WO2022055514A1

WO2022055514A1 - All-in-one computing devices

Info

Publication number: WO2022055514A1
Application number: PCT/US2020/050784
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jui Hsuan Chang; Yu Chun Huang; Chih Chien Chen; Chia Ying PAN
Original assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
Priority date: 2020-09-14
Filing date: 2020-09-14
Publication date: 2022-03-17

Abstract

An example all-in-one (AIO) computing device includes a display; a first type of electronic connector port; a second type of electronic connector port; and a hub coupled to the second type of electronic connector port. The hub receives an audio signal from an audio input source and a video signal from a video input source. A first controller is connected to the display. A switch is coupled to the display controller, the first type of electronic connector port, and the hub. A second controller controls the hub and the switch to: pass a display signal from the first type of electronic connector port to the display, and pass electric signals to the second type of electronic connector port, the audio input source, and the video input source when a communication device engages the first type of electronic connector port.

Description

ALL-IN-ONE COMPUTING DEVICES

BACKGROUND

[0001] All-in-One (AIO) systems may be docked with a laptop or other computing device to create a multi-display system. Connections between AIO systems and docked devices are typically wired connections through various communication ports. AIO systems may have enhanced audio and video components compared with docked devices.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0002] The following detailed description references the drawings, in which:

[0003] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an AIO computing device, according to an example.

[0004] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating aspects of a first type of electronic connector port and a second type of electronic connector port of the AIO computing device of FIG. 1 , according to an example.

[0005] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating aspects of an audio input source and a video input source with respect to the AIO computing device of FIG. 1 , according to an example.

[0006] FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an aspect of a switch of the AIO computing device of FIG. 1 , according to an example.

[0007] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating aspects of a first controller and a second controller of the AIO computing device of FIG. 1 , according to an example.

[0008] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an AIO computing device, according to another example.

[0009] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating operating conditions of a processor of the AIO computing device of FIG. 6, according to an example.

[0010] FIG. 8A is a block diagram illustrating connection arrangements of a PD controller of the AIO computing device of FIG. 6, according to an example.

[0011] FIG. 8B is a block diagram illustrating connection arrangements of the PD controller of the AIO computing device of FIG. 6, according to another example.

[0012] FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating an AIO computer, according to an example.

[0013] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a system with an AIO computer, according to an example.

[0014] FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a system to control display operations of the AIO computing device of FIGS. 1 and 6, according to an example.

[0015] Throughout the drawings, identical reference numbers designate similar, but not necessarily identical, elements. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and the size of some parts may be exaggerated to more clearly illustrate the example shown. Moreover, the drawings provide examples and/or implementations consistent with the description; however, the description is not limited to the examples and/or implementations provided in the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0016] Typically, an AIO internal panel for display expansion for the AIO monitor mode is used in a multi-display system. Generally, when the display is used, other connected peripherals belong to an external computing device, etc., which may not provide a preferable user experience, particularly for video conferencing applications in which improved audio and video aspects are desired. Conversely, an AIO system is provided, according to an example, including a display, a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Type-C port, a camera, a microphone, and USB Type-A ports. When a computing device, such as a notebook computer, tablet, or cellular phone is connected to the USB Type-C port, the display of the AIO system may be used as a primary display, the USB Type-A ports may be used as USB ports and the camera and the microphone may be used as conferencing devices for the computing device. Accordingly, a keyboard, mouse, and/or other input/output devices connected to the USB Type-A ports and the camera and the microphone of the AIO system may be used when the computing device is coupled to the USB Type-C port of the AIO system. The examples provide a seamless video conferencing system that docks an external device (laptop, smartphone, tablet etc.) with an AIO device through a USB Type-C connection to make the AIO device the primary display device in the connected system. The camera and audio hardware of the AIO device can be utilized during the conference call producing an enhanced audio/visual experience for conferencing. The examples also provide that the AIO devices will have a USB source to support camera and audio from an external source with some software/firmware supported.

[0017] According to an example, an AIO computing device is provided comprising a display; a first type of electronic connector port; a second type of electronic connector port; a hub coupled to the second type of electronic connector port, wherein the hub is to receive an audio signal from an audio input source and a video signal from a video input source; a first controller connected to the display; a switch coupled to the first controller, the first type of electronic connector port, and the hub; and a second controller that controls the hub and the switch to: pass a display signal from the first type of electronic connector port to the display, and pass electric signals to the second type of electronic connector port, the audio input source, and the video input source when a communication device engages the first type of electronic connector port. In an example, the first type of electronic connector port comprises a USB Type-C port. In an example, the second type of electronic connector port comprises a USB Type-A port. In an example, the hub comprises a USB hub. In some examples, the audio input source comprises a microphone, and the video input source comprises a camera. In an example, the switch comprises a demultiplexer. In some examples, the first controller comprises a display controller, and the second controller comprises a power delivery (PD) controller.

