AND
METHOD
Field of the invention
The present invention relates to modules to provide functionality for a computer, to interfaces to interface between such a module and such a computer, and to methods and systems relating to such modules and interfaces.
Background of the invention
Personal computers are widely used in both the office and home. Such personal computers may be situated on the desktop, or placed below the desk. Personal computers generally include mass data storage readers, such as CD readers, DVD readers, smart card readers, and/or memory card readers. Further, USB ports are also generally provided, which may connect the computer to one or more peripheral devices, such as CD readers, keyboard or mouse devices. A power button is provided, together with indicator lights providing an indication of the status of the personal computer and a built in hard disc drive within the personal computer.
The present invention seeks to overcome or ameliorate at least one problem associated
with the prior art.
Summary of Invention
According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a remote control module for a computer. In an aspect, the computer is a personal computer. fri an aspect, the module is freestanding and/or mobile. In an aspect, the module is adapted to control at least one hardware function of the computer remotely. In an aspect, the module is adapted to control the power state of the computer, and in an aspect the module comprises a remote on/off switch. In an aspect, a user operable power control switch is provided. In an aspect, a freestanding remote computer control module is provided.
In an aspect of the invention, the module includes data receiving means. In an aspect, the data receiving means is a mass data storage reading means. In an aspect of the invention, the data receiving means is chosen from DVD, DVD+R, DVD+R(W), CD, CDR, CDRW, USB, smart card reader, skype (RIM), firewire (RTM), audio in, blu-ray and liD DVD. More than one data receiving means may be provided. Further, in an aspect data output means are also provided. The data output means may include audio out, CDR, CDRW, DVD+R, DVD+RW, Blu-ray, skype, (RTM) firewire (RTM). The data receiving means and output means may include the same device.
In an aspect of the invention, indicating means are provided, which provide an indication of an operating state of the computer. In an aspect, an indicator shows the power state of the computer. In an aspect, an indicator shows an active state of a Hard Disc Drive (HDD) of the computer. In an aspect ofthe invention, the indicators are LEDs. In an aspect, the indicators are chosen from a sound indicator, and a physically moving part or parts.
In an aspect of the invention, communication means is provided. In an aspect, the communication means are configured to coimect at least some of the features of the module to an interface coupleable to the computer. In an aspect, the communication means is for receiving a signal from the power switch based on user input and transmitting the signal to an interface to control the power state of the computer. In an aspect, the communication means is for receiving non-computer code signals from the switch. In an aspect, the communication means is for transmitting data read from the mass data storage reading means to the computer. In an aspect, the communication means is for receiving data to be written to the mass data storage and the reader is also a writer to the mass data storage. In an aspect, the communication means is for receiving one or more signals representative of at least one operating state of the computer and output the one or more signals to the at least one indication means In an aspect, the communication means comprises one or more cables. In an aspect, the communication means comprises one or more wireless connections.
According to an aspect of the invention, an interface for connection of a computer with a freestanding remote functionality module of the computer is provided. In an aspect, a connector is provided to connect directly to two pins on a motherboard of the computer, electrical connection of the pins being required to provide power to the motherboard.
In aspects of the invention, the power to the computer can be turned on by the interface, on receiving control from the module, even when the computer is not in standby mode, but the computer is completely powered down. A hard', or cold' start up of the computer can be effected. In aspects of the invention, the interface is built in to the motherboard of the computer. In an aspect, the built-in interface includes a control to selectively provide power to the motherboard of the computer.
In an aspect, the connector is coupled to interface communication means to receive a signal from a remote module according to aspects of the invention, the signals indicating a desired power state of the computer. In an embodiment, one or more connectors are provided, which are coupled to interface communication means for receiving one or more signals representative of at least one operating state of the computer and transmitting the one or more signals to the remote module for output of an indicator signal at the remote module. In an aspect, interface communication means are provided for receiving computer readable data from the remote module and providing the computer readable data to the computer. In an aspect, interface communication means is provided for receiving computer readable data from the computer and transmitting the data to the remote module.
In an aspect of the invention, the interface communication means comprises one or more cables. In an aspect, the interface communication means comprises one or more wireless connections. In an aspect of the invention, the wireless connection is ultra-wide USB, which allows a data flow rate of up to lGbit/sec and operates on high bandwidth, low power, radio frequency transmission. Alternatively, other wireless communication protocols and devices may be utilised in the device.
According to an aspect of the invention, a module according to an aspect of the invention is connected to an interface according to an aspect of the invention. In an aspect, an interface according to an aspect of the invention is coupled to a computer.
In aspects of the invention, the module includes the computer keyboard and/or mouse, or other peripheral device. In aspects, the peripheral device signals to and from the computer are sent through the communication means within the module and interface.
The peripheral device may be connected to the computer via a USB port internal to the module, the signal from the USB port being transmitted to the interface and to the computer from the interface.
In aspects of the invention, the module also incorporates a display device of the computer. In aspects the monitor receives signals from the computer via the communication means in the module and interface, in embodiments, the interface includes a graphics card interface to receive graphics signals from a graphics card in the computer and transmit those signals to the module, via the interface communication means, and the module includes a monitor connector for receiving the monitor signals, via the communication means, and passing them to the monitor within the module to control the output of the monitor. In one aspect, the interface and module communication means include a cable to transmit the graphics signals to the module from the graphic card. In aspects, the module may be mounted to a wall, or otherwise.
