JPH07334456A - Portable computer and card used for the computer - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To realize a high quality moving image processing function using a new option card to be driven at a high speed in addition to an existing option card by providing a card controller with a switching control circuit. CONSTITUTION:When an existing card is connected to a PCMCIA card slot 18, a switching control circuit (CONT) 16a in a PCMCIA controller (PCMCIA- CONT) 16 selectively connects between the slot 18 and a 'system bus to extend a function, e.g. communication, inherent in the card. When a new card such as a MPEG decoder card 2 and a moving image capture card 3 having high quality image processing function is connected to the slot 18, the CONT 16a selectively connects between the slot 18 and a moving image bus 19A to extend the high quality image processing function inherent in the card 2 or 3.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a portable computer having a moving image processing function connected to a card connection port.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, with the development of portable computers, computers called multimedia personal computers have been developed. In this computer, in addition to text data and graphics data, image data such as moving images and still images can be displayed on the CRT. The image data is displayed on the YU, which has been used in televisions, videos, etc.
Since it is performed using the S signal, text data and graphics data are displayed using the RGB display circuit built in the computer main body, and the image data is displayed by connecting the option board to the computer main body. An example of such an option board is CL-450 (Registered T
radmark) There is a Development Board. This board is M
PEG (Moving Picture Coding Experts Group) vide
Using the o algorithm, the MPEG compressed video signal is expanded, the YUV signal is converted into the RGB signal and then output. It should be noted that MPEG is an organization that promotes standardization of color moving image storage encoding systems, and is an ISO (International Organization for Standardization).
And the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) jointly promote JTCI
It corresponds to the subordinate organization of (International Standardization Technical Committee on Information Processing), but on the other hand, it may also refer to the encoding method for color moving image storage. MPEG for application to CD-ROM-
1 and MPEG-2 aiming for higher image quality. The transfer rates are 1.5 Mbit / sec or less and 5 M-10, respectively.
M bits / second.

In addition, Intel DVI (Digita
l Video Interactive) boards are known. This D
8275 for compressing / decompressing images on the VI board
A 0PB chip, a VRAM for storing image data, an 8275DB chip for controlling display of image data, etc. are mounted.

However, when such an option board is connected to the computer main body, there are two subsystems, that is, an RGB type display subsystem built into the computer main body and a YUV type display subsystem on the option board. Therefore, there is a drawback that the circuit configuration becomes redundant.

Further, with the development of a laptop type portable computer, even in a portable computer adopting a flat panel such as a TET color LCD, image data such as text data, graphics data, moving image data and still image data can be generated. It is desired to perform display and mixed display thereof using a flat panel display.

On the other hand, in recent years, in personal computers, PCMCIA (Person
al Computer Memory Card International Association
), And equipment having a PC card slot conforming to the JEIDA standard specifications are becoming widespread. Various developments have been made to use this PC card as a moving image capture card for controlling the input / output of moving image data, an MPEG decoder card, and the like.

When a system using such an option card is to be realized, in a conventional personal computer system based on standard bus specifications (for example, ISA bus specifications), a resolution equivalent to that of TV images based on the NTSC system is ensured. If this is attempted, the transfer speed of the bus cannot keep up with the image processing, and therefore the image quality (resolution) must be reduced for display processing. As another means, instead of the ISA bus or the like, a structure having a high speed bus such as PCI must be used.

[0008]

As described above, in the personal computer system, when a standardized card is used and an attempt is made to expand the function of moving image processing,
In the conventional system based on the standard bus specification, the image quality (resolution) is inevitably reduced as compared with a normal TV image or the like. Further, when trying to solve this problem, it is necessary to increase the speed of the system bus, which causes problems such as high cost, large power consumption, and complicated configuration.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances,
An object of the present invention is to provide a portable computer that can realize a high-quality moving image processing function using an option card by using an existing standardized bus.

Further, according to the present invention, a high-quality moving image processing function using an option card using an existing standardized bus and a processing function unique to a card using an existing option card are simplified. An object of the present invention is to provide a portable computer using an option card that can be compatible with both.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an option card which can easily realize a high-quality moving image processing function in a system having an option card slot according to the existing standardized bus specifications.

[0012]

The present invention is based on, for example, PCM.
In a portable computer system having a card connection port such as CIA, a card controller for controlling input / output of data with a card connected to the card connection port,
An exclusive video bus is provided between the display controller that has the video data display processing function, and the card controller is selectively connected between the card connection port and the video exclusive bus or between the card connection port and the system bus. A switching control circuit for switching is provided.

[0013]

[Operation] When an existing card is connected to the card connection port, the switching control circuit of the card controller selectively connects between the card connection port and the system bus, and the card connected to the card connection port is connected. It enables specific function expansion such as communication. Also, when a new card that has high-quality image processing functions and requires high-speed data transfer is connected to the card connection port, the switching control circuit of the card controller causes the card connection port to connect to the video dedicated bus. This enables selective expansion of high-quality image processing functions unique to the card connected to the card connection port.