[0018] Another example provides an AIO computing device comprising a display; a USB Type-C port; a first USB Type-A port; a second USB Type-A port; a USB hub coupled to the first USB Type-A port, the second USB Type-A port, a camera, and a microphone; a display controller connected to the display; a processor coupled to the display controller; a demultiplexer coupled to the display controller, the USB Type-C port, and the USB hub; and a power delivery (PD) controller to control the demultiplexer and the USB hub to (I) pass a first display signal from the USB Type-C port to the display, and (ii) pass electric signals to the first USB Type-A port, the second USB Type-A port, the camera, and the microphone upon docking a communication device with the USB Type- C port to cause the display to become a primary display device. In an example, the display controller is to pass the first display signal from USB Type-C port to the display when the processor is in a sleep state of operation. In an example, the display controller is to pass a second display signal from the processor to the display when the processor is in a working state of operation. In an example, the AIO computing device comprises a platform controller hub (PCH) operatively connected to the USB hub, wherein the demultiplexer is to pass USB signals to the USB hub from the USB Type-C port when the PCH is in a sleep state of operation. In an example, the PCH is to pass the USB signals to the USB hub when the PCH is in a working state of operation. In an example, the PD controller is to detect the communication device when the communication device is coupled to the USB Type-C port. In an example, the PD controller is operatively connected to the demultiplexer through a first interintegrated circuit (I2C) interface and to the USB hub through a second I2C interface. The PD controller may be operatively connected to the USB Type-C port through a USB bus voltage (VBUS) signal path and configuration channel signal paths. The PD controller may be operatively connected to the demultiplexer through a display port interface and a USB interface.

[0019] Another example provides a machine-readable storage medium comprising computer-executable instructions that when executed cause an AIO computing device to detect a communication device connected to a USB Type- C port of the AIO computing device; transmit a display signal from the communication device to a display of the AIO computing device; and transmit signals from the communication device to a USB Type-A port, a camera, and a microphone through the USB Type-C port. In the machine-readable storage medium, the instructions, when executed, may further cause the AIO computing device to receive a video signal from the camera and an audio signal from the microphone. In an example, the camera and microphone are integrated to the AIO computing device. In the machine-readable storage medium, the instructions, when executed, may further cause the AIO computing device to utilize the display as a primary display device when the communication device is connected to the USB Type-C port of the AIO computing device.

[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates an AIO computing device 10 comprising a display 15. The AIO computing device 10 may be an integrated computer comprising a computing portion and a display portion. The entire AIO computing device 10 may be positioned on a table or desk without the need for space for a bulky computing tower or other case typical of desktop computers since the computing portion is integrated with the display portion. The AIO computing device 10 may comprise any suitable size, shape, and configuration. In an example, the AIO computing device 10 may be used as a video conferencing tool to permit remote communications between communicatively linked devices. Moreover, the AIO computing device 10 may be arranged to be coupled/docked with external components and devices, as further described below. The display 15 may be any suitable type of display device including flat panel displays, curved displays, touchscreen displays, liquid crystal displays (LCDs), lightemitting diode (LED) displays, and/or a combination thereof. The AIO computing device 10 comprises a first type of electronic connector port 20, and a second type of electronic connector port 25. In an example, the first type of electronic connector port 20 is different from the second type of electronic connector port 25 such that the ports 20, 25 support different type/style connectors. In another example, the first type of electronic connector port 20 and the second type of electronic connector port 25 are female ports.

[0021 ] The AIO computing device 10 comprises a hub 30 coupled to the second type of electronic connector port 25. The hub 30 may comprise multiple ports to facilitate connections of multiple devices to the AIO computing device 10. For example, among other types of connections, the hub 30 may receive an audio signal 35 from an audio input source 40, and the hub 30 may receive a video signal 45 from a video input source 50. The AIO computing device 10 also includes a first controller 55 connected to the display 15. In an example, the first controller 55 may be an electrical circuit that may be programmed and controlled using any of analog and digital electrical signals. According to some examples, the first controller 55 may be a standalone component or may be part of the AIO computing device 10. In some examples, the first controller 55 may be a microprocessor, microcontroller, proportional-derivative controller, proportional-integral-derivative controller, hardware engine, hardware pipeline, and/or other hardware-enabled device suitable for receiving, processing, and operating a set of computer-implemented instructions used to control other components of the AIO computing device 10, such as the display 15. In some examples, the audio input source 40 and the video input source 50 may be standalone components, plug-in devices, or may be part of the AIO computing device 10.

