JP2000004389A - Image-pickup device, its control method, image-pickup system, information processor and adapter - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To eliminate the need for executing an input/output processing through the use of many signal lines in an electronic unit provided with a PC card slot. SOLUTION: In an information processor 200, the supply of power to a card slot is started in a state where a start signal line is set. When an image-pickup device 100, which is newly installed in the card slot corresponds to a True-IDE mode or a True-I/O mode where it operates with the small number of address signal lines, it is operated in the state of the small number of address signal lines.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image pickup apparatus and its control method, an image pickup system, an information processing apparatus, and an adapter.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, electronic equipment such as a computer having a slot for a PC card conforming to the PCMCIA standard and capable of mounting a memory card or an I / O card is commercially available.

According to these electronic devices, a memory card or an I / O card is inserted into a PC card slot, thereby constructing a system having various extended functions such as a digital camera, a modem, a LAN, and a SCSI. Is possible.

[0004]

However, in a conventional electronic device having a slot for a PC card, when a memory card or an I / O card is used, a large number of address signal lines, data signal lines, and control signals are used. It is necessary to perform input / output processing using lines.

For example, in the case of the PCMCIA standard, a large number of signal lines are required, such as 26 pins for address signal lines, 16 pins for data signal lines, and 17 pins for control signal lines. In particular, the number of address signal lines is extremely large. Many.

[0006] For this reason, it is a portable small electronic device of a notebook size, and a PC for these memory cards and I / O cards.
For those having a card slot, it is necessary to prepare the same number of signal lines as a relatively large notebook size computer. Therefore, the number of pins of the interface LSI increases in accordance with the required number of signal lines, and the package and chip size and power consumption of the LSI increase.
This is a big problem for portable small electronic devices characterized by power saving and the like.

On the other hand, if a different type of card slot having a small number of signal lines is used, the above problem can be avoided by reducing the number of signal lines. However, it is not possible to use a memory card or I / O card that is common to a notebook-sized computer, etc.
It is necessary to purchase a card, which is very inconvenient for users of portable small electronic devices.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and has as its object to provide an imaging apparatus and an imaging apparatus that do not need to perform input / output processing using a large number of signal lines in an electronic device having a PC card slot. A control method, an imaging system, an information processing device, and an adapter are provided.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an electronic apparatus having a slot for a PC card, which suppresses an increase in the number of pins of an interface LSI, an increase in an LSI package, a chip size, and an increase in power consumption, and an image pickup apparatus therefor. A control method, an imaging system, an information processing device, and an adapter are provided.

[0010]

In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, an image pickup apparatus according to the present invention has the following arrangement. That is, an image pickup apparatus provided with an image pickup means for encoding a subject as image data, and a card-shaped connection means for connecting to another device, and a stand-up from the other device in a state where the other device is connected. There is a receiving unit for receiving a start-up processing request signal, and a signal processing unit for performing start-up processing in accordance with the start-up request signal, and the connection unit includes a signal line for receiving a signal from the other device.

[0011] The imaging apparatus of the present invention has the following configuration. That is, an image pickup apparatus provided with an image pickup means for encoding a subject as image data, and a card-shaped connection means for connecting to another device, and a stand-up from the other device in a state where the other device is connected. Receiving means for receiving a start-up processing request signal, and signal processing means for performing start-up processing in accordance with power supply from the start-up processing request signal and the other device, wherein the connection means is connected from the other device. Includes signal lines for receiving signals and power supply lines.

Further, the information processing apparatus of the present invention has the following configuration. That is, a connection means for detachably connecting a connection card for connecting an imaging device for encoding a subject as image data, and transmitting a start-up request signal to the imaging device while the imaging device is connected. Means,
The connection unit includes a signal line for transmitting a signal to the imaging device.

Further, the information processing apparatus of the present invention has the following configuration. That is, a connection means for detachably connecting a connection card for connecting an imaging device for encoding a subject as image data, and transmitting a start-up request signal to the imaging device while the imaging device is connected. Means, and power supply means for supplying power to the imaging device, wherein the connection means includes a signal line for transmitting a signal to the imaging device and a power supply line.

The imaging system of the present invention has the following configuration. That is, imaging means for encoding a subject as image data, card-like first connection means for connecting to another device, and a start-up request signal from the other device in a state where the other device is connected. An image pickup apparatus having a receiving means for receiving a signal, a signal processing means for performing a start-up process based on the start-up processing request signal, a second connection means to which the first connection means is detachable, and the image pickup apparatus is connected. And an information processing apparatus as the other device having transmission means for transmitting a start-up processing request signal to the imaging apparatus in a state where the information processing apparatus is in a state where the signal processing apparatus receives the signal from the information processing apparatus. A signal line, and the second connection unit includes a signal line for transmitting a signal to the imaging device.

Further, the imaging system of the present invention has the following configuration. That is, imaging means for encoding a subject as image data, card-like first connection means for connecting to another device, and a start-up request signal from the other device in a state where the other device is connected. And a signal processing unit for performing a start-up process in response to the start-up process request signal and power supply from the other device; and a second detachable first connection unit. Information processing as the other device, comprising: connecting means; transmitting means for transmitting a start-up processing request signal to the imaging device in a state where the imaging device is connected; and power supply means for supplying power to the imaging device The first connection unit includes a signal line and a power supply line for receiving a signal from the other device, and the second connection unit includes a signal line for transmitting a signal to the imaging device. Including power supply line

The control method of the image pickup apparatus according to the present invention includes the following procedure. That is, having an imaging unit that encodes the subject as image data, in an imaging device to which another device is connected via a card-shaped connection unit, receives a start-up instruction signal output from the other device, A start-up process is performed according to the start-up instruction signal.

Further, the control method of the imaging apparatus according to the present invention comprises the following procedure. That is, having an imaging unit that encodes the subject as image data, in an imaging device to which another device is connected via a card-shaped connection unit, receives a start-up instruction signal output from the other device, Start-up processing is performed according to the start-up instruction signal and power supply from the other device.

The adapter of the present invention has the following configuration. That is, an adapter formed in a card shape,
A first connection unit for connecting another device; and a second connection unit for connecting an imaging device for encoding a subject as image data, wherein the second connection unit includes the other device and the imaging device. A signal line for transmitting a start-up processing request signal from the other device to the imaging device when the device is connected to the imaging device;

The adapter of the present invention has the following configuration. That is, an adapter formed in a card shape,
A first connection unit for connecting other devices, a second connection unit for connecting an imaging device that encodes a subject as image data, and a power supply unit for supplying power to the imaging device, The second connection means, in a state where the other device and the imaging device are connected, a signal line for transmitting a start-up processing request signal from the other device to the imaging device, and a power supply to the imaging device. Includes a power supply line for supplying.

The imaging system of the present invention has the following configuration. That is, an information processing apparatus having a card slot-shaped first connection means for connecting a card-shaped adapter, and the adapter, wherein the card-shaped second connection means for connecting to the information processing apparatus, Card slot-shaped third connection means for connecting to the imaging device, and transmission means for transmitting a start-up processing request signal to the imaging device while the information processing device and the imaging device are connected to each other; And a card-like fourth connection means for connecting to the adapter, wherein:
Receiving means for receiving a start-up processing request signal transmitted from the adapter in a state where the adapter is connected; signal processing means for performing start-up processing in accordance with the start-up signal processing request signal; And an imaging device having an imaging means for performing encoding processing as data.
The connection unit and the fourth connection unit include a signal line for receiving a signal from the information processing device and a signal line for transmitting a signal to the imaging device.

Further, the imaging system of the present invention has the following configuration. That is, an information processing apparatus having card slot-shaped first connection means for connecting a card-shaped adapter, and first power supply means for supplying power to an imaging device, and the adapter, A card-like second connection means for connecting to the information processing apparatus, a card-slot third connection means for connecting to the imaging apparatus, and a state in which the information processing apparatus and the imaging apparatus are connected to each other; Transmitting means for transmitting a start-up processing request signal to the imaging apparatus, and transmitting the start-up processing request signal to the imaging apparatus in response to power supply from the first power supply means; An adapter having second power supply means for supplying power to the imaging device; a card-like fourth connection means for connecting the adapter to the imaging device; Receiving means for receiving a start-up processing request signal transmitted from the adapter in a state of being turned on, and signal processing for performing start-up processing according to the start-up signal processing request signal and power supply from the second power supply means Means, and an image pickup apparatus having an image pickup means for encoding a subject as image data, wherein the third connection means and the fourth connection means are a signal line for transmitting a signal to the image pickup apparatus, Power supply line.

The control method of the image pickup apparatus according to the present invention includes the following procedure. That is, in an image pickup apparatus having an image pickup means for encoding a subject as image data and connecting the card-like connection means to the other device via the adapter, the image is output from the other device via the adapter. A start-up instruction signal is received, and start-up processing is performed according to the start-up instruction signal.

The control method of the image pickup apparatus according to the present invention includes the following procedure. That is, in an image pickup apparatus having an image pickup means for encoding a subject as image data and connecting the card-like connection means to the other device via the adapter, the image is output from the other device via the adapter. A start-up instruction signal is received, and a start-up process is performed according to the start-up instruction signal and power supply from the other device.

[0024]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of an imaging system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a detailed view of the connector of FIG. FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an external configuration of the information processing apparatus and the imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment.

As shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 17, the first
The imaging system according to the embodiment includes an imaging device 100 and an information processing device (or other device) 200, and the information processing device 20
Reference numeral 0 denotes a portable computer, a notebook computer, or the like. <Imaging Apparatus> First, the imaging apparatus 100 will be described.

Reference numeral 10 denotes a photographing lens, and 12 denotes a shutter having an aperture function.

