U.S. patent application number 10/676098 was filed with the patent office on 2004-04-15 for ic card and an adapter for the same.
This patent application is currently assigned to Renesas Technology Corp.. Invention is credited to Higuchi, Akira, Nishizawa, Hirotaka, Osako, Junichiro, Osawa, Kenji.
Application Number | 20040070952 10/676098 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32064142 |
Filed Date | 2004-04-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040070952 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Higuchi, Akira ; et
al. |
April 15, 2004 |
IC card and an adapter for the same
Abstract
An IC card and card adapters are designed so that the IC card of
a specific standard (e.g., MMC standard) is compatible with IC
cards and terminals of other standards (e.g., MS card standard and
USB terminal standard). In the IC card (MMC), a controller IC,
which is connected to a flash memory, includes a voltage pull-down
detector, a mode controller, a USB-mode interface controller, a
MS-mode interface controller, and an MMC/SD-mode interface
controller. The card adapters suffice to have component parts which
are easy in formation and low in cost such as wiring lines and
resistors. The voltage pull-down detector of the IC card detects
the voltage pull-down caused by the resistors, and the mode
controller selects the USB-mode interface controller, MS-mode
interface controller or MMC/SD-mode interface controller so that
the IC card becomes compatible with the corresponding IC card
standard.
Inventors: |
Higuchi, Akira; (Kodaira,
JP) ; Nishizawa, Hirotaka; (Fuchu, JP) ;
Osako, Junichiro; (Kodaira, JP) ; Osawa, Kenji;
(Hachioji, JP) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MILES & STOCKBRIDGE PC
1751 PINNACLE DRIVE
SUITE 500
MCLEAN
VA
22102-3833
US
|
Assignee: |
Renesas Technology Corp.
Hitachi ULSI Systems Co., Ltd.
|
Family ID: |
32064142 |
Appl. No.: |
10/676098 |
Filed: |
October 2, 2003 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
361/737 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H01L 2224/48227
20130101; G06K 19/07741 20130101; G06K 19/07732 20130101; G06K
19/07743 20130101; H05K 1/117 20130101; G06K 19/0719 20130101; H01L
2224/45144 20130101; G06K 19/07733 20130101; H01L 2224/48091
20130101; H05K 1/0268 20130101; H01L 2224/48091 20130101; H01L
2924/00014 20130101; H01L 2224/45144 20130101; H01L 2924/00
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
361/737 |
International
Class: |
H05K 001/14 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 9, 2002 |
JP |
2002-296472 |
Claims
1. An IC card of a first standard comprising: (a) a plurality of
external terminals; (b) a detector which detects the voltage level
of a predetermined terminal among said external terminals; (c) a
mode controller which is connected to said detector; and (d) a
first-mode interface controller corresponding to the first standard
and a second-mode interface controller corresponding to a second
standard, with said interface controllers being connected to said
mode controller, (e) said mode controller including means of
selecting said first-mode interface controller or second-mode
interface controller in accordance with the output signal of said
detector.
2. An IC card of a first standard comprising: (a) a plurality of
external terminals; (b) a detector which detects the voltage level
of a predetermined terminal among said external terminals; (c) a
mode controller which is connected to said detector; and (d) a
first-mode interface controller corresponding to the first
standard, a second-mode interface controller corresponding to a
second IC card standard, and a third-mode interface controller
corresponding to a third standard as a terminal standard, with said
interface controllers being connected to said mode controller, (e)
said mode controller including means of selecting said first-mode
interface controller, second-mode interface controller or
third-mode interface controller in accordance with the output
signal of said detector.
3. An IC card according to claim 2, wherein said detector includes
means of detecting a pull-down voltage or a pull-up voltage.
4. An IC card according to claim 2, wherein said first standard is
the multimedia card standard, said second standard is the memory
stick standard, and said third standard is the USB standard.
5. An IC card according to claim 2, wherein said first-mode
interface controller has at least two or more bit modes, and
switches the bit mode depending on the response to the issuance of
a command signal to any of said external terminals.
6. An IC card according to claim 5, wherein one bit mode among said
at least two or more bit modes is correspondent to the SD card
standard.
7. A card adapter having an interior space which fits the profile
of an IC card of a first standard and having a profile of an IC
card of a second standard, said adapter comprising: (a) a plurality
of first external terminals; (b) a plurality of internal terminals
which are disposed at positions to be in contact with a plurality
of second external terminals of an IC card of the first standard
when said IC card is set in said adapter interior space; (c) wiring
lines which connect between said first external terminals and said
internal terminals; and (d) a resistor which is connected between a
first external terminal, with a supply voltage or ground voltage
being applied thereto, among said first external terminals and an
internal terminal.
8. A card adapter according to claim 7 further including: (e) a
mechanically-operated switch which is connected between the first
external terminal, with said resistor being connected thereto, and
another first external terminal.
9. A card adapter according to claim 7, wherein said internal
terminals have a generally rectangular profile in plan and are laid
out to have their long side extending along the card insertion
direction of the first standard.
10. A card adapter according to claim 7, wherein said internal
terminals are formed to swell in the cross section taken along the
card insertion direction of the first standard.
11. A card adapter according to claim 7 having no semiconductor
chip connected between said first external terminal and said
internal terminal.
12. A card adapter according to claim 7 including: (e) none of said
resistor; and (f) a semiconductor chip connected between said first
external terminal and said internal terminal, said semiconductor
chip having no formation of a circuit which is used for the writing
and reading of an IC card of the second standard.
13. A card adapter according to claim 7, wherein said first
standard is the multimedia card standard and said second standard
is the memory stick standard.
14. A card adapter having an interior space which fits the profile
of an IC card of a first standard, said adapter comprising: (a) a
plurality of first external terminals which are conformable to the
USB standard; (b) a plurality of internal terminals which are
disposed at positions to be in contact with a plurality of second
external terminals of an IC card of the first standard when said IC
card is set in said adapter interior space; (c) wiring lines which
connect between said first external terminals and said internal
terminals; and (d) a resistor which is connected between a first
external terminal, with a supply voltage or ground voltage being
applied thereto, among said first external terminals and an
internal terminal.
15. A card adapter according to claim 14, wherein said internal
terminals have a generally rectangular profile in plan and are laid
out to have their long side extending along the card insertion
direction of the first standard.
16. A card adapter according to claim 14, wherein said internal
terminals are formed to swell in the cross section taken along the
card insertion direction of the first standard.
17. A card adapter according to claim 14 having no semiconductor
chip connected between said first external terminal and said
internal terminal.
18. A card adapter according to claim 14 including: (e) none of
said resistor; and (f) a semiconductor chip connected between said
first external terminal and said internal terminal, said
semiconductor chip having no formation of a circuit which is used
for the writing and reading based on the USB standard.
19. A card adapter according to claim 14, wherein said first
standard is the multimedia card standard.
20. A card adapter having an interior space which fits the profile
of an IC card of a first standard and having a profile of an IC
card of the SD card standard, said adapter comprising: (a) a
plurality of first external terminals; (b) a plurality of internal
terminals which are disposed at positions to be in contact with a
plurality of second external terminals of an IC card of the first
standard when said IC card is set in said adapter interior space;
(c) wiring lines which connect between said first external
terminals and said internal terminals.