[0022] The AIO computing device 10 also comprises a switch 60 coupled to the first controller 55, the first type of electronic connector port 20, and the hub 30. In an example, the switch 60 may be an electrical circuit that may be programmed and controlled using analog and/or digital electrical signals received from the first controller 55. According to some examples, the switch 60 may be a standalone component or may be part of the AIO computing device 10. Furthermore, the AIO computing device 10 comprises a second controller 65 that controls the hub 30 and the switch 60 to: pass a display signal 70 from the first type of electronic connector port 20 to the display 15 through the first controller 55, and pass electric signals 75 to the second type of electronic connector port 25, the audio input source 40, and the video input source 50 when a communication device 85 engages the first type of electronic connector port 20. In an example, the second controller 65 may be an electrical circuit that may be programmed and controlled using any of analog and digital electrical signals. According to some examples, the second controller 65 may be a standalone component or may be part of the AIO computing device 10. In an example, the second controller 65 may be operatively connected to the first controller 55. In some examples, the second controller 65 may be a microprocessor, microcontroller, proportional-derivative controller, proportional- integral-derivative controller, hardware engine, hardware pipeline, and/or other hardware-enabled device suitable for receiving, processing, and operating a set of computer-implemented instructions used to control other components of the AIO computing device 10, such as the hub 30 and the switch 60.

[0023] The display signal 70 may be any type of electric signal that is wired transmitted to the display 15 in the AIO computing device 10. The electric signals 75 may be any type of electric signals that are transmitted through wired connections in the AIO computing device 10, and which can deliver power to an electrical device connected to the second type of electronic connector port 25, as well as deliver power to the audio input source 40, and the video input source 50. In some examples, the display signal 70 and the electric signals 75 may be AC or DC signals. The communication device 85 may be a laptop computer, notebook computer, tablet device, smartphone, or any other type of electronic device with communication capabilities, according to some examples.

[0024] FIG. 2, with reference to FIG. 1 , illustrates that the first type of electronic connector port 20 comprises a USB Type-C port 21 , according to an example. The USB Type-C port 21 may contain two sets of twelve connector pins arranged in a substantially symmetrical configuration to permit a corresponding Type-C connector to plug-in to the USB Type-C port 21 in either an upwards or downwards orientation if the USB Type-C port 21 is arranged in a substantially horizontal configuration. Similarly, the USB Type-C port 21 may permit a corresponding Type-C connector to plug into the USB Type-C port 21 in either a left-side or right-side orientation if the USB Type-C port 21 is arranged in a substantially vertical configuration. In other words, the USB Type- C port 21 may be rotationally-symmetrical to facilitate rotational/reversible use of a Type-C connector plugged therein. Furthermore, the second type of electronic connector port 25 comprises a USB Type-A port 26, according to an example. The USB Type-A port 26 may contain a set of four pins arranged in a row such that a corresponding Type-A connector may only plug into the USB Type-A port 26 in one orientation. Additionally, the hub 30 comprises a USB hub 31 , according to an example. In this regard, the USB hub 31 may support USB Type-A, USB Type-B, and USB Type-C connectors, or a combination thereof, including both standard, mini, and micro connectors.

[0025] FIG. 3, with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, illustrates that the audio input source 40 comprises a microphone 41 , and the video input source 50 comprises a camera 51 . In an example, the camera 51 may be at least a 5 megapixel camera 51 . Furthermore, cameras having higher/lower resolutions than 5 megapixels may also be used in accordance with the examples described herein. The microphone 41 and the camera 51 may comprise standalone components or may be part of the AIO computing device 10. In an example, the microphone 41 and camera 51 may be embedded in the frame of the AIO computing device 10. In another example, the camera 51 may be part of a connected device such as a peripheral webcam, smartphone camera, or digital camera.

[0026] FIG. 4, with reference to FIGS. 1 through 3, illustrates that the switch 60 comprises a demultiplexer (DeMux) 61 to permit connection to multiple devices. According to some examples, the demultiplexer 61 may comprise an analog or digital demultiplexer. For example, the demultiplexer 61 may comprise a logic circuit. The demultiplexer 61 may comprise any suitable number of outputs with any corresponding suitable number of select lines. For example, the demultiplexer 61 may comprise a 1 to 2 demultiplexer. FIG. 5, with reference to FIGS. 1 through 4, illustrates that the first controller 55 comprises a display controller 56, and the second controller 65 comprises a PD controller 66. According to some examples, the display controller 56 and the PD controller 66 may be communicatively linked together or may be discrete components. Furthermore, any of the display controller 56 and the PD controller 66 may be programmable to execute computer-implemented instructions.