According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a freestanding remote computer functionality module, the module comprising a user operable power control switch configured to receive a user input regarding a desired power state of the computer and output non-computer code signal, and a communicating device coupled to the switch to receive the signal from the switch and transmit said signal to an interface mounted on the computer to control the power state of the computer.
According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a freestanding remote computer functionality module for the module comprising at least one mass data storage reader, coupled to read computer readable data from mass data storage media, a user operable hardware control switch, configured to receive a user input regarding a desired state of the computer and output a signal, a first comniunicating device section coupled to the switch to transmit signals received from the switch to an interface to control the power state of the computer, and a second communicating device section coupled to at least one mass data storage reader to transmit data read from the mass data storage reader to the computer.
According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a freestanding remote computer functionality module, the module comprising a user operable power control switch configured to receive power control input from a user of the computer, at least one indicator, provided to indicate the state of at least one operating state of the computer, at least one communicating device coupled to the switch to receive a signal from the switch and transmit the signal to the computer to control the power state thereof, and coupled to the indicator to receive one or more signals representative of at least one operating parameter of the computer and output the one or more signals to the at least one indicator.
According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided an interface for connection of a computer with a freestanding remote functionality module of the computer, the interface comprising an interface communicating device for receiving non-computer code signals received relating to a user input to control the power state of the computer, and a power controller coupled to the interface communicating device, adapted to directly connect to a motherboard of the computer, and to control the power state of the computer directly through the motherboard in response to the received signals.
According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided an interface for connection of a computer with a freestanding remote functionality module of the computer, the interface comprising an interface communicating device coupled to the computer, and adapted to receive computer readable data from the remote module and provide the computer readable data to the computer, and to receive signals relating to a user input from a remote user operable switch to control the power state of the computer, and a power controller coupled to the interface communicating device and adapted to directly connect to a motherboard of the computer and control the power state of the computer directly through the motherboard in response to the received user input signals.
According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a remote computer control system, comprising a freestanding remote computer functionality module and an interface adapted to connect the computer with the freestanding remote functionality module for a computer. The module comprises a user operable power control switch configured to receive a user input regarding a desired power state of the computer and output a non-computer code signal, and a communicating device coupled to the switch to receive the signal from the switch and transmit the signal to an interface mounted on the computer to control the power state of the computer. The interface comprises an interface communicating device adapted to receive non-computer code signals received relating to a user input to control the power state of the computer, and a power controller coupled to the interface communicating device, adapted to directly connect to a motherboard of the computer and control the power state of the computer directly through the motherboard in response to the received signals.
According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a freestanding remote computer functionality module, the module comprising at least one mass data storage reader, mounted in the module, a first wireless communicating device section mounted in the module coupled to the data reader to transmit data read from the at least one mass data storage reader from the module to the computer, a remote power control switch a remote power indicator, a second wireless communicating device mounted in the module coupled to the remote power control switch and remote power indicator, to transmit instructions to the computer to control the motherboard of the computer directly based on user activation of the remote power control switch and to receive signals from the computer indicative of a power state of the computer.
According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a freestanding remote computer functionality module, the module comprising at least one mass data storage reader, a remote power control switch, and a remote power indicator, mounted in the module, a cable socket coupled to the at least one mass data storage reader, the remote power control switch and the remote power indicator, the cable socket being adapted to receive a cable connected to the computer, to transmit from the cable socket data read from the at least one mass data storage reader and instructions to the computer to control the motherboard of the computer based on user activation of the remote power control switch, and to receive into the cable socket, and receive signals from the computer indicative of a power state of the computer.
According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a remote computer control system, comprising a freestanding remote computer functionality module and an interface adapted to connect the computer with the freestanding remote functionality module, the module comprising a user operable power control switch configured to receive a user input regarding a desired power state of the computer and output a non-computer code signal, a power indicator and a communicating device coupled to the switch to receive the signal from the switch and transmit the signal to an interface mounted to the computer to control the power state of the computer, and coupled to the indicator, to receive one or more indicator signal from the interface mounted to the computer and control the power indicator based on the indicator signals, the interface comprising an interface communicating device adapted to receive non-computer code signals received relating to a user input.to control the power state of the computer and to is adapted to receive the one or more indicator signals and transmit the indicator signals to the remote module and a power controller coupled to the interface communicating device, adapted to directly connect with a motherboard of the computer and control the power state of the computer directly through the motherboard in response to the received signals.
Brief Description of the Drawings
Embodiments of the invention will now be described, purely by way of example, with reference to accompanying drawings, in which: Figures 1 to 3 show freestanding remote functionality modules according to embodiments of the invention; Figures 4 arid 5 show remote computer control interfaces according to embodiments of the invention; Figure 6 shows a remote computer control system according to an embodiment of the invention; Figure 7 shows a method of operation of the system of figure 6; Figure 8 shows a freestanding remote functionality module according to a further embodiment of the invention; Figure 9 shows a remote computer control interface according to a further embodiment of the invention; Figure 10 shows a freestanding remote functionality module according to a further embodiment of the invention; and Figure 11 shows a remote computer control interface according to a further embodiment of the invention.
