GB2492752A - Portable memory apparatus - Google Patents
Portable memory apparatus Download PDFInfo
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- GB2492752A GB2492752A GB1111479.0A GB201111479A GB2492752A GB 2492752 A GB2492752 A GB 2492752A GB 201111479 A GB201111479 A GB 201111479A GB 2492752 A GB2492752 A GB 2492752A
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- 238000012545 processing Methods 0.000 claims description 9
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- 238000007726 management method Methods 0.000 description 10
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- HBBGRARXTFLTSG-UHFFFAOYSA-N Lithium ion Chemical compound [Li+] HBBGRARXTFLTSG-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
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- BSFODEXXVBBYOC-UHFFFAOYSA-N 8-[4-(dimethylamino)butan-2-ylamino]quinolin-6-ol Chemical compound C1=CN=C2C(NC(CCN(C)C)C)=CC(O)=CC2=C1 BSFODEXXVBBYOC-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon Chemical compound [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
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Classifications
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
- G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
- G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
- G06F1/1626—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers with a single-body enclosure integrating a flat display, e.g. Personal Digital Assistants [PDAs]
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
- G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
- G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
- G06F1/1633—Constructional details or arrangements of portable computers not specific to the type of enclosures covered by groups G06F1/1615 - G06F1/1626
- G06F1/1656—Details related to functional adaptations of the enclosure, e.g. to provide protection against EMI, shock, water, or to host detachable peripherals like a mouse or removable expansions units like PCMCIA cards, or to provide access to internal components for maintenance or to removable storage supports like CDs or DVDs, or to mechanically mount accessories
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F13/00—Interconnection of, or transfer of information or other signals between, memories, input/output devices or central processing units
- G06F13/38—Information transfer, e.g. on bus
- G06F13/382—Information transfer, e.g. on bus using universal interface adapter
- G06F13/385—Information transfer, e.g. on bus using universal interface adapter for adaptation of a particular data processing system to different peripheral devices
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
- G06F3/06—Digital input from, or digital output to, record carriers, e.g. RAID, emulated record carriers or networked record carriers
- G06F3/0601—Interfaces specially adapted for storage systems
- G06F3/0628—Interfaces specially adapted for storage systems making use of a particular technique
- G06F3/0655—Vertical data movement, i.e. input-output transfer; data movement between one or more hosts and one or more storage devices
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Computer Hardware Design (AREA)
- Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
- Information Retrieval, Db Structures And Fs Structures Therefor (AREA)
Abstract
A portable USB memory module (or USB memory stick or flash drive) 100 comprises: a processor (12, Fig.2), non volatile storage means (5, Fig.2), a male USB connector 1 connected to the processor via a bi-directional USB data bus, at least one bi-directional data port connected to the processor via a respective bi-directional data bus, and a display 11 (LCD, LED, or touch sensitive). The module can also comprise female USB connectors 2, 3, SDHC memory card slot 4, and hardware keys (buttons) 10. There is also provided means for reading and outputting on the display the file structure of the non-volatile storage means and an external memory device connected to one or more of the data buses, and control means 10 for navigating, selecting and transferring data files between different external memory devices connected to the processor and/or the non-volatile storage means. The non-volatile memory can be a flash memory. The module can comprise on-board power supply (battery) recharged by an external device connected to a port. The module can be used on-the-go and it is not necessary to have it connected to a computer.
Description
INTELLECTUAL
*. . PROPERTY OFFICE Applicalion No. GB 1111479.0 R.TM Dale:26 April2012 The following terms are registered trademarks and should be read as such wherever they occur in this document: Atmel. Linux Intellectual Properly Office is an operaling name of Ihe Patent Office www.ipo.gov.uk Portable Memory Apparatus
Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a portable memory apparatus.
Background of the Invention
Portable memory apparatuses are commonplace and allow users to store data flies, such as documents, images and video onto a compact handheld module that is easily transportable and connectable to a processing system, such as a personal computer (PC), laptop or similar device, A well-known example is a USB memory stick or flash drive which comprises a compact module with a male liSP connector which is connected via a hi-directional data bus to non-volatile memory for storing data received through the USB connector. Further examples include memory cards, such as SDJIC cards, Compact Flash and so on which are commonly employed in cameras and media players, to give two examples.
Such portable memory requires the use of a main computer, e.g. the PC or laptop, for memory management tasks, such as to view files that are stored thereon, and to enable fiies to be transferred from one portable memory apparatus to another.