[0014]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes a personal computer main body (hereinafter referred to as a PC main body) constituted by a system bus according to standard specifications such as an ISA bus. Here, high image quality is achieved under the standard bus specifications. It is provided with a card interface mechanism that realizes extended functions by various PC cards including image processing.

Reference numerals 2 and 3 respectively realize a high-quality moving image processing function connectable to the card slot of the PC main body 1,
It is a new PC card, and here, two types of PC cards, an MPEG decoder card 2 and a moving image capture card 3, are illustrated.

The MPEG decoder card 2 is a CD-RO
It has a function of decompressing compressed sound and image data stored in M etc. and outputting to the PC main body 1, MPEG interface (I / F) 21, CIS
(Card Information Structure) 22, COR (Config
(Curation Option Resistor) 23, MPEG Sound Decoder (MPEG Sound) 24, MPEG Video Decoder (MPEG Video) 25, RAM 26, etc.
When "1" is set to, the card-side terminal is switched to the meaning of mode B using a new PC card for high-quality moving image processing (see FIG. 3). Also, MPEG
The structure of the address latch mechanism in the interface (I / F) 21 is shown in FIG.

The moving image capture card 3 is a CIS (Card Infor) similar to the MPEG decoder card 2 described above.
mation structure) and COR (Configuration Opti
on Resistor) and a sound analog-digital converter (SoundA) that converts analog stereo sound signals into digital serial stereo sound data.
/ D), NTSC, PAL and other video signals (video) are separated into a Y (luminance) signal and a UV (color) signal, and a video decoder (Video Decorder) that outputs together with a synchronization signal is built in.

Reference numerals 10 to 19A and 19B are constituent elements of the PC main body 1, of which 10 is a CP.
A system bus according to standard specifications used for exchanging data with the U, memory, various IOs, etc.
It is realized by the A bus (ISA-BUS).

Reference numeral 11 denotes a CPU that controls the entire system. In this case, the PCMC stored in the main memory 12 is used.
In the processing of the PCMCIA driver according to the IA management program, high-quality images by using a new PC card (MPEG decoder card 2, video capture card 3, etc.) by using the video dedicated bus 19 by the bus switching control in the PCMCIA controller 16 described later. To realize the video processing function of.

Reference numeral 12 denotes a main memory (main memory) to which a storage area for various programs used for the control of the CPU 11, a work area, and the like are allocated. Here, the program storage area includes a PCM included in the PCMCIA management program.
CIA driver (PCMCIA-DRV) 12A is stored, CP
Access control to U11, card expansion function using existing PC card for communication, etc., and card expansion function using new PC card such as MPEG decoder card 2 and video capture card 3 for high-quality video processing. Has been realized.

Reference numerals 13 and 14 are large-capacity external storage devices, and 13 is a hard disk device (HDD), 1
4 is a CD-ROM. Here, the compressed image data and sound data are stored in these mass storage devices, and read / write control is performed under the control of the CPU 11.

Reference numeral 15 denotes an audio controller (Audio-) for controlling input / output of sound data under the control of the CPU 11.
CONT), an analog-digital converter (A / D) 15a for converting an analog signal in an audio frequency band by a microphone (MIC) or a LINE input (not shown) into digital data, and a speaker by converting digital sound data into an analog signal. Speaker) Digital-to-analog converter (D / A) 15 for output
b, analog-digital converter (A / D) 15a
Output digital sound data and P described later.
A multiplexer 15 for selecting the digital sound data on the audio signal line 19B output from the CMCIA controller 16 and outputting it on the system bus 11.
c. Select the digital sound data on the system bus 11 and the digital sound data on the audio signal line 19B to select the digital-analog converter (D
/ A) 15b, and the like.

Reference numeral 16 denotes a PCMCIA controller (PCMCIA-CON) which realizes an input / output interface of various PC cards.
T), where mode A uses an existing PC card for communication and a new PC such as an MPEG decoder card 2 and a video capture card 3 for high-quality video processing.
It has a terminal switching control function for mode B using the card. Here, mode A terminal connection via the system bus 10 using an existing PC card for communication, etc. and mode B terminal connection via a moving picture dedicated bus 19 using a new PC card for high-quality moving picture processing (see FIG. 2). (See FIG. 3) and a switching control circuit (CONT) 16a having a bus switching control function for switching between, and "1" for designating mode B when a new PC card is used, and other existing PC cards are used. A register with a mode control bit that is set to "0" that specifies mode A (Reg)
16b etc.

Under the control of the CPU 11 according to the PCMCIA driver (PCMCIA-DRV) 12A, the mode control bit of the register (Reg) 16b is provided with a new PC card such as the MPEG decoder card 2 and the video capture card 3 in the PCMCIA card slot 18. Mode B using the new PC card when it is recognized that the new PC card is connected
When "1" is set to specify, and it is recognized that another existing PC card is connected, mode A
"0" for designating is set.

The switching control circuit (CONT) 16a, according to the contents of the mode control bit of the register (Reg) 16b,
Mode A terminal connection via the system bus 10 using an existing PC card for communication, an MPEG decoder card 2 and a video capture card 3 for high-quality video processing
It has a bus switching control function for switching between the mode B terminal connection (see FIGS. 2 and 3) via the moving picture dedicated bus 19 using a new PC card such as. Specific examples of the switching contents of each terminal of the PCMCIA at this time are shown in FIGS. 2 and 3.