[0027] FIG. 6, with reference to FIGS. 1 through 5, illustrates that an AIO computing device 100 comprises a display 15, a USB Type-C port 21 , a first USB Type-A port 27, a second USB Type-A port 28, and a USB hub 31 coupled to the first USB Type-A port 27, the second USB Type-A port 28, a camera 51 , and a microphone 41 . The AIO computing device 100 also includes a display controller 56 connected to the display 15, a processor 80 coupled to the display controller 56, and a demultiplexer 61 coupled to the display controller 56, the USB Type-C port 21 , and the USB hub 31 . The AIO computing device 100 also includes a PD controller 66 to control the demultiplexer 61 and the USB hub 31 to (i) pass a first display signal 71 from the USB Type-C port 21 to the display 15, and (ii) pass electric signals 75 to the first USB Type-A port 27, the second USB Type-A port 28, the camera 51 , and the microphone 41 upon docking a communication device 85 with the USB Type-C port 21 to cause the display 15 to become a primary display device 90. In an example, the first USB Type-A port 27 and the second USB Type-A port 28 may comprise at least a portion of a plurality of USB Type-A ports 29. Moreover, the first USB Type-A port 27 and the second USB Type-A port 28 are duplicates of each other such that they support the same type of corresponding USB Type-A connector. The AIO computing device 100 also comprises a PCH 95 operatively connected to the USB hub 31 . The PCH 95 controls data paths and support functions used in conjunction with the processor 80.

[0028] In some examples, the processor 80 described herein and/or illustrated in the figures may be embodied as hardware-enabled modules and may be configured as a plurality of overlapping or independent electronic circuits, devices, and discrete elements packaged onto a circuit board to provide data and signal processing functionality within a computer. An example might be a comparator, inverter, or flip-flop, which could include a plurality of transistors and other supporting devices and circuit elements. The modules that are configured with electronic circuits process and/or execute computer logic instructions capable of providing digital and/or analog signals for performing various functions as described herein including controlling the operations of the AIO computing device 100 and associated components. In some examples, the processor 80 may comprise a central processing unit (CPU) of the AIO computing device 100. In other examples the processor 80 may be a discrete component independent of other processing components in the AIO computing device 100. In other examples, the processor 80 may be a microprocessor, microcontroller, hardware engine, hardware pipeline, and/or other hardware- enabled device suitable for receiving, processing, operating, and performing various functions for the AIO computing device 100. The processor 80 may be provided in the AIO computing device 100, coupled to the AIO computing device 100, or communicatively linked to the AIO computing device 100 from a remote networked location, according to various examples. Upon the AIO computing device 100 docking with or connecting to the communication device 85, the PD controller 66 is to detect the communication device 85 when the communication device 85 is coupled to the USB Type-C port 21 . Upon docking, the display 15 becomes the primary display device 90 in the multi-display system. In this regard, the components and connected peripherals of the display 15, such as the microphone 41 and camera 51 may be used as the primary devices for communication; e.g., for audio/video conferencing, etc.

[0029] FIG. 7, with reference to FIGS. 1 through 6, illustrates that the display controller 56 is to pass the first display signal 71 from USB Type-C port 21 to the display 15 when the processor 80 is in a sleep state of operation 105, and the display controller 56 is to pass a second display signal 72 from the processor 80 to the display 15 when the processor 80 is in a working state of operation 1 10. The first display signal 71 and the second display signal 72 may be any type of electric signal that are wired transmitted in the AIO computing device 10. In an example, the first display signal 71 and the second display signal 72 may be AC or DC signals. For example, the first display signal 71 may originate from the components; i.e. , the operating system, media, and/or peripherals, etc. of the communication device 85. Moreover, the second display signal 72 may originate from the integrated components; i.e., the operating system, memory, drives, a graphics processing unit (GPU), processor, controllers, etc. of the AIO computing device 100. According to an example, the sleep state of operation 105 may refer to the processor 80 and/or various other components and sub-systems in the AIO computing device 100 that typically draw power or receive a signal to perform a function as not being in an active state to perform their intended function(s). For example, the sleep state of operation 105 may be a sleep mode, inactive mode, hibernating mode, standby mode, low power mode, or other mode of operation in which the operating state of the component or sub-system of the AIO computing device 100 is interrupted, inactivated, or otherwise discontinued. Conversely, the working state of operation 1 10 allows the processor 80 and/or various other active components and sub-systems of the AIO computing device 100 to continue to operate in their typical and intended modes. In an example, the transition between the sleep state of operation 105 and the working state of operation 110 of the processor 80 may be controlled by a remotely-located controller, or the processor 80 may be programmed with instructions to transition between the sleep state of operation 105 and the working state of operation 110 according to a set of computer-implemented instructions/rules.