Detailed Description of Embodiments of the Invention Figure 1 shows, in a first embodiment of the invention, a freestanding remote functionality module 100 for a computer, the module comprising a hardware control switch 110 for receiving a user input 112 regarding a desired hardware state of the computer, and a communicating device 150 coupled to the switch 110 to receive a hardware control signal 114 from the switch 110 and transmit said hardware control signal 11 4a to an interface mounted on the computer to control the hardware of the computer.
Figure 2 shows a second embodiment of the invention. In the second embodiment, a freestanding remote functionality module 200 for a computer is provided. The module 200comprises at least one mass data storage reader 220, coupled to read computer readable data from mass data storage units, at least one hardware control switch 210 to receive a user input 212 from a user of the computer, a first communicating device section 252 to transmit a hardware control signal 214 received from the switch to an interface to control the operation of hardware of the computer, and a second communicating device section 254 coupled to the at least one mass data storage reader 220 to transmit data read from the mass data storage reader 220 to the computer.
Figure 3 shows a third embodiment of the invention. A freestanding remote functionality module 300 for a computer is provided. The module 300 comprises a hardware control switch 310 coupled to receive a user input 312 from a user of the computer, the user input 312 relating to control of a hardware operating state of the computer normally controlled by a user control on the computer itself, at least one indicator 330, provided to indicate 332 the state of at least one operating function of the computer, at least one communicating device 350 coupled to the hardware control switch 310 to receive a hardware control signal 314 from the switch 310 and transmit the signal 31 4a to an interface the computer to control an operating parameter thereof, and coupled to the indicator 330 to receive one or more signals 315 representative of at least one operating parameter of the computer and output the one or more signals 315a to the at least one indicator.
In a form of the first, second and third embodiments, the hardware control switch is a user operable power control switch, which receives a user input relating to a desired power state of the computer and outputs a power control signal to the communicating device, which transmits that signal to the interface, which in turn controls the computer based on the user defined desired power state.
Figure 4 shows an interface 402 for connection of a computer 460 with a freestanding remote functionality module for the computer 460 according to an embodiment of the invention. The interface 402 comprises an interface communicating device 470 for receiving non-computer code signals 414a received relating to a user input to control the hardware state of the computer 460, and a hardware controller 480 coupled to the interface communicating device 470, adapted to directly connect to a motherboard 462 of the computer 460, and to control the hardware state of the computer 460 directly through the motherboard 462 in response to the received user input signals 414a.
Figure 5 shows an alternative interface 502 for connection of a computer 560 with a freestanding remote functionality module for the computer 560, according to a further embodiment of the invention. The interface 502 comprises an interface communicating device 570 to be coupled to the computer 560, and adapted to receive computer readable data from the remote module and provide the computer readable data to the computer 560, and to receive signals 514a relating to a user input to control a hardware state of the computer 560, and a hardware controller 580 coupled to the interface communicating device 570 and adapted to directly connect to a motherboard 562 of the computer 560 and control the hardware state of the computer 560 directly through the motherboard 562 in response to the received user input signals.
Figure 6 shows a yet further alternative embodiment of the invention, and shows a remote computer control system. The system comprises a freestanding remote functionality module 600 for a computer 660, the module 600 comprising a remote user operable hardware control switch 610 configured to receive a user input 612 relating to a desired hardware state of the computer from a user of the computer 660, the user input 612 relating to control of the hardware of the computer 660 normally controlled by a user control device on the computer itself, and a communicating device 650 coupled to the switch 610 to receive noncomputer code hardware control signals 614 from the switch and transmit said hardware control signals 614a to an interface at the computer 660 to control the hardware of the computer 660, and further comprising an interface 602 adapted to connect the computer 660 with the freestanding remote functionality module 600 of the computer 660. The interface 602 comprises an interface communicating device 670 adapted to receive non-computer code signals 614a received relating to the user input 612 to control a hardware state of the computer 660, and a power controller 680 coupled to the communicating device 670 adapted to directly connect to a motherboard 662 of the computer 660 and control the hardware state of the computer 660 directly through the motherboard 662 in response to the received signals.
Figure 7 shows a flow diagram for a method of remotely controlling a computer according to an embodiment of the invention. The method comprises receiving a user input on a freestanding remote functionality module remote from the computer S702, the user input representing a desired hardware state of the computer, conimunicating the desired computer hardware state to an interface mounted on the computer S704, and controlling contacts provided on a motherboard of the computer directly, dependent on the desired hardware state of the computer S706.
In forms of the fourth and fifth embodiments, the hardware control signal is a power control signal, and the motherboard can be controlled to control the power state of the computer depending on the desired power state. The control in this case is direct to pair of power contacts provided on the motherboard, which must be connected in order for any power to be supplied to the motherboard. In this way, a hard, or cold boot of the computer can be effected, even though no power is being provided to the motherboard, as the motherboard, nor any other part of the computer, does not need to be receiving power to recognise the boot signal and start up the computer. In an alternative embodiment, the interface is incorporated into the motherboard itself. In this case, the contacts may be a part of the interface.
Further, in forms of the sixth and seventh embodiments, the hardware control switch is a user operable power control switch, which receives a user input relating to a desired power state of the computer and outputs a power control signal to the transmitter, which transmits that signal to the interface, which in turn controls the computer based on the user defined desired power state.