Reference numeral 17 denotes a multimedia display controller (MMDC) for controlling display and output of moving picture data such as MPEG and TV and image data such as still picture data (graphics data), and a video display control circuit (Vide).
o), a graphics display control circuit (Graphics), a multiplexer (MUX), and the like.

The video display control circuit (Video) is a video buffer for storing video data, and a YUB-R for converting the YUB data stored in the buffer into RGB signals.
It has a GB conversion circuit and the like. A graphics display control circuit (Graphics) is a RAM that stores graphics data.
It has an access mechanism, a graphics data buffer, and so on. The multiplexer (MUX) is a video display control circuit (Video) or a graphics display control circuit (Grap).
hics) output data is selected, and LCD display panel (LCD) that is equipped as standard as display output data, or external C
Output to RT monitor (CRT).

The detailed structure and operation of the multimedia display controller for MPEG in this case are disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Application No. 5-121305 (multimedia display control system for storing image data in a frame buffer). Therefore, the description thereof is omitted here.

Reference numeral 18 denotes a PCMCIA card slot. Here, in addition to an existing PC card such as a communication card,
MPEG decoder card 2 for high-quality video processing,
A new PC card such as the video capture card 3 is connected.

The terminal structure of the PCMCIA card slot 18 is shown in FIG. 2, and each usage pattern of the terminal when a new PC card is used is shown in FIG.

19A is a PCMCIA controller (PCMC
IA-CONT) 16 and multimedia display controller (MMDC) 17 is a dedicated bus for moving images, and here, as shown in FIG. 3, 20 terminals (A25-A18, A17- of PCMCIA card slot 18).
2 corresponding to A10, A9, A8, A7, IOCS, etc.)
Switching control circuit (CONT) 1 of PCMCIA controller (PCMCIA-CONT) 16 which is composed of 0 signal lines
The moving image data output from 6a is directly transferred to the video display control circuit (Video) of the multimedia display controller (MMDC) 17.

19B is a PCMCIA controller (PCMC
IA-CONT) 16 is an audio signal line for transferring 3-bit digital sound data (see FIGS. 3 and 5) to the audio controller (Audio-CONT).

FIG. 2 shows the PCMCIA card slot 18
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the contents of each terminal of FIG.
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a usage pattern of each terminal when the MPEG decoder card 2 or the moving image capture card 3 is connected to the card slot 18.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the structure of the address latch mechanism in the MPEG interface (I / F) 21 of the MPEG decoder card 2.

FIG. 5 shows the PCMCIA card slot 1 described above.
8 when the MPEG decoder card 2 is connected to the PC
It is a figure which shows the structure of the digital sound data on the audio signal line 19B output from the MCIA controller (PCMCIA-CONT) 16, and each 1-bit synchronous signal (S
CK) and a stereo RL discrimination signal (FSYNC),
It is composed of 16-bit serial sound data (SDATA).

As described above, the PC serving as the card connection port
In the MCIA card slot 18, for example, a communication card,
When an existing card is connected, the switching control circuit (CONT) of the PCMCIA controller (PCMCIA-CONT) 16
16a selectively connects between the PCMCIA card slot 18 and the system bus 10 and enables function expansion such as communication, which is unique to the card connected to the PCMCIA card slot 18. When a new card such as an MPEG decoder card 2 and a video capture card 3 which has a high-quality image processing function and requires high-speed data transfer is connected to the PCMCIA card slot 18,
The switching control circuit (CONT) 16a of the PCMCIA controller (PCMCIA-CONT) 16 selectively connects between the PCMCIA card slot 18 and the moving picture exclusive bus 19A, and is connected to the PCMCIA card slot 18
It enables expansion of high-quality image processing functions unique to the PEG decoder card 2, the moving image capture card 3, and the like.

In the above embodiment, the MPEG decoder card 2 and the moving picture capture card 3 are shown as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other cards for realizing a high quality image processing function can also be used in the above embodiment. Can be used as well.

[0040]

As described in detail above, according to the present invention, it is possible to realize a high-quality moving image processing function using an option card by using an existing standardized bus.

Further, it is possible to combine a high-quality moving image processing function using an existing standardized bus with an option card and a processing function unique to a card using an existing option card with a simple structure. You can

According to the existing standardized bus specifications,
In a system with an option card slot, we can provide an option card that can easily realize high-quality video processing functions.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the contents of each terminal of a PCMCIA card slot.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a usage pattern of terminals in each connection state when an MPEG decoder card or a video capture card is connected to the PCMCIA card slot in the above embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration of an address latch mechanism in an MPEG interface (I / F) of the MPEG decoder card in the above embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a case where an MPEG decoder card is connected to a PCMCIA card slot in the above-described embodiment.
The figure which shows the structure of the digital sound data on the audio signal line output from an MCIA controller.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 ... Personal computer body (PC body), 2 ... M
PEG decoder card, 3 ... Video capture card, 1
0 ... System bus (ISA bus), 11 ... CPU, 12
... Main memory (main memory), 12 ... APCMCIA driver (PCMCIA-DRV), 13 ... Hard disk device (HD
D), 14 ... CD-ROM, 15 ... Audio controller (Audio-CONT), 16 ... PCMCIA controller (PCMCIA-CONT), 17 ... Multimedia display controller (MMDC), 18 ... PCMCIA card slot, 19A ... Video dedicated bus , 19B ... Audio signal lines.