An image sensor 14 converts an optical image into an electric signal, and an A / D converter 16 converts an analog signal output from the image sensor 14 into a digital signal.

The timing generation circuit 18 includes the image pickup device 1
4. A clock signal and a control signal are supplied to the A / D converter 16 and the D / A converter 26, and are controlled by the memory control circuit 22 and the imaging control circuit 50.

The image processing circuit 20 performs predetermined pixel interpolation processing and color conversion processing on data from the A / D converter 16 or data from the memory control circuit 22.

Further, the image processing circuit 20 performs a predetermined arithmetic processing using the image data of the imaged,
0 controls the exposure control unit 30 and the distance measurement control unit 32 based on the calculation result obtained by the image processing circuit 20. TTL (through-the-lens) type AF (autofocus) processing, AE (automatic exposure) processing, and EF (flash pre-emission) processing are performed.

Further, the image processing circuit 20 performs predetermined arithmetic processing using the captured image data, and also performs TTL AWB (auto white balance) processing based on the obtained arithmetic result.

The memory control circuit 22 includes the A / D converter 1
6, the timing generation circuit 18, the image processing circuit 20, the image memory 26, and the compression / decompression circuit 24 are controlled.

The data of the A / D converter 16 is written to the image memory 26 via the image processing circuit 20 and the memory control circuit 22, or the data of the A / D converter 16 is directly written to the image memory 26 via the memory control circuit 22. .

The compression / decompression circuit 24 compresses or decompresses the image data by adaptive discrete cosine transform (ADCT) or the like, reads the image stored in the image memory 26, performs compression or decompression processing, and ends the processing. The data is written to the image memory 26.

The image memory 26 has a sufficient storage capacity for storing photographed still images and moving images, and for storing a predetermined number of still images and moving images for a predetermined time.

Thus, even in the case of continuous shooting or panoramic shooting in which a plurality of still images are continuously shot, it is possible to write a large amount of images to the image memory 26 at high speed.

The image memory 26 includes an image pickup control circuit 50.
Can also be used as a work area.

The exposure controller 30 controls the shutter 12 having an aperture function, and has a flash dimming function interlocked with the flash 38.

The distance measurement control unit 32 controls focusing of the photographing lens 10, and the zoom control unit 34 controls the focusing of the photographing lens 10.
To control zooming.

The barrier control unit 36 controls the operation of the protection unit 58 which is a barrier.

The flash 38 has an AF auxiliary light projecting function and a flash dimming function.

The exposure control unit 30 and the distance measurement control unit 32 are TTL
The imaging control circuit 50 controls the exposure control unit 30 and the distance measurement control unit 32 based on a calculation result obtained by calculating imaged image data by the image processing circuit 20.

Reference numeral 40 denotes an interface with the information processing apparatus 200, and reference numeral 42 denotes the transfer of data signals, address signal lines, and control signals to and from the information processing apparatus 200. Connector for supplying power.

The interface 40 has card attribute information for indicating attribute information of the imaging device 100 via the connector 42.

The card attribute information may be configured to be independent of the interface 40.

Reference numeral 44 denotes a program storage unit for storing a program for performing imaging by the imaging apparatus 100, and the stored program is executed by the information processing apparatus 200.

The imaging control circuit 50 controls the entire imaging device 100.

The protection section 58 is provided for the lens 1 of the image pickup apparatus 100.
By covering the imaging system including “0”, it functions as a barrier for preventing the imaging unit from being stained or damaged.

The power control unit 60 includes a battery detection circuit, a DC-
The DC-DC converter includes a DC converter, a switch circuit for switching a block to be energized, and the like, detects whether or not a battery is installed, the type of the battery, and the remaining battery level. Based on the detection result and the instruction from the imaging control circuit 50, the DC-DC converter Control and
A required voltage is supplied to each unit of the imaging device 100 for a required period (time).

The battery 62 includes a primary battery such as an alkaline battery and a lithium battery, and a secondary battery such as a NiCd battery, a NiMH battery and a Li battery. <Information processing device> Next, the information processing device 200 will be described.

Reference numeral 240 denotes an interface with the imaging device 100; 242, a data signal, an address signal line, and a control signal, which are exchanged with the imaging device 100;
A connector for supplying power to the image capturing apparatus 100 from 60.

The connector 242 is mounted inside the card slot of the information processing apparatus 200, and the whole or a part of the imaging apparatus 100 is inserted into the card slot, and the connector 42 of the imaging apparatus 100 is connected to the connector 242 of the information processing apparatus 200. They fit together and work together.

The connector 42 is mounted inside the card slot of the image pickup apparatus 100, and a part of the information processing apparatus 200 is inserted into the card slot.
The connector 242 may be configured to fit into the connector 42 of the imaging device 100 and operate integrally.

Reference numeral 244 denotes a connector 242 to the imaging device 100
Is a card attachment / detachment detection unit for detecting whether or not the card is attached.

The control section 250 controls the entire information processing apparatus 200. The storage unit 252 stores an operation program of the control unit 250, variables, and the like. The display unit 254 is a control unit 25
0, a liquid crystal display device, a speaker, and the like for displaying characters, images, sounds, and the like necessary according to the execution of the program.

The operation unit 256 inputs various operation instructions to the control unit 250, and switches, dials, buttons, a pen, a mouse, a trackball, a touch panel, a pointing device based on line-of-sight detection, a voice recognition device, etc. It is composed of multiple combinations.

The power control section 260 includes a battery detection circuit, a DC
A DC converter, a switch circuit for switching a block to be energized, and the like, for detecting whether or not a battery is mounted, the type of the battery, and the remaining battery level;
The DC-DC converter is controlled based on the instruction, and the required voltage is supplied to the imaging device 100 via the components of the information processing device 200 and the connector 242 for a required period (time).

The battery 262 includes a primary battery such as an alkaline battery and a lithium battery, and a secondary battery such as a NiCd battery, a NiMH battery, and a Li battery. Reference numeral 264 denotes a detachable battery unit having a built-in battery 262, and reference numerals 266 and 268 denote connectors.

Reference numeral 270 denotes the recording medium 500 or the communication device 5
10 interface.

The connectors 272 and 274 are connected to the recording medium 5.
00 or the communication device 510 to transfer a data signal or a control signal to the recording medium 500 or the communication device 5.
Supply power to 10.

In this embodiment, the interface 270 for attaching a recording medium and / or a communication device is described as having one system and the connectors 272 and 274 are provided for two systems. Interface 270 and connectors 272,2
74 may have a single or plural number of systems. In addition, a configuration may be adopted in which interfaces and connectors of different standards are combined.

As the interface and the connector,
You may comprise using what conformed to standards, such as a PCMCIA card and a CF (compact flash) card.

Reference numeral 500 denotes a recording medium such as a memory card or a hard disk.

Reference numeral 502 denotes a connector to which data signals and control signals are transferred to and from the information processing apparatus 200 and power is supplied. Reference numeral 504 denotes an interface with the information processing apparatus 200, and reference numeral 506 denotes a storage area.

The communication device 510 includes an external device, a communication line,
It comprises an I / O card having functions such as a modem for communicating with a wireless line, a LAN, a high-speed serial bus, a mobile phone, and a PHS.

Reference numeral 512 denotes a connector for transmitting and receiving data signals and control signals to and from the information processing apparatus 200, and a connector to which power is supplied, 514 an interface with the information processing apparatus 200, and 516 a communication control for controlling communication with external equipment. This circuit performs communication control, data conversion / inverse conversion, modulation / demodulation, etc., according to the protocol of the layer to be connected, according to a predetermined program.

Reference numeral 518 denotes a connector or an antenna for exchanging data signals and control signals with external devices, communication lines, and wireless lines. By using the connector or the antenna 518, communication such as electric transmission can be performed with an external device directly or via a communication line or a wireless line. [Operation of the First Embodiment] Next, FIGS.
With reference to FIG. 5, operations of the imaging device 100 and the information processing device 200 according to the first embodiment will be described.

FIGS. 3 and 4 are flowcharts showing a main operation routine of the information processing apparatus 200 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating the flow of commands transmitted and received between the information processing device 200 and the imaging device 100 according to the first embodiment. <Operation of Information Processing Apparatus> First, FIGS.
The operation of the information processing apparatus 200 will be described with reference to FIG.

As shown in FIG. 3, when the process is started by turning on the power supply such as battery replacement, in step S101, the control unit 250 initializes flags, control variables, and the like.
A predetermined initial setting is performed for each unit of the information processing device 200.

In step S102, control unit 250 determines whether the main switch has been turned on. In step S102, the main switch of the operation unit 256 is turned on.
If the answer is N (YES in step S102), in step S103, the power control unit 260 determines whether there is a problem with the remaining capacity of the battery 262 or the operation state of the information processing device 200. If there is a problem in the operation state in step S103 (NO in step S103), step S104
Then, after a predetermined warning display is made by image or sound using the display unit 254, the process returns to step S102.

The remaining capacity of the battery 262 is
If there is no problem with the operation state (YE in step S103)
S), and proceed to step S105.

In the following step S105, control unit 250
Detects whether or not the imaging device 100 is attached to the card slot corresponding to the connector 242 by the card attachment / detachment detection unit 244.

If the imaging device 100 attached to the card slot corresponding to the connector 242 has been removed (YES in step S105), in step S106, the control unit 250 sends its internal memory and / or storage unit 2
In step S107, the power supply to the card slot is turned off.
Then, the process proceeds to step S121 shown in FIG. The power supply to the connector 242 is stopped by the operations in steps S105 to S107.