[0030] In an example, the demultiplexer 61 is to pass USB signals 115 to the USB hub 31 from the USB Type-C port 21 when the PCH 95 is in a sleep state of operation 106. Moreover the PCH 95 is to pass USB signals 116 to the USB hub 31 when the PCH 95 is in a working state of operation 111. The USB signals 115, 1 16 may be any type of electric signals that are transmitted through wired connections in the AIO computing device 100, and which can deliver power and/or signals/instructions to an electrical device(s) connected to the USB hub 31 . For example, USB signals 115 may originate from the components; i.e. , the operating system, media, and/or peripherals, etc. of the communication device 85 and are passed through the USP Type-C port 21 through the demultiplexer 61 . Accordingly, the USB signals 115 and the first display signal 71 may be the same. However, once processed by the demultiplexer 61 , the first display signal 71 may become the USB signals 1 15. Moreover, the USB signals 116 may originate from the PCH 95. In some examples, the USB signals 115, 116 may be AC or DC signals. In this regard, according to an example, the sleep state of operation 106 may refer to the PCH 95 and/or various other components and sub-systems in the AIO computing device 100 that typically draw power or receive a signal to perform a function as not being in an active state to perform their intended function(s). For example, the sleep state of operation 106 may be a sleep mode, inactive mode, hibernating mode, standby mode, low power mode, or other mode of operation in which the operating state of the component or sub-system of the AIO computing device 100 is interrupted, inactivated, or otherwise discontinued. Conversely, the working state of operation 111 allows the PCH 95 and/or various other active components and sub-systems of the AIO computing device 100 to continue to operate in their typical and intended modes. In an example, the transition between the sleep state of operation 106 and the working state of operation 1 11 of the PCH 95 may be controlled by the processor 80 or by a remotely-located controller, or the PCH 95 may be programmed with instructions to transition between the sleep state of operation 106 and the working state of operation 111 according to a set of computer-implemented instructions/rules.

[0031] FIG. 8A, with reference to FIGS. 1 through 7, illustrates that the PD controller 66 is operatively connected to the demultiplexer 61 through a first inter-integrated circuit (I2C) interface 120 and to the USB hub 31 through a second I2C interface 125. The first I2C interface 120 and the second I2C interface 125 may be similar to each other to permit connections of compatible devices in either interface 120, 125. According to an example, the PD controller 66 is operatively connected to the USB Type-C port 21 through a USB VBUS signal path 131 and configuration channel (CO) signal paths 135. According to an example, the USB VBUS signal path 131 carries power to the USB Type-C port 21 . According to some examples, the CC signal paths 135 detect the attachment of the USB Type-C port 21 and the plurality of USB Type-A ports 29, as well as establish data roles between the ports 21 , 29, and also configures the USB VBUS signal path 131 , among other functions. According to an example shown in FIG. 8B, with reference to FIGS. 1 through 8A, the PD controller 66 is operatively connected to the demultiplexer 61 through a display port interface 140 and a USB interface 145. In an example, the display port interface (e.g., DisplayPort) carries audio, visual, and USB data, among others. According to an example, the USB interface 145 may convert audio signals (e.g., received from the microphone 41 , etc.) to digital signals for processing by the processor 80.

[0032] FIG. 9, with reference to FIGS. 1 through 8B, illustrates an AIO computer 150. The AIO computer 150 includes a display 15, display controller 56, a USB Type-C port 21 , a plurality of USB Type-A ports 29, a camera 51 , and a microphone 41 . In an example, the camera 51 may be at least a 5 megapixel camera 51 , although other types/resolutions are possible. The AIO computer 150 also includes a processor 80, which may be the CPU of the AIO computer 150, a PCH 95, USB hub 31 , a demultiplexer 61 , a USB codec 62, and a PD controller 66. The USB hub 31 is communicatively coupled to each of the plurality of USB Type-A ports 29, the camera 51 and a USB codec 62 through communication paths 121 to 124, respectively. The demultiplexer 61 is communicatively coupled to the display controller 56 through a communication path 119, the USB Type-C port 21 through communication paths 126 and 127, and the USB hub 31 through a communication path 129. The PD controller 66 is communicatively coupled to the demultiplexer 61 through a communication path 118, the USB Type-C port 21 through communication paths 128 and 130, and the USB hub 31 through a communication path 125. In an example, the various communication paths described herein may be wired connections.

[0033] The display 15 may include a liquid crystal display or another suitable display. In an example, the communication path 119 comprises a DisplayPort interface 112 for passing a display signal 132 from the demultiplexer 61 to the display controller 56. In an example, the display signal 132 may be any type of electric signal. In an example, the communication path 126 comprises a DisplayPort interface 113 for passing a display signal 133 from the USB Type-C port 21 to the demultiplexer 61 . In an example, the display signal 133 may be any type of electric signal. In an example, the communications paths 121 to 124 comprise USB interfaces 166 to 169 for passing USB signals 134 between each of the plurality of USB Type-A ports 29, the camera 51 , the USB codec 62, and the USB hub 31 . In addition, in an example, the communication path 127 and the communication path 129 also comprise USB interfaces 170, 171 for passing USB signals 136 between the USB hub 31 and the USB Type-C port 21 . In some examples, the USB signals 134, 136 may be any type of electric signals.