─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ───

[Procedure amendment]

[Submission date] June 20, 1994

[Procedure Amendment 1]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] Full text

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

[Document name] Statement

Title: Portable computer and card used in the computer

[Claims]

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a portable computer which can realize a moving image processing function by using a card connected to a card connection port and a card used in the computer.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, with the development of portable computers, computers called multimedia personal computers have been developed. In this computer, in addition to text data and graphics data, image data such as moving images and still images can be displayed on the CRT. The image data is displayed on the YU, which has been used in televisions, videos, etc.
Since the V signal is used, text data and graphics data are displayed using the RGB display circuit built in the computer body, and the image data is displayed by connecting the option board to the computer body. An example of such an option board is CL-450 (Registered T
radmark) There is a Development Board. This board is M
PEG (Moving Picture Coding Experts Group) vide
Using the o algorithm, the MPEG compressed video signal is expanded, the YUV signal is converted into the RGB signal and then output. It should be noted that MPEG is an organization that promotes standardization of color moving image storage encoding systems, and is an ISO (International Organization for Standardization).
And the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) jointly promote JTCI
It corresponds to the subordinate organization of (International Standardization Technical Committee on Information Processing), but on the other hand, it may also refer to the encoding method for color moving image storage. MPEG for application to CD-ROM-
1 and MPEG-2 aiming for higher image quality. The transfer rates are 1.5 Mbit / sec or less and 5 M-10, respectively.
M bits / second.

In addition, Intel DVI (Digita
l Video Interactive) boards are known. This D
8275 for compressing / decompressing images on the VI board
A 0PB chip, a VRAM for storing image data, an 8275DB chip for controlling display of image data, etc. are mounted.

However, when such an option board is connected to the computer main body, there are two subsystems, that is, an RGB type display subsystem built into the computer main body and a YUV type display subsystem on the option board. Therefore, there is a drawback that the circuit configuration becomes redundant.

Further, with the development of a laptop type portable computer, even in a portable computer adopting a flat panel such as a TET color LCD, image data such as text data, graphics data, moving image data and still image data can be generated. It is desired to perform display and mixed display thereof using a flat panel display.

On the other hand, in recent years, in personal computers, PCMCIA (Person
al Computer Memory Card International Association
), And equipment having a PC card slot conforming to the JEIDA standard specifications are becoming widespread. Various developments have been made to use this PC card as a moving image capture , an MPEG decoder, etc. for controlling the input / output of moving image data.

When a system using such an option card is to be realized, in a conventional personal computer system based on standard bus specifications (for example, ISA bus specifications), a resolution equivalent to that of TV images based on the NTSC system is ensured. If this is attempted, the transfer speed of the bus cannot keep up with the image processing, and therefore the image quality (resolution) must be reduced for display processing. Other means include PCI (Peripheral) instead of the ISA bus or the like.
It must be configured with a high-speed bus such as a component interconnect bus.

[0008]

As described above, in the personal computer system, when a standardized card is used and an attempt is made to expand the function of moving image processing,
In the conventional system based on the standard bus specification, the image quality (resolution) is inevitably reduced as compared with a normal TV image or the like. Further, in order to solve this problem, it is necessary to increase the speed of the system bus, which causes problems such as high cost, high power consumption, and complicated configuration.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances,
Provide a portable computer that can realize a high-quality video processing function using a new option card that operates at high speed in addition to the existing option card in a system configured using the existing standardized system bus The purpose is to do.

Further, according to the present invention, a high-quality moving image processing function using an option card using an existing standardized bus and a processing function unique to a card using an existing option card are simplified. An object of the present invention is to provide a portable computer using an option card that can be compatible with both.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an option card which can easily realize a high-quality moving image processing function in a system having an option card slot according to the existing standardized bus specifications.

[0012]

The present invention is based on, for example, PCM.
In a portable computer system having a card connection port such as a CIA card slot, a card controller for controlling input / output of data with a card (for example, a PC card) connected to the card connection port, and a display processing function of moving image data An exclusive video bus that directly transfers video data is provided between the display controller and the display controller, and the card controller can selectively select between the card connection port and the video connection bus or between the card connection port and the system bus. A switching control circuit for connection is provided.

[0013]

[Function] When an existing card such as a communication card is connected to the card connection port, the switching control circuit of the card controller selectively connects between the card connection port and the system bus, and the card connection port is connected. It is possible to extend the function of an existing card, such as communication, which is unique to the card connected to the. Also, when a new card that has high-quality image processing functions and requires high-speed data transfer is connected to the card connection port, the switching control circuit of the card controller causes the card connection port to connect to the video dedicated bus. This enables selective expansion of high-quality image processing functions unique to the card connected to the card connection port.