21. A card adapter according to claim 20, wherein said internal
terminals have a generally rectangular profile in plan and are laid
out to have their long side extending along the card insertion
direction of the first standard.
22. A card adapter according to claim 20, wherein said internal
terminals are formed to swell in the cross section taken along the
card insertion direction of the first standard.
23. A card adapter according to claim 20 having no semiconductor
chip connected between said first external terminal and said
internal terminal.
24. A card adapter according to claim 20, wherein said first
standard is the multimedia card standard.
25. (a) An IC card of a first standard comprising: (a1) a plurality
of first external terminals; (a2) a detector which detects the
voltage level of a predetermined terminal among said first external
terminals; (a3) a mode controller which is connected to said
detector; and (a4) a first-mode interface controller corresponding
to the first standard, a second-mode interface controller
corresponding to a second IC card standard, and a third-mode
interface controller corresponding to a third standard as a
terminal standard, with said mode interface controllers being
connected to said mode controller, said IC card being adapted to be
set in: (b) a card adapter which has an interior space which fits
the profile of an IC card of the first standard and has a profile
of an IC card of the second standard, said adapter comprising: (b1)
a plurality of second external terminals disposed in said terminal
section; (b2) a plurality of internal terminals which are disposed
at positions to be in contact with the first external terminals of
an IC card of the first standard when said IC card is set in said
adapter interior space; (b3) wiring lines which connect between
said second external terminals and said internal terminals; and
(b4) a resistor which is connected between a second external
terminal, with a supply voltage or ground voltage being applied
thereto, among said second external terminals and an internal
terminal, said IC card having: (c) said detector connected to said
second external terminal, with said resistor being connected
thereto, and detecting a varied voltage caused by said resistor;
and (d) said mode controller selecting the second-mode interface
controller based on the result of detection by said detector.
26. An IC card according to claim 25, wherein said first standard
is the multimedia card standard, said second standard is the memory
stick standard, and said third standard is the USB standard.
27. An IC card of a first standard comprising: (a1) a plurality of
first external terminals; (a2) a detector which detects the voltage
level of a predetermined terminal among said first external
terminals; (a3) a mode controller which is connected to said
detector; and (a4) a first-mode interface controller corresponding
to the first standard, a second-mode interface controller
corresponding to a second IC card standard, and a third-mode
interface controller corresponding to a third standard as a
terminal standard, with said mode interface controllers being
connected to said mode controller, said IC card being adapted to be
set in: (b) a card adapter which has an interior space which fits
the profile of an IC card of the first standard and has a terminal
section of the third standard, said adapter comprising: (b1) a
plurality of second external terminals disposed in said terminal
section; (b2) a plurality of internal terminals which are disposed
at positions to be in contact with the first external terminals of
an IC card of the first standard when said IC card is set in said
interior space of adapter; (b3) wiring lines which connect between
said second external terminals and said internal terminals; and
(b4) a resistor which is connected between a second external
terminal, with a supply voltage or ground voltage being applied
thereto, among said second external terminals and an internal
terminal, said IC card having: (c) said detector connected to said
second external terminal, with said resistor being connected
thereto, and detecting a varied voltage caused by said resistor;
and (d) said mode controller selecting the third-mode interface
controller based on the result of detection by said detector.
28. An IC card according to claim 27, wherein said first standard
is the multimedia card standard, said second standard is the memory
stick standard, and said third standard is the USB standard.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to an IC card and a card
adapter, and particularly to a technique of making a specific IC
card usable as IC cards having different shapes, different number
of terminals (external terminals), and different properties.
[0002] A memory card as small as a postage stamp, with an
electrically writable/erasable nonvolatile memory called flash
EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) being
built in, is in course of development.
[0003] Small memory cards have already been commercialized as
storage mediums of small electronic appliances such as digital
cameras and portable telephone units.
[0004] These memory cards are complicated in their standards
(external dimensions, number of pins, function, etc.), and some
memory card standards are incompatible with each other. FIG. 46 is
a table of some standards of small memory cards, listing the
development companies, product names and external dimensions of
memory cards.
[0005] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No.Hei7(1995)-141114
discloses a technique, in which a memory card 3a is set in a card
adapter 30 and the adapter 30 is put into the memory card slot 21
of an information handling appliance 22 so that serial data
transmission is established between the memory card 3a and the
appliance 22: (refer to the abstract and FIG. 10 of the patent
publication).
[0006] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No.2001-307801
discloses a connector of memory card which has an inseparable upper
and lower sections formed of resin constituting an SD card
connector 10 to be coupled with an SD card 50 and a SIM card
connector 20 to be coupled with a SIM card 60:(refer to the
abstract and FIG. 2 of the patent publication).
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] Gaining the compatibility among various types of small
memory cards based on the use of adapters is a crucial theme of
study.
[0008] Reducing the size of IC chips built in a memory card meets
the demand of smaller memory card, and at the same time yields more
chips from a sheet of semiconductor wafer so that the manufacturing
cost declines.
[0009] On this account, even among memory cards of the same
standard, the profile and performance are ever changing for the
improvement.
[0010] However, newly-designed memory cards, which are used
effectively for the newest models of appliances oriented to these
cards, cannot be used directly for older models. In addition, the
usage of memory cards is expanding to match with the functional
enhancement of small information handling appliances.
[0011] Accordingly, providing existing memory cards with the mutual
compatibility so as to fit with various appliances is significant
to meet the needs of card users and increase the demand of new
memory cards.
[0012] It is an object of the present invention to provide an IC
card which becomes compatible with IC cards of other standard by
being set in a card adapter.
[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide a card
adapter which enables an IC card to become usable as an IC card of
other standard.
[0014] These and other objects and novel features of the present
invention will become apparent from the following description and
attached drawings.
[0015] Among the affairs of the present invention disclosed in this
specification, representatives are briefed as follows.
[0016] The inventive IC card is an IC card of a first standard, and
it includes: (a) a plurality of external terminals, (b) a detector
which detects the voltage level of a certain external terminal
among the external terminals, (c) a mode controller which is
connected to the detector, and (d) a first-mode interface
controller corresponding to the first standard and a second-mode
interface controller corresponding to a second standard, with both
interface controllers being connected to the mode controller, (e)
the mode controller including means of selecting the first-mode
interface controller or second-mode interface controller in
accordance with the output signal of the detector.