Figure 8 shows a further embodiment of a freestanding remote functionality module 800 for a computer. The module 800 includes a user operable remote power control switch 810. The power control switch 810 is connected to a communicating means in the form of electrically conducting cables 850. The switch 810 may be any type of switch, such as a latching push to make switch, or a flipflop, rocker or other switching device as is known in the art. Two further switches 816, 818 are also provided. These switches 816, 818 do not latch, but revert to the open state when released by a user. In the present embodiment, the further switches 816, 818 are also connected to the cables 850.
An indicating means, in the form of an LED 830 is also provided, which is connected to the communicating means, in this case, a different set of wires within the cables 850.
Further, a second indicating means, also in the form of an LED 834, is also provided.
Instead of LEDs, other light emitting devices could be provided, such as incandescent bulbs or the like. Further, the indicating means 830, 834 need not be light-emitting means at all, but could be sound indicators, or could be physically moving parts, which move into different positions in order to provide an indication of the signals received.
A mass data storage reading means, in the form of a CD/DVD drive 820, is also provided. The CDiDVD drive is also connected to the communication means (cables 850). The CD/D\TD drive is connected to the cables via a converter 825. The converter 825 converts the output of the mass data storage reading means from the internal format used therein (in the present embodiment, IDE, although it might also be IETA format) and to an external format (in the present embodiment, USB). Power is provided to the reader 820 via a further cable 852, and in turn from the computer.
Two USB slots 840, 845 are also provided in the module, for receiving USB supported devices. In addition to those shown herein, further types of readers and devices may be provided, including smart card readers, compact card readers for storage cards such as compact flash and SD cards etc. Further, other optical mass data storage readers such as blu-ray DVD and HDDVD readers may be provided. Other proprietary slots such as that for IPOD (RTM) may also be provided. Further, firewire (RTM), skype (RTM) and audio in/out connectors may be provided, and connected to a communicating device according to embodiments of the invention. Further, through the USB slots or otherwise, keyboards, mice and other peripheral devices can be connected to the module 800, and in turn to the computer. In alternative embodiments, the freestanding module may also include the keyboard for the computer, or may include other peripheral device or devices. The USB slots are connected to a hub 855 via the cables 850, which hub 855 then outputs a single USB cable 850a. The hub 855 of the present embodiment receives three USB connections and outputs a single USB connection. However, other permutations, such as 7-1, or 10-2 etc, may also be utilised as required.
Instead of, or in addition to, electrically conducting cables, optic fibres may be used as the communication means of embodiments of the present invention, and the appropriate changes to be made to the integers of the module will be appreciated by one skilled in the art.
Figure 9 shows an interface according to an embodiment of the invention. The interface 902 includes a hardware controller in the form of a connector power switch 970. The connector power switch is connectable directly to the motherboard of a computer (not shown). The connection is to the two physical pins on the motherboard that must be connected in order for the motherboard to have power. In this way, the hardware controller controls the hardware (in the present embodiment, power state) of the computer directly. As discussed above, in embodiments of the invention, the motherboard does not have to be in a standby state to receive the signal, the computer power off state is not a standby state, but a complete no power state.
The interface also contains interface communication means, which includes a connecting cable 970 connecting to the power control connector 980. The interface also includes a further connecting cable 970a within the interface communication means, which receives computer readable data from the remote module (800 shown in figure 8) and provide the computer readable data to the computer. In the present embodiment, this is done by a USB cable 970a, which receives data from cable 870a of the module of figure 8. The USB cable 970a is connected to a USB port on the computer. This USB cable also receives data from the computer and transmits it to a module along the cable 970a.
The interface also includes further cables 970 which receive one or more signals representative of at least one operating state of the computer and transmit the one or more signals to the remote module foroutput of an indicator signal at the remote module. In the present embodiment, the signals are received from connectors 985, 987, which connect to LED outputs in the computer. The signals, in the present embodiment, relate to the power state of the computer, and to an operating state of the computer, in the form of the activity of a hard disc drive provided within the computer.
Further a power output connector 990 is provided, which provides a power supply to the module, in order to power the reader (CDIDVD drive 820).
The embodiments of figures 8 and 9 can be connected by further cables, which may be considered either extensions of the interface connection means in figure 9 or the communication means 850 of figure 8. These extend from the module 800 and to the interface 902 to connect the module 800 with the interface 902. They may be so connected, and the interface may be connected to the motherboard of a computer. The operation of a remote computer control system according to an embodiment of the invention functions in the following manner.
A user of the system can control the power state (i.e. whether the computer is turned on or off) of the computer remotely by pressing power switch 810. The signal passes along the cable 850 and connecting cables to the cable 970 of the interface 902. From there, the signal passes to the power control connector 980 mounted on the two pins of the motherboard that must be connected in order for power to be provided to the motherboard. In the present embodiment, the cable 870, 970 connecting the power switch 810 to the power control connector 980 is a simple circuit, with the module power switch 810 making the contact between the two contact pins on the motherboard, between which electrical contact must be made for any power to be provided to the motherboard, via the cables 870, 970 and the power control connector 980.
A user of the system can also access data via the computer using the reader 820 of the module 800. The USB cable 970a sends a control signal to control the reader 820 to read a particular part of a storage medium therein. The data is read by the reader 820 and provided, along cable 870a via hub 855 and to 970a and to a USB port on the computer.
Further, the module provides an indication of the power state of the computer, and the cunent hard drive activity by displaying indicators on the LEDs 830, 834. The signals for these indicator lights 830, 834 are received by the connectors 985, 987 and pass, via the cables 970, 850, from the interface 902 to the module 800. The signals carried on the cables are then output by the LEDs 830, 834. In a similar way to the power control, a circuit is formed between each of the connectors 985, 987 and the LEDs 830, 834 and supply of an electrical current through the cables 870, 950 causes the LEDs 830, 834 to illuminate.