[0014]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes a personal computer main body (hereinafter referred to as a PC main body) configured by a system bus based on standard specifications such as an ISA bus. Here, high-quality image processing is performed under the standard bus specifications. It is equipped with a card interface mechanism that realizes extended functions by various PC cards including the above.

Reference numerals 2 and 3 respectively realize a high-quality moving image processing function connectable to the card slot of the PC main body 1,
It is a new PC card, and here, two types of PC cards, an MPEG decoder card 2 and a moving image capture card 3, are illustrated.

The MPEG decoder card 2 is a CD-RO
It has a function of decompressing compressed sound and image data stored in M etc. and outputting to the PC main body 1, MPEG interface (I / F) 21, CIS
(Card Information Structure) 22, COR (Config
(Curation Option Resistor) 23, MPEG Sound Decoder (MPEG Sound) 24, MPEG Video Decoder (MPEG Video) 25, RAM 26, etc.
When "1" is set to, the signal on the card side terminal is switched to the meaning of mode B indicating a specific card interface specification (see FIG. 3) using a new PC card for high-quality moving image processing. The structure of the address latch mechanism in the MPEG interface (I / F) 21 is shown in FIG. This MPEG address is shown in Figure 3.
21 bits are required as shown in,
When "1" is set in the R (Configuration Option Resistor) 23, the address 21 bits (A0
-A20) can be input. The address control operation at this time will be described later.

The video capture card 3 is a TV, V
The CIS (Card Information Structur), which is the same as the MPEG decoder card 2 described above, realizes an extended function of capturing an image of TR or the like into the PC main body 1 and displaying and outputting it.
e) and COR (Configuration Option Resistor)
And a sound analog-to-digital converter (Sound A / D), which converts analog stereo sound signals into digital serial stereo sound data, NTS
It incorporates a video decoder (Video Decorder) that separates a video signal (video) of C, PAL, etc. into a Y (luminance) signal and a UV (color) signal and outputs the signal together with a synchronization signal.

Reference numerals 10 to 19A and 19B are constituent elements of the PC main body 1, of which 10 is a CP.
A system bus according to standard specifications used for exchanging data with the U, memory, various IOs, etc.
It is realized by the A bus (ISA-BUS).

Reference numeral 11 denotes a CPU that controls the entire system. Here, the PCMC stored in the main memory 12 is used.
In the processing of the PCMCIA driver according to the IA management program, high-quality images by using a new PC card (MPEG decoder card 2, video capture card 3, etc.) by using the video dedicated bus 19 by the bus switching control in the PCMCIA controller 16 described later. To realize the video processing function of.

Reference numeral 12 denotes a main memory (main memory) to which a storage area for various programs used for control of the CPU 11 and a work area are allocated. Here, the program storage area includes a PCM included in the PCMCIA management program.
CIA driver (PCMCIA-DRV) 12A is stored, CP
Access control by U11, existing PC for communication etc.
A card expansion function using a card and a card expansion function using a new PC card such as an MPEG decoder card 2 and a video capture card 3 for high-quality video processing are realized.

Reference numerals 13 and 14 denote large-capacity external storage devices, and 13 denotes a hard disk device (HDD), 1
4 is a CD-ROM. Here, the compressed image data and sound data are stored in these mass storage devices, and read / write control is performed under the control of the CPU 11.

Reference numeral 15 denotes an audio controller (Audio-) for controlling input / output of sound data under the control of the CPU 11.
CONT), an analog-digital converter (A / D) 15a for converting an analog signal in an audio frequency band by a microphone (MIC) or a LINE input (not shown) into digital data, and a speaker by converting digital sound data into an analog signal. Speaker) Digital-analog converter (D / A) 15 for output to
b, analog-digital converter (A / D) 15a
Output digital sound data and P described later.
A multiplexer 15 for selecting the digital sound data on the audio signal line 19B output from the CMCIA controller 16 and outputting it on the system bus 11.
c. Select the digital sound data on the system bus 11 and the digital sound data on the audio signal line 19B to select the digital-analog converter (D
/ A) 15b, and the like.

Reference numeral 16 denotes a PCMCIA controller (PCMCIA-CON) which realizes an input / output interface of various PC cards.
T), which is the mode A indicating a normal card interface specification when using an existing PC card for communication, and the MPEG decoder card 2, the video capture card 3, etc. for high-quality video processing. When a new PC card is used, it has a terminal switching control function with mode B indicating a specific card interface specification. Here, mode A terminal connection via the system bus 10 using an existing PC card for communication, etc. and mode B terminal connection via a moving picture dedicated bus 19 using a new PC card for high-quality moving picture processing (see FIG. 2). And FIG. 3), a switching control circuit (CONT) 16 having a bus switching control function for switching between
"a" has a mode control bit that is set to specify mode B when using a new PC card, and is set to "0" that specifies mode A when using another existing PC card It has a control register (Reg) 16b and the like.