In step S105, if the imaging device 100 has not been removed from the card slot, that is, if the imaging device 100 is still attached to the connector 242 or is not attached (NO in step S105). Proceed to step S108.

In step S108, it is determined whether or not the imaging device 100 has been newly installed in the card slot.
In step S108, if the imaging device 100 is newly attached to the card slot, that is, if the imaging device 100 is still attached to the connector 242 or is not attached (NO in step S108), the process of FIG. Proceed to step S121.

The main switch of the operation unit 256 is turned off.
During the F state, the connector 24 corresponding to the card slot
Even when the imaging device 100 is mounted on the camera 2, it is determined that the imaging device 100 is newly mounted, and the above processing is performed.

Further, when the information processing apparatus 200 is initialized by turning on the power such as battery replacement or the like, when the image pickup apparatus 100 is mounted on the connector 242 corresponding to the card slot, it is determined that the image pickup apparatus 100 is newly mounted. I do.

If the imaging device 100 is newly installed in the card slot (YES in step S108), the controller 250 sets a card slot flag in step S109, and sets a card connector corresponding to the card slot in step S110. After the start signal line 242 is asserted and set, in step S111, the power supply to the card slot is turned on, and the power supply to the connector 242 is started.

The start-up signal line may be configured as a dedicated signal line, or may be configured to be shared with other signal lines, whichever case. In the case where the signal line is shared with another signal line, for example, the output enable signal line and the start-up signal line may be shared.

In the case where a plurality of voltages such as 5 V, 3.3 V, 2 V, etc. are supplied to the card slot, a start-up signal line is set for the memory card or the I / O card inserted in the card slot. When starting power supply in the state, only 5 V, 3.3 V only, 2 V only, 5 V and 3.3
Both V, both 5V and 2V, both 3.3V and 2V,
It may be configured to start supplying a single or a plurality of arbitrary voltages such as three power supplies of 5V, 3.3V and 2V.

As described above, by starting the power supply in a state where the start-up signal line is set to the card slot, the imaging device 10 newly mounted in the card slot is started.
If 0 corresponds to the True-IDE mode or the True-I / O mode operating with a small number of address signal lines, the imaging apparatus 100 may be in either the True-IDE mode or the True-I / O mode. As a result, the information processing apparatus 200 can operate the imaging apparatus 100 with a small number of address signal lines.

The control section 250 performs steps S110 and S1.
After executing the processing of No. 11, in step S112, the imaging apparatus 100 newly installed in the card slot operates in the True-IDE mode or the Tr
A slot mode determination process is performed to determine whether or not the mode corresponds to the ue-I / O mode.

The details of this slot mode determination processing are shown in FIG.
It will be described later with reference to FIG.

In step S113, as a result of the slot mode determination process, if the imaging device 100 newly installed in the card slot does not support either the True-IDE mode or the True-I / O mode ( Step S11
(NO in 3), in step S114, control unit 250 uses display unit 254 to display a predetermined warning using an image or a sound, and proceeds to step S106.

On the other hand, if the result of the slot mode determination processing in step S113 is that the imaging device 100 newly installed in the card slot is compatible with either the True-IDE mode or the True-I / O mode (Step S113
In step S115, the control unit 250 sets parameters and the like related to the corresponding slot mode, saves the set parameters in the internal memory or the storage unit 252 of the control unit 250, and proceeds to step S121.

Here, in the case of the True-IDE mode, the drive assignment setting when the imaging apparatus 100 is assigned as the primary drive or the secondary drive of the IDE drive and the emulation is performed is also performed as needed.

In the case of the True-I / O mode, True-I / O mode refers to the upper address referenced by the upper address reference register.
By adding and using the lower address of the -I / O mode, the state in which the access to the imaging apparatus 100 in the True-I / O mode with a small number of address signal lines is allocated to a predetermined I / O address is emulated. The I / O address allocation setting at this time is also performed as necessary.

At step S121, if the photographing mode switch of operation unit 256 has not been set (NO at step S121), control unit 250 proceeds to step S12.
When a command is input by the operation unit 256 in Step 2, a predetermined process is executed by the information processing apparatus 200 according to the command,
When the predetermined processing is completed, necessary display is performed on the display unit 254 with images such as characters, numbers, and icons,
Set to accept input from the operation unit 256,
It returns to step S102.

In step S121, the control unit 250
It is determined whether the shooting mode switch of the operation unit 256 has been set. If the shooting mode switch of the operation unit 256 has been set in step S121 (step S121).
In step S123, the control unit 250 determines based on the card slot flag whether or not the imaging device 100 is connected. If the connection is not established in step S123 (NO in step S123), in step S124, a predetermined warning is displayed by using the display unit 254 using an image or sound, and the process returns to step S102.

On the other hand, in step S123, the imaging device 100
Is connected (YE in step S123).
S), in step S125, the control unit 250 reads a program for operating the imaging device 100 from the program storage unit 44, and stores the program in the storage unit 252 via the interface 40, the connector 42, the connector 242, and the interface 240. Store in the department.

In step S126, the control unit 250
A program for operating the imaging device 100 is read from the storage unit 252 and executed. By executing the program, the control unit 250 performs a predetermined display necessary for performing the imaging process on the display unit 254, sequentially operates each unit of the imaging apparatus 100 in accordance with an input command from the operation unit 256, and performs the imaging process.

The details of the imaging program execution processing in step S126 will be described later with reference to FIG.

When all the imaging processes have been completed in step S126, the control unit 250 ends the execution of the imaging mode, and
A necessary predetermined display is performed on the display unit 254 using images such as characters, numbers, and icons, and setting is made to receive an input from the operation unit 256, and the process returns to step S102. <Slot Mode Judgment Processing> FIG.
12 is a flowchart illustrating details of slot mode determination processing in 112.

As shown in FIG. 5 and FIG.
In 201, the control unit 250 deasserts and releases one of the rise signal lines of the connector 242 corresponding to the card slot, and initializes each signal of the card slot in step S202.

In step S203, the control unit 250
First, IDE access processing is executed, and in step S204, I
As a result of the DE access processing, if the card inserted in the card slot is a memory card compatible with the True-IDE mode operating with a small number of address signal lines (step S2)
04; YES), setting the True-IDE flag in step S205, and ends the processing.

The details of the IDE access processing S203 in step S203 will be described later with reference to FIG.

In step S204, as a result of the IDE access processing, if the card inserted in the card slot is not a memory card compatible with the True-IDE mode operating with a small number of address signal lines (NO in step S204).
Proceeding to step S206, the control unit 250 executes an I / O access process. In step S207, as a result of the I / O access processing, the True-I / O mode in which the card installed in the card slot operates with a small number of address signal lines is supported.
If it is an I / O card (YE in step S207)
S), the True-I / O flag is set in step S208, and the process ends.

The details of the I / O access processing in step S206 will be described later with reference to FIG.

In step S207, as a result of the I / O access processing, if the card mounted in the card slot is not an I / O card compatible with the True-I / O mode operating with a small number of address signal lines (step S207). N in S207
O), the process proceeds to step S209, the control unit 250 sets an error flag, and ends. <IDE access processing> FIG.
7 is a flowchart showing details of the IDE access processing in step S203 of FIG.

As shown in FIG. 6 and FIG.
In 301, the control unit 250 reads a predetermined IDE access register, for example, a status register.

In step S302, it is determined whether or not the result of reading the IDE access register is a value of one of the expected combinations. In step S302
If the drive is not an IDE drive (N in step S302)
O), set an IDE access error flag in step S306, and end the processing.

In step S302, if the result of reading the IDE access register is the value of one of the expected combinations and it is highly likely that the drive is an IDE drive (YES in step S302), step S30 is executed.
Proceeding to 3, the control unit 250 issues a drive information identification command and writes it to the command register. Step S3
In step 04, the returned drive information is read from the data register.

In step S305, if the result of reading the drive information is not the value of one of the expected combinations and is not an IDE drive (step S30).
(NO at 5), an IDE access error flag is set at step S306, and the process ends.

In step S305, if the result of reading the drive information is the value of one of the expected combinations and the drive is an IDE drive (step S30).
(YES in 5), the IDE access error flag is cleared in step S307, and the IDE access parameters obtained from the drive information returned in step S308 are set, and the process ends. <I / O Access Processing> FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of step S206 in FIG.
6 is a flowchart showing details of an I / O access process in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 7 and FIG.
In 401, the control unit 250 reads a predetermined I / O access register.

In step S402, it is determined whether or not the result of reading the I / O access register is a value of any expected combination. Step S402
If it is not the target I / O card (step S
(NO at 402), an I / O access error flag is set at step S406, and the process ends.

On the other hand, if the result of reading the I / O access register in step S402 is the value of one of the expected combinations and it is highly likely that the card is the target I / O card (step S402). YES), in step S403, the control unit 250 issues an I / O identification command,
The I / O identification information returned in step S404 is read.

In step S405, it is determined whether or not the result of reading the I / O identification information is a value of any expected combination. In step S405, if the result of reading the I / O identification information is not the value of any of the expected combinations and is not the target I / O card (NO in step S405), the I / O identification is performed in step S406.
Set the access error flag and end.

On the other hand, in step S405, if the result of reading the I / O identification information is the value of one of the expected combinations and is the target I / O card (YES in step S405), the process proceeds to step S405. Proceeding to S407, the I / O access error flag is cleared, and step S4
At 08, I / O card access parameters are set based on the parameters obtained from the returned I / O identification information, and the processing ends. <Imaging Program Executing Process> FIG.
It is a flowchart which shows the detail of the imaging program execution process in 126.

In the following description, data signals and address signals between the control unit 250 and the imaging control circuit 50,
The transfer of the control signal is performed via the interface 240, the connector 242, the connector 42, and the interface 40.