[0034] The PD controller 66 controls the demultiplexer 61 to pass a display signal 70, input to the USB Type-C port 21 from the communication device 85, to the display controller 56 and pass control signals 172 input to the USB hub 31 through communication path 174, and then subsequently passed as USB signals 134 to the plurality of USB Type-A ports 29, the camera 51 , and the USB codec 62 as when the communication device 85 is coupled to the USB Type-C port 21 . In one example, the PD controller 66 detects the communication device 85 when the communication device 85 is coupled to the USB Type-C port 21 . The communication device 85 may include a computer, a tablet, a cellular phone, or another suitable communication device 85. In an example, the PD controller 66 is coupled to the USB Type-C port 21 via the communication path 130, which may be a VBUS signal path, and communication path 128, which may be configuration channel (e.g., CC1/CC2) signal paths. In this example, the PD controller 66 may supply power to the USB Type-C port 21 through the communication path 130 (e.g., VBUS signal path) and detect when the communication device 85 is connected to the USB Type-C port 21 through the communication path 128 (e.g., configuration channel signal paths).

[0035] In an example, the PD controller 66 is coupled to the demultiplexer 61 through the communication path 118, which may be a first I2C interface 120 and to the USB hub 31 through a second I2C interface 125. The PD controller 66 controls the states of operation of the demultiplexer 61 and the USB hub 31 via control signals 142, 172 passed through the first I2C interface 120 and the second I2C interface 125, respectively. In some examples, the control signals 142, 172 may be any type of electric signals. The PD controller 66 selectively controls the demultiplexer 61 to connect the DisplayPort interface 113 to the DisplayPort interface 112 in response to the communication device 85 being connected to the USB Type-C port 21 . In this way, a display signal 70 from the communication device 85 connected to the USB Type-C port 21 is displayed on the display 15. The PD controller 66 also selectively controls the demultiplexer 61 and the USB hub 31 to connect the communication path 127, which may be a USB interface, to the communication path 129, which may also be a USB interface, in response to the communication device 85 being connected to the USB Type-C port 21 . In this way, input/output devices (e.g., keyboard 160, mouse 165, etc.) connected to the plurality of USB Type-A ports 29, the camera 51 , and the USB codec 62 may provide input/output for the communication device 85 connected to the USB Type-C port 21 . [0036] Another example of the AIO computer 150 includes the display controller 56 and the processor 80. The display controller 56 is communicatively coupled to the demultiplexer 61 through the communication path 119 and to the display 15 through a communication path 114. The processor 80 is communicatively coupled to the display controller 56 through a communication path 117. In an example, display controller 56 is communicatively coupled to the demultiplexer 61 through the DisplayPort interface 112 and communicatively coupled to the display 15 through a Low- Voltage Differential Signaling (LVDS) interface 141. In an example, the processor 80 is communicatively coupled to the display controller 56 through a DisplayPort interface 140. The display controller 56 controls the display 15 by converting a display signal 132 to a signal 143 suitable for controlling the display 15, such as an LVDS signal. Moreover, the processor 80 controls the processing operations of the AIO computer 150. The display controller 56 passes the display signal 70 to the USB Type-C port 21 to the display 15 with the processor 80 in a sleep state of operation 105 and a display signal 144 from the processor 80 to the display 15 with the processor 80 in a working state of operation 1 10. In an example, the display signal 144 may be any type of electric signal.

[0037] Another example of the AIO computer 150 includes the PCH 95. The PCH 95 is communicatively coupled to the USB hub 31 through a communication path 146. In an example, the communication path 146 comprises a USB interface 147 to pass USB signals 1 16 between the PCH 95 and the USB hub 31 . The PCH 95 may control certain data paths and support functions of the AIO computer 150 and may be utilized in conjunction with the processor 80, according to an example. According to an example, signals 173 may be transmitted from the plurality of USB Type-A ports 29, the camera 51 , and the microphone 41 to the communication device 85 through the USB Type- C port 21 . In an example, the signals 173 may be any type of electric signal.

[0038] FIG. 10, with reference to FIGS. 1 through 9, is a block diagram illustrating one example of a system 155 including an AIO computer 150 as previously described and illustrated with reference to FIG. 9. The system 155 also includes a communication device 85, a keyboard 160, and a mouse 165. The communication device 85 is communicatively coupled to the USB Type-C port 21 through a communication path 137. The communication device 85 may be a computer, a tablet, a cellular phone, or another suitable computing device. The keyboard 160 is communicatively coupled to a first USB Type-A port 27 through a communication path 138. The mouse 165 is communicatively coupled to a second USB Type-A port 28 through a communication path 139. In other examples, other input and/or output peripheral devices may be coupled to the first USB Type-A port 27 and the second USB Type-A port 28.

[0039] With the communication device 85 connected to the USB-Type C port 21 , the display 15 of the AIO computer 150 may be controlled by the communication device 85. In addition, the camera 51 , microphone 41 , keyboard 160, and mouse 165 may be used by the communication device 85. The AIO computer 150 may provide a larger, extended, or a second display for the communication device 85. The keyboard 160 may provide a keyboard for the communication device 85 that does not include a keyboard (e.g., for a tablet or cellular phone) or a larger or more ergonomic keyboard (e.g., for a notebook computer) for the communication device 85. The mouse 165 may provide a mouse for a communication device 85 that does not include a mouse (e.g., for a tablet or cellular phone) or a larger or more ergonomic mouse (e.g., for a notebook computer) for the communication device 85. The camera 51 and microphone 41 provide a superior conferencing experience for the communication device 85.