The system also provides remote USB ports in the module, which are connected to the computer via the cable 850a and 970a. Further, the two switches 816, 818 provided on the module can be used to control non-computer related devices. In one embodiment, the two switches control the height of a desk on which the computer is mounted (one switch raising the desk, the other lowering it). Further, the switches 816, 818 may control the angle of a monitor attached to the computer or may control any other device as required. Further switches may be provided as desired.
By use of such a system, external operating controls and inputs of a computer can be recreated remotely therefrom. Once this has been done, the computer can be placed in a secure area. The area can be remote from the location at which the user of the computer works, and can be hidden from sight. This is because the computer itself will not need to be accessed during use, either to input media to be read by the computer, or to turn the computer on, or to connect devices to the computer; all of these fimctions can be carried out by the module.
In an alternative embodiment of the module described above with reference to figure 8, the power switch 810, further switches 816, 818, indicators 830, 834, USB ports 840, 845, etc may be provided on a single integrated circuit, for ease of manufacture.
In further alternative embodiments, a wireless connection is provided between the module and the interface. Embodiments of a module and of an interface making use of wireless communication are shown in figures 10 and 11 respectively.
Figure 10 shows a wirelessly connected module 1000. In the module 1000, an ultra-wide two-way USB wireless connection 1050b is provided, as part of the communication means. A converter to convert the USB format received from the USB hub 1055 (which remains otherwise as described with reference to figure 8) to ultra-wide USB format is provided as a part of the wireless connection 1 050b.
Further, a standard RF transmitter/receiver pair 1 050c is provided. The transmitter/receiver 1 050c is also a part of the communication means, and receives the signals from the power switch via the cable. It then transmits the signal to a receiver within the interface, described in more detail below. Further, the transmitter/receiver lO5Ocreceives signals from a transmitter in the interface relating to an operating state of the computer. These signals are outputted from the transmitter receiver I 050c to the indicating means via the cable as described in relation to figure 8, and the module functions in the same manner, although without a wire connecting it to the interface.
The transmitter/receiver 1 050c may be a single device, or may be two individual devices, as required.
In the present embodiment, a power supply 1090 is provided to power the transmitter/receiver 1050c and ultra-wide USB device 1050b. It is also used to power the reader. The other features of the module 1000 are as described above in relation to figure 8.
Figure 11 shows an interface 1102 for use with the module of figure 10. The interface Il02connecting means includes an ultra-wide two-way USB wireless connection I 170b is provided, as part of the interface communication means. A converter to convert the USB format received from the computer to ultra-wide USB format, and vice-versa, is provided as a part of the wireless connection 1170b.
Further, a standard RF transmitter/receiver pair ii 70c is provided. The interface transmitter/receiver 11 70c is also a part of the interface communication means, and receives the signals from the connectors via the cable, which are as described above in relation to figure 9. It then transmits the signal to the transmitter/receiver 1050c within the module 1000, described above with reference to figure 10. Further, the interface transmitter/receiver 11 70c receives signals from the transmitter in the module relating to a desired power state of the computer. These signals are outputted from the transmitter/receiver 11 70c to the connector power control via the cable as described in relation to figure 9, and the interface functions in the same manner, although without a wire connecting it to the module. The transmitter/receiver 11 70c may be a single device, or may be two individual devices, as required.
In this embodiment, the power connector of the interface is used to power the transmitter/receiver pair 1 1 70c and ultra-wide USB 11 70b, rather than provide power to the module as described with reference to figures 8 and 9. The other features of the interface 1102 are as described above in relation to figure 9.
In alternative embodiments of the invention, both wired and wireless, the module includes the computer keyboard, and/or other peripheral devices. The module may include an integrated pointing device, for controlling the position of a cursor on the screen of the computer. Such peripheral devices may send control signals to the computer via the communication means provided in the module to the interface communication means provided in the interface In embodiments of the invention, the module removes the need for a user to interact directly with the main the computer itself, i.e. the base unit; the module is the only device that a user needs to interact with when using the computer, from before the computer is turned on, until after it is switched off, and it can be moved around with the user.
In further embodiments of the invention, the module may include the monitor of the computer. In such an embodiment, the interface may include a further connector for connecting with a graphics card in the computer. Alternatively, the connector may connect with an integrated graphics card on the motherboard. The connector receives graphics control signals and outputs them to the interface communication means, which transmits the graphics signals to the communication means in the module. The communication means then passes the graphics signals to the monitor for output on the screen. In one embodiment, the interface and module communication means include a further cable to transmit the graphics signals to the module from the graphic card. In such embodiments, the module may be mounted on a wall or otherwise, so that the monitor is not placed on a surface.
The present invention has been described herein purely by way of example and various omissions, modifications and/or additions will present themselves to those skilled in the art, these omissions, modifications and/or additions falling within the scope and spirit of the invention.
The invention has been described with the aid of functional building blocks and method steps illustrating the performance of specified functions and relationships thereof. The boundaries of these functional building blocks and method steps have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenience of the description. Alternate boundaries can be defined so long as the specified functions and relationships thereof are appropriately performed. Any such alternate boundaries are thus within the scope and spirit of the claimed invention.
Any discussion of the prior art throughout the specification is not an admission that such prior art is widely known or forms part of the common general knowledge in the
field.
Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the words "comprise", "comprises", "comprising" and the like are to be interpreted in an inclusive, rather than exclusive or exhaustive, sense; that is it say, in the sense of "including but not limited to".

