WO2004025484A1 - Ata device attachment system - Google Patents

Abstract

The design of the present invention is to facilitate adding of Advanced Technology Attachment (ATA) devices to a computer system by using connection ports for easy access to the ATA bus. The invention comprises of technologies and incorporated functions that are based upon a system that enables; a co-existence and/or bypass of devices attached the ATA BUS such as ATA devices or other interface and peripheral controller technologies, Bus Redirection and Selection, IPL Boot Configuration manipulation, data security, and provision of system power to connecting devices. User definable settings and configurations external to the computer system, help to select and execute the incorporated functions, and aid connection to the ATA bus for ATA devices.

Description

TITLE: ATA Device Attachment System

The invention is described in the following statement:

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION - FIELD OF THE EvTVENTION

This invention relates to data storage systems, specifically to an improved external interface system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Computer systems are constantly evolving; new technologies are constantly being developed for computer systems by streamlining technical processes, and boosting system performance by the introduction of new circuitry, programming, methods, and compounds. Further evolutions of technology combine new circuitry with the omission of computer system elements to reduce the system components. Further evolutions combine existing technologies to a new end result.

Data storage technologies have been used for many years with computer systems. Typically, a computer system comprises of among other things a processor, a data bus, a Basic Input Output System Q3IOS), a memory, a storage controller, a data storage device, a display adapter, a motherboard, and a case. Typically integrated onto or into the motherboard are other controllers to control devices that may attach to the computer system. Other controllers may include among others Universal Serial Bus (USB), Firewire.TM, Small Computer Systems Interface (SCSI), and Redundant Array of Inexpensive Disks (RAID) controllers. Attaching devices may include among others printers, pointing devices, keyboards, data storage devices, scanners, and digital cameras.

The term Advanced Technology Attachment (ATA) bus may be used to describe the adapters that the parallel and serial ATA devices connect to on the computers Motherboard. The references made within this document to the ATA bus refer in some cases to both the ATA device connection points on the motherboard that are provided by the manufacturers and/or also the data lines of the computer's ATA Device Controller. The ATA bus may also be referred to as an IDE bus.

Serial ATA is the latest technology to emerge that may be incorporated into ATA/IDE devices. It enables higher data transfer rates in ATA/IDE devices, and uses a serial ATA technology instead of a parallel ATA technology. The parallel ATA bus has been formerly identified as an IDE bus. Data storage devices are being used more and more during routine computer system maintenance. It has been common practice over the past several years for engineers to carry large ATA storage devices as part of their computer repair equipment.

Imaging software is used with storage devices to create an exact copy or "image" of the entire contents of a computers internal storage device. The image created may serve as a backup, or may serve as a template to copy or deploy to other computers' internal storage devices. Because of the large size of the computers image data, a floppy disk, Zip.TM disk, Jazz.TM disk or CD-ROM disk may not be sufficient to hold the image, necessitating the use of a separate ATA storage device carried by the engineer performing the imaging.

When attaching portable devices to a computer, it is required that an appropriate interface be available to attach to. Common storage interfaces are ATA, USB, Firewire.TM and SCSI. ATA interfaces are recognized as being internal interfaces that are utilized by the fixed ATA disks inside the computer, while USB, Firewire.TM are recognized as being external interfaces, and SCSI is recognized as being able to be both internal and external.

Imaging is often carried out in Disk Operating System (DOS) mode or equivalent, where the main operating system (OS) contained within the computer is run at a reduced capacity or non- operational state. During DOS mode, to access the USB or Firewire.TM interfaces specialized software drivers must be used, however DOS generally includes support for the ATA controller and interface. A common problem with the newer Microsoft Windows.TM operating systems (OS) are that hard disk controllers of differing architectures make it difficult to boot a Windows 2000.TM or Windows XP.TM on those differing architectures, necessitating the use of a more compatible OS such as DOS when performing disk imaging operations.

Storage technologies are being developed that enable different hardware specifications to be compatible with each other by using a conversion system. ATA based storage may be used externally in combination with USB or Firewire.TM interfaces providing that an appropriate adapting technology is incorporated to translate information and commands to the required interface specifications. These external adaptations of the ATA technology are used in conjunction with; a storage device enclosure to protect the storage device that it is outside of the computer's chassis, and a power supply adapter that provides the necessary voltages to operate the storage device. The USB and Firewire.TM adaptations make attaching the storage devices easy by being able to attach to external interfaces located externally on the computer's chassis. However, the data transfer rates of these interfaces are not as fast as the data transfer rate of the ATA interface.

The USB and Firewire.TM interfaces include bus power, where power is supplied to the attaching device. In most cases when used with ATA storage devices, the power provided by the USB or Firewire.TM interface is not sufficient to power the attaching storage device, so a separate power supply adapter is used, and often incorporated into the storage device enclosure.

The internal ATA interface does not incorporate bus power, but the computer's internal power supply provides power to the ATA devices via a separate cable. When attaching ATA storage devices to a computer system, you must first open the computer. Opening the computer will often mean that the workspace around the computer must be cleared, cables must be unplugged, and manual configurations must be applied to the ATA device. The manual configurations such as device mode selection govern the operation of the storage device when it is attached to a particular bus. Also, the computer's BIOS configuration is often manually manipulated through a setup program to accommodate the newly attached ATA device. Someone not familiar with the technical operations of the computer will have difficulty attaching the ATA device. An inexperienced person attaching an ATA device may cause the computer to be inoperable or damage the components within the chassis.

Data storage devices are not only used by engineers for disk imaging, but are used also to transport large amounts of information. Network bandwidth can be restrictive to data transmission times, especially if there is a large amount of data. It is often easier to copy large amounts of data to a portable storage device rather than to copy the data across a network. The portable storage devices may be restricted in data transmission speeds by the type of storage interface that it is connected to. Network bandwidth over- utilization during large sized data transfers will also delay the information transactions and transfers of other users and computers wishing to use the same network segment or fileserver platform.

Computer systems incorporating drive bays, where ATA devices can be housed within the computer, allow for easy removal, exchange, and portability of ATA storage devices. Some computers are designed so there would be no room to add such a drive bay. It still may be necessary to manipulate device and computer BIOS settings when attaching the ATA storage device and drive bay.

When booting an operating system with the computer, it is sometimes necessary to select or designate a storage device that the computer will look for the operating system in. The boot order or Initial Program Load (IPL) can be modified. To do this the user must designate configurations on the portable storage device, or manipulate configuration information contained within the computer's BIOS using a setup program or similar effect.

The following patents and their references contained are incorporated with this specification as prior-art, by reference.

US Pat. No. 4,833,554, issued to Dalziel et al., discloses a device that aids in the attachment of storage devices using a hard-disk module and receptacle thereof, and a single internal interface combining bus, configuration and power. Although this device does simplify attaching storage devices, it requires complex moving parts and a free internal bay inside the computer. The device presents an internal combined bus, configuration, and power interface, but does not recognize further implementations of this component.

US Pat. No. 5,274,816, issued to Oka, discloses a device that aids in changing boot priority for detachable storage devices based on the storage device's connection state. This device attempts to simplify setup configurations by changing user definable variables in response to an attached storage device. Further advancements in storage technologies have necessitated further variables to be modified and require further means than purely connection state to define setup configurations.

US Pat. No. 5,495,586, issued to Adachi et al., discloses a device that aids in using a storage device as an external storage device by providing an internal storage bay and attachment member guide. Although this device does eliminate the need for complex moving parts by providing an attachment guide, it still requires internal space within the computer to hold the removable storage.

US Pat. No. 5,604,890, issued to Miller, discloses a device that aids in the switching of boot devices within a computer by using a multi-pole key-switch and circuit board to switch data, configuration, and power. This device deals with switching storage devices within a computer, but specifically displays a benefit of the device where the drives are not required to be removed, and makes no mention of external storage applications.

US Pat. No. 5,727,184, issued to Richter et al., discloses a method and device that aids in the connection of storage devices and other peripherals, of different formats, to a single system bus using a conversion system. Many methods are now available that deal with adapting storage devices to different interface technologies other than the primary transmission interface incorporated into the storage device at manufacturer. This allows storage devices to be used in a much larger range of implementations than what they were originally designed for. There is a disadvantage in adapting various storage devices to other technologies if the other technologies may have slower data transmission rates than the original and primary interface.

US Pat. No. 5,740,397, issued to Levy, discloses a device that aids in the backup of information to second storage device using an information mirroring system. In the specification, reference is made to an external IDE interface, no further information is included to understand that the interface may incorporate functions other than to provide an external IDE bus.

US Pat. No. 5,920,709, issued to Hartung et al., discloses a device that aids in the attachment of ATA devices to a computer system by a storage device bay and cradle, and incorporates technology to maintain the bus integrity and prevents bus corruption upon attaching devices to the bus. There are various methods available not mentioned in this device specification that are designed to prevent bus corruption, some involving software applications rather than hardware. This device fails to recognize external storage applications of its technology, but does generalize on IDE device applications.

US Pat. No. 6,081,892, issued to Lomas, discloses a device that aids in restoring original IPL information in the even of a corruption or failure of stored information. This device is specific to BIOS corruptions; other new implementations have not been recognized.

US Pat. No. 6,292,890, issued to Crisan, discloses a device that aids dynamic boot device selection under network boot initialization conditions. This device is specific to the boot order determined upon whether the network interface initializes the startup of the computer. Further applications relating to separate IPL sequences for attaching portable storage devices have not been recognized.

US Pat. No. 6,295,569, issued to Shimura et al., discloses a device that aids in power provision to external storage devices by way of a battery and circuit that detects a power source to initiate drive operations. This device attempts to overcome the problem of powering peripheral devices. Because computers generally do not have external power outlets, and because other external interfaces do provide power to external peripherals, or the external interfaces may not provide sufficient power to peripherals, a battery is used.

US Pat. No. 6,353,885, issued to Herzi, discloses a device that aids BIOS level user configuration using a smart card. Application of this technology to portable storage devices is limited to affecting the boot order and configurations of storage devices directly relating to the configurations specifically contained within a smart card and BIOS. It is not discussed that user definable BIOS configuration variables may be manipulated through information contained within an external configuration devices other than the smart card, and to what end the results the combination with other technologies may provide. US Pat. No. 6,546,450, issued to Liu, discloses a device that aids in the user selecting and redirecting USB data and power lines to different computer systems. This device provides a switching mechanism and transport to allow the USB data and power lines to be redirected or terminated. More can be done to redirect and terminate the USB interface data and power lines, and portable storage implementations are not discussed in the specification.