[0040] The various controllers, switches, processors, and circuits described herein and/or illustrated in the figures may be embodied as hardware- enabled modules and may be a plurality of overlapping or independent electronic circuits, devices, and discrete elements packaged onto a circuit board to provide data and signal processing functionality within a computer. An example might be a comparator, inverter, or flip-flop, which could include a plurality of transistors and other supporting devices and circuit elements. The modules that include electronic circuits process computer logic instructions capable of providing digital and/or analog signals for performing various functions as described herein. The various functions can further be embodied and physically saved as any of data structures, data paths, data objects, data object models, object files, database components. For example, the data objects could include a digital packet of structured data. Example data structures may include any of an array, tuple, map, union, variant, set, graph, tree, node, and an object, which may be stored and retrieved by computer memory and may be managed by processors, compilers, and other computer hardware components. The data paths can be part of a computer CPU that performs operations and calculations as instructed by the computer logic instructions. The data paths could include digital electronic circuits, multipliers, registers, and buses capable of performing data processing operations and arithmetic operations (e.g., Add, Subtract, etc.), bitwise logical operations (AND, OR, XOR, etc.), bit shift operations (e.g., arithmetic, logical, rotate, etc.), complex operations (e.g., using single clock calculations, sequential calculations, iterative calculations, etc.). The data objects may be physical locations in computer memory and can be a variable, a data structure, or a function. Some examples of the modules include relational databases (e.g., such as Oracle® relational databases), and the data objects can be a table or column, for example. Other examples include specialized objects, distributed objects, object-oriented programming objects, and semantic web objects. The data object models can be an application programming interface for creating HyperText Markup Language (HTML) and Extensible Markup Language (XML) electronic documents. The models can be any of a tree, graph, container, list, map, queue, set, stack, and variations thereof, according to some examples. The data object files can be created by compilers and assemblers and contain generated binary code and data for a source file. The database components can include any of tables, indexes, views, stored procedures, and triggers.

[0041] Various examples described herein may include both hardware and software elements. The examples that are implemented in software may include firmware, resident software, microcode, etc. Other examples may include a computer program product configured to include a pre-configured set of instructions, which when performed, may result in actions as stated in conjunction with the methods described above. In an example, the preconfigured set of instructions may be stored on a tangible non-transitory computer readable medium or a program storage device containing software code.

[0042] FIG. 11 , with reference to FIGS. 1 through 10, illustrates an example system 200 to control a display 15 to become a primary display device 90 when an AIO computing device 10, 100 is docked with a communication device 85. In the example of FIG. 11 , the AIO computing device 10, 100 includes a processor 80 and a machine-readable storage medium 205. Processor 80 may include a central processing unit, microprocessors, hardware engines, and/or other hardware devices suitable for retrieval and execution of instructions stored in a machine-readable storage medium 205. Processor 80 may fetch, decode, and execute computer-executable instructions 220 to enable execution of locally-hosted or remotely-hosted applications for controlling action of the AIO computing device 10, 110. The remotely-hosted applications may be accessible on remotely-located devices; for example, remote communication device 85. For example, the remote communication device 85 may be a laptop computer, tablet device, smartphone, or notebook computer. As an alternative or in addition to retrieving and executing instructions, processor 80 may include electronic circuits including a number of electronic components for performing the functionality of the computer-executable instructions 220.

[0043] The machine-readable storage medium 205 may be any electronic, magnetic, optical, or other physical storage device that stores executable instructions. Thus, the machine-readable storage medium 205 may be, for example, Random Access Memory, an Electrically-Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, flash memory, a storage drive (e.g., a hard drive), a solid-state drive, optical drive, any type of storage disc (e.g., a compact disc, a DVD, etc.), and the like, or a combination thereof. In one example, the machine-readable storage medium 205 may include a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium 205. The machine-readable storage medium 205 may be encoded with executable instructions for enabling execution of remotely-hosted applications accessed on the remote communication device 85.

[0044] In an example, the processor 80 of the AIO computing device 10, 100 executes the computer-executable instructions 220 that when executed cause the AIO computing device 10, 100 to perform computer-executable instructions 225, 230, and 235. Detecting instructions 225 detect a communication device 85 connected to a universal serial bus (USB) Type-C port 21 of the AIO computing device 100. In an example, transmitting instructions 230 transmit a display signal 70 or first display signal 71 from the communication device 85 to a display 15 of the AIO computing device 10, 100. In an example transmitting instructions 235 transmit signals 173 from the communication device 85 to a USB Type-A port 26, a camera 51 , and a microphone 41 through the USB Type-C port 21 in order to allow the communication device 85 to utilize the functionalities associated with the peripheral devices (e.g., camera 51 , microphone 41 , etc.)