[0017] The inventive card adapter has an interior space which
matches with the profile of an IC card of a first standard and has
a profile of an IC card of a second standard, and it includes: (a)
a plurality of first external terminals, (b) a plurality of
internal terminals which are disposed at positions to be in contact
with a plurality of second external terminals of an IC card of the
first standard when the IC card is set in the adapter interior
space, (c) wiring lines which connect between the first external
terminals and the internal terminals, and (d) a resistor which is
connected between a first external terminal, with a supply voltage
or ground voltage being applied thereto, among the first external
terminals and an internal terminal.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] FIG. 1 is a top view and a first side view of an IC card
based on a first embodiment of this invention;
[0019] FIG. 2 is a set of diagrams of the IC card of the first
embodiment, showing a rear view, a second and third side views, and
a cross-sectional view taken along the line A-A' of the rear
view;
[0020] FIG. 3 is a perspective top view of the IC card of the first
embodiment;
[0021] FIG. 4 is a perspective rear view of the IC card of the
first embodiment;
[0022] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional diagram showing the principal
portion of the IC card of the first embodiment;
[0023] FIG. 6 is a perspective top view showing the spatial
relation of the IC card and a card extender based on the first
embodiment of this invention;
[0024] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the function of the IC
card of the first embodiment;
[0025] FIG. 8 is a set of perspective top views showing the setting
of the IC card (RS-MMC) of the first embodiment in an SD-type
adapter;
[0026] FIG. 9 is a set of perspective top views showing the setting
of the IC card (RS-MMC) of the first embodiment in another SD-type
adapter;
[0027] FIG. 10 is a set of perspective top views showing the
setting of the IC card (RS-MMC) of the first embodiment in still
another SD-type adapter;
[0028] FIG. 11 is a perspective top view and perspective rear view
of an SD card;
[0029] FIG. 12 is a perspective rear view of an SD-type adapter
based on the first embodiment of this invention;
[0030] FIG. 13 is a principal plan view showing the SD-type adapter
of the first embodiment, with an RS-MMC being set therein;
[0031] FIG. 14 is a plan view of the SD-type adapter of the first
embodiment, showing the spatial relation of the external terminals
of adapter, the external terminals of RS-MMC, and the wiring lines
of the adapter for connecting between these terminals;
[0032] FIG. 15 is a set of perspective top views showing the
setting of the IC card (RS-MMC) of the first embodiment in an
MS-type adapter;
[0033] FIG. 16 is a set of perspective rear views showing the
setting of the IC card (RS-MMC) of the first embodiment in the
MS-type adapter;
[0034] FIG. 17 is a set of perspective rear views showing the
setting of the IC card (RS-MMC) of the first embodiment in another
MS-type adapter;
[0035] FIG. 18 is a set of perspective top views showing the
setting of the IC card (RS-MMC) of the first embodiment in still
another MS-type adapter;
[0036] FIG. 19 is a perspective top view and perspective rear view
of an MS card;
[0037] FIG. 20 is a principal plan view showing the MS-type adapter
of the first embodiment, with an RS-MMC being set therein;
[0038] FIG. 21 is a plan view of the MS-type adapter of the first
embodiment, showing the spatial relation of the external terminals
of adapter, the external terminals of RS-MMC, and the wiring lines
of the adapter for connecting between these terminals;
[0039] FIG. 22 is a perspective top view and perspective rear view
showing the setting of the IC card (RS-MMC) of the first embodiment
in an MSDuo-type adapter;
[0040] FIG. 23 is a perspective top view showing the setting of the
IC card (RS-MMC) of the first embodiment in another MSDuo-type
adapter;
[0041] FIG. 24 is a perspective top view showing the setting of the
IC card (RS-MMC) of the first embodiment in still another
MSDuo-type adapter;
[0042] FIG. 25 is a perspective top view and perspective rear view
of an MSDuo card;
[0043] FIG. 26 is a perspective top view showing the setting of the
IC card (RS-MMC) of the first embodiment in a USB-type adapter;
[0044] FIG. 27 is a perspective top view showing the setting of the
IC card (RS-MMC) of the first embodiment in another USB-type
adapter;
[0045] FIG. 28 is a perspective top view showing the setting of the
IC card (RS-MMC) of the first embodiment in still another USB-type
adapter;
[0046] FIG. 29 is a plan view of an USB-type adapter based on the
first embodiment of this invention, showing the spatial relation of
the external terminals of adapter, the external terminals of
RS-MMC, and the wiring lines in the case for connecting between
these terminals;
[0047] FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing the mode switching operation
of the controller of the IC card of the first embodiment;
[0048] FIG. 31 is a plan view of the IC card of the first
embodiment, showing the relation between the external terminals Cn
and the signals when the USB-mode interface controller is
selected;
[0049] FIG. 32 is a plan view of the IC card of the first
embodiment, showing the relation between the external terminals Cn
and the signals when the MS-mode interface controller is
selected;
[0050] FIG. 33 is a plan view of the IC card of the first
embodiment, showing the relation between the external terminals Cn
and the signals when the MMC/SD-mode interface controller is
selected;
[0051] FIG. 34 is a plan view of the IC card of the first
embodiment, showing the relation between the external terminals Cn
and the signals when the MMC/SD-mode interface controller is
selected and the 4-bit mode is selected;
[0052] FIG. 35 is a plan view of the IC card of the first
embodiment, showing the relation between the external terminals Cn
and the signals when the MMC/SD-mode interface controller is
selected and the 8-bit mode is selected;
[0053] FIG. 36 is a plan view of the IC card of the first
embodiment, showing the relation between the external terminals Cn
and the signals when the MMC/SD-mode interface controller is
selected and the 1-bit mode is selected;
[0054] FIG. 37 is a plan view showing the insertion direction of
the IC card (RS-MMC) based on a second embodiment of this
invention, and a perspective view showing the shape of the internal
terminals of the adapter;
[0055] FIG. 38 is a principal plan view showing an SD-type adapter
of the second embodiment, with an RS-MMC being set therein;
[0056] FIG. 39 is a principal plan view showing an MS-type adapter
of the second embodiment, with an RS-MMC being set therein;
[0057] FIG. 40 is a plan view showing the insertion direction of
the IC card (RS-MMC) of the second embodiment, and a perspective
view showing the shape of the internal terminals of the
adapter;
[0058] FIG. 41 is a set of plan views showing the insertion
direction of the IC card (RS-MMC) of the second embodiment, and a
perspective view showing the shape of the internal terminals of the
adapter;
[0059] FIG. 42 is a perspective view of an IC card (RS-MMC) based
on a third embodiment of this invention and an assortment of
adapters of various types;
[0060] FIG. 43 is a set of perspective views of an assortment of
adapters of various types of the third embodiment;
[0061] FIG. 44 is a plan view of an MS-type adapter based on a
fourth embodiment of this invention, showing the spatial relation
of the external terminals of adapter, the external terminals of
RS-MMC, and the wiring lines of the adapter for connecting between
these terminals;
[0062] FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing the mode switching operation
of the controller of the IC card of the fourth embodiment; and
[0063] FIG. 46 is a table of examples of standard of small memory
cards, listing the development companies, product names and
external dimensions of memory cards.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0064] Embodiments of this invention will be explained in detail
with reference to the drawings. Throughout the figures, items
having the same functions are referred to by the common symbols,
and explanation thereof is not repeated.
[0065] First Embodiment
[0066] The structure of an IC card (memory card) and card adapter
based on a first embodiment of this invention will be
explained.
[0067] FIG. 1 through FIG. 5 show the card structure, of which FIG.
1 shows a top view and a first side view of the IC card seen in the
direction indicated by "a" in the top view, FIG. 2 shows a rear
view, a second and third side views seen in the direction indicated
by "b", "c" and "d" and a cross-sectional view taken along the line
A-A' of the rear view, FIG. 3 shows a perspective top view of the
IC card 1, FIG. 4 shows a perspective rear view of the IC card, and
FIG. 5 shows the cross section of the principal portion of the IC
card. FIG. 6 shows the spatial relation of the IC card 1 and a card
extender. The IC card and card adapter have external terminals on
their rear side.