Using portable and removable storage devices have a number of drawbacks in relation to the technology it is used with, and the process and results requiring the use of the storage device. Storage technology, storage attachment procedures, and existing prior art in its current form present a number of disadvantages:

(a) Computer systems are often required to be opened to attach storage devices, where user workspaces can be cluttered, and cables may interfere with moving the computer to an appropriate area to gain access to the inside of the chassis; these factors cause delay. Also an open computer case gives opportunity to damaging internal components, and in the case of an inexperienced person, likely hood of resulting damage is increased.

(b) A Computer system's BIOS is often required to be manually configured after attaching storage devices, which causes delay and allows opportunity for user error as incorrect configurations may adversely affect the computer system. An inexperienced person may render the computer non- operational or may not know how to set the correct parameters.

(c) Adapters are required in some instances to translate ATA interface communications to be compatible with different interfaces and technologies. This can reduce the data transmission rates and cause delay.

(d) External computer system interfaces provide insufficient power to operate some peripheral devices. This necessitates the use of external power adapters, battery packs, and external bays that incorporate power supplies.

(e) A computer may contain excess physical components such as removable storage bays and similar devices that used in the process of attaching storage devices. Internal bay structures can be complex and have moving parts, complex structures are more prone to damage and failure.

(f) A computer may not be able to incorporate a storage device bay. Computers are being manufactured that do not have room to integrate a storage device drive bay, or computers may be have their peripheral bays already filled with other devices and be unable to accommodate any further devices.

(g) Backup procedures can take too long if network transfers are implemented, or if interfaces slower than the faster ATA interface is used, or if there is significant delay in opening up a computers chassis to attach a storage device. (h) Network bandwidth can often be affected when portable storage is not available and large amounts of data are transferred via the network. Users using the network for other functions involving data transfer will be disadvantaged by the lower bandwidth available to them due to the other traffic on the network. Over utilization of network bandwidth will cause delay, (i) File servers used by network users will have to contend with an increased load where portable storage is not available, especially when frequent and large data exchanges occur often, (j) Special drivers are required when in DOS mode to utilize USB and Firewire.TM interfaces, (k) Physical configurations are required on some ATA devices where small circuit bridges or jumpers are difficult to attach or move.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION - OBJECTS AND ADVANTAGES

Several objects and advantages of my invention are:

(a) Provide a device and system that reduces the need to open a computer to attach storage devices, so as to save time in attaching storage devices, and reduce the risk of damage to the computers internal components by not having internal components exposed.

(b) Provide a device and system that reduces and simplifies user input of configuring a computer's BIOS when attaching storage devices so as to save time, and so the user requires minimal experience to attach storage devices to a computer, and also to reduce the risk of incorrect configuration of the computer system.

(c) Provide a device and system that reduces the need for storage device communications translation so as to save time in data transmission, and so as to reduce unnecessary circuitry components of various storage devices.

(d) Provide a device and system that provides sufficient computer system power to external peripherals and external storage devices so as to save time in not having to connect further external power supplies, and so as to negate power supply components usually incorporated in various external peripheral and external storage devices.

(e) Provide a device and system that reduces the need for removable storage bays so as to reduce computer components, while providing a suitable bus attachment structure.

(f) Provide a device and system that reduces the need for space within a computer so as to provide smaller computer systems or free space within the computer to install further peripheral devices.

(g) Provide a device and system that makes backup procedures faster, and more easily implemented.

(h) Provide a device and system that reduces network bandwidth utilization so as to save time by freeing bandwidth resources to other users and computers. (i) Provide a device and system that reduced the load on data transactions with file servers so as to save time by freeing resources to other users and computers, (j) Provide a device and system that is easy to use in DOS mode, (k) Provide a device and system that allows easy configuration of storage device's configurations.

Further objects and advantages are to provide a device and system, which an external ATA interface may be provided through existing external interfaces such as USB and Firewire.TM or similar, which allows the existing external interfaces to be used without requiring communication translation to attaching ATA devices.

Further objects and advantages are to provide a device and system to allow computer operating system repairs to be carried out more efficiently, to provide a device and system to improve data security when using portable storage devices, and still further objects and advantages will become apparent from consideration of the ensuing description and drawings.

SUMMARY

The design of the present invention is to facilitate adding of Advanced Technology Attachment (ATA) devices to a computer system by using connection ports for easy access to the ATA bus. The invention comprises of technologies and incorporated functions that are based upon a system that enables; a coexistence and/or bypass of devices attached the ATA BUS such as ATA devices or other interface and . peripheral controller technologies, Bus Redirection and Selection, IPL Boot Configuration manipulation, data security, and provision of system power to connecting devices. User definable settings and configurations external to the computer system, help to select and execute the incorporated functions, and aid connection to the ATA bus for ATA devices.

DRAWINGS - FIGURES

Figure 1 shows aspects of a system that is used to aid the attachment of ATA devices to a computer system, the system is named the Respondent Configuration System.

Figure 2 shows aspects of an extension to the system described in Figure 1.

Figure 3 shows the Respondent Configuration Applied to a computer System.

Figure 4 shows a computer system having a highly available combined external ATA interface. DETAILED DESCRIPTION - FIGS. 1 PREFERRED EMBODYMENT

The components and methods described herein are not to entirely limit the invention, but in most cases illustrate the true nature of the functions that the invention can comprise of, over and above the prior art. Images of some well-known prior art described herein have been omitted from the drawings, as one skilled in the prior art will be aware of such devices and their structures.

While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the drawings and detailed description thereto are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

In addition, certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular system components. This document does not intend to distinguish between components that differ in name but not function. In the following discussion and in the claims, the terms "including" and "comprising" are used in an open-ended fashion, and thus should be interpreted to mean "including, but not limited to . . . ". Also, the term "couple" or "couples" is intended to mean either an indirect or direct electrical connection when describing such electrically connecting components. Thus, if a first device couples to a second device, that connection may be through a direct electrical connection or through an indirect electrical connection via other devices and connections, however, the use of the term "couple" or "couples" is not entirely limited to use for describing electrical connections. In further addition, the term "may" is often used in explaining the implementation of functions and system elements of the invention because of the many methods to implement such a system and functions, and should not be construed in every case to insinuate speculation, rather to indicate option or requirement under the pertaining situation. Because of the nature of the context of the following descriptions, terms and functions have been invented to illustrate the spirit and scope of the invention, and definitions may not be apparent to one skilled in the art until further examination of the details herein. Further uses of the term "may" will be apparent from the context and pertaining situation it is used with, and use of such a term is not limited only to option.

The system and components represented in Figures 1 and 2, as a whole can be identified herein as a Respondent Configuration System, and the device the system is based upon can be recognized herein as the ATA Facilitator. The naming represents the responding and facilitation functions of the invention during the attachment of ATA devices to the computer system. The ATA Facilitator may incorporate various components that will enable its primary functions, and will utilize technology that is based upon a system that enables; a co-existence and/or bypass of devices attached an ATA bus, ATA bus redirection and selection, IPL boot configuration manipulation and provision of system power, while user definable settings external to the PC select and control these functions. Those skilled in the prior art will recognize these functions have not collectively been controlled from user definable settings external to, or externally situated on the computer system in such a manner before. Also those skilled in the prior art will recognize from the ensuing description the before now umecognized benefits of providing a computer system with a more readily available high-speed storage bus interface to be used with the externally definable settings in such a manner. Those skilled in the art can understand from the ensuing description, many ways to construct and apply such a system and technology.

To help in understanding the invention, references will be made to the Figure 1 drawing.

An External ATA Device 44 is attached to an External ATA Device Cradle or Socket 42. The Cradle or Socket 42 contains a Configuration Means 46. The Configuration Means 46 may be an operator selectable switch that will be used in determining the states of the Master Circuit Control Means 14.

The Cradle 42 attaches to a Combined External ATA Interface 38 that provides System Power Lines 32, ATA Bus Data Lines 34, and Configuration Lines 36 from the Cradle 42 to the Master Circuit 14.

The Master Circuit 14 is the combination of ATA Device Mode Control 2, ATA Bus Connection State Control 4, Power Connection State Control 6 and ATA bus Redirection State Control 8. The States of the Master Circuit 14 are Respondent to External Configurations 12 that are provided by Configuration Means 46.

The Master Circuit 14 can be based upon two technology combinations that comprise a BIOS Extended Interface Architecture 16 and a Front End ATA Bus Circuit 18.

The BIOS Architecture 16 may incorporate IPL Modification Means 14, ATA Bus Orientation Modification Means 26, and ATA Device Disconnection Means 28. The Master Circuit may collectively use the BIOS Architecture's 16 means incorporations so as to be Respondent 12 based upon the configuration detected by the External Configuration Recognition Means 10 of the Configuration Means 46. The Front End ATA Bus Circuit 18 may incorporate ATA Device Mode Control Means 22, ATA Bus Redirection Means 24, and ATA Device Disconnection Means 30. The Circuit Overlay 18 generally utilizes its incorporated means circuitry in, or in front of the ATA Bus or ATA bus controller. The Master Circuit 14 may collectively use the Bus Circuit's 18 means incorporations so as to be Respondent 12, response state is based upon a Predetermined Configuration Circuit 20 controlled by the settings of the Configuration Means 46.

An Optional Intermediary Device 40 may be used to incorporate and participate in various functions of the Master Circuit 14 in the form of a Master Circuit Component Provision 48 so as to increase the application of the ATA bus control system by not having a specific rigid inadaptable structure, reliant on a specific configuration. Features and functions may be added more easily to computer hardware lacking any of the vital Respondent Configuration System Elements using an Intermediary Device 40. An External ATA Interface Provision 52 may incorporate the Combined External ATA Interface 38.

The Internal ATA Devices 50 operations will be subject to the operators designated configuration of the Configuration Means 46 that cause the Master Circuit 14 to be Respondent 12 and call upon the collectively incorporated means of the BIOS Architecture 16 and the Bus Circuit 18.