In the mode control bit of the register (Reg) 16b, under the control of the CPU 11 according to the PCMCIA driver (PCMCIA-DRV) 12A, a new PC card such as an MPEG decoder card 2 or a video capture card 3 is inserted in the PCMCIA card slot 18. Mode B using the new PC card when it is recognized that the new PC card is connected
When "1" is set to specify, and it is recognized that another existing PC card is connected, mode A
"0" for designating is set.

The switching control circuit (CONT) 16a, according to the contents of the mode control bit of the register (Reg) 16b,
Mode A terminal connection via the system bus 10 using an existing PC card for communication, an MPEG decoder card 2 and a video capture card 3 for high-quality video processing
With the bus switching control function of switching the terminal connections capital of the mode B by way of video-specific bus 19 to use the new PC card and the like. Specific examples of the switching contents of each terminal of the PCMCIA at this time are shown in FIGS. 2 and 3.

Reference numeral 17 denotes a multimedia display controller (MMDC) for controlling display and output of moving picture data such as MPEG and TV and image data such as still picture data (graphics data), and a video display control circuit (Vide).
o), a graphics display control circuit (Graphics), a multiplexer (MUX), and the like.

The video display control circuit (Video) is a video buffer for storing video data, and YUB-R for converting the YUB data stored in the buffer into RGB signals.
It has a GB conversion circuit and the like. A graphics display control circuit (Graphics) is a RAM that stores graphics data.
It has an access mechanism, a graphics data buffer, and so on. The multiplexer (MUX) is a video display control circuit (Video) or a graphics display control circuit (Grap).
hics) output data is selected, and LCD display panel (LCD) that is equipped as standard as display output data, or external C
Output to RT monitor (CRT).

The detailed structure and operation of the multimedia display controller for MPEG in this case are disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Application No. 5-121305 (multimedia display control system for storing image data in a frame buffer). Therefore, the description thereof is omitted here.

Reference numeral 18 denotes a PCMCIA card slot. Here, in addition to an existing PC card such as a communication card,
MPEG decoder card 2 for high-quality video processing,
A new PC card such as the video capture card 3 is connected.

The terminal configuration of the PCMCIA card slot 18 is shown in FIG. 2, and each usage pattern of the terminal when a new PC card is used is shown in FIG. 19A is a PC
This is a dedicated video bus provided between the MCIA controller (PCMCIA-CONT) 16 and the multimedia display controller (MMDC) 17, and here is the PCM.
Among the terminals of the CIA card slot 18, 20 terminals (A25-A18, A17-A1) shown in FIG.
0, A9, A8, A7, IOCS, etc.) and a switching control circuit (CONT) 16 of a PCMCIA controller (PCMCIA-CONT) 16
The video display control circuit (Video) of the multimedia display controller (MMDC) 17 directly receives the moving image data including the clock and synchronization signal output from a.
Fast transfer to. The specific signal and the transfer direction of each signal by the moving picture dedicated bus 19A at this time are shown in FIG. Specific signals on the moving picture dedicated bus 19A and the transfer direction of each signal will be described later.

19B is a PCMCIA card slot 18
When the video capture card 3 is connected to the PCMC
The 3-bit digital sound data (see FIG. 3B and FIG. 5) output from the IA controller (PCMCIA-CONT) 16 is transferred to the audio controller (Audio-CONT) 15
Is an audio signal line to be transferred to. Each signal and its contents on the audio signal line 19B at this time will be described later.

FIG. 2 shows the PCMCIA card slot 18
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the contents of each terminal of FIG.
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a usage pattern of each terminal when the MPEG decoder card 2 or the moving image capture card 3 is connected to the card slot 18.

Here, of the terminals of the PCMCIA card slot 18 shown in FIG. 2, pin numbers 47 to 50, 53 to.
56, 8, 10-14, 19-22, 46, 33 A2
5-A18, A17-A10, A9, A8, A7, IO
20 terminals made of CS (see FIG. 3A) and pin number 6
0, 62, 63 SPKR, INPACK, STSCH
A total of 23 terminals of three terminals G (see FIG. 3B) are the targets of signal switching.

When the moving picture capture card 3 is connected to the PCMCIA card slot 18, the 20 terminals (A25-A18, A17-A10, A9,) shown in FIG.
A8, A7, IOCS, etc.) are respectively used for moving picture information transfer from the moving picture capture card 3 to the PC main body 1, and three terminals (SPKR, INPACK, S shown in FIG. 3B) are provided.
TSCHG) from the video capture card 3 to the PC main body 1 (audio controller (Audio-CONT) 1
It is used for transferring sound data such as voice to 5).

In the figure, Y7-0 is an 8-bit luminance signal, UV7-0 is also a color signal, HREForHS is a horizontal synchronizing signal, VS is a vertical synchronizing signal, (LLC2) is a clock, and ODD is an interlaced field designation. (Odd /
It is a signal. In addition, SDATA is serial stereo sound data, FSY, which is divided in units of 16 bits.
NC is stereo LEFT / RIGHT designation signal, SC
K is a synchronous clock that divides the serial stereo sound data into 16-bit units, and the details of each signal are shown in FIG.