As shown in FIG. 8 and FIG.
In 501, the control unit 250 instructs the imaging control circuit 50 to initialize the imaging device 100,
Initializes flags and variables in response to the initialization command, turns on the power control unit 60, and sets each unit of the imaging apparatus 100 to an initial state.

At step S502, the control unit 250
Information necessary for imaging is displayed on the display unit 254.

The display contents include, for example, a single shooting / continuous shooting display, a self-timer display, a compression ratio display, a recording pixel number display, a recording number display, a remaining photograph number display, a shutter speed display, an aperture value display, and an exposure. Correction display, flash display, red-eye reduction display, macro shooting display, buzzer setting display, clock battery remaining amount display, battery remaining amount display, error display, information display using multiple digits, display of attachment / detachment state of imaging device 100, recording Medium 500 and / or communication device 51
0 status display, communication I / F operation display, date / time display, connection status display with external computer, focus display, shooting ready display, camera shake warning display, flash charging display, flash charging completion display , A recording medium writing operation display, a self-timer notification display, a gain-up operation state for increasing the sensitivity of the image sensor 14, a use state of the image memory 26, an operation state of the image compression / expansion circuit 24, and the like. Is displayed on the display unit 254 by using the image of.

The function of the image pickup apparatus 100 is displayed on the display unit 25 as an image of a general camera operation unit such as a release button, an electronic dial, and a mode select dial.
4 may be displayed.

Further, the displayed image of the operation unit of the camera is selected by a pointing device such as a pen, a mouse, a trackball, and a touch panel, and the operation unit 25 is selected.
6 may be input. Thus, it becomes possible for the information processing apparatus 200 to perform the same imaging operation as that of the camera without feeling uncomfortable.

In step S503, the control unit 250
It is determined whether or not the shooting mode switch of the operation unit 256 has been released. If the shooting mode switch is released in step S503 (YES in step S503), the display of the information necessary for imaging on the display unit 254 is terminated in step S504.
00 to end the operation. In response to this operation end command, the imaging control circuit 50 performs necessary end processing in each unit of the imaging device 100, turns off the output of the power control unit 60, and ends the processing.

On the other hand, in step S503, the operation unit 256
Is set (YES in step S503), the process proceeds to step S505, in which the control unit 250 starts the finder imaging operation of sequentially transferring the captured image data to the imaging control circuit 50. Command. The imaging control circuit 50 includes the imaging device 14, A
/ D converter 16, image processing circuit 20, memory control circuit 2
2, the data sequentially written in the image memory 26 is read, and transferred to the information processing device 200 via the interface 40 and the connector 42.

The control unit 250 writes the data sequentially transferred from the imaging apparatus 100 to the storage unit 252 via the connector 242 and the interface 240, reads out the written data, sends the read data to the display unit 254, and sequentially displays the data. This realizes an electronic finder function by continuous display of through images.

At step S506, the control unit 250
A command to start an AE (auto exposure) control process is given to the imaging control circuit 50, and a command to start an AF (auto focus) control process is given in step S507, and A is given in step S508.
A command to start WB (white balance) control processing is issued. In response to these commands, the imaging control circuit 50
And charge signals are sequentially read from the image processing circuit 20 via the A / D converter 16. Using the sequentially read image data, the image processing circuit 20 performs predetermined calculations used for TTL (through-the-lens) AE processing, AF processing, and AWB processing.

The images on which the AE control, the AF control, and the AWB control have been appropriately performed by the above processing are sequentially displayed on the display unit 254 as through images.

In step S509, it is determined whether or not the release switch has been pressed. Step S509
If the release switch has not been pressed (NO in step S509), the process returns to step S503.

If the release switch is depressed in step S509 (YES in step S509), the process proceeds to step S510, where control unit 250 instructs imaging control circuit 50 to execute a shooting operation. Imaging control circuit 5
0 prohibits rewriting of image data in the image memory 26 via the image sensor 14, the A / D converter 16, the image processing circuit 20, and the memory control circuit 22, and the image data last written in the image memory 26 Is read out and transferred to the information processing apparatus 200 via the interface 40 and the connector 42.

In step S510, control unit 250
The data transferred from the imaging device 100 is
2. Writing to the storage unit 252 via the interface 240, reading out the written data, and displaying the data on the display unit 254
The electronic viewfinder function by displaying a frozen image is realized by transferring the image to the display.

In step S511, the imaging control circuit 50
Is an image sensor 14, an A / D converter 16, an image processing circuit 2
0, the image memory 26 via the memory control circuit 22 or directly from the A / D converter via the memory control circuit 22.
In step S512, the captured image data written in the image memory 26 is read out using the memory control circuit 22 and the image processing circuit 20 as needed, and various processes are performed. Execute the developing process to be performed.

In step S513, the imaging control circuit 50
Reads the captured image data written in the image memory 26, performs various image processing using the memory control circuit 22 and the image processing circuit 20 as necessary, and sets the mode set using the compression / decompression circuit 32. After performing the corresponding image compression processing, the image is transferred to the information processing apparatus 200 via the interface 40 and the connector 42.

At step S514, the control unit 250
The captured image data transferred from the imaging device 100 is stored in the storage unit 2 via the connector 242 and the interface 240.
Then, a recording process is performed in which the captured image data written to the storage medium 52 is read out and written to the recording medium 500 via the interface 270 and the connector 272.

When the recording processing of the photographed image data in step S514 is completed, the flow returns to step S509 to repeat a series of processing. <Operation of Imaging Apparatus> Next, an operation of the imaging apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a main operation routine of the imaging apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 9 and FIG.
In 1001, the imaging control circuit 50 (or the interface 40) connects the information processing device 20 via the connector 42.
The voltage supplied from 0 is detected. Step S1002
Then, it is determined whether the supply voltage is higher than a predetermined threshold. If the supply voltage is high in step S1002 (YES in step S1002), the flow advances to step S1003 to determine whether or not the start-up signal line is set by the information processing device 200, that is, the power It is detected whether or not the supply has been started.

In step S1004, if the start-up signal line is asserted, that is, if the information processing apparatus 200 is requested to set the True-I / O mode in which the operation is performed with a small number of address signal lines (step S1004). YE
S), the process proceeds to step S1005, and the imaging control circuit 50
(Or the interface 40) sets the True-I / O mode that operates with a small number of address signal lines.

In step S1006, after setting the True-I / O mode, it is determined whether or not a predetermined imaging command has been received from the information processing apparatus 200 via the connector 42 and the interface 40. If an imaging command is received in step S1006 (YE in step S1006)
S), the process proceeds to step S1007, and the imaging control circuit 50 executes a process according to the imaging command, and executes step S100.
Return to 6.

On the other hand, if no imaging command is received in step S1006 (NO in step S1006), step S1
If a predetermined command for slot mode determination is received from the information processing device 200 in 008 (step S10
(YES in 08), the process proceeds to step S1009, and the imaging control circuit 50 returns to step S1006 after responding to a predetermined command for slot mode determination.

In step S1004, if the start-up signal line is deasserted, that is, if the setting of the True-I / O mode is not requested by the information processing device 200 (NO in step S1004), the process proceeds to step S1004. S
Proceeding to 1010, the imaging control circuit 50 (or the interface 40) sets a memory mode.

In step S1011, after setting the memory mode, it is determined whether or not a request for predetermined card attribute information has been made from information processing apparatus 200. Step S
If there is a request for card attribute information in 1011 (YES in step S1011), the process advances to step S1012, and the imaging control circuit 50 (or the interface 40)
Outputs card attribute information, and returns to step S1011.

As described above, when the imaging apparatus 100 supports only the True-I / O mode operating with a small number of address signal lines, the information processing apparatus 200 does not set the True-I / O mode. Then, an operation of only responding to predetermined card attribute information without performing an imaging operation is performed.

In the case where the imaging apparatus 100 operates in the normal I / O mode as well as in the True-I / O mode in which the number of address signal lines is small, the information processing apparatus 2
00 sets the I / O configuration for the image capturing apparatus 100, and after step S1102, the normal
The imaging operation in the I / O mode can be executed.

When the imaging apparatus 100 is compatible with the True-IDE mode and can perform the operation of emulating the writing and reading of data on a hard disk or the like, the above-described description assumes that the True-I / O mode is set as the True-I / O mode. What is necessary is just to change the described part to True-cho DE mode.

In this case, similarly, the information processing apparatus 200 can operate the imaging apparatus 100 with a small number of address signal lines.

According to the first embodiment described above, in the information processing device 200, the card slot
By starting power supply in a state where the start-up signal line is set, the imaging device 1 newly installed in the card slot
If 00 corresponds to the True-IDE mode or the True-I / O mode operating with a small number of address signal lines, it is possible to operate with a small number of address signal lines.

According to the imaging apparatus 100 corresponding to the True-IDE mode or the True-I / O mode, the information processing apparatus 2
When a new slot is inserted in the card slot of 00, the power supply is started in a state where the start-up signal line is set for the card slot. It is possible to determine the True-I / O mode and operate the imaging apparatus with a small number of address signal lines. [Second Embodiment] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of an imaging system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is a detailed view of the connector of FIG. FIG.
FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an external configuration of a card adapter and an imaging device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an external configuration of the information processing device, the card adapter, and the imaging device according to the second embodiment.

In FIGS. 10 and 11, and FIGS. 18 and 19, the imaging system according to the second embodiment has
, Card adapter 300 and information processing device (or other device)
400, and the information processing device 400 is a portable computer, a notebook computer, or the like.

Since the imaging apparatus 100 is the same as that of the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are given and the description is omitted. <Card Adapter> First, the card adapter 300 will be described.