Fig 2, 3 and 4- Additional Embodiments

To further help in understanding the invention, references will now be made to the Figure 2 drawing, unless otherwise stated, that illustrates the USB Extension Function that may be added to and utilized by the system described in Figure 1, whereby the USB interface can be used to attach to the ATA Bus.

The Combined External ATA Interface 38 may further comprise of the USB Interface 60. The combination of the USB interface 60 in the Respondent Configuration System will mean that in some cases the computer chassis and existing port locations may not need to be physically altered to accept the new technology. The combination with the USB interface will also provide in some cases at least one less physical interface included in the computer system.

To implement the USB Extension 54, functions must be further incorporated into the Master Circuit Control Means 14. The Functions incorporated may be in the form of a USB and ATA Integration Configuration Control Circuit 56, and/or, a USB and ATA Negotiation Protocol 58. The Control Circuit 56 utilizes the Negotiation Protocol 58 so the USB controlling technologies and ATA controlling technologies are not adversely affected from the addition of non-compatible technologies. The USB and ATA Negotiation Protocol 58 negotiates the bus ownership for the attaching device, whether it is ATA or USB that is needed. The USB and ATA Negotiation Protocol may also provide the necessary environment for the attaching devices where a configuration of system components may be negotiated.

The USB Controller 62 may act as an Intermediary device and have a master circuit component provision whereby Master Circuit 14 functions are incorporated in the USB Controller 62. It would be suitable that the USB Controller 62 incorporate technology to allow the negotiation of configuration to be applied by incorporating a control circuit 56 if required.

To further help in understanding the invention, references will now be made to the Figure 3 drawing, where the systems of Figure 1 and Figure 2 are applied to a computer system. The following description of Figure 3 is not to limit the invention, but rather to illustrate the spirit and scope of the invention.

A computer system comprising a CPU 64, a Memory 66, a BIOS 68, and a Storage Controller 74, all coupled to a Data Bus 72. The Storage Controller comprising a Bus & Channel Termination 76, and a Bus & Channel Switch. The computer further comprising a Power Supply 70.

A Master Circuit Control 14 comprising a Bus & Channel Switch Control 78 to control the Bus & Channel Termination 76 and the Bus & Channel Switch, a Configuration Receiving Means 90, Power Supply Control 80, all of which are subject to the Configuration Application Means 88 of which the Master Circuit 14 also comprises. The Configuration Application Means 88 coupled to the BIOS. The Power Supply Control being coupled to the Power Supply 70. The Master Circuit 14 being coupled to the Storage Controller 74.

A First Storage Device 44 comprising a Configuration Means 46 can couple to a USB Interface 60. A Second Storage Device 84 and Third Storage Device 86 are coupled to the Storage Controller 74.

A USB Controller 62 coupled to Data Bus 72. The USB Controller comprising a USB & ATA Integration Configuration Control 62. An ATA and USB Negotiation Protocol 58 used in conjunction with the USB & ATA Integration Configuration Control 62. The USB Interface 60 is coupled to the USB Controller 62 and USB & ATA Integration Configuration Control 62.

To further help in understanding the invention, references will now be made to the Figure 4 drawing, where a computer is shown having an external interface in a readily available position. A computer is shown comprising a Top Side 92, a Left Side 94, a Storage Bay 96, a Power Button 98, a Front Side 100, and a highly-available Combined External ATA Interface 38 that is located in a readily available position, available from the Front Side 100 Region of the computer.

Alternative Embodiments

The respondent configuration system is designed so that there may be many physical embodiments of the incorporated functions or elements, it should be recognized that technologies could be substituted to carry out functions of the system, and this description recognizes that fact.

The system functions of USB Extension 54, USB Controller 62, Control Circuit 56, Negotiation Protocol 58, and USB Interface 60 can be substituted respectively with similar technologies such as Firewire.TM (not pictured), where system functions may then be recognized as a Firewire.TM Extension, a Firewire.TM Controller, a Firewire.TM and ATA Integration Configuration Control Circuit, a Firewire.TM and ATA Negotiation Protocol, and a Firewire.TM Interface, whereby a Firewire.TM interface may be used similarly to the USB interface to attach ATA devices using the respondent configuration system.

Still further embodiments of the system are possible by omission of system functions or elements, or combination of technologies to a similar system function or element result, or omission of parralell ATA elements in the event only serial ATA devices will be used with the computer system, or vice versa.

Still further embodiments of the system are possible by a computer system using programming to emulate respondent configuration system functions and elements, and using programming with combinations of hardware to provide similar configuration system functions and effects.

Still further embodiments of the system are possible by being able to apply the system to control further plurality of storage devices that are attached to a particular Bus or Combined External ATA Interface 38.

Still further embodiments of functions and elements of the respondent configuration system may be incorporated into prior art devices so as to enhance the prior art's functionality, and reduce configuration complexities, and streamline attaching storage devices to a computer system, such as including an external configuration means 46 to be used in conjunction with a master circuit 14 function.

Still further embodiments of functions and elements the respondent configuration system may be incorporated into prior art devices so as to enhance the prior art's functionality, and reduce configuration complexities, and streamline attaching storage devices to a computer system, such as including a Control Circuit 56 or Negotiation Protocol 58 to be used in conjunction with attaching ATA devices to an interface having access to multiple controlling technologies of different specification so as to provide minimal or no communications translation, or bus release to the appropriate attaching technology.

Still further embodiments of functions and elements the respondent configuration system may be incorporated into prior art devices so as to enhance the prior art's functionality, and reduce configuration complexities, and streamline attaching storage devices to a computer system, such as including a Combined External ATA Interface 38 in a highly-available manner over and above the prior art uses, such as integrated into the front side 100 of the computer case or chassis.

Operation

The operations of key components and functions of the device and system are presented below, to aid in the understanding of the invention attention is drawn to specific details. This description refers to FIG. 1 unless otherwise noted. Images of some well-known prior art described herein have been omitted from the drawings, as one skilled in the prior art will be aware of such devices and their structures.

Port and Interface Detail

Ports, interfaces, and connection points help attach various components of the ATA Facilitator to the ATA Bus, to the computer, and to other components of the ATA Facilitator. Ports are available to attach the ATA devices to the computer. Ports available will depend on the type of computer, and the type of ATA device that will be connected to the ATA bus. They can be connected to the ATA bus via a component of the ATA facilitator or directly to the ATA bus and system power via a cable.

A preferred external port would comprise of the USB interface 60 (FIG. 2). The USB Port may be modified or extended to provide extra interface lines, which may provide further data lines 34, or which may provide further power lines 32 and voltages to cater to a multi voltage requirement of some ATA devices. Similarly, other interfaces such as Firewire.TM may be used in the same manner as a preferred port. The outside guide of the USB plug (not shown) may be further segmented to provide the extra contacts and lines, and the socket (not shown) may be constructed and insulated to match. Another preferred port for external ATA device attachment would comprise of ATA bus data lines 34, system power lines 32 and configuration lines 36. A preferred external port is referred herein as a combined external ATA bus 38. Configuration lines can be omitted if configuration is negotiated using the bus data lines, such as where configuration is negotiated before gaining access to the ata bus or channel. A CD ROM device and various ATA hard disks vary in size and may require different ports to connect each one. Ports may vary in design depending on how the port is implemented, or how it is integrated into the case or motherboard of the computer.

Ports 52 and intermediary devices 40 may be attached directly to the ATA device 50 to allow the disconnection or configuration of the ATA device attached the ATA Bus.

Circuitry or control lines may be attached to the ports 38 or 52, 60 (FIG. 2), or intermediary interfaces 40 to allow the disconnection or configuration of other ATA devices 44 and 50.

The ATA Facilitator will have ports 38, 52 and 60 (FIG. 2) available for easy access to the ATA bus lines 34, system power lines 32, and internal configuration control lines 36.

Cradle or Mounted Socket Detail

In some forms of this device, a cradle 42 may be used as a hardware platform of the ATA Facilitator to help attach the ATA devices 44 to other components of the ATA Facilitator. The cradle may attach to ports 38, 52 and 60 (FIG. 2) that will help connect to the ATA bus. ATA devices 44 will attach to the cradle 42 so that the ATA devices may receive power and connect to ATA bus data lines 34 within the system. There can be switches and circuits included in the cradle so that ATA devices' modes and the ATA Facilitator's main circuits' 14 states may be set externally and manually by the operator. The combination of the switches, and the circuits can be recognized as a configuration means 46. The cradle 42 may also protect the ATA device 44 from damage and also shield electronic components of the ATA device 44.

A socket 42 that is mounted to the outside of the PC may fasten the drive externally onto the computer. This fastening feature will save space within the computer system by offering a more solid connection so the drive is not easily moved from the circuit contacts, while negating the need for bulky internal drive bays. The socket may incorporate a configuration means 46, and the combined external ATA bus 38 or similar preferred bus or port.

Intermediary Device Detail

Intermediary devices 40 generally serve as a platform for technology, and they participate in a geographically non-central function of the device system. Intermediary devices may attach between the ATA devices and the ATA Bus. They may enable the control of the ATA devices' configurations and connection state. They can contain switches 46 and circuits 46 to control the connection and redirection of power and data lines to ATA devices.

In some forms of the invention, functions of the central, controlling circuitry of the ATA facilitator can be integrated into an Intermediary Device; which may be an expansion card (not shown), BIOS 66 (Fig. 3), hard disk controller 74 (Fig. 3), USB controller 62 (Fig. 3) or any other suitable hardware platform. The intermediary device can be recognized as having a master circuit component provision 48.

Information may be included in an intermediary device to help denote a preference for a configuration. A state preference can help the ATA Facilitator determine automatic configuration for the ATA device 44 and 50.

An intermediary device may in some cases include information about configurations of an ATA device 44 and 50, or other component that is attached to it.

An intermediary device may also be attached if required to an expansion slot of a computer (not shown), and also may interface with the Computers Motherboard (not shown).