MPE in the PCMCIA card slot 18
When the G decoder card 2 is connected, the 20 terminals (A25-A18, A17-A10, A) shown in FIG.
9, A8, A7, IOCS, etc.) and A6-A0, D15-D0, which are not included in the signal switching targets, are used for exchanging moving image data with the PC body 1. Since 21 bits are required for addressing here, the address transfer means by time division control using the data lines (D15-D0) as shown in FIG. 4 is an MPEG interface (I
/ F) 21.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of an address latch mechanism provided in the MPEG interface (I / F) 21 of the MPEG decoder card 2. Figure 3 here
21 bits (A20-A
0) is required, the MPEG decoder card 2
The data lines (D15-D0) shown in FIG.
An address transfer means is provided by time division control using. Here, the time-division control data is continuously and sequentially set in the decoder (DEC) connected to the address line (A6-A0), and when the decoded content is "0", the latch circuits (LATCH) 202a and 202c are Each 8-bit address (16 bits in total) (A7-A0,
A15-A8), and when the decoding content is "2", the latch circuit (LATCH) 202b latches the 5-bit address (A20-A16), and the MPEG decoder (MPEG Sound decoder (MPEG Sound) 24,
And an MPEG video decoder (MPEG Video) 25).

FIG. 5 shows the PCMCIA card slot 1 described above.
8 when the MPEG decoder card 2 is connected to the PC
It is a figure which shows the structure of the digital sound data (serial stereo sound data) on the audio signal line 19B output from the MCIA controller (PCMCIA-CONT) 16.
1) 1-bit synchronous clock (SCK) for dividing A) into 16-bit units and 1 for stereo RL discrimination
Bit LEFT / RIGHT designation signal (FSYNC)
And serial sound data (SDATA) divided in units of 16 bits.

The operation of the system having the above configuration will be described. In the system initialization processing, the processing of the CPU 11 according to the PCMCIA management program
The type of card connected to the card slot 18 is recognized.

Here, when it is recognized that the MPEG decoder card 2 is connected to the PCMCIA card slot 18 of the PC body 1, the PCMCIA driver (PCMC
IA-DRV) 12A processing, COR of MPEG decoder card 2 connected to PCMCIA card slot 18
The "Configuration Option Resistor" 23 is set to "1" indicating the mode B of the specific card interface specification using a new PC card for high-quality moving image processing, and further, the PCMCIA controller (PCMCIA-CONT).
Similarly, "1" is set to the mode control bit of the control register (Reg) 16b provided in the 16.

As a result, the MPEG interface (I / F) 21 in the MPEG decoder card 2 recognizes the address set at the address transfer timing as shown in FIG. 4, and the compressed moving image data read from the CD-ROM 14, for example. And the accompanying sound data are shown in FIG.
RAM2
After being stored in 6, the data is expanded by the MPEG decoder (MPEG Sound decoder (MPEG Sound) 24 and MPEG Video decoder (MPEG Video) 25) and returned to the PC body 1. This decompressed moving image data is the PCMCIA
Switching control circuit of controller (PCMCIA-CONT) 16 (C
Under the switching control shown in FIG. 3 by the ONT) 16a,
High-speed transfer to the multimedia display controller (MMDC) 17 directly via the moving picture dedicated bus 19A, and the standard LCD display panel (LC
D) or displayed and output on an external CRT monitor (CRT). The expanded sound data is sent to the audio controller (Audio-CONT) 15 via the audio signal line 19B at the timing shown in FIG.
It is output from the speaker.

Also, when the moving picture capture card 3 is connected to the PCMCIA card slot 18, the COR (Configuratio) is set as in the case of the MPEG decoder card 2.
n Option Resistor) is set to “1” indicating mode B of the specific card interface specification that uses a new PC card for high-quality moving image processing.
Similarly, "1" is set to the mode control bit of the control register (Reg) 16b provided in the IA controller (PCMCIA-CONT) 16. This video capture card 3
In the case of, the image of TV, VTR, etc. is taken into the PC main body 1, and P
Under the switching control shown in FIG. 3 by the switching control circuit (CONT) 16a of the CMCIA controller (PCMCIA-CONT) 16, the multimedia display controller (MMD) is directly passed through the moving picture dedicated bus 19A.
C) is transferred at high speed to 17 and is displayed and output on a standard LCD display panel (LCD) or external CRT monitor (CRT).

As described above, the PC serving as the card connection port
In the MCIA card slot 18, for example, a communication card,
When an existing card is connected, the switching control circuit (CONT) of the PCMCIA controller (PCMCIA-CONT) 16
16a selectively connects between the PCMCIA card slot 18 and the system bus 10 and enables function expansion such as communication, which is unique to the card connected to the PCMCIA card slot 18. When a new card such as an MPEG decoder card 2 and a video capture card 3 which has a high-quality image processing function and requires high-speed data transfer is connected to the PCMCIA card slot 18,
The switching control circuit (CONT) 16a of the PCMCIA controller (PCMCIA-CONT) 16 selectively connects between the PCMCIA card slot 18 and the moving picture exclusive bus 19A, and is connected to the PCMCIA card slot 18
It enables expansion of high-quality image processing functions unique to the PEG decoder card 2, the moving image capture card 3, and the like.