Sununary of the Invention A first aspect of the invention provides a computer peripheral apparatus comprising non-volatile storage means, a plurality of hi-directional data ports for connection to a respective external memory device, a display, means for reading and outputting on the display the fllc structure of the non-volanle storage means and the or each memory device connected to one or more of the ports, means for navigating the or each file structure and selecting a file or collection of files within the or each file structure, and means for cansfetTing a selected file or collection of files between a connected external memory device and the non-volatile storage means and/or between any two connected external memory devices.
The apparatus provides a device (in which can he performed memory management tasks in relation to external processing or memory devices connected to the apparatus, for example viewing, navigating and copying/pasting files or coLlections of files from one device to another, or to the on-board memory. The apparatus can be used on-the-go and it is not necessary to have the device connected to a controlling computer.
Tn a preferred embodiment, one of the data ports is connected to a male connector. The male connector may be permanently connected to said data port. The male connector may be a male TJSB connector.
One or more of the data ports may be a female USB port.
One or more of the data ports may be a memory card slot, such as a SDHC card slot.
the non-volatije storage means may he flash memory.
The reading and outputting means may be operable automatically to read and display the tile structure responsive to an external memory device being connected to a respective one of the ports.
The apparatus may further comprise an on-board power supply. The on-board power supply may be arranged to be recharged by means of a current received from an external device connected to one of the ports.
The display may be a LCD or LED display. The display may he a touch-sensitive display operable to receive user inputs for the navigating means.
The apparatus may further eoniptise a plurality of buttons or keys separate from the display means, which buttons or keys are operable to receive touch-based user inputs for the navigating means. The buttons or keys may comprising a plurality of scrolling keys and a single select key.
[he apparatus may further comprise an external housing from which projects the USB male connector for connecon to a female port of a processing device, the display and navigating means being provided on said housing.
A second aspect of tile invention provides a portable USB memory module comprising: a processor, non-volatile storage means, a male USB connector connected to the processor via a bi-directional USB data bus, at least one hi-directional data port connected to the processor via a respective hi-directional data bus, a display, means for reading and outputting on the display the file structure of the non-volatile storage means and an external memory device connected to one or more of the data buses, and control means for navigating, selecting and transferring data files between different external memory devices connected to the processor and/or the non-volatile storage means.
A third aspect of the invention provides a TDSB memory stick comprising a processor, a memory associated with the processor, a male USB connector, one or more female ports for connection to a respective external processor and/or memory device, and a memory management system for reading and displaying the tile structure of the memory associated with the processor and that of one or more connected external devices, for receiving user inputs operable to select a file or collection of files from the displayed file structure(s), and for transferring a selected file or collection of files between the memory associated with the processor and one or more connected external devices.
A fourth aspect of the invention provides a method performed on a computer peripheral apparatus having a non-volatile storage means and a plurality of hi-directional data ports, the method comprising: reading and outputting on a display the file structure of the non-volatile storage means and one or more external memory device(s) connected to a respective port; enabling navigation of the or each file structure and selection of a file or collection of files within the or each file structure; and transferring a selected file or collection of files between a connected external memory device and the non-volatile store means and/or between any two connected external memory device(s).
Brief Description of the Drawings
Embediments of the invention will now he described, by way of example on]y, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a top-plan view of a portable memory device embodying aspects of the invention; Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating components of the Figure 1 memory device and their interconnection; Figure 3 is a flow diagram indicating processing steps performed on a processor of the Figure 1 memory device; Figure 4 is a top-plan view of the Figure 1 memory device with two external memory devices connected thereto; Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a first file structure associated with a first external memory device shown in Figure 4; Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a second file structure associated with a second e,cternai memory device shown in Figure 4; Figures 7 and each show flow diagrams indicating processing steps in an initialisation process and a timer overflow process, respecti\elv.
Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments
Referring to Figure 1, there is shown a portable memory device, or memory stick 100 as is the term often used in the art, in accordance with a preferred embodiment. The exterior of the memory device 100 has a permanently connected USE male connector 1, first and second female USE ports (USBI and USB2) 2, 3, a SDF4C memory card slot 4, a display ii and hardware keys to.
Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of the components of the memory device 100. The memory device 100 has a controller or microprocessor 12, a USE port connected the USE male connector 1, the above-described female USE ports 2, 3, the SDHC memory card sUit 4, NAND/NOR flash memory 3. data flash memory 6, a power supply 9, EEPROM memory?. SDRAM memory 8, the hardware keys or control buttons 10, and the display 11. The microprocessor 12 is connected to each of the other components in order to control operanon thereof.
The powe supply 9 is a rechargeable battery, e.g. a lithium-ion, polymer, Ni-cad, NiMU, Alkaline or Carbon Zn battery.
The;\ND/NOR flash memory 5 is non-volatile solid state memory that provides on-hoard memory for storing files and folders of files received from other processing devices, e.g. computers or laptops, and other memory devices when connected to a respective USB Port 1, 2, 3 or SDI-1C ports 4. The data flash memory 6 is non-volatile solid state memory on which is stored controlling software, e.g. an operating system, for the memory device 100. The controlling software contains code which, when executed by the microprocessor 12 in conjunction with RAil, controls operation of each of the hardware components of the memory device 100. The ERPROM memory 7 is a separate memory module providing extended memory for storing data during power off.
The SDRANI memory 8 is used in the to-bc-described memory management tasks performed by the microprocessor 12 (luring operation of the memo device 100 to transfer data between external memory devices connected to the ports 1 -4 and/or between an external memory device and the data flash memory 6.
The microprocessor 12 may take any suitable form. For instance, it may be a microcontroller, plural microcontrollers, a processor, or plural processors.
The memory device 100 may take the form of a compact memory stick, easily held in one hand.
The display ii is for displaying images and text to users of the nieniory device 100, particularly a visual indication of external processing or memory devices (hereafter "external devices") connected to a respective one of the ports 1 -4, a selection cursor, the file structure of a selected external device and control information. The display 11 is in this case a liquid crystal display (LCD) hut can he a light emitting diode (LED) display or similar technology Although not used in this embodiment, the display Ii can he a touch sensitive display having a tactile interface part for receiving touch inputs from users.
The hardware keys 10 ace in this case mechanical keys hut can comprise touch sensitive buttons. Where the display ii is a touch sensitive display, the hardware keys 10 can be replaced liv suitable graphical user interface (GUI) regions on said display, Referring hack to Figure 1, there are provided five hardware keys 10 comprising four scroll keys (up, down, left, right and a selection or OK' button. The use of said keys 10 will he explained later on.
The memory device 100 is a computer peripheral device in the understood sense that it is operable to he connected to a computer via an external peripheral port of the computer using a male connector, in this embodiment the device's male USE connector 1. Tn this way, the file structure of the computer can be viewed and flies or collections (folders) of tiles navigated and downloaded to the flash memory 5. Similarly, files or collections of tiles can he uploaded from the flash memory 5 to a connected computer or from an external device connected to one of the female ports 2 -4 to the connected computer.
Tn the latter case, the memory device 100 effectively works as a USE huh. When connected to a computer using the male USB connector 1, the on-board power supply 9 can he recharged through said connected using power received from the computer.
Additionally, and advantageously, the memory device 100 can operate as a stand-alone memory management device working independently of a computer, that is without the male USE connector 1 connected to a computer. Accordingly, the file structure contained on a respective external device, for example a USE memory stick connected to US$31 port 2, can he viewed and files or collections of files can be navigated, selected front within the file structure and copied to the on-hoard flash memory 5 or to a different external device, for example a different USE memory stick connected to US$32 portS.
[he above data transfer/copying scenarios are esuallv applicable with a SDI-IC card external memory device when connected to the SDHC slot 4.
Thus, the memory device 100 can be used on the fly' to transfer/copy and manage flies and collections of files stored on any external device which can he connected to one of the pts I -4. [he memory device 100 is not reliant on a controlling computer, such as a PC or laptop, to navigate file structures or effect the transfer/copying. I hwever, connection to a computer is available through the male USB connector 1.
As will be appreciated, a file structure is generally known to he represented by a hierarchy of files or folders containing files. In this embothment, navigation is by means of using the above-described scroll keys (up, down, left, righ to navigate the hierarchy with the OK button used to highlight or tag particular files or collections of files. A prolonged input to the OK button is used to effect a copy command on said highlighted files or collections of tiles. Thereafter, the user is prompted to select a destination location for the copied tiles or collection, whereafrer the copied tiles or collection can he pasted to effect the transfer or copy. The destination can itself be a location within the destination device's hierarchy, said location being navigated using the scroll keys in the manner described above.