The systems BIOS 68 may be recognized as a type of intermediary device that comprises security means (not shown), control of the ATA device modes, IPL modification means 14, bus orientation control means 26, ATA device disconnection means. The BIOS 68 may further incorporate customized code to allow the computer to perform required configuration changes. The bios architecture may be extended to allow an external source other than the operator using a setup program, modify the configurations contained within.

The intermediary device may further comprise, if the hardware platform permits, a combined external ATA bus 38 or similar. This may be recognized as an external ATA bus provision 52.

The USB controller 62 may participate as an intermediary device 40 in the respondent configuration system by acting as a platform of a function of the master control circuit 14 where upon the connection of an ATA device 44 to the USB port 60, ATA bus and system power lines are provided to the connecting ATA device 44 and cradle 42.

Master Circuit Control Detail

A master circuit control is a controlling circuit able to receive and identify configurations from a configuration means 46 and is able to direct or apply control to technologies participating in a computer system to execute functions to manipulate and define an environment, the execution based upon required states and a configuration received, which enables storage devices to: attach to a particular bus or channel; be disconnected from a particular bus or channel; be controlled from an external configuration means 46; receive power from the computer system.

The master circuit control may be attached to the motherboard or other suitable location so that it may participate in the computer system. The master circuit control 14 or a function thereof may be incorporated to a suitable hardware platform such as an intermediary device 40.

The master circuit control can comprise protocols applied to its circuitry, to aid the operation and direction of the functions it provides and manipulates, such as a configuration application protocol to aid in applying configurations, the protocol can provide a predetermined response means. The protocol in conjunction with the master circuit can aid to provide means for bus and channel switch control 82 (Fig. 3). Another protocol can be used to negotiate sending and receiving of configurations, to and from an external configuration source and hardware platform, and also can be used to negotiate the coupling of the storage devices to a bus or channel, the protocol can be recognized as a negotiation protocol. Another protocol can be used such as an USB and ATA negotiation protocol to control access to an external interface of differing technologies.

The Master Circuit will contain functions that conform to states, rules, and protocols to govern computer system operations to define the appropriate environment. .Default configurations of the master circuit and functions thereof may be included in a ROM, BIOS, or similar effect, and the master circuit may have its default configurations manipulated by a setup screen. Default actions of the circuits and functions in respect to security settings, bus control, power control, mode control, IPL control, or any other definable parameter and function described herein, may be manipulated in such a manner. Default setup options will be configured to suitably apply the Respondent Configuration System, which will be further apparent from this specification.

The master circuit will comprise Configuration Receiving circuitry 90 (Fig. 3) that is able to receive information from a configuration means 46. The configuration receiving circuitry 90 (Fig. 3) may work in conjunction with an external configuration recognition means 10 and predetermined configuration circuit 20 or predetermined response means based on states and protocols so a configuration application means 88 (Fig. 3) may execute the required functions to manipulate and define the environment of the computer system in the event an ATA device is attached comprising the configuration means 46. Those skilled in the art can be aware that the there are many ways in which to receive information using circuitry, and there are many ways to apply a function as a result of the information received. The description of the receiving and applying are to provide illustration of the structure required to implement the Respondent Configuration System and not to limit it as such. Circumstance can require the master circuit to send a configuration to an external configuration system to provide an update of the selection of executable functions, a configuration of the external hardware platform or attaching storage device may also be required.

Functions that may be executed by the master circuit and comprised function execution means, comprise of bus and channel coupling, bus and channel disconnection, power provision, BIOS configuration updates, security authentication, memory information updates, program configuration designation, external configuration updates, configuration negotiations. Security authentication functions that may be executed comprise; restricting access to internal storage devices of a computer system, restricting access in attaching storage devices to an external interface, an option of having an operator enter a password to attach storage devices, an option of requiring a password to negotiate configurations, passing of security information to allow programs to execute, and passing of security information to authenticate to a security system of an operating system, a security authentication system to allow a storage device or hardware platform to initiate operations only in the event a security information is validated.

Technologies that may be used in implementing the Respondent Configuration System are a BIOS Extended Interface Architecture 16, a Front End ATA Bus Circuit 18, a USB and ATA Integration Configuration Control Circuit 56 (FIG. 2), and a USB and ATA Negotiation Protocol 58 (FIG. 2).

The BIOS Extended Interface Architecture and Front End ATA Bus Circuit may both work together in provision of the combination of ATA Device Mode Control 2, ATA Bus Connection State Control 4, Power Connection State Control 6, and ATA BUS Redirection State Control 8.

The use of the USB & ATA Integration Configuration Control Circuit 56 (FIG. 2), and the USB & ATA Negotiation Protocol 58 (FIG. 2) in conjunction with a USB interface may be described as a USB Extension 54 (FIG. 2). The master circuit 14 may control USB controller disconnection technology such as a USB & ATA Integration Configuration Control Circuit so the ATA Bus may override the USB controller's 62 (FIG. 2) access to a USB port 60 (FIG. 2) upon the connection of an ATA Device 44 or cradle 42. A USB and ATA Negotiation Protocol 58 (FIG. 2) will be able to control and negotiate this function. Because the USB port 60 (Fig.2) is released to the ATA Bus or channel, translation technologies are not required, and a suitable interface is available with minimal detriment to data transmission rates.

The BIOS Extended Interface Architecture 16 and ATA Bus Circuit 18 may both work together or separate, selectively providing incorporated functions to implement the Respondent Configuration System for the computer system to be in a state, which is Respondent to External Configurations 12, where the selected environment of the computer system and functions of the master control circuit 14 have been executed.

The master circuit has provision to control power supply to external devices, where in the event it is determined that the attaching device will require power, a predetermined voltage may be provided to devices attaching to the computer system, or alternatively a selected voltage may be supplied. To further aid in the supply of the necessary voltage to external storage devices, the external interfaces 38, 52, and 60 (Fig.2) may comprise the power supply controlled by the master circuit 14. Some storage technologies are compatible with the power supplied directly from the computer system power supply 70 (Fig. 3), where the power supply is able to be coupled directly to an external interface 38, 52.

Master Circuit Incorporated Functions Detail

A Computer's BIOS 68 (Fig. 3) and Memory 66 (Fig. 3) can be modified to include instruction so the computer may designate circuit configurations that conform to the required states in response to externally designated configurations 46 or information. A BIOS Extended Interface Architecture 16 provides a structure that may aid to manipulate setup values governing the operation of prior art functions such as IPL Modification 14, ATA Mode Modification, ATA Bus Orientation Modification 26, and ATA Device Disconnection 28 or bus disablement. A further extension of the IPL Modification Means can provide a primary IPL sequence, and in the case that an External Configuration Means is used in conjunction with the master circuit, a secondary predetermined IPL sequence that may be enacted by the determined and set information of the configuration means 46 in one state, and may revert back to the original sequence in a second state if the external storage device is removed. New security features may be added to the BIOS to restrict operators in attaching unknown external storage devices by negotiating a security protocol or password system to authorize attaching devices. Also a key code may be received from a configuration means 46 in a similar authorization manner but to be used in conjunction with application authorization.

The Front End ATA Bus Circuit 18 may contain circuit configurations that conform to the required states and can be respondent 12 to an externally designated configuration 46. The Front End ATA Bus Circuit may provide functions being; ATA Device Mode Control 22, ATA Bus Redirection and Selection 24, and ATA Device Disconnection 30. Possibly a computer's hard disk controller 74 (Fig. 3), BIOS 68 (Fig. 3), or other controller may be modified to implement some functions of governed by the Front End ATA Bus Circuitry. When attaching an external storage device 44 to an external interface 38, a bus channel must be selected automatically either by default, or in response to the selection designated in the configuration means 46. Because a bus channel may be selected using configuration means 46, further control of the computer system and storage devices is provided to the operator. Selecting a bus channel that is already occupied by a storage device may cause the occupying storage device to be either displaced to another bus channel or disconnected from the bus channel; rules, protocols, and states govern such actions, and will be further apparent from this specification.

The control of the channels may be modified by redirecting or terminating the data and control lines of the channel, and further controlled by manipulating the logical structure and commands of the channel and controllers thereof. Having a bus and channel switch 82 (Fig. 3) to select the bus channel, an a bus & channel termination 76 (Fig. 3) to disconnect the bus channel, will allow a user to designate the bus and channel to connect or disconnect. This allows the possibility to connect to any storage channel no matter what external interface is selected, while also being able to control internal devices connection to the bus. This allows processes in computer system maintenance to be streamlined, and provides security measures when attaching external storage devices. Because the bus or channel is negotiated for the attaching storage device a single interface may be used to attach to any bus or channel. Also because the bus is negotiated for the attaching external storage device, any interface of the computer system may provide connection to a specific bus or channel. Although the Front End ATA Bus Circuit 18 describes various means to produce the functions, they must work in conjunction with a control system such a configuration application means, which in the context of this example, controls the bus & channel switch 82 (Fig. 3) and bus & channel termination 76 (Fig. 3) via the bus & channel switch control 78 (Fig. 3). USB and ATA Integration Configuration Control Circuit Incorporated Function Detail

The ATA controller and the USB controller.62 (FIG. 2) may connect to the same interface 38, 52, and 60 (FIG. 2) within a computer system. A preferred external port would comprise of the USB interface 60 or USB controller coupled to the ATA Bus where the ATA Facilitator or circuit 14, 56 (FIG. 2), or 58 (FIG. 2) may help in the process to disconnect the USB circuitry from the USB port upon the connection or detection of an ATA storage device 44 attached to the USB port in one state, and may disconnect the ATA Bus upon attachment of a USB device in a second state, or may achieve the similar resultant functions of the fore-mentioned states by a combination of other states. Similarly to the combined external ATA BUS 38, data lines 34 and power lines 32 may be included and controlled so as to provide ATA Bus connection and system power to the external ATA device 44 or cradle 42 that attaches to the USB port 60 (FIG. 2). The ATA Bus lines 34, system power lines 32, and USB interface 60 can be combined and attached to provide an Extemal ATA interface 38. The Configuration control circuit also providing conductors or transmission to provide the information of the configuration means to the master circuit.

It may be that variable voltages may be supplied to a modified USB port (not shown) that includes more electrical contacts and the USB cable (not shown) may include more conductors and adjacent contacts. It may be also that a first USB interface will provide power while the second interface will provide connection to the ATA Bus.