In the above embodiment, the MPEG decoder card 2 and the moving image capture card 3 are shown as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other cards for realizing a high quality image processing function can also be used in the above embodiment. Can be used as well.

[0045]

As described above in detail, according to the present invention, in a system configured by using an existing standardized system bus, a new option operating at high speed in addition to the existing option card is added. A high-quality video processing function using a card can be realized.

In addition, it is possible to combine a high-quality moving image processing function using an option card using an existing standardized bus and a processing function unique to a card using an existing option card with a simple structure. You can

According to the existing standardized bus specifications,
In a system with an option card slot, we can provide an option card that can easily realize high-quality video processing functions.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the contents of each terminal of a PCMCIA card slot.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a usage pattern of terminals in each connection state when an MPEG decoder card or a video capture card is connected to the PCMCIA card slot in the above embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration of an address latch mechanism in an MPEG interface (I / F) of the MPEG decoder card in the above embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a case where an MPEG decoder card is connected to a PCMCIA card slot in the above-described embodiment.
The figure which shows the structure of the digital sound data on the audio signal line output from an MCIA controller.

[Explanation of Codes] 1 ... Personal computer main body (PC main body), 2 ... M
PEG decoder card, 3 ... Video capture card, 1
0 ... System bus (ISA bus), 11 ... CPU, 12
... Main memory (main memory), 12 ... APMCMCIA driver (PCMCIA-DRV), 12A ... PCMCIA driver (PCMCIA-DRV), 13 ... Hard disk device (HD
D), 14 ... CD-ROM, 15 ... Audio controller (Audio-CONT), 15a ... Analog-digital converter (A / D), 15b ... Digital-analog converter (D / A), 15c, 15d ... Multiplexer, 16 … PCMCIA controller (PCMCIA-CONT
), 16a ... Switching control circuit (CONT), 16b ... Control register (Reg), 17 ... Multimedia display controller (MMDC), 18 ... PCMCIA card slot, 19A ... Video dedicated bus, 19B ... Audio signal line, 21 ... MPEG Interface (I / F),
22 ... CIS (Card Information Structure), 23 ...
COR (Configuration Option Resistor), 24 ... M
PEG sound decoder (MPEG Sound), 25 ... MPE
G video decoder (MPEG Video), 26 ... RAM.

[Procedure Amendment 2]

[Document name to be corrected] Drawing

[Name of item to be corrected] Figure 3

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

[Figure 3]

[Procedure 3]

[Document name to be corrected] Drawing

[Name of item to be corrected] Fig. 4

[Correction method] Change

[Correction content]

[Figure 4]

Claims (8)

[Claims] 1. A card controller for controlling input / output of data between a card connection port and a card connected to the card connection port, a display controller having a moving image data display processing function, and a controller for connecting the controllers to each other. A video dedicated bus provided between them, a system bus to which each of the above controllers is connected, and in the card controller, between the card connection port and the video dedicated bus or between the card connection port and the system bus. A portable computer comprising a switching control circuit selectively connected. 2. A card controller for controlling input / output of data between a card connection port and a card connected to the card connection port, a display controller having a display processing function of moving image data, and an accessory for the moving image data. Between the audio controller that controls the input / output of audio information, the system bus to which the above controllers are connected, the video dedicated bus provided between the card controller and the display controller, and the card controller and the audio controller And an audio signal line provided in the card controller and between the card connection port and the system bus, or between the card connection port and a dedicated video bus and audio signal line according to the switching connection instruction of the host processor. And a switching control circuit for selectively connecting between A portable computer characterized in that. 3. A card controller for controlling input / output of data between a card connection port and a card connected to the card connection port, a mass storage device for storing compressed sound data and moving image data, and a moving image. A display controller having a data display processing function, an audio controller for controlling input / output of sound data accompanying the moving image data, a system bus to which the controllers and a mass storage device are connected, the card controller and the display controller A video dedicated bus provided between the card controller and the audio controller, and an audio signal line provided between the card controller and the audio controller, and a card connection port provided in the card controller according to the switching connection instruction of the host processor. Between the system bus
Alternatively, the portable computer is provided with a switching control circuit for selectively connecting the card connection port, the moving picture dedicated bus and the audio signal line. 4. The moving picture dedicated bus is provided with respective transfer paths for moving picture data, a synchronizing signal and a clock signal.
Alternatively, the portable computer according to 2 or 3. 5. The portable computer according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the switching control circuit in the card controller is switching-controlled according to the setting of a register provided in the controller. 6. A register in the card controller includes:
The portable computer according to claim 5, wherein information according to a recognition type of a card connected to the card connection port is set. 7. The card connection port has a terminal structure conforming to the PCMCIA standard, and a plurality of predetermined terminals have different usage forms according to the setting contents of the register.
The listed portable computer. 8. A card connected to a card connection port of a main body of a portable computer, a register in which a specific value is set by the main body, and a terminal of a card connector when the specific value is set in the register. A card used in a portable computer, characterized in that the card is provided with means for switching and controlling the usage form.