Figure 3 shows the generallsed operating steps performed by the controlling software stored on the data flash module 6 which runs in association with the microprocessor 12.
In a first step 3.1, external devices connected to one of the ports I -4 are detected. In step 3.2, detected devices are indicated on the display ii, e.g. as SELE( :i DEVICE >USBI USD2 In step 3.3, the microprocessor 12 detects a received device selecdon, This is made by the user moving the curser (indicated >) to the required external device using the up and down cursor keys 10 shown in Fiçre 1, followed by operadon of the 01K button.
In step 3.4, device navigaion is enabled whereby the file structure of the selected external device is presented, e.g. as /USBI /..
/Photos /Documents The file structure is navigated using the cursor keys 10 to move the > cursor up and down the file structure. Directories or folders containing files are indicated by the forward slash / and are opened/collapsed using the right and eft cursor keys.
In step 3.5, file or folder selections are received. This is perfintted by the user pressing the 01K key when the cursor is alongside a tile or folder to he selected. An indicator such as a highlighter is presented alongside the relevant file or folder to indicate selection. A further input of the OK key on a selected file or folder will cause it to be deselected.
In steps 3.6 and 3.7, the selected Lie(s) or folder(s) are copied to the Lash memory 5.
This is performed in response to the user pressing and holding the OK key for a predetermined period of time, e.g. two seconds. This is detected in step 3.6 and the copying is effected in step 3.7.
In step 3.8, the microprocessor 12 prompts the user via the display ii to select a destination device. For example, ESB2 may be selected.
SELECT DESTINATION DEVICE USE 1
> USB2 in step 3.9, selection of the destination device is received through the touch keys in the rnann described above for step 3.3. In step 3.10, navigation of the destination device's file structure is performed in the manner described above for step 3.4. in step 3.11, selection of the destination's target directory/fohier is recetred, in the manner described above for step 3.5.
Tn step 3.12, the fles stored in the flash memory 5 in step 37 are pasted (i.e. copied) to the destination location identified in step 3.11.
An example mentors' management operation will now he described with reference to Figures 4 to 6. Referring to Figure 4, there is shown the memory device lot) with first and second memory sticks USE A 50 and USE II 60 shown connected to respective USE ports 2, 3. Figure 4 shows the file structure or hierarchy on USE A 50, and Figure 5 shows the file stnacture or hierarchy on USB B 60.
In this example, it is assumed that the user wishes to copy the "Photos" folder from USB A 50 to tile "SociaF' folder on USE B 60.
Following the steps outlined in Figure 3, the user is presented with the connected devices
SELECT DEVUIE >USBI USB2
The user then selects the device corresponding to USE A 50, which is USBI. The user then navigates the presented file structure of USBI to select the Photos folder, which is indicated as selected with an "x" legend.
/L'SBI /..
> x /Photos /Documents If no other files or folders are to he selected, the user then presses the 01< key for about two seconds, causing the /Photos folder to he copied into SDRAM memory 8. If the file being copies is larger than the available SDRAM memory 8, the file is moved by the processor 12 as a sing'e block of data. If the file is bigger than the avaiah1e SDRAM memory 8, then the fi'e is hioken down into manageable sub-blocks by the processor 12, before the sub-blocks are moved across.
Next, the user is prompted to select the desfination device corresponding to [SB B 60, which is USB2.
SElECT DESTINATION DEVICE [SB I > USB2 tFhe user then navigates using the cursor keys to select the destination location within 135132.
/ USB2 > x /Social / Work Once selection is confirmed by the user pressing the 01K key, the copy of the /Photos folder stored in the SDRAIvI memory 8 is pasted (i.e. copied) to the file location /USB2/Social/.
The above procedure and capability provided by the software of the apparatus 100 ls applicable to the transfer of data between any connected device, including a computer connected to the male USB connector I and a SDI-IC card connected to the SDFTC port 4.
There is thus described an inruitive and convenient way of viewing, navigating and transferring data files between different data storage devices without requiring a host computer, such as a PC, MAC or laptop: the memory device 100 described herein is a portable memory stick type peripheral that is easily transportable and comprises on-hoard display and control means permitting memory management on-the-fly as well as in association with a host computer, if required.
in a further embodiment, there is provided a next generation USB Memory Management Device which is a normal USB memory stick with inhuilt ports to connect other USB memory sticks and SDIIC cards. it incorporates additional functions to "manage" the contents of the inhuih/onhoard LSB flash memory and the contents of the memory of the connected LSB memory sticks and/or SDHC card(s). The device allows "checking" of the contents of the inhuilt flash memoi and each of the connected USB memot sticks and the SD}-IC card(s). The device allows copying and transferring of files between the US]3 memory sticks, the SDI-1C card and the onboard/inbuilt memory.