[0068] The IC card 1 has a generally rectangular profile of about
18 mm by 24 mm and has a thickness of about 1.4 mm. One of four
corners is cut away for indexing as indicated by 3, serving to
prevent the IC card 1 from being put in the opposite direction into
an electronic appliance such as a personal computer. The remaining
three corners are rounded with a relatively small curvature so that
the cut 3 of one corner is distinctive.
[0069] Along the long side that includes the cut 3, there are
arranged external terminals Cn (n=1 through 13). These external
terminals are conductive strips exposed to the rear side of the IC
card 1, and are connected to IC chips built in the IC card 1 (refer
to FIG. 5). The external terminals Cn having a generally
rectangular profile extend in parallel to the short sides of the IC
card 1. Among these terminals, C1-C7 are aligned along the long
side edge, and C8-C13 are aligned in the inner area next to C1-C7.
Terminal C8 is located in the outer area next to C7, and terminal
C9 is located in the outer area next to C1. Terminal C10 is located
between C1 and C2, terminal C11 is located between C2 and C3,
terminal C12 is located between C5 and C6, and terminal C13 is
located between C6 and C7. Arranging the external terminals Cn in
this layout pattern facilitates the formation of the internal
terminals of the card adapter as will be explained later.
[0070] The number of external terminals of the IC card 1, which is
not confined to 13 though, must be at least the maximum number of
terminals among the IC card standards, as will be explained later,
which the IC card 1 is intended to be compatible with.
[0071] Extender holders 5 are formed at both ends of the long side
that does not include the cut 3, and an extender coupling groove 7
is formed at the middle of this long side. A card extender 9 is
coupled to the IC card 1 by placed the extender corners 13 on the
extender holders 5 of the IC card 1 and bringing the ridge 11 of
the extender 9 into the groove 7 of the IC card 1 as shown in FIG.
6.
[0072] Based on the use of the card extender 9, the IC card 1 is
compatible not only with the half-size card slot, but also with the
full-size card slot (about the double of half-size) of electronic
appliances.
[0073] The IC card 1 incorporates IC chips, e.g., a memory chip and
a controller chip.
[0074] In an example shown in FIG. 5, the IC card 1 incorporates
three IC chips, e.g., flash memory chips 15 which overlap and a
controller chip 17.
[0075] These IC chips 15 and 17 are glued on a base board 19, and
the chips are connected to each other and connected to the circuit
pattern (not shown) on the base board through gold wiring lines 14
or the like. The circuit pattern of base board is connected to the
external terminals Cn.
[0076] The IC chips 15 and 17 are coated with sealing resin 21 and
further covered with a cap 23.
[0077] The build-in scheme of IC chips is not confined to the one
shown in FIG. 5. Otherwise, for example, IC chips may be glued on a
lead frame and coated with sealing resin, or IC chips may be glued
on a base board and simply covered with a cap.
[0078] Next, the internal function of the IC card based on this
embodiment will be explained. FIG. 7 shows by block diagram the
function of the IC card of this embodiment.
[0079] This IC card is of a first standard. Specifically, it is a
multimedia card (MMC) standardized by the multimediacard
association (MMCA).
[0080] This IC card is compatible with IC cards (SD memory cards)
of a second standard, IC cards (memory sticks) of a third standard,
and IC cards (USB-oriented memories) of a fourth standard. Namely,
the IC card (MMC) of this embodiment is usable as an SD memory
card, as a memory stick, and as a USB-oriented memory.
[0081] The SD (source digital) memory card, which is identical in
profile and slightly thicker than MMC, is standardized by the SD
card association to have the SD card standard.
[0082] The memory stick (MS) was developed by Sony Corp. to have
the MS card standard.
[0083] USB is the abbreviation of universal serial bus, and it is
the interface specifications for connecting easily a personal
computer to its peripheral devices. Specifically, for example,
mouse devices, keyboards, printers and modems are designed to have
a common interface so that any of these devices can be connected to
a personal computer through a common USB connector. A memory device
having a USB connector can also be connected to a personal
computer.
[0084] Many of conventional IC cards are not compatible with each
other due to their different standards, whereas the IC card of this
embodiment gains the compatibility with other IC cards as will be
explained in detail in the following.
[0085] The IC card (MMC) 1 incorporates a flash memory 15, an IC
card chip 16, and a controller IC 17.
[0086] The controller IC 17 includes a flash memory controller 31,
a mode controller 33, a voltage pull-down detector 35, a USB-mode
interface (I/F) controller 37, a MS-mode I/F controller 39, an
MMC/SD-mode I/F controller 41, an IC card chip I/F controller 43,
and a bus controller 45. The MMC/SD-mode I/F controller 41 has x1
bit mode 41a, x4 bit mode 41b, x8 bit mode 41c, and SPI mode
41d.
[0087] The flash memory 15 is connected to the flash memory
controller 31, and the IC card chip 16 is connected to the IC card
chip I/F controller 43.
[0088] The flash memory controller 31 is connected to the USB-mode
I/F controller 37, MS-mode I/F controller 39, and MMC/SD-mode I/F
controller 41.
[0089] The mode controller 33 is connected to the USB-mode I/F
controller 37, MS-mode I/F controller 39, and MMC/SD-mode I/F
controller 41, and it switches among the USB, MS and MMC/SD modes
in accordance with the signal from the voltage pull-down detector
35.
[0090] The voltage pull-down detector 35 is connected to the
external terminals Cn via the bus controller 45. The mode
controller 33, USB-mode I/F controller 37, MS-mode I/F controller
39, and MMC/SD-mode I/F controller 41 are also connected to the
external terminals Cn via the bus controller 45. Among the external
terminals, C6 and C3 are ground voltage terminals and C4 is a
supply voltage terminal.
[0091] The IC card of this embodiment includes the USB-mode I/F
controller 37 and MS-mode I/F controller 39 within the controller
IC 17, and therefore it can be used as MS and USB-oriented
memories.
[0092] The IC card chip I/F controller 43 is connected to the
MMC/SD-mode I/F controller 41 for example, and the controller 43
and IC card chip 16 are used to reinforce the security function of
the card.
[0093] The mode switching operation of the mode controller 33 will
be explained in detail in the following paragraph (5).
[0094] (1) A case of using the IC card (MMC) of this embodiment as
an SD card will be explained. This IC card will be called "RS-MMC"
for the distinction from the full-size IC card 1 which has been
explained on FIG. 6.
[0095] In the usage of the RS-MMC 1 as an SD card, an SD-type card
adapter (slot case) 50 is used.
[0096] FIG. 8 through FIG. 10 show perspectively the setting of an
RS-MMC 1 in an SD-type adapter 50. Shown by FIG. 8 is card
insertion from the short side of adapter, shown by FIG. 9 is card
entry from the top of adapter, and shown by FIG. 10 is card
insertion from the long side of adapter.