[0045] In the machine-readable storage medium 205, the instructions 220, when executed, further cause the AIO computing device 10, 100 to receive a video signal 45 from the camera 51 and an audio signal 35 from the microphone 41 . In an example, the video signal 45 and the audio signal 35 may be analog signals which may then converted to digital signals by the USB interface 145 for processing by the processor 80. In an example, the camera 51 and microphone 41 may be integrated to the AIO computing device 100. In the machine-readable storage medium 205, the instructions 220, when executed, further cause the AIO computing device 10, 100 to utilize the display 15 as a primary display device 90 when the communication device 85 is connected to the USB Type-C port 21 of the AIO computing device 100, according to an example. This permits an enhanced audio and visual experience for a user because the display 15 may be a higher quality display than the display corresponding to the communication device 85.

[0046] The present disclosure has been shown and described with reference to the foregoing exemplary implementations. Although specific examples have been illustrated and described herein it is manifestly intended that the scope of the claimed subject matter be limited only by the following claims and equivalents thereof. It is to be understood, however, that other forms, details, and examples may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure that is defined in the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1 . An all-in-one (AIO) computing device comprising: a display; a first type of electronic connector port; a second type of electronic connector port; a hub coupled to the second type of electronic connector port, wherein the hub is to receive an audio signal from an audio input source and a video signal from a video input source; a first controller connected to the display; a switch coupled to the first controller, the first type of electronic connector port, and the hub; and a second controller that controls the hub and the switch to: pass a display signal from the first type of electronic connector port to the display, and pass electric signals to the second type of electronic connector port, the audio input source, and the video input source when a communication device engages the first type of electronic connector port.

2. The AIO computing device of claim 1 , wherein the first type of electronic connector port comprises a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Type-C port.

3. The AIO computing device of claim 1 , wherein the second type of electronic connector port comprises a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Type-A port.

4. The AIO computing device of claim 1 , wherein the hub comprises a Universal Serial Bus (USB) hub.

5. The AIO computing device of claim 1 , wherein the audio input source comprises a microphone, and wherein the video input source comprises a camera.

6. The AIO computing device of claim 1 , wherein the switch comprises a demultiplexer.

7. The AIO computing device of claim 1 , wherein the first controller comprises a display controller, and wherein the second controller comprises a power delivery (PD) controller.

8. An all-in-one (AIO) computing device comprising: a display; a Universal Serial Bus (USB) Type-C port; a first USB Type-A port; a second USB Type-A port; a USB hub coupled to the first USB Type-A port, the second USB Type-A port, a camera, and a microphone; a display controller connected to the display; a processor coupled to the display controller; a demultiplexer coupled to the display controller, the USB Type-C port, and the USB hub; and a power delivery (PD) controller to control the demultiplexer and the USB hub to (i) pass a first display signal from the USB Type-C port to the display, and (ii) pass electric signals to the first USB Type-A port, the second USB Type- A port, the camera, and the microphone upon docking a communication device with the USB Type-C port to cause the display to become a primary display device.

9. The AIO computing device of claim 8, wherein the display controller is to pass the first display signal from USB Type-C port to the display when the processor is in a sleep state of operation, and wherein the display controller is to pass a second display signal from the processor to the display when the processor is in a working state of operation.

10. The AIO computing device of claim 8, comprising a platform controller hub (PCH) operatively connected to the USB hub, wherein the demultiplexer is to pass USB signals to the USB hub from the USB Type-C port when the PCH is in a sleep state of operation, and wherein the PCH is to pass the USB signals to the USB hub when the PCH is in a working state of operation.

11 . The AIO computing device of claim 8, wherein the PD controller is to detect the communication device when the communication device is coupled to the USB Type-C port.

12. The AIO computing device of claim 8, wherein the PD controller is operatively connected to the demultiplexer through a first inter- integrated circuit (I2C) interface and to the USB hub through a second I2C interface, wherein the PD controller is operatively connected to the USB Type-C port through a USB bus voltage (VBUS) signal path and configuration channel signal paths, and wherein the PD controller is operatively connected to the demultiplexer through a display port interface and a USB interface.

13. A machine-readable storage medium comprising computer-executable instructions that when executed cause an all-in-one (AIO) computing device to: detect a communication device connected to a universal serial bus (USB) Type-C port of the AIO computing device; transmit a display signal from the communication device to a display of the AIO computing device; and transmit signals from the communication device to a USB Type-A port, a camera, and a microphone through the USB Type-C port.

14. The machine-readable storage medium of claim 13, wherein the instructions, when executed, further cause the AIO computing device to receive a video signal from the camera and an audio signal from the microphone, and wherein the camera and microphone are integrated to the AIO computing device.

15. The machine-readable storage medium of claim 14, wherein the instructions, when executed, further cause the AIO computing device to utilize the display as a primary display device when the communication device is connected to the USB Type-C port of the AIO computing device.