This unique functionality allows for checking and transferring of the contents of the memory "on-the-go" without the need for a PC/Mac to check the contents and to transfer files/folders between the memory sticks, the SIll IC card and the inhuilt/onhoard memory.
Summary of Parts of the USB Memory Management Device (Fiire 2): 1. USB Male port/pin: the USB Male pin allows the device to connect to any PC/Mac enabling it to work as a liSP memory stick. When not connected to any PC/Mac, the device provides full functionality to view and manage flies and folders located on both the onboard memory and other memory devices connected to the device -which makes this USE Memory stick singuady unique in the market.
2. USE Female port 1: any USE memory stick can he connected to the Memory Mgmt Device through this port.
3. USE Female port 2: a second port for connecting an\ USE memory stick/device.
4. SD [-[C port: port for connecting SDI IC memory cards used in digital cameras, camcorders and similar devices.
5. NAND/NOR Flash: onhoard memory of tile device that makes the device a USE memory stick. This is the internal memory of the device that makes it a USE Memory Stick.
6. Data Flash: memory where the controlling software is located.
7. EEPROM: electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory -extended memory for storing data during power off.
8. SDRAM: dynamic random access memory used during memory management of onhoard memory and contents of memory sticks/cards connected to the Memory Mgmt Device.
9. Power Supply: power supply provided by either of Lithium-ion/polymer/Ni-Cad/NiMJI/Alka]ine/CarbonZn batteries.
10. Control Buttons: the control buttons provided on the device enable scrolling/selection of the onboard memory, memory sticks and cards connected to the Mem Mgmt Device. The control buttons enable further functionality to manage folders and files in terms of move, copy, cut and paste between the onhoard memory and the connected memory sticks and cards.
11. Output Screen: the contents of the onhoard memory, the contents of all other memory sticks nd cards that are connected to the device could he viewed through the output screen. The output screen could he a liquid Crystal Display/Light Emitting Diode type or similar. [he output screen can also be a touch screen providing all the functionality of the control buttons.
12. Microprocessor: the microprocessor is the heart of the next generation USE memory stick. The microprocessor comprises of the central processing unit (CPU) and is responsible for aI the control functions of the Memory Mgmt Device.
For completeness, an explanation of firmware software modules as may he used in the above embodiments will now he briefly described.
S
Filename: CopyFiles
Description:
Module contains function responsible for copying flies and directories, There ate simple functions like CopyFile and CopvDir and also function (:op'MarkedFiles that copies marked flies and whole directories with subdirectories contained in tDirExpl structure.
Filename: delay
Description:
Mod Ltie contains the alTar of timers counting from the value set by SetTimer function to zero.
Checking the state of a specific tinier is done by invoking TsTimerl)one function with the timer number as die argument. The function returns I if the tinier has finished counting. You can define a single tick duration for all timers changing MAJN_EVEiNT_ThMjI S definition ms units).
iou can add another timer defining its name such as: #define YOUR_IThIER 5 where 5 is index of the timer in the array. One also has to increase the TIMERS NUMBER definition to include the timer index.
Timers are very likely to interrupt driven functions so it seems to work in the background. There are also Delay_thus and DeLay_ms functions that introduce delays in the program in I Ous and millisecond units respectively.
Filename: direxpl
Description:
Module is responsible tiM directory exploration and creating a list of files to he displayed as well as list of files to be copied.
Each file of the directory is represented by a tdxEntr structure that contains the name of the ftc/directory and a flag indicating whether it is a directory or file and flag fMarked indicallng whether it is chosen by the user to be copied.
tDirExpl structure contains a pointer to entries tdxEntry array and also some other information for the directory, such as full path dirname, a flag indicating whether to display files and directories or only directories (fDirsOnly, a flag indicating if multi-selection is pessible for tiils directory or only a single item can he choosen (fChooseSi ngle).
The tDirExpl instance can be filled with data of the directory by invoking a FiUDirExpi function. It can be cleaned by calling FreeDirExpl.