[0097] The SD-type adapter 50 has an interior space SP large enough
to accommodate the RS-MMC 1 as shown in FIGS. 8-10, has virtually
the same profile as an SD card with dimensions of about 24 mm by 32
mm and about 2.1 mm in thickness. FIG. 11 shows the top and rear of
an SD card.
[0098] The SD-type adapter 50 has external terminals ACn (n=1
through 9) on the rear side as shown in FIG. 12. These external
terminals are conductive strips exposed to the rear side of
adapter, and have electrical conduction through wiring lines formed
inside the adapter to the external terminals Cn of the RS-MMC which
is set in the adapter.
[0099] FIG. 13 shows in plan the RS-MMC 1 and SD-type adapter 50 in
their set state, and FIG. 14 shows the spatial relation of the
external terminals ACn (n=1-9) of the SD-type adapter 50, the
external terminals Cn (n=1-13) of the RS-MMC 1, and the wiring
lines of the adapter 50 for connecting between these terminals.
[0100] The external terminals AC1, AC2, AC3, AC4, AC5, AC6, AC7,
AC8 and AC9 of the SD-type adapter 50 are conductive to the
external terminals C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, C6, C7, C8 and C9 of the
RS-MMC 1, respectively, for example.
[0101] The wiring lines 55 are formed inside the SD-type adapter 50
to run from the external terminals ACn to the positions (internal
terminals) which are in contact with the external terminals Cn of
the RS-MMC 1 when it is set in the adapter. The wiring lines 55 are
formed inside the SD-type adapter 50 preferably on one layer by
avoiding the line crossing, or may be formed on multiple layers for
dealing with the line crossing.
[0102] In FIG. 13, indicated by St1 is a switch (slide switch). The
SD-type adapter 50 changes its profile depending on the position of
this switch. The host electronic appliance recognizes the change to
enable or inhibit the data writing.
[0103] (2) Another case of using the IC card (RS-MMC) of this
embodiment as an MS card will be explained.
[0104] (2-1) In the usage of the RS-MMC as an MS card, an MS-type
card adapter is used.
[0105] FIG. 15 through FIG. 18 show perspectively the setting of an
RS-MMC 1 in an MS-type adapter 60. Shown by FIGS. 15 and 16 is card
insertion from the short side of adapter, shown by FIG. 17 is card
insertion from the long side of adapter, and shown by FIG. 18 is
card entry from the top of adapter.
[0106] The MS-type adapter 60 has an interior space SP large enough
to accommodate the RS-MMC 1 as shown in FIGS. 15-18, has virtually
the same profile as an MS card with dimensions of about 21.5 mm by
50 mm and about 2.8 mm in thickness. FIG. 19 shows the top and rear
of an MS card.
[0107] The MS-type adapter 60 has external terminals ACn (n=1
through 10) on the rear side as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17. These
external terminals are conductive strips exposed to the rear side
of adapter, and have electrical conduction through wiring lines
formed inside the adapter to the external terminals Cn of the
RS-MMC which is set in the adapter.
[0108] FIG. 20 shows in plan the RS-MMC 1 and SD-type adapter 60 in
their set state, and FIG. 21 shows the spatial relation of the
external terminals ACn (n=1-10) of the MS-type adapter 60, the
external terminals Cn (n=1-13) of the RS-MMC 1, and the wiring
lines of the adapter 60 for connecting between these terminals.
[0109] The external terminals AC1, AC2, AC3, AC4, AC5, AC6, AC7,
AC8 and AC9 of the MS-type adapter 60 are conductive to the
external terminals C3 and C6, C2, C4, C7, C8, C1, C9, C5 and C4 of
the RS-MMC 1, respectively, for example. The MS-type adapter 60 has
its terminals AC1 and AC10 connected to each other, and has its
terminals AC3 and AC9 connected to each other.
[0110] The adapter has its terminals AC3 and AC10 connected through
resistors R1 and R2 in serial connection, with the node N of the
resistors being connected to the terminal AC10 through a switch St2
disposed on the rear surface of adapter and also conductive to the
external terminal C13. The switch St2 is operated mechanically to
connect or disconnect electrically between the resistor node and
the terminal AC10.
[0111] Wiring lines are formed inside the MS-type adapter 60 to run
from the external terminals ACn to the positions (internal
terminals) which are in contact with the external terminals Cn of
the RS-MMC 1 when it is set in the adapter. The wiring lines inside
the adapter may be formed on multiple layers to deal with the line
crossing as mentioned previously.
[0112] Based on the connection of the resistors R1 and R2 between
the external terminal ACn of adapter and the external terminal Cn
of RS-MMC, it is possible to recognize a voltage (pull-up voltage)
which is slightly lower than the supply voltage or a voltage
(pull-down voltage) which is slightly higher than the ground
voltage on the external terminal Cn of RS-MMC, thereby facilitating
the mode switching of RS-MMC.
[0113] The MS-type adapter has the application of various signal
voltages on the external terminals ACn as indicated on the
left-hand side of the terminals in FIG. 21. For example, the supply
voltage (VCC) is fed to AC3, and the reference ground voltage (VSS)
is fed to AC10. Individual signals will be explained in detail in
the following paragraph (5).
[0114] Based on the assessment of as to whether or not the voltage
on C13 is slightly higher (pulled down) than the ground voltage by
a certain amount determined by the resistors, the functionality of
the RS-MMC 1 as an MS card can be judged.
[0115] The MS-type adapter 60 has the switch St2 connected between
the node N of the resistors R1 and R2 and the terminal AC10,
enabling the voltage of C13 to change in response to the on/off
state of the switch St2.
[0116] For example, C13 is pulled down completely when the switch
St2 is on (write inhibit mode), or it is pulled down half when the
switch St2 is off (write enable mode).
[0117] In this fashion, the write enable/inhibit mode can be
switched in response to the degree of voltage pull-down on C13.
[0118] (2-2) The category of MS card includes a version of smaller
profile called "memory stick Duo" (MSDuo) card.
[0119] In the case of using the RS-MMC as a MSDuo, a MSDuo-type
card adapter is used.
[0120] FIGS. 22 through FIG. 24 show perspectively the setting of
an RS-MMC 1 in an MSDuo-type adapter 70. Shown by FIG. 22 is card
insertion from the short side of adapter, shown by FIG. 23 is card
insertion from the long side of adapter, and shown by FIG. 24 is
card entry from the top of adapter.
[0121] The MSDuo-type adapter 70 has an interior space SP large
enough to accommodate the RS-MMC 1 as shown in FIGS. 22-24, has
virtually the same profile as an MSDuo card with dimensions of
about 20 mm by 31 mm and about 1.6 mm in thickness. FIG. 25 shows
the top and rear of an MSDuo card.
[0122] The MSDuo-type adapter 70 has external terminals ACn (n=1
through 10) on the rear side as shown in FIG. 22. These external
terminals are conductive strips exposed to the rear side of
adapter, and have electrical conduction through wiring lines formed
inside the adapter to the external terminals Cn of the RS-MMC which
is set in the adapter.
[0123] The external terminals ACn (n=1-10) of the MSDuo-type
adapter 70, the external terminals Cn (n=1-13) of the RS-MMC 1, and
the wiring lines of the adapter 70 for connecting between these
terminals have the same spatial relation as the case of the MS-type
adapter explained on FIG. 21, and explanation thereof is
omitted.