Claims (27)

1. A freestanding remote functionality module for a computer, the remote module comprising: a user operable power control switch for receiving a user input regarding a desired power state of the computer and outputting a non-computer code signal; and communication means for receiving the signal from the switch means based on user input and transmitting the signal to an interface to control the power state of the computer.
2. A functionality module according to claim 1, further comprising at least one mass data storage reading means for reading computer readable data, wherein the communication means is also for transmitting the data read from the mass data storage reading means to the computer.
3. A freestanding remote functionality module for a computer, the module comprising: at least one mass data storage reading means for reading computer readable data; user operable power control switch means for receiving a user input regarding a desired power state of the computer and outputting a signal; and communication means coupled to the user input and at least one mass data storage reader for transmitting data read from the mass data storage reading means to the computer and for transmitting signals received from the switch means to control the power state of the computer.
4. A module according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the communication means is also for receiving data, and a said mass data.storage reading means is also a writing means for writing the received data.
5. A module according to any preceding claim, further comprising at least one indicating means, coupled to the communication means, for indicating an operating state of the computer, wherein the communication means is also for receiving one or more signals representative of at least one operating state of the computer and outputting the one or more signals to the at least one indicating means.
6. A freestanding remote functionality module for a computer, the module comprising: user operable power control switch means for receiving a user input regarding the desired power state of the computer; at least one indication means, for indicating at least one operating state of the computer; communication means coupled to the power control switch means and to the indication means, for receiving signals from the switch means and transmitting them to the computer to control the power state thereof, receiving one or more signals representative of at least one operating state of the computer and outputting the one or more signals to the at least one indication means.
7. A module according to any preceding claim, wherein the communication means comprises a wireless Communication means.
8. A module according to claim 7, wherein the wireless communication means comprises ultra-wide USB.
9. A module according to claim 3 or 6, or any claim dependent thereon, wherein the switch means is for generating a non-computer code signal based on a user input and the communication means is for receiving non-computer code signals from the switch means based on user input and transmitting the non-computer code signals to the computer to control the power state of the computer.
10. A module according to claim I or 9, wherein the communication means is arranged to a transmit control signal suitable to control the power state directly by power contacts on a motherboard of the computer.
11. A module according to any of claims 2 to 10, wherein the mass data storage reading means is a ROM reader and converting means is provided coupled between the mass data reading means and the communication means for converting a data stream from the mass data storage reading means from an internal format to an external format to be transmitted by the communication means.
12. An interface for connection of a freestanding remote functionality module of a computer with the computer, the interface comprising: interface communication means for receiving non-computer code signals relating to a user input from a remote user operable switch to control the power state of the computer; and power control means coupled to the interface communication means and to be connected to power controls on a motherboard of the computer, for controlling the power state of the computer directly through the motherboard in response to the received signals.
13. An interface according to claim 12, wherein the interface communication means is also for receiving computer readable data from the remote module and providing the computer readable data to the computer.
14. An interface for connection of a computer with a freestanding remote functionality module of the computer, the interface comprising: interface communication means for receiving computer readable data from the remote module and providing the computer readable data to the computer, and for receiving signals relating to a user input from a remote user operable switch to control the power state of the computer; and power control means coupled to the interface communication means for direct connection to power controls on a motherboard of the computer and for controlling the power state of the computer directly through the motherboard in response to the received user input signals.
15. An interface for connection of a computer with a freestanding remote functionality module of the computer, the interface comprising: interface communication means for receiving non-computer code signals relating to a user input from a remote user operable switch to control the power state of the computer; and power control means coupled to the communication means and to be connected to a motherboard of the computer, for controlling the power state of the computer directly through the motherboard in response to the received signals, wherein the interface conm1unjcatjon means is also for receiving one or more signals representative of at least one operating state of the computer and transmitting the one or more signals to the remote module for output of an indicator signal at the remote module.
16. An interface according to any of claims 12 to 15, wherein the interface communication means is also for receiving computer readable data from the computer and transmitting the data to the remote module.
17. An interface according to any of claims 12 to 16, wherein the interface communication means comprises a wireless communication means.
18. A remote computer control system, comprising: a freestanding remote computer functionality module according to any of claims 1 to 11, further comprising an interface according to any of claims 12 to 17.
19. A method of remotely controlling a computer, the method comprising: receiving a user input on a user operable switch mounted in a freestanding remote functionality module remote from the computer, the user input representing a desired power state of the computer; communicating the desired computer power state to an interface mounted on the computer; and controlling power contacts provided on a motherboard of the computer directly using the interface, dependent on the desired power state of the computer.
20. A method according to claim 19, further comprising: reading computer readable data from a mass data storage reading device mounted in the remote module; communicating the computer readable data from the remote module to the interface; and outputting the computer readable data to the computer through the interface.
21. A method according to claim 19 or 20, further comprising: receiving, at the interface, signals representing an operating state of the computer from the computer; transmitting the signals from the interface to the remote module; receiving the transmitted signals at the remote module; and outputting an indication of the operating state of the computer at the remote module based on the signals received at the remote module.
22. A freestanding remote functionality module for a computer according to any of claims 1 to 11, further comprising a keyboard for the computer.
23. A freestanding remote functionality module for a computer according to any of claims 1 to 11, further comprising a monitor for the computer.
24. A freestanding remote computer functionality module, substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to any of the accompanying drawings.
25. An interface for connection of a freestanding computer remote functionality module with a computer, substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to any of the accompanying drawings.
26. A method of remotely controlling a computer, substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to any of the accompanying drawings.
27. A remote computer control system, substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to any of the accompanying drawings.
GB0617583A 2006-09-07 2006-09-07 Remote power control unit with a mass data reader for a computer. Withdrawn GB2443651A (en)