The USB controller 62 (FIG. 2) may incorporate functions or Master Circuit Control functions so as to allow the ATA Bus lines and system power to connect to the USB Interfaces, while not to error.

USB and ATA Negotiation Protocol Incorporated Function Detail

One possible method of negotiating the configurations required in attaching an ATA device to the USB port 60 (FIG. 2) is to have the bus and power configurations determined using a configuration negotiation protocol 58 or similar effect whereby the bus port and/or power is released to the appropriate connecting technology i.e. USB devices (not shown) or ATA devices.

In the case of the master circuit requiring the information of the configuration means, the protocol may negotiate the information to the master circuit before releasing the USB Interface 60 (Fig. 3) to the storage channel, and in the case that a USB Device is attaching to the USB Interface, release the Interface to the USB Device with none or minimal information exchange. The USB & ATA negotiation protocol can be used in conjunction with a USB & ATA Integration Configuration Control Circuit to create a logical, if not direct, USB interface to ATA channel pipe where the ATA channel is negotiated before release of the interface, through the USB & ATA integration configuration control circuit to the determined channel.

BIOS or Code Control Detail

Currently, a computer's BIOS is capable of switching the configuration modes of the attached ATA devices. Master and slave may be inverted by modifying a selection within the CMOS setup of user definable parameters. Also ATA Bus channels can be disabled from the BIOS.

Control of the ATA Bus selection and redirection may be controlled from the BIOS. The ATA Facilitator may be able to interact with the Initial Program Load (IPL) of the BIOS. BIOS or Memory information can be manipulated to a value reflecting the configuration or state required. The BIOS or memory (but not limited to) may be modified to contain instruction for the computer to perform External Configuration Recognition 10, and may comprise a function of the Master Circuit 14. The BIOS can be extended to receive information and configuration from the Master Circuit 14 or the Configuration Means 46.

State Control Detail External ATA devices' 44 , Master Circuit 14 Functions, intermediary devices 40, and internal ATA devices 50 will need to be controlled. The ATA Facilitator can be recognized as having states of operation to collectively control and apply the Respondent Configuration System so once executed can be Respondent to External Configurations 12 of the Configuration Means 42.

Mode Configuration Control Detail

The current parallel ATA devices already attached to the ATA Bus may not function correctly and may require changes to their configurations if other ATA devices are added. Serial ATA devices may require no configuration changes. Common parallel ATA device mode configuration examples are "Master", "Slave" and "Cable Select". The ATA Facilitator may help configure these modes on both internal 50 and external devices 44. Internal modes may be configured by the master circuit 14 system in response to externally and manually set configurations of the Configuration Means 46. It may be that mode configuration is not necessary with some ATA devices and the function can be omitted from the Respondent Configuration System.

Information Based State and Mode Configuration Determination Detail

The ATA Facilitator may utilize circuitry that aids in the configuration of devices by negotiating or detecting information contained within the configuration means 46, or similar effect. Configuration of the ATA Facilitator's states and the modes of the ATA devices that are attached to the ATA Bus may be determined and set upon the information detected. The information can be utilized to decide the correct states of the ATA Facilitator's Main Circuits. Information can be detected so as to determine the technology type that is attaching to the external interface 38, 52, or 60 (FIG. 2). Information can be stored in the external configuration selection unit, such information comprising: information of and for functions to be executed, security information, program configuration information, bios configurations, security key or ID, and environmental configurations.

Connection State Control Detail

ATA Facilitator states may control the Connection State of ATA devices based on the information and/or configuration detected by the External Configuration Recognition Means 10 or the information set externally of the Configuration Means 46, where the Master Circuit 14 will disable or disconnect the specified device (or similar effect), or where the Master Circuit will disable or disconnect the data, power, or configuration lines, or similar effects. This function can be implemented via the master circuit means incorporations. The connection state of the USB Controller 62 (FIG. 2) (or similar technology) or USB data and power lines of the USB Ports 60 (FIG. 2) (or similar interfaces) may be controlled where the ATA Controller, ATA Bus lines 34 and system power lines 32 are substituted respectively, or similar effect.

ATA Device Configuration Control Circuit States:

The states of operation of the circuits and the modes of ATA devices may be determined by a number of methods, some of which include adding or removing ATA devices, the ATA device's current configurations, and the ATA Facilitators external configuration means' 46 configuration designations.

The following table (Table I) displays some compatible ATA device mode settings that may be set when two parallel ATA devices exist attached to a single parallel ATA BUS. You may require the parallel ATA device you are booting from to have the master setting or equivalent, and to be located on the Primary parallel ATA BUS. Only two parallel ATA devices should operationally exist on a single parallel ATA BUS at the same time. Currently only one serial ATA device is required to be attached per serial bus, and is automatically identified as a master device for that Serial ATA BUS channel; however mode selections can be applied to serial ATA devices if such a function is required to assist channel selection, or other similar function.

Single mode operation configurations of only one parallel ATA device attached to a single ATA BUS are also possible, the devices will operate correctly except if you wish to boot an operating system; where you will require the parallel ATA device you are booting from to have the master setting or equivalent, and be located on the primary parallel ATA BUS or equivalent. The operator may select the external parallel ATA devices' modes; this may be used to determine the respondent configurations of the internal devices by having the ATA Facilitator automatically change the mode configurations of the internal devices to reflect a compatible setting to allow the correct function of all devices attached to the ATA BUS. Single parallel ATA device mode operation configurations are in the following tables. Possibly, only three modes of drive operation need be configured per parallel ATA device and is evident in the following table (Table II).

ATA Device Connection State Control and Power Connection State Control Circuit States Detail

Only two Connection State modes need to be configured per internal and external ATA device (Connected/Disconnected). Parallel ATA devices may still require the correct ATA device mode settings (MA, SL and CS) to function. The drive needs no configuration if it is disconnected from the ATA Bus or. if it is a serial ATA device. The power Connection State and ATA Bus connection state for a single ATA device can be the same setting (e.g. connected to the line), although the power can stay connected if the data cable is in a disconnected state; it will not affect the drives' or computer's operations. Further incorporations of technology can prevent bus cormption when adding the ATA devices, and further power control can be initiated in specific sequences to protect the ATA device or attaching bus. Further power control can be provided in relation to specific voltages required. The following table (Table III) displays some of the power and data connection state configurations that may be required.

Voltage levels differ depending on the ATA device, it is possible to supply a designated voltage depending on the voltage required. This may be detected or set. Currently common voltages are 3.3v, 5v, and 12v.

The USB interface may supply multiple voltages to differing ATA devices once the USB Controller has been disabled or disconnected from the USB Interface. The device and power connection state may be further controlled through a configuration protocol. It may also be that a battery pack will supply the power to the ATA Device. Information may be detected or set, and used to determine the voltages required.

A simple bus and power connection system such as having a extemal interface coupled directly to the internal power supply and internal parallel ATA bus interface, will require the computer to be in a powered off state, unless further controlling and bus protecting technology is used in conjunction with the external interface.

ATA BUS Control States Detail

Because a computer generally has a plurality of ATA Bus Controllers and a plurality of ATA Bus interfaces, provision for the control of both the Primary, Secondary or other ATA Bus will require the integration of circuits to control many of the ATA Bus data lines. This will include redirecting ATA Bus data lines to specific and/or different ATA Bus Ports of the computer and/or ports of ATA Facilitator. This can include using ATA Bus ports and extension cables (not shown) that can interface with an expansion slot of a computer, or can include using existing USB interfaces 60 (Fig. 2), or similar technologies, as external ATA Bus interfaces 38.

Some possible states may be derived from some of the information from the following table (Table IV) showing redirection from a specific ATA BUS to another different ATA Bus; or states may be set unchanged (not redirected). Some states are mutually exclusive so that no two ATA Bus channels or other communication channels such as the USB are redirected to the same ATA Bus port at the same time.

Combined Matrix to detail relationships of possible modes and Connection States of the ATA devices and the respondent states of the ATA Facilitator

The following tables illustrate some of the configurations required by the ATA devices attached to a particular bus. The following matrix illustrates possible configurations required by the parallel ATA devices, so that the computer will function correctly. The following states may not be necessary or included in the ATA Facilitator, but are correct configurations to allow the computer and hardware to function. Some of the information included into this matrix will be used to derive some of the states of the ATA Facilitator. Some of the following configuration information can be used in conjunction with the information of controlling the ATA Bus redirection to determine some states of the ATA Facilitator. Some of the following matrix table (Table V) displays some configurations that are mutually exclusive, and that cannot exist at the same time. A second box that groups the individual states indicates possible mutually exclusive states.

ATA Device 1 (Internal) X s Primary

ATA Device 2 (Internal) X Primary

ATA Device 3 (External) X m Primary

ATA Device 1 (Internal) X Primary

ATA Device 2 (Internal) X s Primary

ATA Device 3 (External) X m Primary

ATA Device 1 (Internal) X Primary

ATA Device 2 (Internal) X Primary

ATA Device 3 (External) X m Primary

ATA device 1 m Primary

ATA device 1 Primary

ATA device ! Primary

ATA Device 1 (Internal) X Primary ATA Device 2 (External) m Primary

ATA Device 1 (Internal) X m Primary

ATA Device 2 (External) X s Primary

ATA Device 1 (Internal) X s Primary

ATA Device 2 (External) X m Primary

ATA Device 1 (Internal) X m Secondary

ATA Device 2 (Internal) X s Secondary

ATA Device 3 (External) X Secondary ATA Device 1 (Intemal) X m Secondary

ATA Device 2 (Internal) X Secondary

ATA Device 3 (External) X s Secondary

ATA Device 1 (Intemal) X Secondary

ATA Device 2 (Intemal) X m Secondary

ATA Device 3 (External) X s Secondary

ATA Device 1 (Intemal) X s Secondary

ATA Device 2 (Internal) X m Secondary

ATA Device 3 (External) X Secondary

ATA Device 1 (Internal) X s Secondary

ATA Device 2 (Internal) X Secondary

ATA Device 3 (Extemal) X m Secondary

ATA Device 1 (Internal) X Secondary

ATA Device 2 (Internal) X s Secondary

ATA Device 3 (External) X m Secondary

ATA Device 1 (Intemal) X Secondary

ATA Device 2 (Internal) X Secondary

ATA Device 3 (External) X m Secondary

ATA device 1 m Secondary

ATA device 1 Secondary

ATA device 1 Secondary

ATA Device 1 (Internal) Secondary ATA Device 2 (External) m Secondary ATA Device 1 (Internal) X m Secondary ATA Device 2 (External) X s Secondary