[0124] Resistors R1 and R2 are connected between the external
terminal ACn of the MS-type adapter and the external terminal Cn of
the RS-MMC, so that the mode is switched in response to the
presence or absence of voltage pull-down on the external terminal
and the write enable/inhibit is switched in response to the degree
of voltage pull-down, as in the case of the MS-type adapter.
[0125] (3) Another case of using the IC card (RS-MMC) of this
embodiment as a USB-oriented memory will be explained.
[0126] In the usage of the RS-MMC as a USB-oriented memory, a
USB-type card adapter (slot device with a USB terminal) is
used.
[0127] FIG. 26 through FIG. 28 show perspectively the setting of an
RS-MMC 1 in an USB-type adapter 80. Shown by FIG. 26 is card
insertion from the short side of adapter, i.e., in the adapter
plug-in direction, shown by FIG. 27 is card insertion from the long
side of adapter, i.e., in the direction perpendicular to the
adapter plug-in direction, and shown by FIG. 28 is card entry from
the top of adapter.
[0128] The USB-type adapter 80 has an interior space SP large
enough to accommodate the RS-MMC 1 as shown in FIGS. 22-28, and it
consists of a case section 80a and a USB terminal section 80b.
[0129] The USB terminal section 80b has external terminals ACn (n=1
through 4) as shown in FIG. 26. These external terminals are
conductive strips, and have electrical conduction through wiring
lines formed inside the case section 80a to the external terminals
Cn of the RS-MMC which is set in the adapter.
[0130] FIG. 29 shows the spatial relation of the external terminals
ACn (n=1-4) of the USB terminal section, the external terminals Cn
(n=1-13) of the RS-MMC 1, and the wiring lines in the case section
for connecting between these terminals.
[0131] The external terminals AC1, AC2, AC3 and AC4 of the USB
terminal section are conductive to the external terminals C4, C12,
C11, and C3 and C6 of the RS-MMC 1, respectively, for example. AC4
and AC10 are connected through a resistor R3.
[0132] Wiring lines are formed inside the case section to run from
the external terminals ACn to the positions (internal terminals)
which are in contact with the external terminals Cn of the RS-MMC
when it is set in the adapter. The wiring lines inside the adapter
may be formed on multiple layers to deal with the line crossing as
mentioned previously.
[0133] Based on the connection of the resistor R3 between the
external terminal ACn of adapter and the external terminal Cn of
RS-MMC, it is possible to recognize a voltage (pull-up voltage)
which is slightly lower than the supply voltage or a voltage
(pull-down voltage) which is slightly higher than the ground
voltage on the external terminal Cn of RS-MMC, thereby facilitating
the mode switching of RS-MMC. The USB-type adapter has the
application of various signal voltages on the external terminals
ACn as indicated on the left-hand side of the terminals in FIG. 29.
AC4 has the application of the ground voltage (GND).
[0134] Based on the assessment of as to whether or not the voltage
on C10 is slightly higher (pulled down) than the ground voltage by
a certain amount determined by the resistor, the functionality of
the RS-MMC as a USB-oriented memory can be judged.
[0135] (4) In the case of using the IC card (RS-MMC) 1 of this
embodiment as a full-size MMC, the card extender 9 which has been
explained on FIG. 6 is used. The RS-MMC 1, with the extender 9
being attached, is put into the slot of a host electronic
appliance, and the external terminals Cn (n=1-13) of RS-MMC come in
contact with the terminals of appliance to allow signal
transaction. The extender 9 shown in FIG. 6 has neither wiring
lines nor interior space.
[0136] Obviously, when the RS-MMC 1 without the extender 9 is put
directly into the slot of host electronic appliance, the external
terminals Cn (n=1-13) of RS-MMC come in contact with the terminals
of appliance to allow signal transaction.
[0137] The adapters explained in the foregoing paragraphs (1)-(4)
have casings of resin which house wiring boards. The wiring board
is a glass-epoxy plate, with a copper layer being formed on the
surface, and the copper layer is etched to form wiring lines. The
wiring lines are connected to the internal terminals which will be
in contact with the external terminals of the RS-MMC when it is set
in the adapter, and parts of the wiring lines form the adapter
external terminals which are exposed to the outside through an
opening of the casing. The internal terminals are preferably formed
of bent metallic plates or provided with a spring action means so
that the internal terminals exerts a pushing force on the external
terminals Cn (n=1-13) of RS-MMC.
[0138] (5) Next, the mode switching operation of the IC card
(RS-MMC) of this embodiment which takes place when the card is put
into the slot of a host appliance directly or by being set in any
of the foregoing adapters will be explained.
[0139] FIG. 30 shows by flowchart the mode determining operation by
the controller IC 17 shown in FIG. 7 and the function switching
operation for the controller IC 17 in accordance with the
determined mode.
[0140] The host appliance, with the IC card (RS-MMC) 1 being placed
in its card slot, is turned on, and it starts the card setup
operation to feed the ground voltage (VSS or GND) to external
terminals C3 and C6 of RS-MMC and the supply voltage (VCC) to
terminal C4.
[0141] Step 1: The voltage pull-down detector 35 judges whether or
not the external terminal C10 is at pull-down. In response to
pull-down on the terminal C10, which is the case where the USB-type
adapter 80 explained on FIG. 29 is attached to the RS-MMC 1, the
controller 33 selects the USB mode.
[0142] Subsequently, the USB-mode I/F controller assigns the +Data
and -Data terminals to external terminals C11 and C12,
respectively, of the RS-MMC as shown in FIG. 31. +Data is the data
signal, and -Data is the inverted version of the signal. Terminal
C3 and C6 are of the ground voltage, and terminal C4 is the VBus
terminal of the supply voltage, e.g., 5 V.
[0143] Step 2: If terminal C10 is not at pull-down, the pull-down
detector 35 judges whether or not terminal C13 is at mid pull-down.
In response to mid pull-down on terminal C13, i.e., having a mid
pull-down voltage, which is the case where the MS-type adapter 60
or MSDuo-type adapter 70 explained on FIG. 21 is attached to the
RS-MMC 1, the controller 33 selects the MS mode. In the case of mid
pull-down, the switch Stl is off, and then write-enable mode is
set.
[0144] Subsequently, the MS-mode I/F controller assigns the INS,
BS, SCLK, DIO, and RSV terminals to external terminals C1, C2, C5,
C7, and C8 and C9, respectively, of the RS-MMC as shown in FIG.
32.
[0145] INC is the memory stick attach/detach detection signal, BS
is the serial protocol bus state signal, SCLK is the serial
protocol clock signal, and DIO is the serial protocol data signal.
Terminal RSV is for reservation. Terminals C3 and C6 are of the
ground voltage (VSS), and terminal C4 is of the supply voltage
(VCC), e.g.,3.3 V.
[0146] Step 3: If terminal C13 is not at mid pull-down, the
pull-down detector 35 judges whether or not pull-down is full
pull-down. In response to pull-down on terminal C13, i.e., having a
voltage further lower than the mid pull-down voltage, which is the
case where the MS-type adapter 60 or MSDuo-type adapter 70 is
attached to the RS-MMC 1, the controller 33 selects the MS mode. In
the case of full pull-down, the switch St1 is on, and then
write-inhibit mode is set.