Reference numeral 340 denotes an interface between the image pickup apparatus 100 and the information processing apparatus 400, and 342 denotes an interface between the image pickup apparatus 100 and the information processing apparatus 400.
And a data signal, an address signal line, and a control signal. The power supply control unit 360 supplies power to the image capturing apparatus 100.

The interface 340 is connected to the connector 34.
6, card attribute information for indicating attribute information of the card adapter 300.

Note that the card attribute information may be configured to be independent of the interface 340.

The connector 342 is connected to the card adapter 300
Of the imaging device 100
Is inserted into the card slot, and the connector 42 of the imaging device 100 is fitted into the connector 342 of the card adapter 300 to operate integrally.

The connector 42 is attached inside the card slot of the image pickup device 100, and the card adapter 300
Of the card adapter 300 may be inserted into the card slot, and the connector 342 of the card adapter 300 may be fitted into the connector 42 of the imaging device 100 to operate integrally.

Reference numeral 344 denotes a connector 342 connected to the imaging device 100.
Is a card attachment / detachment detection unit for detecting whether or not the card is attached.

The connector 346 transmits and receives data signals, address signal lines, and control signals to and from the information processing apparatus 400, and also transmits the information processing apparatus 40 to the power control unit 360.
Power is supplied from 0. <Information Processing Apparatus> Next, the information processing apparatus 400 will be described.

Reference numeral 440 denotes an interface with the card adapter 300, and reference numeral 442 denotes a connector that transfers data signals, address signal lines, and control signals to and from the power supply unit 460 and supplies power to the card adapter 300.

The connector 442 is attached inside the card slot of the information processing device 400,
00 is inserted into the card slot, and the connector 346 of the card adapter 300 is
00 and the connector 442 operates integrally.

The connector 346 is connected to the card adapter 3
00, a part of the information processing device 400 is inserted into the card slot, and the connector 442 of the information processing device 400 is fitted into the connector 346 of the card adapter 300 to operate integrally. good.

Reference numeral 444 denotes a card attachment / detachment detection unit for detecting whether or not the card adapter 300 is attached to the connector 442.

The control section 450 controls the entire information processing apparatus 400. The storage unit 452 stores programs for operating the control unit 450, variables, and the like. The display unit 454 is a control unit 45
0, a liquid crystal display device, a speaker, and the like for displaying characters, images, sounds, and the like necessary according to the execution of the program.

The operation unit 456 inputs various operation instructions to the control unit 450, and switches, dials, buttons, a pen, a mouse, a trackball, a touch panel, a pointing device based on line-of-sight detection, a voice recognition device, etc. It is composed of multiple combinations.

The power control unit 460 includes a battery detection circuit, a DC
A DC converter, a switch circuit for switching a block to be energized, and the like, for detecting whether or not a battery is mounted, the type of battery, and the remaining battery level;
The DC-DC converter is controlled on the basis of the instruction of the card adapter 300, and the necessary voltage is controlled for a required period (time) through the respective parts of the information processing apparatus 400 and the connector 442.
To supply.

The battery 462 includes a primary battery such as an alkaline battery and a lithium battery, and a secondary battery such as a NiCd battery, a NiMH battery and a Li battery. Reference numeral 464 denotes a detachable battery unit containing a battery 462. Reference numerals 466 and 468 denote connectors.

470 is the recording medium 500 or the communication device 5
10 interface.

The connectors 472 and 474 are connected to the recording medium 5.
00 or the communication unit 510 to exchange data signals and control signals with the recording medium 500 or the communication device 5.
Supply power to 10.

In this embodiment, the interface 470 for attaching the recording medium and / or the communication device is described as having one system and the connectors 472 and 474 are provided for two systems. However, the recording medium and / or the communication device is attached. Interface 470 and connectors 472, 4
74 may have a single or plural number of systems. In addition, a configuration may be adopted in which interfaces and connectors of different standards are combined.

As the interface and the connector,
You may comprise using what conformed to standards, such as a PCMCIA card and a CF (compact flash) card.

The recording medium 500 and the communication device 510 are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and description thereof will be omitted. [Operation of Second Embodiment] Next, FIGS.
Referring to FIGS. 2 to 14 and 16, an imaging device 100, a card adapter 300, and an information processing device 4 of the second embodiment
The operation of 00 will be described.

The operation of the image pickup apparatus 100 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and the description is omitted.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a main operation routine of the information processing apparatus 400 according to the second embodiment.
FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating the flow of commands transmitted and received between the information processing device 400, the card adapter 300, and the imaging device 100 according to the second embodiment. <Operation of Information Processing Apparatus> As shown in FIG. 12 and FIG.
When the process is started by turning on a power source such as battery replacement, in step S601, the control unit 450 initializes flags, control variables, and the like, and performs predetermined initial settings for each unit of the information processing device 400.

At step S602, control unit 450 determines whether or not the main switch of operation unit 456 has been turned on. If the main switch of the operation unit 256 is turned on in step S602 (Y in step S602)
ES), in step S603, the power control unit 460 determines whether there is a problem with the remaining capacity of the battery 462 or the operation state of the information processing device 400. If there is a problem in the operation state in step S603 (NO in step S603), the process proceeds to step S604 to display a predetermined warning using an image or sound using the display unit 454, and then to step S602.
Return to

When the remaining capacity of the battery 462 is
If there is no problem with the operation state (YE in step S603)
S), and proceed to step S605.

In the following step S605, control unit 450
Detects whether the card adapter 300 and the imaging device 100 are attached to the card slot corresponding to the connector 442 by the card attachment / detachment detection unit 444.

[0168] The card adapter 300 and the imaging device 1 mounted in the card slot corresponding to the connector 442.
If 00 is removed (YE in step S605)
S), in step S606, the control unit 450 releases the card slot flag stored in the internal memory and / or the storage unit 452. In step S607, the power supply to the card slot is turned off, and the process proceeds to step S61.
Proceed to 1. By the operations in steps S605 to S607, power supply to the connector 442 is stopped.

In step S605, if the card adapter 300 and the imaging device 100 have not been removed from the card slot, that is, if the card adapter 300 and the imaging device 100 are still attached to the connector 442 or are not attached ( N in step S605
O), and proceed to step S608.

At step S608, the card adapter 3
00 and whether or not the imaging means 100 is newly installed in the card slot. That is, the card adapter 300
If the imaging device 100 is still attached to the connector 442 or is not attached (NO in step S608), the process proceeds to step S611.

The main switch of the operation unit 456 is turned off.
During the F state, the connector 44 corresponding to the card slot
When the card adapter 300 and the imaging device 100 are mounted on the device 2, the above-described processing is performed assuming that the card adapter 300 is newly mounted.

Further, when the information processing apparatus 400 is initialized by turning on the power supply such as battery replacement or the like, the card adapter 300 and the imaging apparatus 100 are newly mounted even when the connector 442 corresponding to the card slot is mounted. The above processing is performed.

If the card adapter 300 and the imaging device 100 are newly installed in the card slot (YES in step S608), the control unit 45 proceeds to step S609.
0 sets the card slot flag and turns on the power supply to the card slot in step S610 to start the power supply to the connector 442.
Proceed to 11.

At step S611, control unit 450
An interface 440 from the interface 340 of the card adapter 300 via the connectors 346 and 442
The operation to the card adapter 300 (and the imaging device 100 connected to the card adapter 300) via the interface 440, the connectors 442, 346, and the interface 340 is stopped until the WAIT signal set for is canceled.

On the other hand, if the WAIT signal is released in step S611 (NO in step S611), the control unit 45
0 is interface 440, connectors 442, 346
And card adapter 3 via interface 340
00 (and the imaging device 100 connected to the card adapter 300) is started.

At step S621, control unit 450 sets
It is determined whether the shooting mode switch of the operation unit 456 is set. If the shooting mode switch of the operation unit 456 has not been set in step S621 (NO in step S621), the operation unit 45 is set in step S622.
6, when a predetermined process is executed by the information processing device 400 in accordance with the command, and when the predetermined process is completed, necessary information is displayed on the display unit 454 by displaying images such as characters, numerals, and icons. A predetermined display is performed, and setting is made so as to receive an input from the operation unit 456, and step S60 is performed.
Return to 2.

On the other hand, in step S621, the operation means 456
If the shooting mode switch has been set (YES in step S621), the controller 45 returns to step S623.
0 indicates the card adapter 300 according to the card slot flag.
Then, it is determined whether or not the imaging device 100 is connected. If the connection is not established in step S623 (NO in step S623), in step S624, the display unit 4
After performing a predetermined warning display using an image or sound using the button 54, the process returns to step S602.

On the other hand, if the card adapter 300 and the imaging device 100 are connected in step S623 (YES in step S623), the control unit 450 transfers the imaging device 100 from the program storage unit 44 via the card adapter 300 in step S625. The program for operating is read, and the interface 40, the connector 42, the connector 342, the interface 340,
Connector 346, Connector 442, Interface 4
The data is stored in a part of the area of the storage unit 452 via 40.

At step S626, control unit 450 sets
A program for operating the imaging device 100 is read from the storage unit 452 and executed. By executing the program, the control unit 450 performs a predetermined display necessary for performing the imaging processing on the display unit 454, sequentially operates the respective units of the imaging apparatus 100 in accordance with an input command from the operation unit 456, and performs imaging.

The processing of executing the imaging program in step S626 is as described with reference to FIG.

If all the imaging processes have been completed in step S626, control unit 450 ends the execution of the imaging mode, and
A necessary predetermined display is performed on the display unit 454 using images such as characters, numbers, and icons, and setting is made to accept input from the operation unit 456, and the process returns to step S602. [Operation of Card Adapter] FIGS. 13 and 14 are flowcharts showing a main operation routine of the card adapter 300 of the second embodiment.