ATA Device 1 (Internal) X s Secondary ATA Device 2 (External) X m Secondary

ATA Device 1 (Intemal) X m BUS Extension ATA Device 2 (Internal) X s BUS Extension ATA Device 3 (External) X BUS Extension

ATA Device 1 (Internal) X m BUS Extension ATA Device 2 (Internal) X BUS Extension ATA Device 3 (External) X s BUS Extension

ATA Device 1 (Internal) X BUS Extension ATA Device 2 (Internal) X m BUS Extension ATA Device 3 (External) X s BUS Extension

ATA Device 1 (Internal) X s BUS Extension ATA Device 2 (Internal) X m BUS Extension ATA Device 3 (External) X BUS Extension

ATA Device 1 (Internal) X s BUS Extension ATA Device 2 (Internal) X BUS Extension ATA Device 3 (External) X m BUS Extension

ATA Device 1 (Internal) X BUS Extension ATA Device 2 (Internal) X s BUS Extension ATA Device 3 (External) X m BUS Extension

ATA Device 1 (Internal) X BUS Extension ATA Device 2 (Internal) X BUS Extension ATA Device 3 (External) X m BUS Extension 34 ATA device 1 X m BUS Extension

35 ATA device 1 X BUS Extension

36 ATA device 1 X BUS Extension

37 ATA Device 1 (Internal) BUS Extension ATA Device 2 (External) m BUS Extension

38 ATA Device 1 (Internal) X m BUS Extension

ATA Device 2 (External) X s BUS Extension

39 ATA Device 1 (Internal) X s BUS Extension

ATA Device 2 (External) X m BUS Extension

The methods in determining the configurations of the states of the ATA facilitator and the modes of ATA devices can partly be based on the principal that some modes are mutually exclusive. Reference in the next paragraph is made to the preceding mode matrix (Table V) as an example to illustrate a basic relationship of setting some external switches to a particular state to be able to select internal configurations.

ATA Device 3 (external) is connected to the ATA Bus and set at master on the Primary ATA Bus, and; the user has set an option to disable ATA Device 2 (Internal), via a switch on the cradle or socket. No other setting exists in the mutually exclusive matrix (Table V) for that ATA Bus that will allow this particular configuration; therefore, state 5 configuration may be applied to the drive and other components of the ATA Facilitator so the hardware functions correctly. ATA device 1 (internal) is then set as slave on the primary ATA Bus by a component or circuit of the ATA Facilitator.

ATA Device 2 (Internal) X Primary

ATA Device 3 (External) X m Primary

Preceding table (Table VI) was from the following mutually exclusive group; the following Mutually Exclusive Group Table (Table VII), and both tables are an extract from the State Matrix (Table V):

ATA Device 2 (Internal) X Primary

ATA Device 3 (External) X m Primary

If a single ATA device is internally on the primary parallel ATA Bus, and none are attached externally, it would be set as "master" to ensure the correct operation of the drive, which is a requirement for the computer system to boot. The following mutually exclusive group (Table IX) illustrates that if ATA device 1 is set at master on the primary parallel ATA BUS, no other settings are available to that ATA device. Table IX is an extract of Table V

Table IX

8 ATA device 1 X m Primary

9 ATA device 1 X s Primary

10 ATA device 1 X c Primary

To set a master, slave, or cable select setting for an external parallel ATA device, and/or a disconnected device setting, via switches or similar effect accessible from outside the computer, for a possible number of three devices per ATA Bus channel, will be able to configure most of the configurations required for the parallel ATA devices. A switch may possibly be included that designates a single device attachment, or disables other connected devices.

The following table (Table X) illustrates some of the configurations required when serial ATA devices are attached to a particular bus or port. The following matrix illustrates possible configurations required by the operator when attaching serial ATA devices, so that the computer can function correctly. The following states may not be necessary or included in the ATA Facilitator, but are correct configurations to allow the computer and hardware to function. Some of the information included into this matrix will be used to derive some of the states of the ATA Facilitator. Some of the following configuration information can be used in conjunction with the information of controlling the ATA Bus redirection to determine some states of the ATA Facilitator. Some of the following matrix displays some configurations that are mutually exclusive, and that cannot exist at the same time. A second box that groups the individual states indicates possible mutually exclusive states. A description of the ATA Devices by including "(External or USB) " or "(Internal)" denotes the type of interface used in connecting that ATA device to the computer.

Table X

State Serial ATA Device Connected Disconnected Drive Bus mode

ATA Device 1 M Serial ATA 1

2 ATA Device 1 X M Serial ATA 2

ATA Device 1 (Internal) X M Serial ATA 1

ATA Device 2 (External or USB) X M Serial ATA 1

ATA Device 1 (Internal) M Serial ATA 1

ATA Device 2 (External or USB) M Serial ATA 1

ATA Device 1 (Internal) M Serial ATA 2

ATA Device 2 (External or USB) X M Serial ATA 2

ATA Device 1 (Internal) M Serial ATA 2

ATA Device 2 (External or USB) X M Serial ATA 2

ATA Device 1 (Internal) X M Serial ATA 1

ATA Device 2 (Internal) X M Serial ATA 2

ATA Device 3 (External or USB) X M Serial ATA 3 or other Bus

8 ATA Device 1 (Internal) X M Serial ATA 1

ATA Device 2 (Internal) X M Serial ATA 2

ATA Device 3 (External or USB) X M Serial ATA 1 The preceding table (Table X) displays mode 7, which indicates that if both Internal ATA devices are connected, and a third external or USB ATA device is added, and required to be connected, the Serial ATA Bus 3 will then be selected. This selection may be determined automatically if insufficient user configuration input is not available, rales can be derived to help govern the state selection to best suit the attaching technology and the required result of the connection in regard to the process being carried out. An example of a rale to suit a required result is that it may be a configuration designation on the cradle will be presented to the operator as "Storage Addition", where the user is previously aware from instruction that selecting the "Storage Addition" designation of the Configuration Means 46 will:

(a) Not disconnect any internal storage devices.

(b) Not change the storage device order or logical drive order of internal devices and the computer system.

(c) Have the configuration of the attaching storage device and adjacent bus connection technologies negotiate the connection of the external storage device to the next logically free and available ATA bus channel.

To achieve the mode 7 results displayed in Table X, the user may have selected the alternative option of designating the configuration and selecting "Serial ATA Bus 3" to be the connecting Bus to the external ATA device.

Further rules and applications of the technologies may be understood from the following details in consideration with the preceding rule illustration of attaching storage devices using an external Configuration Means 46.

The preceding table (Table X) displays mode 8 which indicates that if both Internal ATA devices are set to be disabled, possibly by the operator selecting "Disable Internal Devices" or similar function of the Configuration Means 46, and an External ATA Interface 38, 52 or USB interface 60 (Fig. 2) is used to attach ATA device 3 to the computer system, the first free bus will be selected, which in this case is Serial ATA Bus 1. The user may have alternatively selected an option of designating using the Configuration Means 46 an "Exclusive ATA BUS connection" for the External ATA device 44 to achieve mode 8. The user may have further instruction that in the case of disabling all internal devices that the following situation exists:

(a) All internal ATA devices are disabled.

(b) The ATA Bus 1 will be automatically selected for the external storage device to attach to. (c) The ATA Bus 1 is set by default in the computers BIOS as the primary boot device.

The preceding situation illustrates that a user may select to boot from the external ATA device, and no further configuration is required to attach the external ATA device, and no complex knowledge of the computer systems configurations are required in attaching the External ATA device.

The user is not required to be aware of the internal modes and states of the invention, but simply of what the desired function may be, and then selecting that function to suit the purpose of attachment of the storage device.

Rules and technologies will be applied to preserve the operations, functionality, and integrity of the Bus channels, Bus Controllers, and attaching devices; attaching devices will not cause error in the operation of the computer system when attaching or removing devices to the computer system during various disk operations by way of an ATA Bus Connection State Control 4, and a Power Connection State Control 6, or similar effects, that may regulate access to the Bus, Power, and controlling technologies there of. Further regulating technologies that preserve correct computer system operations may include software or device drivers that ran in conjunction with an operating system such as Microsoft Windows.TM to provide opportunity to replace removable storage technology in the event the storage device is removed during disk operations. Further protection to maintain the computer systems operational environment may be to provide a fastening mechanism to secure the cradle or socket to the Bus to prevent removal during disk operations. Further technologies to preserve the computer systems operations are shown in prior art such as US Pat. No. 5,920,709, issued to Hartung et al, and the standards describing briefly the Hot-pluggable ability of serial ATA published by the T13 Standards committee such as the T13 Working Drafts 1532D Volume 1, 2 and 3 Revision 2a, 13 March 2003, now incorporated herein by reference. It is the operating system also that must recognize and mount the newly attached storage device and data volume contained within, raising issue to the operating systems role in storage device attachment, and when the storage device should be attached. Those skilled in the art can apply the necessary adjustments to the devices so as to maintain computer system operability and functionality when attaching storage devices to a computer system that may be in a powered on state, or powered off state. Adjustments to maintain the operation of the computer when attaching storage devices can comprise of disallowing the primary boot device of the computer system to be disconnected or redirected after such time as when an operating system may have loaded. Further adjustments may be required such as allowing certain BIOS configurations be negotiated before such time as when they are required by the computer system to initialize, and disallowing functions to manipulate such configurations after such time, such configurations comprising, but not limited to, IPL configuration. It is also recognized that a plurality of external storage devices may be attached to a computer system, it would be necessary to include a basic protocol that if the attaching devices have conflicting operator designated configurations, the attaching portable storage device will not be accepted to the computer system, or may be treated similar to a "Storage Addition" as described earlier.

An internal device disconnection connection selection and an ATA BUS designation selection may be in some cases be sufficient do designate configurations for attaching a serial ATA devices.