[0147] Subsequently, the MS-mode I/F controller assigns the signal
terminals to the external terminals Cn as explained on FIG. 32.
[0148] Step 4: If terminal C13 is not at full pull-down, which is
the case where the SD-type adapter 50 explained on FIGS. 13 and 14
or the card extender 9 explained on FIG. 6 is attached to the
RS-MMC 1 or the RS-MMC 1 has no attachment, the controller 33
selects the MMC/SD mode.
[0149] Subsequently, the SPI mode, x4 bit mode (SD mode), x8 bit
mode (fast MMC mode), or x1 bit mode (normal MMC mode) is selected
as follows.
[0150] Step 4-1: During the reception of reset command on terminal
C2, it is checked whether or not the chip select signal (CS) on
terminal C1 is asserted.
[0151] In case the CS signal is asserted, the MMC/SD-mode I/F
controller 41 selects the SPI mode 41d. In the SPI mode, different
from other MMC (1 bit or 8 bit) modes, the command signal is
transferred in one direction.
[0152] The external terminals Cn and the signal terminals are
related as shown in FIG. 33. Specifically, external terminals C2,
C5 and C7 of RS-MMC are the DI, SCLK and DO signal terminals,
respectively. DI is the input data signal, and DO is the output
data signal. Terminal C1 is for the CS signal, C3 and C6 are for
the VSS voltage, and C4 is for the VCC voltage.
[0153] Step 4-2: When the CMD (start command) signal of the SD mode
(x4 bit mode) is put in to terminal C2, the controller 33 makes a
response of readiness of SD mode starting and selects the SD mode
(x4 bit mode) 41b.
[0154] The external terminals Cn and the signal terminals are
related as shown in FIG. 34. Specifically, external terminals C1,
C5, C7, C8, and C9 of RS-MMC are the CD/DAT3, CLK, DAT0, DAT1, and
DAT2 signal terminals, respectively. CD/DAT3 is either the card
detect (CD) signal indicating the setting of memory card in the
host appliance, or the third data signal (DAT3). DAT0, DAT1, and
DAT2 are the 0-th data signal, first data signal, and second data
signal, respectively. Terminal C2 is for the CMD signal, C3 and C6
are for the VSS voltage, and C4 is for the VCC voltage.
[0155] Step 4-3: When the CMD (start command) signal of the fast
MMC mode (x8 bit mode) is put in to terminal C2, the controller 33
selects the fast MMC mode (x8 bit mode) 41c.
[0156] The external terminals Cn and the signal terminals are
related as shown in FIG. 35. Specifically, external terminals C1,
C5, C7, and C8-C13 of RS-MMC are the DAT3, CLK, DAT0, and DAT1-DAT2
and DAT4-DAT7 signal terminals, respectively. Terminal DAT0 is for
the 0 th data signal, terminals DAT1-DAT7 are for the first through
seventh signals, terminal C2 is for the CMD signal, C3 and C6 are
for the VSS voltage, and C4 is for the VCC voltage.
[0157] Step 4-4: In the case of the absence of assertion of the CS
signal and input of the CMD (start command) signal of SD mode (x4
bit mode) or CMD (start command) signal of fast MMC mode (x8 bit
mode), the controller 33 selects the normal MMC mode (x1 bit mode)
41a.
[0158] The external terminals Cn and the signal terminals are
related as shown in FIG. 36. Specifically, external terminals C1,
C5, and C7 of RS-MMC are the RSV/CS, CLK, and DAT signal terminals,
respectively. Terminal RSV/CS is for either a reserved signal (RSV)
or CS signal. Terminal C2 is for the CMD signal, C3 and C6 are for
the VSS and VCC voltages, respectively.
[0159] As described above, the IC card of this embodiment can be
used as memories of various standards owing to the provision of the
voltage pull-down detector 35, mode controller 33, USB-mode I/F
controller 37, MS-mode I/F controller 39 and I/F controllers for
other memory standards.
[0160] Owing to the incorporation of the controller IC 17 within
the IC card, each card adapter does not need to have its own
controller, enabling the cost-down of adapter.
[0161] Although it is otherwise possible to provide each adapter
with mode switching functions (35,33,37,39, etc. ) for the adaption
to other standards, the adapter needs to have an IC chip for those
functions, resulting in a cost increase.
[0162] Whereas, the provision of the voltage pull-down detector and
mode controller within the IC card, as in the case of this
embodiment, enables the card adapters to suffice to have easy
formation of inexpensive parts such as wiring lines and resistors
in rendering the IC card the compatibility with memories of other
standards.
[0163] Although this embodiment deals with the IC card
compatibility with three standards including the SD card, MS card
and USB-oriented memory, the inventive IC card and card adapter can
be made compatible with more than three standards based on the
provision of I/F controllers for other standards.
[0164] Although in this embodiment voltage pull-down resistors are
used in the USB-type adapter and MS-type adapter, resistors may be
used in adapters of arbitrary types.
[0165] Although this embodiment uses a scheme of voltage pull-down,
voltage pull-up may be used instead. In any case, a voltage change
caused by resistors can be used as signal generation. An
alternative detector may be used for detecting the conduction
between adapter external terminals which are left unused for
signals.
[0166] Second Embodiment
[0167] A second embodiment of this invention pertains to the RS-MMC
card adapter attachment direction and the shape of internal
terminals of the adapter.
[0168] (1) FIG. 37 shows perspectively the internal terminals of a
card adapter AD of the case where the RS-MMC 1 is put into the
adapter AD from the short side of adapter as explained on FIG. 8 in
the first embodiment.
[0169] When the RS-MMC 1 is put in the adapter AD, the RS-MMC
external terminals Cn come in contact with the internal terminals
BCn formed on the interior wall of the adapter AD as shown in the
figure. The internal terminals BCn are spring-active terminals
having a generally rectangular profile in plan and having their
long side extending in the card insertion direction (along the long
side of card and adapter). The internal terminals BCn are formed to
swell in the cross section taken along the long side of RS-MMC.
[0170] Due to this profile of adapter internal terminals BCn, the
RS-MMC external terminals and adapter internal terminals are eased
of mechanical stress at the putting in and out of the card and also
ensured in their electrical contact. Shown by dotted patterns in
the figure (also in FIG. 40 and FIG. 41) are areas of external
terminals of RS-MMC.
[0171] FIG. 38 and FIG. 39 show in plan the layout of the internal
terminals BCn of this embodiment on the SD-type adapter, with the
RS-MMC being set, shown in FIG. 13 and on the MS-type adapter, with
the RS-MMC being set, shown in FIG. 20.
[0172] (2) FIG. 40 shows perspectively the internal terminals of a
card adapter AD of the case where the RS-MMC 1 is put into the
adapter from the long side of adapter as explained on FIG. 10 in
the first embodiment.
[0173] The internal terminals BCn of adapter have a generally
rectangular profile in plan and have their long side extending in
the card insertion direction (along the short side of card and
adapter) as shown in the figure. The internal terminals BCn are
formed to swell in the cross section taken along the short side of
RS-MMC.