Filename: dicexpl_vis
Description:
Module is responsible for visualization of the tDirRxpl structure data on the LCD screen and interaction with a user by servicing the keyboard.
The tDirExpfVis structure contains a pointer to the LCD screen framebuffer'. it also contains the pointer to eDirExpi structure that is to be displayed by the module.
The DE\ SetTitle function Causes text to he written into the first line of the LCD screen that is a kind of title.
Filename: DevDetect
Description:
Module is responsib'e for detection and mounting of the memory devices attached to the unit, tDiskDevice contains sonic information for each of the disk devices. It indicates if the device has been used as a source for copying (EsSource) or as a destination GsDest. A partition field shows the device name in /dev folder. MountPoint is a p'ace where the device will be mounted. pDispiName is the name that will he shown on the LCI).
pDevldStr is the ID string that is contained in die /proc/bus/usb/devices (for USB devices) or /proc/partitions (for SD) tile when a specific device is being detected h the system.
There is an array of tDiskDcvice structures called Diskflevs that contains alt of the disk devices and their statuses.
Filename: GPIOs
Description:
Module contains mainly macros allowing for GP1Os manipulation. This is done by using memory mapping of the GPIO registers.
TO_Set, TO_Or, 10_Read allow for setting the state and reading the state of a specific line. The sing'e port IDs are defined in the GPTOs,h file and should he used with these functions (i.e. PA_O, PA_I. . Beft)re the 10 can he used it has to he defined as Input or Output: 10_Dir function gets the TO identity and the required direction K_OUT or 10_TN.
Filename: Keys
Description:
Module contains key reading functionality.
The ke\bord can be read b32 a GetLastKey function that returns the last key pressed code, GetLastKeyRelcased returns the last pressed key hut only if it has already been released, GetLastReyFull returns the key code with sonic extra information on how long the key been held and if it is already released. The i/key stus section indicates different key status detirnuons.
Filename: LCD
Description:
This contains different functions for \vriting single characters or lines of text or numbers of different format to UI.
The characters are written to the position deflned by GoToXY function.
One can also clear the whole screen (OrSer) or a single line (ClearLCDline).
Filename: LCD_backscreen
Description:
Since operations on the LCD directly are sometimes quite slow there is a buffer defined containing all of the characters that will next he written to the LC1) in a single process -RewriteB ackscreen.
The BackScreen arrray holds the LCD data.
There are also sonic basic functions for wriung to the LCD, This module works in a similar way to the LCD module except that the LCD module always works directly with the LCD and this module works on the character buffer.
Filename: LCD_Screeens
Description:
This allows dispav of simp'e YesNoScreen with pTide text on it. This is used to ask a user a simple question and get the decision (YES or X)) that is returned as choiceYhS or choiceNO.
There can also be a simple MessageScreen displayed. Tn fact, the text must be displayed by the program using different functions writing to the LCD. This function only waits tor the user to press a key to confirm that the message has been read, It returns 01< then. Otherwise it returns IDLE. This is no hocking function.
Filename: MainStateMachine
Description:
This is main state machine module that defines different states of the MMD device.
You can find all the states defined in tMainState enum definition, The names of the states are quite intuitive.
Also the state sequence can be easily read from the source code.
Generally there are two main functions MainStatelnit (initialization of the module) and MainStateTask that is continuously invoked in the main loop of the program.
MainStateTask checks in which state the device is and invokes a proper function to undertake proper activities.
Filename: Menus
Description:
This is another LCD interacon module.
This contains the tsRollMenu structure that allows the user to select among different items contained in an items array of pointers to the strings.
There at-c. two menus defined. One for the source device selection and one for the destination device selection.
A RolIMenu function services a specific menu pointed as an argument.
Filename: MMD
Description:
t['ai is Main module for the firmware.
As indicated in Figure 7, it contains all of the initialization procedures and afterwards goes into the main loop.
Tn this loop, ditferent module tasks are invoked.
As indicated in Figure 8, there is also a timer used for PowerOff timeout event.
Linux uploading procedure: This assumes that SAIvIBA software from Atmel Development kit CD is installed.
1. power off dev,board 2. remove J2 3. connect ush cable between PC and board (USB device interface) 4. power on hoard, wait 10 more than 10 seconds 5. put hack J21 (pins 1-2) 6. run sam9j9261_demojinu.x.bat file 7. command window should appear. Whole process should take about I minute.
8. After that the log file should appear (few screens of messages).
9. dose the log.