The operation of the card adapter 300 will be described with reference to FIG. 13, FIG. 14, and FIG.

As shown in FIG. 13 and FIG.
In 2001, the card adapter control circuit 350 (or the interface 340) detects the voltage supplied from the information processing device 400 via the connector 346. If the supply voltage is higher than the predetermined threshold in step S2002 (YES in step S2002), step S20
03 and the interface 44 of the information processing apparatus 400
A WAIT signal is output for 0. With this WAIT signal,
Until the WAIT signal set for the interface 440 of the information processing device 400 is released, the control unit 450 controls the interface 440, the connector 442, and the connector 3
46, Stop the operation to the card adapter 300 (and the imaging device 100 connected to the card adapter 300) via the interface 340.

In step S2004, the card adapter control circuit 350 asserts and sets the start-up signal line of the card connector 342 corresponding to the card slot, and then turns on the power supply to the card slot in step S2005, Start supplying power to the

Note that the start-up signal line may be configured as a dedicated signal line, or may be configured to be shared with other signal lines, or in any case. In the case where the signal line is shared with another signal line, for example, the output enable signal line and the start-up signal line may be shared.

In the case of supplying a plurality of voltages, such as 5 V, 3.3 V, and 2 V, to the card slot, a start-up signal line is set for the memory card or the I / O card inserted in the card slot. When starting power supply in the state, only 5 V, 3.3 V only, 2 V only, 5 V and 3.3
Both V, both 5V and 2V, both 3.3V and 2V,
It may be configured to start supplying a single or a plurality of arbitrary voltages such as three power supplies of 5V, 3.3V and 2V.

As described above, by starting the power supply to the card slot in a state where the start-up signal line is set, the imaging device 10 newly installed in the card slot is started.
If 0 corresponds to the True-IDE mode or the True-I / O mode operating with a small number of address signal lines, the imaging apparatus 100 may be in either the True-IDE mode or the True-I / O mode. Rises, and as a result, the card adapter 300
It is possible to operate the imaging device 100 with a small number of address signal lines.

After executing the processing of steps S2004 and S2005, the card adapter control circuit 350 causes the imaging device 100 newly installed in the card slot to operate with a small number of address signal lines in step S2006.
A slot mode determination process is performed to determine whether the mode corresponds to the True-IDE mode or the True-I / O mode.

The slot mode determination processing in step S2006 is as described with reference to FIG. Step S2007
Then, as a result of the slot mode determination processing, if the imaging device 100 newly installed in the card slot does not support either the True-IDE mode or the True-I / O mode (NO in step S2007). , Step S20
Go to 09.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S2007 that the imaging device 100 newly installed in the card slot is compatible with either the True-IDE mode or the True-I / O mode as a result of the slot mode determination process, (Step S20
(YES in step 07), in step S2008, the card adapter control circuit 350 sets parameters and the like relating to the corresponding slot mode, saves the set parameters in the internal memory or the storage unit 252 of the control unit 250, and proceeds to step S2009.

Here, in the case of the True-IDE mode, the drive allocation setting for emulating the imaging apparatus 100 as an arbitrary primary or secondary drive of the IDE drive is performed as necessary.

In the case of the True-I / O mode, the upper address referred to by the upper address reference register is set to True.
By adding and using the lower address of the -I / O mode, the state in which the access to the imaging apparatus 100 in the True-I / O mode with a small number of address signal lines is allocated to a predetermined I / O address is emulated. The I / O address allocation setting at this time is also performed as necessary.

In step S2009, the card adapter control circuit 350 sets the interface of the imaging device on the interface 340 to make the information processing device 400 operable.

In the following step S2010, the card adapter control circuit 350 sets the card attribute information of the image pickup device so that the information processing device 400 can operate the card attribute information of the image pickup device 100.

In steps S2009 and S2010, various settings between the card adapter 300 and the imaging device 100 are all completed.
After the imaging device 100 becomes operable via the PC, in step S2011, the card adapter control circuit 350
(Or the interface 340)
WA set for interface 440 of 00
Release the IT signal.

By the above-described processing, the WAIT signal set for the interface 440 of the information processing device 400 is released, and the control unit 450 causes the interface 440, the connector 442, the connector 346, and the interface 34
The operation to the card adapter 300 (and the imaging device 100 connected to the card adapter 300) via the card adapter 300 is started.

As shown in FIG. 14 and FIG.
In step 2021, if there is a request for predetermined card attribute information from the information processing apparatus 400 (YES in step S2021)
S), in step S2022, the card adapter control circuit 3
50 (or the interface 340) outputs card attribute information.

In step S 2032, information processing device 40
If the I / O configuration is not set from 0 (NO in step S2023), the card adapter control circuit 350 (or the interface 340) sets True-IDE conversion parameters in step S2024, and the information processing device 400 in step S2025. In response to the memory access from, the interface 340 returns a memory read or memory write response in step S2026, and then returns to step S2021.

On the other hand, if there is an I / O configuration setting from information processing device 400 in step S2023 (YES in step S2023), step S2
Proceeding to 027, the card adapter control circuit 350 (or the interface 340) sets the I / O mode.

In step S2028, the card adapter control circuit 350 (or the interface 340)
Set ue-I / O conversion parameters. Step S202
9, in response to the I / O access from the information processing apparatus 400, the interface 340 sets the I / O access in step S2030.
After executing the processing corresponding to the O read or the I / O write, the process returns to the step S2028.

According to the second embodiment described above, in the card adapter 300, the power supply is started in a state where the start-up signal line is set to the card slot, so that the card adapter 300 is newly installed in the card slot. True-I in which the imaging device 100 operates with a small number of address signal lines
In the case of supporting the DE mode or the True-I / O mode, it is possible to operate with a small number of address signal lines.

Further, according to the imaging apparatus 100 corresponding to the True-IDE mode or the True-I / O mode, when the card adapter 300 is newly installed in the card slot, the start-up signal line is connected to the card slot. When the power supply is started in a state where is set, True-IDE mode or True-I / O mode that operates with a small number of address signal lines is determined, and the imaging device operates with a small number of address signal lines. It is possible to do.

In the description of the present embodiment, the card adapter 300 has been described as being capable of mounting a single imaging device 100. However, the card adapter 300 is provided with a plurality of card slots and can be mounted with a plurality of imaging devices 100. 100
And a plurality of cards in combination with other cards such as a memory card and an I / O card.

The connector 342 on the imaging device 100 side of the card adapter may be a large connector and the connector 346 on the information processing device 400 side may be a small connector.

Further, the connector 342 side has a card shape,
The connector 346 may have a card slot shape.

The shape of each connector of the imaging device 100, the card adapter 300, and the information processing devices 200 and 400 may be a shape other than a card shape and a card slot shape. For example, a game cartridge shape, a card edge shape, a SIMM or a DIMM may be used. And the like, a memory module connector shape, a round shape, a polygonal shape, a bar shape, and the like.

In the description of the present embodiment, the information processing apparatus 200 and / or 400 is described as a portable computer, but the information processing apparatus 200 and / or 400
However, a mobile phone, a personal information terminal, a WWW browser terminal, an in-vehicle terminal, an electronic wallet, a communication device, a printer device, an image display device, or the like is of course not a problem.

In any of these modes, the same effects as those of the embodiment of the present invention can be obtained.

The information processing device 200 and / or 40
0 may be a communication device including voice such as a mobile phone. In that case, the information processing device 200 and / or 400
Has an audio input unit such as a microphone, an audio output unit such as a speaker, an audio processing unit, and the like, and can store and / or transmit and receive audio together with a still image and / or a moving image captured by the imaging device 100. .

Also, voice input means such as these microphones,
There is no problem even if the sound output unit such as a speaker, the sound processing unit, and the like are provided inside the imaging device 100.

In the description of this embodiment, the release button, the zoom button, the manual focus button, the manual aperture setting button, the macro shooting switching button, and the like are provided by the operation unit 45 of the information processing apparatus 200 and / or 400.
6, but all or a part thereof may be set to the exposed portion of the imaging device 100. In that case, these buttons are used when the information processing device 200 or 400 is held with one hand or both hands.
It should just be set to the position where a finger can reach naturally. For example, FIG.
In the example shown in FIG. 7, it is extremely convenient to set the release button and the like that are used most frequently on the front right upper surface or the upper right shoulder portion of the imaging device 100, and to set the infrequently set buttons on the left shoulder portion of the imaging device 100.

Further, all or a part of these buttons may be replaced with the information processing devices 200 and / or 400 and the imaging device 100.
It may be configured to set both.

Alternatively, all or some of these buttons may be set on the exposed portion of the card adapter 300.

Note that the information processing devices 200 and / or 400
Also, the release button, zoom button, manual focus button, manual aperture setting button, macro shooting switching button, etc., which are frequently used in performing the imaging operation,
A button independent of the operation unit 256 may be set.

When a microphone and / or flash is set in the image pickup apparatus 100, the microphone and / or flash or the like may be configured so as to be substantially on the same surface as the photographing lens.

Thus, when the portion including the photographing lens 10 is configured to be freely rotatable, it is possible to align the directions of the microphone and / or the flash according to the direction of the photographing lens.

[0217] The means for substituting the function of the display unit 454 and / or the operation unit 456 of the information processing device 400 may be set in the exposed part of the card adapter 300.

Furthermore, there is no problem even if the card adapter 300 is set with an image memory, a recording medium, an image processing circuit, an image compression / decompression circuit, a program storage unit, and the like.