[0174] Due to this profile of adapter internal terminals BCn, the
RS-MMC external terminals and adapter internal terminals are eased
of mechanical stress at the putting in and out of the card and also
ensured in their electrical contact. In addition, this internal
terminal layout allows a sufficient spacing among the terminals
BCn.
[0175] (3) FIG. 41 shows the adapter internal terminals and the
manner of card setting of the case where the RS-MMC 1 is put into
the adapter AD from the top of adapter as explained on FIG. 9 of
the first embodiment.
[0176] The internal terminals BCn of adapter have a generally
rectangular profile in plan and have their long side extending
along the short side of RS-MMC as shown in the figure. The internal
terminals are formed to swell in the cross section taken along the
short side of RS-MMC.
[0177] In addition, the adapter AD has the formation of a latch 91
and lock nails 93, by which the RS-MMC 1 can be secured.
[0178] In regard to the adapter internal terminals BCn explained
throughout the paragraphs (1)-(3), internal terminals may be laid
out in correspondence to all 13 terminals of RS-MMC, or internal
terminals which correspond to unused terminals of RS-MMC depending
on the card mode may not be laid out.
[0179] The adapter AD of this embodiment can be any of the SD-type
adapter, MS-type adapter, MSDuo-type adapter, and USB-type
adapter.
[0180] The internal terminals BCn of this embodiment are preferably
fixed at their one flat end next to the swelling section by
soldering to the wiring board in the adapter, while being left free
at their another end, so that the internal terminals exert a
pushing force on the external terminals Cn (n=1-13) of RS-MMC.
[0181] Third Embodiment
[0182] A third embodiment of this invention pertains to kits for
sale of the RS-MMC and its assortment of adapters which have been
explained in the first embodiment.
[0183] (1) FIG. 42 shows perspectively a kit of RS-MMC 1 and
various card adapters. This adapter kit includes the RS-MMC 1,
SD-type adapter 50, MS-type adapter 60, MSDuo-type adapter 70 and
USB-type adapter 80. The adapter kit may include more than one (xN)
RS-MMC, or may include the card extender 9 which has been explained
on FIG. 6.
[0184] The sale kit of RS-MMC and adapters provides the RS-MMC
users with the compatibility with various electronic appliances
which deal with SD cards, MS cards and USB-oriented memories. It
also facilitates the data transaction (writing and reading) among
various electronic appliances.
[0185] (2) FIG. 43 shows perspectively a kit various card
adapters.
[0186] This adapter kit includes the SD-type adapter 50, MS-type
adapter 60, MSDuo-type adapter 70 and USB-type adapter 80. The
adapter kit may include the card extender 9 which has been
explained on FIG. 6.
[0187] The sale kit of adapters provides the RS-MMC users with the
compatibility with various electronic appliances. It also
facilitates the data transaction (writing and reading) among
various electronic appliances. It also fosters the prevalence of
the RS-MMC 1.
[0188] Fourth Embodiment
[0189] In contrast to the first embodiment in which each card
adapter has only wiring lines and resistors, it may be provided
with an IC chip for mode determination as shown in FIG. 44.
[0190] FIG. 44 shows in plan the relation of the external terminals
ACn (n=1-10) of the MS-type adapter 60, the external terminals Cn
(n=1-13) of the RS-MMC 1, and the wiring lines of adapter for
connecting between these terminals.
[0191] The external terminals ACn of the MS-type adapter 60 and the
external terminals Cn of the RS-MMC 1 are the same as explained in
paragraph (2) of the first embodiment and on FIG. 21, and
explanation is not repeated. The connection between the external
terminals ACn and Cn is mostly the same as explained on FIG. 21,
and only different affairs will be explained.
[0192] An IC chip CH is connected between external terminals AC3
and AC10, for example, of the MS-type adapter. The IC chip CH
further has the connection to terminal AC10 via a switch St2, and
the connection to external terminal C13. The switch St2 is disposed
on the rear side of the MS-type adapter 60, and it is operated
mechanically to connect or disconnect electrically between the IC
chip CH and terminal AC10.
[0193] The switch St2 enables the selection between, for example,
the write-enable mode and the write-inhibit mode in the MS mode in
accordance with the operation shown by flowchart in FIG. 45.
[0194] This flowchart derives from the flowchart of FIG. 30 which
has been explained for the first embodiment, and only distinct
steps 2 and 3 will be explained here.
[0195] Step 2: When the switch St2 is off, the IC chip CH issues a
write-enable command and gives to external terminal C13. In
response to the entry of the write enable command, the mode
controller 33 of RS-MMC 1 shown in FIG. 7 selects the MS mode (39)
and write enable mode.
[0196] Step 3: When the switch St2 is on, the IC chip CH issues a
write inhibit command and gives to external terminal C13. In
response to the entry of the write-inhibit command, the mode
controller 33 of RS-MMC 1 shown in FIG. 7 selects the MS mode (39)
and write-inhibit mode.
[0197] If no command is placed on external terminal C13, the
operational sequence proceeds to step 4 in FIG. 30.
[0198] In this manner, the RS-MMC 1 has its operational mode
switched in response to the command from the IC chip CH on the
adapter, instead of the provision of the voltage pull-down detector
35 shown in FIG. 7.
[0199] An additional cost of the IC chip CH is imposed on this
adapter obviously in contrast to the adapters explained in the
first embodiment.
[0200] An alternative scheme of mode switching is providing a mode
command generation means on the part of host electronic
appliances.
[0201] However, the IC card and adapter of this embodiment render
the higher generality for themselves by being not reliant on host
electronic appliances.
[0202] The IC chip CH can be less costly by having only a mode
command generating function.
[0203] Specifically, the IC chip CH of adapter does not necessitate
a large intricate circuit for the writing and reading of IC card,
e.g., I/F controllers for individual modes, which is included in
the controller of RS-MMC. An IC chip CH of a sole mode command
generating circuit is simple in arrangement and low in cost, and
therefore adapters which mount this IC chip CH can be
inexpensive.
[0204] Functions which are simple in circuit arrangement and common
among adapters of all types (functions needed by any adapter) are
preferably included in the IC chip CH on the part of adapters with
the intention of cost reduction of IC chip CH.
[0205] Although this embodiment uses the IC chip CH on the MS-type
adapter, it can be mounted on any type of adapter.
[0206] Although the present invention has been described in
connection with the specific embodiments, the invention is not
confined to these embodiments, but various alterations are
obviously possible without departing from the essence of the
invention.
[0207] Among the affairs of the present invention disclosed in this
specification, the major effectiveness is briefed as follows.
[0208] An IC card of a first standard includes therein a detector
for detecting the voltage level of a certain external terminal
among multiple external terminals and a mode controller connected
to the detector. The mode controller selects a first mode interface
controller of the first standard or a second mode interface
controller of a second standard in accordance with the output
signal of the detector, whereby the IC card can be compatible with
IC cards of the second standard.
[0209] An IC card of the first standard, which is set in the
adapter having a profile of an IC card of the second standard, can
become compatible with IC cards of the second standard. The adapter
suffices to have wiring lines and resistors which are easy in
formation and low in cost, and renders the IC card the
compatibility with IC cards of other standard.
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