Priority Applications (7)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB0617583A GB2443651A (en) 2006-09-07 2006-09-07 Remote power control unit with a mass data reader for a computer.
PCT/GB2007/003413 WO2008029174A2 (en) 2006-09-07 2007-09-07 Computer remote control module, interface, system and method
JP2009527209A JP2010503098A (en) 2006-09-07 2007-09-07 Computer remote control module, interface, system, and method
EP07804211A EP2062115A2 (en) 2006-09-07 2007-09-07 Computer remote control module, interface, system and method
CNA2007800399984A CN101529360A (en) 2006-09-07 2007-09-07 Computer remote control module, interface, system and method
IL197478A IL197478A0 (en) 2006-09-07 2009-03-08 Computer remote control module, interface, system and method
NO20091407A NO20091407L (en) 2006-09-07 2009-04-06 Remote control module, interface, system and procedure for computer

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB0617583A GB2443651A (en) 2006-09-07 2006-09-07 Remote power control unit with a mass data reader for a computer.

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
GB0617583D0 GB0617583D0 (en) 2006-10-18
GB2443651A true GB2443651A (en) 2008-05-14

Family

ID=37232492

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
GB0617583A Withdrawn GB2443651A (en) 2006-09-07 2006-09-07 Remote power control unit with a mass data reader for a computer.