In the description of the present embodiment, after the main switch is turned on, the power supply is started to the imaging device newly installed in each card slot in a state where the startup signal line is set. And, it is described that the slot mode is determined. However, after the shooting mode is selected by the mode dial, the startup signal line is set for the imaging device newly attached to the card slot. There is no problem if the power supply is started and the slot mode is determined.

After the main switch is turned on, the power supply is started with the start-up signal line set to the imaging device newly mounted in the card slot, and the slot mode is determined. Then, after the shooting mode is selected by the mode dial, the power supply is started with the start-up signal line set to the imaging device newly installed in the card slot, and the slot mode is determined. There is no problem if you go again.

Then, as a result of the slot mode determination processing,
The imaging device newly installed in the card slot is a True-I
If the control unit does not support either the DE mode or the True-I / O mode, the control unit performs a predetermined warning display using images and sounds using the display unit. Or 400 operates in the True-IDE mode and / or True-I / O mode in which the number of address signal lines is small, and also operates in the normal memory mode and / or I / O mode in which the number of address signal lines is large. If it operates in the mode, as a result of the slot mode determination process, if the imaging device newly installed in the card slot does not support either the True-IDE mode or the True-I / O mode, There is no problem even if the imaging device mounted in the normal memory mode and / or the I / O mode is operated.

[0222] The storage medium 500 and / or the PC
Not only memory cards such as MCIA cards and compact flash, hard disks, but also micro DATs, magneto-optical disks, optical disks such as CD-R and CD-WR,
Of course, there is no problem even if it is constituted by a phase change optical disk such as a DVD.

There is no problem even if the storage medium 500 is a composite medium in which a memory card and a hard disk are integrated. Further, there is no problem if a part of the composite medium is detachable.

The communication device 510 includes a modem card, LAN card, SCSI card, USB card,
EEE1394 card, P1284 card, RS232
Of course, any I / O card such as a C card, a mobile phone card, a PHS card, a camera card, etc., does not die.

Further, the storage medium 500 and the communication device 510
Of course, there is no problem even if it is a composite card in which is integrated. Further, there is no problem even if a part of the composite card is detachable.

In the description of this embodiment, the storage medium 500 and / or the communication device 510 have been described as being separated from the information processing devices 200 and / or 400 and can be arbitrarily connected. Of course, there is no problem even if the recording medium or the communication device is fixed to the information processing device 200 and / or 400.

Also, the information processing device 200 and / or 40
The storage medium 500 and / or the communication device 510 may be configured to be connectable to any number of single or multiple arbitrary combinations.

[Other Embodiments] The present invention relates to a plurality of devices (for example, a host computer, an interface device, a reader,
Printer, etc.)
The present invention may be applied to an apparatus including one device (for example, a copying machine, a facsimile machine, and the like).

Further, an object of the present invention is to provide a storage medium storing a program code of software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or an apparatus, and to provide a computer (or CPU) of the system or apparatus.
And MPU) read and execute the program code stored in the storage medium.

In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the function of the above-described embodiment, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, CD
-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, or the like can be used.

When the computer executes the readout program code, not only the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized, but also the OS (Operating System) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. ) May perform some or all of the actual processing, and the processing may realize the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, based on the instruction of the program code, It goes without saying that the CPU included in the function expansion board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

When the present invention is applied to the storage medium, the storage medium stores program codes corresponding to the above-described flowcharts. A start instruction signal output from the device may be received, and the start instruction signal and / or a start-up process performed in response to power supply from another device may be stored in a storage medium. .

[0234]

As described above, according to the present invention,
In an electronic device having a PC card slot, it is not necessary to perform input / output processing using a large number of signal lines.

Further, in an electronic device having a PC card slot, it is possible to suppress an increase in the number of pins of an interface LSI and an increase in an LSI package, a chip size, and power consumption.

[0236]

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an imaging system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a detailed view of the connector of FIG.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a main operation routine of the information processing apparatus 200 according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a main operation routine of the information processing apparatus 200 according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating details of a slot mode determination process in step S112 of FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing details of an IDE access process in step S203 of FIG.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating details of an I / O access process in step S206 of FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing details of an imaging program execution process in step S126 of FIG. 4;

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a main operation routine of the imaging apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an imaging system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a detailed view of the connector of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a main operation routine of the information processing apparatus 400 according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a main operation routine of the card adapter 300 according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a main operation routine of the card adapter 300 according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a flow of a command transmitted and received between the information processing apparatus 200 and the imaging apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a flow of a command transmitted and received between the information processing device 400, the card adapter 300, and the imaging device 100 according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an external configuration of an information processing apparatus and an imaging apparatus according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an external configuration of a card adapter and an imaging device according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an external configuration of an information processing apparatus, a card adapter, and an imaging apparatus according to a second embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

 REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 100 imaging device 10 imaging lens 12 shutter 14 imaging element 16 A / D converter 18 timing generation circuit 20 image processing circuit 22 memory control circuit 24 image compression / decompression circuit 26 image memory 30 exposure control unit 32 distance measurement control unit 34 zoom control Unit 36 barrier control unit 38 flash 40 interface 42 connector 44 program storage unit 50 imaging control circuit 58 protection unit 60 power supply control unit 62 battery 200 information processing device 240 interface 242 connector 244 card detachment detection unit 250 control unit 252 storage unit 254 display unit 256 operation unit 260 power control unit 262 battery 264 battery unit 266 connector 268 connector 270 interface 272 connector 274 connector 300 card adapter 340 interface 342 Connector 344 Card removal detection unit 346 Connector 350 Card adapter control unit 460 Power supply interface 400 Information processing device 440 Interface 442 Connector 444 Card removal detection unit 450 Control unit 452 Storage unit 454 Display unit 456 Operation unit 460 Power supply control unit 462 Battery 464 Battery Unit 466 Connector 468 Connector 470 Interface 472 Connector 474 Connector 500 Recording Medium 502 Connector 504 Interface 506 Storage Area 510 Communication Device 512 Connector 514 Interface 516 Communication Controller 518 Connector (Antenna)

Claims (64)