Formula Example Detail

Examples of part of a formula that may be used to illustrate and determine some of the states of the ATA facilitator when used with Parallel ATA devices is:

(External device mode switch is set to X) + (internal ATA device number # is disabled) = State Y

Examples of part of a formula that may be used to illustrate and determine some of the states of the ATA facilitator when used with Serial ATA devices is:

(Internal device connection state is set to X) + (Serial ATA Bus number # is selected) = State Y

Further Configuration Means Detail .

A further selection that can be added to the Configuration Means 46 can offer the operator the selection means to access the Primary Boot Bus, configure and aid IPL configuration control or manipulation, or voltage selection.

A further selection that can be added to the Configuration Means 46 can offer the operator the selection means to change the orientation of the internal storage devices when attaching external storage devices, so they may connect to different bus cannels, whereby an operator may select to connect to Serial ATA Bus Channel 1, and rather than disconnect the internal ATA device attached to Bus channel 1, the internal ATA device is shuffled up to the next logical bus number such as bus channel 2, and the device on bus channel 2 may move to bus channel three, and so on. This may aid in assisting disk imaging, and boot order selection of the external storage device, while still having access to the internal storage devices of the computer system. A further external storage configuration means can comprise a smart card attached to the external storage device and configuration means 46 of storage device, the collective information being read by the External Configuration Recognition Means 10, and acted upon by the Master Circuit's 14 functions and elements. Smart card information may be passed to the appropriated smart card reading technology, however, the smart card is not needed where the required information may be incorporated in to the external portable storage device 44 or Configuration Means 46.

Security information and a security authentication system can be included into the configuration means 46 so that only specific or authorized technologies may be attached to the computer system, where a security identification key such as a password or similar effect is required for operation or attachment of the external storage device 44 or cradle 42 to the computer system. This can prevent unauthorized booting of the external storage device, and unauthorized transmission of data of the computer system.

Further control of the computer system by setting default security configuration settings of the master circuits or BIOS to disconnect all internal storage devices 50 (or similar storage devices i.e. SCSI or Firewire) upon the attachment of external ATA devices (or similar) unless a password or similar effect is matched or entered can provide a security system to protect the data within the computer system by restricting data access. An external storage device may still be attached and used to boot an operating system without authorization to attach to the computer, if configured so the internal storage devices are disabled, the data inside the computer can be protected, and the computer may still serve as an operating system platform in a more relaxed security system implementation. This disconnection system can also aid mobile computer users to not need to carry expensive portable computers, rather they will carry comparatively low-cost portable storage units, and in the event if it is required, a security system and method is available to protect from unauthorized access to a computer system's data.

Further security can be provided to portable storage devices with the Respondent Configuration System by having the storage device 44 incorporate circuitry, or be secured inside the cradle 42 containing circuitry, which the circuitry of either requires an access key to initiate the drives operations, the key being provided from the Master Circuit 14. Failure to receive the correct key or pin will render the storage device 44 inoperable unless it is used with a particular computer system able to offer the correct key or authorization. This can prevent operators using the portable storage devices with computers other than at their place of work, or with other computers than what is designated for them to use the storage device with. With the advent of file-encryption, security functions fall more and more on the operating system to provide the best method of data security, however, the introduction of a security key system into storage hardware can reduce theft of portable storage equipment, since the storage device may not function with the incorrect computer, which may deter would be thieves. Because of the growing problem of software piracy, imaging and other disk utility software can be sold in conjunction with external storage and cradles or sockets that may only work with the Master Circuit 14. Those devices without the correct prefix or suffix codes, which may be transferred to memory from the Configuration Means 46 by the Master Circuit 14 at the time of storage device attachment or Bus Negotiation 58, will not be able to participate with programs and applications that will seek the correct security code in the memory before fully executing. Programs such as imaging software would benefit from such a feature, whereby the software is sold with the portable storage devices using the security code system can only be used with such devices, and not just any portable storage device, therefore reducing piracy of the software sold in conjunction with the invention. The codes may be unobvious and encrypted in various memory locations so as to protect the prefix or suffix key that is required to execute the application, those skilled in the art will recognize many techniques to implement such a system. Further implementations of this key passing structure can allow the storage device to participate in an operating system authentication structure such as Microsoft Windows.TM or similar operating system (OS), by passing a key that corresponds to a security account and password of the OS and associated authentication system, whereby a driver or service that allows the storage device to connect to the operating system can initialize the driver or start the service in respect to the authority granted to the storage device and key. A security certificate, security identifier, or similar effect can be incorporated into the configuration means 46.

Further information can be incorporated in the configuration means 46 so that configurations can be passed to the BIOS or Memory of the computer to allow imaging software to reference the passed information, so imaging program selections and parameters can be controlled from the external cradle of the computer system by the imaging software referring to the passed information and configuring itself so. Standard user definable options relating to imaging software, such as "source", "destination", "image selection", and other relevant configurations may be selected via buttons and a Liquid Crystal Display, where the cradle contains means that can present the information of multiple images contained on the storage device attached to the cradle. Such means may react to a customized software program that is able to catalog disk images in such a manner that the catalog information can be updated in the configuration means 46 of the storage device that attaches to the cradle, the catalog information is then presented to the operator via the LCD to be used in conjunction with a selection system to allow the choice of image to copy to a particular storage device within the computer, or allow the choice to store and catalog a new image on the portable storage device. When the computer is turned on and booted with or from the portable storage device, the predetermined configuration is passed, the DOS or similar effect is loaded, the imaging software is loaded, the imaging software is configured in respect to the configuration passed, the imaging process is executed. A new product is available to simplify disk-imaging procedures. This new product may participate with network attached storage systems and file replication systems to provide removable and portable disks for computer engineers, containing partitions comprising an up to date copy of necessary computer maintenance tools such as: disk-imaging software, computer system images, software installation packages, and a separate partition for personal data; whereby computer maintenance tasks are simplified, up to date software is available to the engineer, imaging software configuration is simplified, software installation CD's may be incorporated to a single storage device, higher data transmission rates are available from the portable storage devices, and network bandwidth can be conserved by the data not having to be supplied through the network.

Sometimes, faults in a computer system are operating system (OS) glitches, where small functions of the OS are not working properly. The operator may still be able to use most functions of the computer system; it is still expected of the engineer to fix the problem even if the problem is insignificant. Small problems may take hours to fix, and the user is displaced while the engineer resolves the problem. The internal storage device disconnection features will allow for an engineer, when repairing a fault in an operating system, to image a computer system then allow the user to continue working. The engineer may take an image of the computer system, go to a spare computer of similar or compatible hardware architecture and override or disconnect the internal storage devices of the computer system, and fix the problem there by booting the imaged operating system and resolving the problem. Once the problem is fixed on the similar computer, the method learned to fix the problem on the spare computer may be applied to the original computer with the problem, or the fixed operating system still contained on the portable storage device may be imaged back to the faulty computer replacing the faulty operating system with the working one. All of this can be done easily and using the fastest interface of the computer system, because it is in a more readily available position, and power is provided to the storage device, no opening the computer is required, the network was not used to transfer data, and configuration was simple.

Conclusion, Ramifications, and Scope of the Invention

Thus the reader will see that the invention of the Respondent Configuration System, when applied to a computer system, provides:

(a) A device and system that reduces the need to open a computer to attach storage devices, so as to save time in attaching storage devices, and reduce the risk of damage to the computers internal components by not having internal components exposed.

(b) A device and system that reduces and simplifies user input of configuring a computer's BIOS when attaching storage devices so as to save time, and so the user requires minimal experience to attach storage devices to a computer, and also to reduce the risk of incorrect configuration of the computer system.

(c) A device and system that reduces the need for storage device communications translation so as to save time in data transmission, and so as to reduce unnecessary circuitry components of various storage devices.

(d) A device and system that provides sufficient computer system power to external peripherals and external storage devices so as to save time in not having to connect further external power supplies, and so as to negate power supply components usually incorporated in various external peripheral and external storage devices.

(e) A device and system that reduces the need for removable storage bays so as to reduce computer components, while providing a suitable bus attachment structure.

(f) A device and system that reduces the need for space within a computer so as to provide smaller computer systems or free space within the computer to install further peripheral devices.

(g) A device and system that makes backup procedures faster, and more easily implemented.

(h) A device and system that reduces network bandwidth utilization so as to save time by freeing bandwidth resources to other users and computers, (i) A device and system that reduced the load on data transactions with file servers so as to save time by freeing resources to other users and computers, (j) A device and system that is easy to use in DOS mode.

(k) A device and system that allows easy configuration of storage device's configurations. (1) A device and system, which an external ATA interface may be provided through existing external interfaces such as USB and Firewire.TM or similar, which allows the existing external interfaces to be used without requiring communication translation to attaching ATA devices, (m) A device and system to allow computer operating system repairs to be carried out more efficiently, (n) A device and system providing security to control access to a computer's internal data, (o) A device and system providing security to reduce theft of portable storage products, (p) A device and system that is able to participate in existing operating systems security authentication services, (q) A device and system providing security to reduce software piracy, (r) A device and system to reduce imaging software configuration complexities.

While my invention contains many specificities, these should not be consumed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as an exemplification of one preferred embodiment thereof. Many other variations are possible. For example functions or elements could be substituted, functions or elements may be combined to produce less functions or elements, functions or elements may be referred to by another name, the system may be applied to new or different controlling and storage technologies for a similar effect, a similar negotiation protocol may be constructed to allow switching of the interfaces and controllers of storage technologies in a similar manner, security systems may be emulated and incorporated into prior art devices, combined external interfaces may be situated in a similar available manner, and programming may emulate system hardware functions. Core components such as the interface, the negotiation protocol, the external configuration means, the security system, and the master circuit may be separated and supplied individually, the individual benefits of the technology have been unrealized until now, and are not incorporated into prior art devices in such a manner, it is viewed that to suit a purpose the individual primary components of the storage control system can be produced and distributed separately in the purpose to allow opportunity to implement the system.

Thus the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the examples given.