Country Status (2)

Country Link
CN (1) CN101529360A (en)
GB (1) GB2443651A (en)

Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPH09251331A (en) * 1996-03-18 1997-09-22 Hitachi Ltd Automatic log-in/log-out computer system
US6125449A (en) * 1997-06-30 2000-09-26 Compaq Computer Corporation Controlling power states of a computer
US20020186203A1 (en) * 2001-06-06 2002-12-12 Yu-Fu Huang Wireless remote control device for notebook computers
GB2391370A (en) * 2002-07-25 2004-02-04 First Int Computer Inc An integrated wireless pointer device with integral laser pointer
US20040030937A1 (en) * 2002-08-12 2004-02-12 Wang Ming Chang Computer remotely controlled by remote controller
US20040093445A1 (en) * 2002-11-13 2004-05-13 Mitac Technology Corp. Method and apparatus for infrared remote power up of a computer system
US20040178987A1 (en) * 2003-03-13 2004-09-16 Chen Yancy T. Remote-controlled variable-function or multi-function apparatus and methods
GB2425857A (en) * 2005-05-03 2006-11-08 John Richard Tilsley-Baker Wireless controller for a computer

Patent Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPH09251331A (en) * 1996-03-18 1997-09-22 Hitachi Ltd Automatic log-in/log-out computer system
US6125449A (en) * 1997-06-30 2000-09-26 Compaq Computer Corporation Controlling power states of a computer
US20020186203A1 (en) * 2001-06-06 2002-12-12 Yu-Fu Huang Wireless remote control device for notebook computers
GB2391370A (en) * 2002-07-25 2004-02-04 First Int Computer Inc An integrated wireless pointer device with integral laser pointer
US20040030937A1 (en) * 2002-08-12 2004-02-12 Wang Ming Chang Computer remotely controlled by remote controller
US20040093445A1 (en) * 2002-11-13 2004-05-13 Mitac Technology Corp. Method and apparatus for infrared remote power up of a computer system
US20040178987A1 (en) * 2003-03-13 2004-09-16 Chen Yancy T. Remote-controlled variable-function or multi-function apparatus and methods
GB2425857A (en) * 2005-05-03 2006-11-08 John Richard Tilsley-Baker Wireless controller for a computer

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
Dan's Data, Just Cooler Computer Remote Control, Reviewed 9/2/2001, www.dansdata.com/jremote.htm *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
GB0617583D0 (en) 2006-10-18
CN101529360A (en) 2009-09-09

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US9514080B1 (en) Method and apparatus for providing an interface between a host device and a plurality of storage devices
US7174407B2 (en) Extendable computer system
US20080126593A1 (en) Expansion module for a USB port and a method thereof
US20080077726A1 (en) Computer remote control module, interface, system and method
CN101609353A (en) A kind of personal computer with multiple use pattern
CN101819454B (en) Multifunctional IO expansion templates of blade server
CN100397838C (en) Digital type infrared-bluetooth two-bridge universal remote control device
US20130331035A1 (en) Input device and bluetooth converter thereof
GB2443651A (en) Remote power control unit with a mass data reader for a computer.
CN115733549B (en) PCIE network card, switching method of interface modes of PCIE network card, electronic equipment and storage medium
CN203013249U (en) Blu-ray player with NFC function
EP2062115A2 (en) Computer remote control module, interface, system and method
US20080259023A1 (en) Method and System of Making a Computer as a Console for Managing Another Computer
CN203930320U (en) The intelligent projector of a kind of console mode LED
CN101727296A (en) Hard disk control circuit
US9768861B2 (en) Input device and short-range wireless communication converter thereof
US20050020245A1 (en) Method and device for wireless data transmission and storage
CN201725564U (en) Hard disk with USB interface
JP5279760B2 (en) Wireless access point and sensor network system using the same
CN217363103U (en) Multidata integrated switching equipment
US20210397237A1 (en) Computing device remote control system
KR200383303Y1 (en) Mouse inner MP3 player
CN111176672A (en) Upgrading expansion control circuit, control method and electronic equipment
KR200395766Y1 (en) RF remote control apparatus for computer remote control
CN113286056A (en) Media playing and controlling equipment

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
WAP Application withdrawn, taken to be withdrawn or refused ** after publication under section 16(1)