[Claims] 1. An image pickup apparatus comprising image pickup means for encoding a subject as image data, comprising: card-like connection means for connecting to another device; and said other device connected to said other device. Receiving means for receiving a start-up processing request signal from the apparatus, and signal processing means for performing start-up processing according to the start-up processing request signal, wherein the connection means is a signal line for receiving a signal from the other device. An imaging device comprising: 2. An image pickup apparatus comprising image pickup means for encoding a subject as image data, comprising: card-like connection means for connecting to another device; and said other device connected to said other device. Receiving means for receiving a start-up processing request signal from the apparatus, and signal processing means for performing start-up processing in response to the start-up processing request signal and power supply from the other device; An imaging device comprising a signal line for receiving a signal from a device and a power supply line. 3. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the start-up processing is performed using a smaller number of address signal lines than in a normal state. 4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the connection unit includes a plurality of the signal lines, and a signal line for the start-up processing request signal is shared with at least one signal line. An imaging device according to any one of the preceding claims. 5. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the connection unit is a PC card interface connector. 6. The imaging device according to claim 5, wherein at least one terminal of the PC card interface connector is an output terminal for a wake-up signal of an I / O card. 7. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the connection unit is a compact flash card interface connector. 8. The imaging device according to claim 7, wherein at least one terminal of the compact flash card interface connector is an output terminal for a wake-up signal of an I / O card. 9. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the other device is one of a computer device, a communication device, a printer device, and an image display device. 10. A connection means for detachably connecting a connection card for connecting an imaging device for encoding a subject as image data, and a start-up processing request signal to the imaging device in a state where the imaging device is connected. An information processing apparatus, comprising: a transmitting unit that transmits a signal; and the connecting unit includes a signal line for transmitting a signal to the imaging device. 11. A connection means for connecting and disconnecting a connection card for connecting an imaging device for encoding a subject as image data, and a start-up processing request signal to the imaging device when the imaging device is connected. A transmitting unit for transmitting the power, and a power supply unit for supplying power to the imaging device, wherein the connection unit includes a signal line for transmitting a signal to the imaging device and a power supply line. Information processing device. 12. The imaging apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the start-up processing is performed in response to the start-up processing request signal, and the start-up processing is performed using a smaller number of address signal lines than usual. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10 or 11, wherein 13. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein said connection means includes a plurality of said signal lines, and a signal line for said start-up processing request signal is shared with at least one signal line. An information processing apparatus according to claim 1. 14. The device according to claim 10, wherein said connection means is a PC card interface connector.
2. The information processing device according to 1. 15. The information processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein at least one terminal of the PC card interface connector is an output terminal for a wake-up signal of an I / O card. 16. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein said connection means is a compact flash card interface connector. 17. The method according to claim 17, wherein at least one terminal of said compact flash card interface connector is an I / O
17. The information processing apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the information processing apparatus serves as an output terminal for a wake-up signal of the card. 18. The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the information processing apparatus is one of a computer device, a communication device, a printer device, and an image display device. 19. An imaging unit for encoding a subject as image data, a card-like first connection unit for connecting to another device, and starting up from the other device in a state where the other device is connected. An image pickup apparatus having a receiving means for receiving a processing request signal; and a signal processing means for performing start-up processing in response to the start-up processing request signal; a second connection means to which the first connection means is detachable; And an information processing apparatus as the other device having transmission means for transmitting a start-up processing request signal to the imaging apparatus in a connected state, wherein the first connection means receives a signal from the information processing apparatus. An imaging system, wherein the second connection unit includes a signal line for transmitting a signal to the imaging apparatus. 20. An imaging unit for encoding a subject as image data, a card-like first connection unit for connecting to another device, and starting up from the other device in a state where the other device is connected. An image pickup apparatus having receiving means for receiving a processing request signal; signal processing means for performing start-up processing in response to the start-up processing request signal and power supply from the other device; and the first connection means is detachable. A second connection unit, a transmission unit that transmits a start-up processing request signal to the imaging device while the imaging device is connected, and a power supply unit that supplies power to the imaging device. Wherein the first connection unit includes a signal line and a power supply line for receiving a signal from the other device, and the second connection unit includes a signal line for transmitting a signal to the imaging device. Signal line and power supply Imaging system characterized in that it comprises and. 21. The imaging device according to claim 1, wherein the start-up processing is performed in response to the start-up processing request signal, and the start-up processing is executed using a smaller number of address signal lines than normal. The imaging system according to claim 19 or 20, 22. The first and second connection means includes a plurality of the signal lines, and a signal line for the start-up processing request signal is shared with at least one signal line. Item 21. The imaging system according to Item 19 or 20. 23. The imaging system according to claim 19, wherein said first and second connection means are PC card interface connectors. 24. The imaging system according to claim 23, wherein at least one terminal of the PC card interface connector is an output terminal of a wake-up signal of the imaging device. 25. The imaging system according to claim 19, wherein said first and second connection means are compact flash card interface connectors. 26. The imaging system according to claim 25, wherein at least one terminal of the compact flash card interface connector is an output terminal of a wake-up signal of the imaging device. 27. The imaging system according to claim 19, wherein the information processing device is one of a computer device, a communication device, a printer device, and an image display device. 28. An image pickup apparatus having image pickup means for encoding a subject as image data, and connected to another device via a card-like connection means, wherein a start-up instruction signal output from the other device is provided. A control method for an imaging apparatus, comprising: receiving and performing a start-up process according to the start-up instruction signal. 29. An image pickup apparatus having image pickup means for encoding a subject as image data, and connected to another device via a card-like connection means, wherein a start-up instruction signal output from the other device is provided. A method for controlling an imaging apparatus, comprising: receiving and performing a start-up process in response to the start-up instruction signal and power supply from the other device. 30. The control method according to claim 28, wherein the start-up processing is executed using a smaller number of address signal lines than in a normal case. 31. The apparatus according to claim 28, wherein the connection unit includes a plurality of the signal lines, and a signal line for the start-up processing request signal is shared with at least one signal line. The control method of the imaging device according to the above. 32. The device according to claim 28, wherein said connection means is a PC card interface connector.
10. The control method of the imaging device according to 9. 33. The method according to claim 32, wherein at least one terminal of the PC card interface connector is an output terminal of a wake-up signal of the imaging device. 34. The method according to claim 28, wherein the connection means is a compact flash card interface connector. 35. The method according to claim 34, wherein at least one terminal of the compact flash card interface connector is an output terminal for a wake-up signal of the imaging device. 36. The method according to claim 28, wherein the other device is one of a computer device, a communication device, a printer device, and an image display device. 37. A card-shaped adapter, comprising: first connection means for connecting another device; and second connection means for connecting an imaging device for encoding a subject as image data. Wherein the second connection means includes a signal line for transmitting a start-up processing request signal from the other device to the imaging device in a state where the other device and the imaging device are connected. And adapter. 38. An adapter formed in a card shape, comprising: first connection means for connecting another device; and second connection means for connecting an imaging device for encoding a subject as image data. Power supply means for supplying power to the imaging device, wherein the second connection means requests a start-up process from the other device to the imaging device in a state where the other device and the imaging device are connected. An adapter comprising: a signal line for transmitting a signal; and a power supply line for supplying power to the imaging device. 39. The image pickup apparatus performs a start-up process in response to the start-up process request signal, and the start-up process is performed using a smaller number of address signal lines than usual. 39. The adapter of claim 37 or claim 38. 40. The first and second connection means include a plurality of the signal lines, and a signal line for the start-up processing request signal is shared with at least one signal line. Item 39. The adapter according to Item 37 or 38. 41. The adapter according to claim 37, wherein said first connection means is a PC card interface connector, and said second connection means is a compact flash card interface connector. 42. The adapter according to claim 41, wherein at least one terminal of the compact flash card interface connector is an output terminal of a wake-up signal of the imaging device. 43. The adapter according to claim 37, wherein the other device is one of a computer device, a communication device, a printer device, and an image display device. 44. An information processing apparatus having a card-slot-shaped first connection means for connecting a card-shaped adapter, and a second card-shaped connection for connecting to the information processing apparatus, wherein the adapter is the adapter. Means, a card slot-shaped third connection means for connecting to the imaging device, and a start-up processing request signal to the imaging device in a state where the information processing device and the imaging device are connected. An adapter having a transmission unit; a card-like fourth connection unit for connecting to the adapter, which is the imaging device; and a start-up processing request transmitted from the adapter in a state where the adapter is connected. A receiving unit for receiving a signal, a signal processing unit for performing a start-up process according to the start-up signal processing request signal, and an imaging unit for encoding a subject as image data. An imaging device, wherein the third connection unit and the fourth connection unit include a signal line for receiving a signal from the information processing device and a signal line for transmitting a signal to the imaging device. Characteristic imaging system. 45. An information processing apparatus, comprising: a card-slot-shaped first connection means for connecting a card-shaped adapter; and a first power supply means for supplying power to the imaging device; A card-like second connection means for connecting to the information processing apparatus, a card slot-like third connection means for connecting to the imaging apparatus, and the information processing apparatus and the imaging apparatus are connected. In a state where the power supply is supplied from the first power supply unit, a transmission unit for transmitting a start-up processing request signal to the imaging device,
An adapter having a second power supply unit that transmits the start-up processing request signal to the imaging device and supplies power to the imaging device; and an imaging device for connecting the adapter. Card-like fourth connection means, reception means for receiving a start-up processing request signal transmitted from the adapter while the adapter is connected, the start-up signal processing request signal, and the second power supply means A signal processing unit for performing a start-up process in response to power supply from the imaging device, and an imaging device having an imaging unit for encoding a subject as image data, the third connection unit and the fourth connection unit, An imaging system, comprising: a signal line for transmitting a signal to the imaging device; and a power supply line. 46. The imaging system according to claim 44, wherein the start-up processing is executed using a smaller number of address signal lines than usual. 47. The third and fourth connection means includes a plurality of the signal lines, and a signal line for the start-up processing request signal is shared with at least one signal line. Item 45. The imaging system according to Item 44 or 45. 48. The apparatus according to claim 44, wherein said first and second connection means are PC card interface connectors, and said third and fourth connection means are compact flash card interface connectors. An imaging system according to any of the preceding claims. 49. The imaging system according to claim 48, wherein at least one terminal of the compact flash card interface connector is an output terminal for a wake-up signal of the imaging device. 50. The imaging system according to claim 44, wherein the information processing device is one of a computer device, a communication device, a printer device, and an image display device. 51. An image pickup apparatus having image pickup means for encoding a subject as image data, wherein another apparatus is connected to the card-like connection means via an adapter, wherein the output from the other apparatus is provided through the adapter. Receiving a start-up instruction signal to be performed and performing a start-up process in accordance with the start-up instruction signal. 52. An image pickup apparatus having an image pickup means for encoding a subject as image data, wherein another apparatus is connected to the card-like connection means via an adapter, wherein the output from the other apparatus is provided through the adapter. A start-up instruction signal received and a start-up process performed in response to the start-up instruction signal and power supply from the other device. 53. The control method according to claim 51, wherein the start-up processing is executed using a smaller number of address signal lines than in a normal case. 54. The apparatus according to claim 51, wherein said connection means includes a plurality of said signal lines, and a signal line for said start-up processing request signal is shared with at least one signal line. The control method of the imaging device according to the above. 55. The method according to claim 51, wherein the connection means is a PC card interface connector.
3. The control method of the imaging device according to 2. 56. The method according to claim 55, wherein at least one terminal of the PC card interface connector is an output terminal for a wake-up signal of the imaging device. 57. A method according to claim 51, wherein said connection means is a compact flash card interface connector. 58. The method according to claim 57, wherein at least one terminal of the compact flash card interface connector is an output terminal for a wake-up signal of the imaging device. 59. The method according to claim 51, wherein the other device is one of a computer device, a communication device, a printer device, and an image display device. 60. An image-capturing means for encoding a subject as image data, and a computer-readable storage medium storing a program code for controlling an image-capturing apparatus to which another device is connected via a card-like connecting means. A storage medium, comprising: a program code for receiving a start-up instruction signal output from the other device and performing a start-up process in accordance with the start-up instruction signal. 61. An image-capturing means for encoding a subject as image data, and a computer-readable medium storing a program code for controlling an image-capturing apparatus to which another device is connected via a card-like connecting means. A storage medium, having a program code for receiving a start-up instruction signal output from the other device and performing a start-up process in accordance with the start-up instruction signal and power supply from the other device. Storage medium. 62. A computer having an image pickup means for encoding a subject as image data and storing a program code for controlling an image pickup apparatus in which another device is connected to the card-like connection means via an adapter. A readable storage medium, comprising: a program code for receiving a start-up instruction signal output from the other device via the adapter, and performing a start-up process according to the start-up instruction signal. Medium. 63. A computer having an image pickup means for encoding a subject as image data and storing a program code for controlling an image pickup apparatus in which another device is connected to the card-like connection means via an adapter. In a readable storage medium, a program for receiving a start-up instruction signal output from the other device via the adapter, and performing a start-up process according to the start-up instruction signal and power supply from the other device A storage medium having a code. 64. The storage medium according to claim 60, wherein said other device is one of a computer device, a communication device, a printer device, and an image display device.