Claims

1. An external ata bus interface comprising:

(a) a external interface,

(b) a bus conductor means coupled to said external interface,

(c) a highly available position on a computer system,

(d) a position coupling means to couple said external interface to said highly available position,

(e) bus attachment means coupled to said bus conductor means

whereby a computer system incorporates a high speed ata interface in a suitable position for an operator to connect a storage device to said computer system with undue effort, whereby processes are simplified and time is saved.

2. The external interface of claim 1, further comprising a power conductor means coupled to said external interface, and a power conductor attachment means coupled to said power conductor means.

3. The external interface of claim 2, further comprising a configuration transmission conductor means coupled to said external interface, and a configuration transmission conductor attachment means coupled to said configuration transmission conductor means.

4. The external interface of claim 1 , further comprising a configuration transmission conductor means coupled to said external interface, and a configuration transmission conductor attachment means coupled to said configuration transmission conductor means.

5. A data storage device control system, comprising:

(a) a receiving means to receive a first configuration from a configuration means,

(b) a master circuit control means coupled to said receiving means, and

(c) said master circuit able to respond to said configuration means, and

(d) said master circuit control means comprises configuration application means to control technologies participating in a computer system and execute functions to manipulate and define an environment of said computer system,

(e) a first function execution means coupled to said configuration application means, that reacts to the control applied from said configuration application means to couple a plurality of storage devices to a plurality of bus or channels, whereby said data storage control system can be incorporated in a computer system to provide a respondent configuration system that responds to said first configuration received from said configuration means, whereby processes are simplified and time is saved.

6. The data storage device control system of claim 5, further comprising a second function execution means to disconnect a plurality of storage devices from said plurality of bus or channels,

7. The data storage device control system of claim 6, further comprising third function execution means to provide a predetermined power source to said plurality of storage devices.

8. The data storage device control system of claim 5, further comprising third function execution means to provide a predetermined power source to said plurality of storage devices.

9. The data storage device control system of claim 5, further comprising:

(a) a computer system enclosed in a case, and

(b) said computer system having a internal space within the case and an external space outside the case,

(c) a coupling means to couple said master control circuit means to said computer system,

. (d) an external interface means to allow said configuration means and said first storage device to couple to said configuration receiving means and said bus or channel.

10. The data storage device control system of claim 9, wherein said configuration means is controlled by an operator.

11. The data storage device control system of claim 10, wherein said configuration means located in said external space.

12. The data storage device control system of claim 11, wherein said first storage device is coupled to said configuration means.

13. The data storage device control system of claim 10, further comprising:

(a) said computer system comprising a bios extension means

(b) a fourth function execution means to interact with said bios extension means.

14. The data storage device control system of claim 10, further comprising a fifth function execution means to provide a security means.

15. The data storage device control system of claim 10, further comprising a sixth function execution means to move a configuration information to a memory of said computer system.

16. The data storage device control system of claim 9, further comprising a third function execution means to provide a predetermined power source to said plurality of storage devices.

17. The data storage device control system of claim 16, wherein the interface means further comprises a power attachment means to allow said configuration means and said first storage device to couple to said configuration receiving means, said bus or channel, and said predetermined power source.

18. The data storage device control system of claim 5, further comprising a seventh function execution means to apply a second configuration to said configuration means.

19. The data storage device control system of claim 5, further comprising:

(a) an eighth function execution means to negotiate coupling of said first storage device to said bus or channel,

(b) said eighth function execution means comprising an integration control circuit means to couple said bus or channel to an external interface,

(c) said eighth function execution means comprising a negotiation protocol means to aid control of a plurality of storage controlling technologies coupled to said integration control circuit means.

20. An external configuration device to select executable functions of a data storage control system, comprising:

(a) a configuration transmission means to supply a configuration to a master circuit control means that is coupled to a computer system to execute a set of predetermined functions,

(b) a configuration selection means comprising a plurality of function execution selection means, to allow an operator to designate said set of predetermined functions to be executed,

(c) an external hardware platform means,

(d) coupling means to couple said configuration transmission means and said configuration selection means to said external hardware platform means, (e) a storage coupling means coupled to said external hardware platform means to allow a storage device to couple to said external hardware platform means,

(f) an attachment means to couple said external hardware platform means to said master circuit control means,

(g) First function execution selection means that selects a first function to be executed by a configuration application means to couple a first storage device to a predetermined bus or channel,

whereby said external configuration device supplies a configuration means comprising a plurality of selected functions to said data storage control system which is able to respond to said configuration means by executing said selected functions, whereby processes are simplified and time is saved.

21. The external configuration device of claim 20, further comprising second function execution selection means that selects a second function to be executed by said configuration application means to disconnect a plurality of storage devices from a plurality of bus or channels.

22. The external configuration device of claim 20, further comprising:

(a) a third function execution selection means that selects a third function to be executed by said configuration application means to provide a predetermined power source to said first storage device,

(b) means to couple said predetermined power source to said first storage device.

23. The external configuration device of claim 20, further comprising a fourth function execution selection means that selects a fourth function to be executed by said configuration application means to interact with a bios extension means.

24. The external configuration device of claim 23, wherein said fourth function comprises an initial program load control execution means.

25. The external configuration device of claim 23, wherein said fourth function comprises bios information modification execution means.

26. The external configuration device of claim 20, further comprising a fifth function execution selection means that selects a fifth function to be executed by said configuration application means to provide a security system.

27. The external configuration device of claim 20, further comprising a sixth function execution selection means that selects a sixth function to be executed by a configuration application means to move a configuration information to a memory of a computer.

28. The external configuration device of claim 27, wherein said configuration information is used by a disk imaging program.

29. The external configuration device of claim 27, wherein said configuration information is used by a security authentication system.

30. The external configuration device of claim 20, further comprising:

(a) Configuration receiving means to receive configuration from said master circuit control means,

(b) A configuration application means to apply configuration to said first storage device,

(c) A seventh function execution selection means that selects a seventh function to be executed by said configuration application means to allow said configuration means to receive a configuration information.

31. The external configuration device of claim 20, further comprising an eighth function participation means that allows an eighth function to be executed to negotiate the environment of a computer system for said first storage device.

32. A negotiation device to negotiate configuration and bus access for devices attaching to a computer system, comprising:

(a) an external interface means,

(b) a first controlling technology,

(c) a second controlling technology,

(d) an integration control circuit means to couple said first and second controlling technologies to said external interface means, and

(e) said integration control circuit means further comprising release means to release said external interface means to said first or second controlling technology if a predetermined condition exists,

whereby an environment in a computer system can be defined for devices attaching to said external interface, and whereby processes are simplified and time is saved.

33. The negotiation device of claim 32, wherein said first storage controller means is an ata controller, and said second storage controller means is a usb controller.

34. The negotiation device of claim 33, wherein said ata controller further comprises a bus or channel switch means to allow a bus or channel to be selected and coupled to said external interface means.

35. The negotiation device of claim 32, wherein said first storage controller means is an ata controller, and said second storage controller means is a firewire controller.

36. The negotiation device of claim 35, wherein said ata controller further comprises a bus or channel switch means to allow a bus or channel to be selected and coupled to said external interface means.

37. The negotiation device of claim 32, further comprising:

(a) said integration control circuit further comprising a negotiation means to determine a negotiated configuration,

(b) a configuration receiving means to receive said negotiated configuration from said integration control circuit means,

(c) a master control circuit means coupled to said configuration receiving means,

(d) a configuration application means coupled to said master control circuit means to apply said negotiated configuration to a computer system,

(e) said integration control circuit means coupled to said configuration application means.

38. The negotiation device of claim 37, wherein said negotiated configuration comprises a bus channel selection.

39. The negotiation device of claim 37, wherein said negotiated configuration comprises a bus channel disconnection

40. The negotiation device of claim 37, wherein said negotiated configuration comprises a power selection.

41. The negotiation device of claim 37, wherein said negotiated configuration comprises a bios configuration update.

42. The negotiation device of claim 37, wherein said negotiated configuration comprises a security information.

43. The negotiation device of claim 37, wherein said negotiated configuration comprises a configuration information to be moved to a memory of said computer system.

44. The negotiation device of claim 43, wherein said configuration information comprises a disk imaging software configuration.

45. The negotiation device of claim 43, wherein said configuration information comprises a security information.

46. The negotiation device of claim 37, wherein said external interface means comprises:

(a) a power conductor means,

(b) a bus conductor means.

47. The negotiation device of claim 37, wherein said negotiated configuration occurs before the release of said external interface means.

48. A security authentication method, comprising:

(a) providing a computer system comprising a master circuit control means, and said master circuit control means comprising a security information receiving means to receive a security information, a first security authentication means, a predetermined response means, a security function execution means to execute selected security functions,

(b) providing an external interface means coupled to said master circuit control means and said security information receiving means,

(c) providing a configuration means comprising a first security information, said first security information comprising a security key and a security configuration,

(d) providing a first storage device coupled to said configuration means,

(e) providing attachment means to couple said configuration means to said external interface means,

(f) providing a negotiation means to provide said first security information to said first security authentication means and security function execution means,

(g) providing a set of functions for said security function execution means to execute, (h) attaching said configuration means to said external interface, and (i) negotiating said first security information, and

(j) executing said set of functions according to said predetermined response in consideration of said first security information received,

whereby a security system is available for a storage device and a computer system.

49. The security authentication method of claim 48, wherein said set of functions comprise means to restrict access to internal storage devices.

50. The security authentication method of claim 48, wherein said set of functions comprise means to restrict access to the external interface means.

51. The security authentication method of claim 48, wherein said set of functions comprise means to require a password to add storage devices.

52. The security authentication method of claim 48, wherein said set of functions comprise means to require a password to negotiate an environment configuration.

53. The security authentication method of claim 48, wherein said set of functions comprise means to include said first security information in a memory of a computer

54. The security authentication method of claim 53, wherein said first security information is used by an executing program to initialize.

55. The security authentication method of claim 53, wherein said first security information corresponds to a security identifier to be authenticated by a security system of an operating system.

56. The security authentication method of claim 53, wherein said first security information corresponds to a security identifier to be used to start a service or a driver of an operating system.

57. The security authentication method of claim 48, wherein said configuration means further comprises a second security authentication means to authenticate a second security information received from said master circuit control means to initiate operations of said first storage device.

58. The security authentication method of claim 48, wherein said first security authentication means comprises a bios authentication system.