ID. remove the ush cable 11. restart board 12. nw ou shou]d follow the Boot.txt procedure to make the board run MMD automatically, Development environment: The ECLiPSE (ww.edipse.org software has been used as a development environment.
In addition to that the CodeSourcety: arm-2009q1-176-arni-none-linux-gnueabi toolchain has been used fbi cross compilation of the firmware. All of the development software was running under Debian Linux operang system.
Tt will be appreciated that the above described embodiments are purely illustrative and are not limiting on the scope of the invention. Other variations and modifications will he apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reading the present application.
Moreover, the disclosure of the present application should he understood to include any novel features or any novel combination of features either explicitly or implicitly disclosed herein or any generalization thereof and during the prosecution of the present application or of any application derived therefrom, new claims may be formulated to cover any such features and/or combination of such features.
Claims (1)
- <claim-text>Claims 1. A computer peripheral apparatus comprising non-volatile storage means, a plurality of hi-directional data ports for connection to a respective external memory device, a display, means for reading and outputting on the display the file structure of the non-volatile storage means and the or each nlernorv device connected to one or more of the ports, means for navigating the or each file structure and selecting a file or collection of flies within the or each file structure, and means for transferring a selected file or collection of fi1es between a connected external memory device and the non-vo1atile storage means and/or between any two connected external memory devices.</claim-text> <claim-text>2. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein one of the data ports is connected to a male connector.</claim-text> <claim-text>3. Apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the male connector is permanently connected to said data port.</claim-text> <claim-text>4. Apparatus according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the male connector is a male USB connector.5. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein one or more of the data ports is a female USE port.</claim-text> <claim-text>3k Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a first one of the data potts is permanently connected to a male USB connector and a plurality of other ports are female USE ports.</claim-text> <claim-text>6. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein one or more of the data ports is a memory card slot, such as a SDHC card slot.</claim-text> <claim-text>7. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the non-volatile storage means is flash memory.</claim-text> <claim-text>8. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the reading and outputting means is operable automatically to read and display the file structure responsive to an external memory device being connected to a respective one of the potts.</claim-text> <claim-text>9. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, further comprising an on-hoard power supply.10. Apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the on-hoard power supply is arranged to be recharged by means of a current received from an external device connected to one of the ports.</claim-text> <claim-text>10. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the display is a LCD or LED di splay.</claim-text> <claim-text>Ii. Appaiatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the display is a touch-sensitive display operable to receive user inputs for the navigating means.</claim-text> <claim-text>12. Apparatus according to any one of claims I to 10, further comprising a plurality of buttons or keys separate from tile display means, which buttons or keys are operable to receive touch-based user inputs for the navigating means.</claim-text> <claim-text>13. Apparatus according to any preceding claim, when dependent on claim 2, further comprising an external housing from which projects the USB male connector for connection to a female port of a processing device, the display and navigating means being provided on said housing.</claim-text> <claim-text>14. A portable USB memory module comprising: a processor, non-volatile storage means, a male USB connector connected to the Processor via a hi-directional USB data bus, at least one hi-directional data port connected to the processor via a respective bi-directional data bus, a display, means for reading and outputting on the display the file structure of the non-volatile storage means and an external memory device connected to one or more of the data buses, and control means for navigating, selecting and transferring data files between different external memory devices connected to the processor and/ui-the non-volatik storage means.</claim-text> <claim-text>15. A USB memory stick comprising a processor, a memory associated with the processor. a male USB connector, one or mote female ports for connection to a respective external processor and/or memory device, and a memory management system for reading and displaying the file structure of the memory associated with the processor and that of one or more connected external devices, for receiving user inputs operable to select a file or collection of files from the displayed file structure, and for transferring a selected file or collection of files between the memory associated with the processor and one or more connected external devices.</claim-text> <claim-text>16. A method performed on a computer peripheral apparams having a non-volatile storage means and a plLLralitv of hi-directional data ports, the method comprising: reading and outputting on a displa\ the file structure of the non-volatile storage means and one or more external memory device(s) connected to a respective port; enabling navigation of the or each file structure and selection of a file or collection of files within the or each file structure; transferring a selected fi3e or collection of flies between a connected external memory device and the non-voLatile store means and/or between any two connected external memory device(s).</claim-text> <claim-text>17. A computer program comprising instructions that when executed by computer apparatus control it to perform the method of claim 16.</claim-text> <claim-text>18. A nort-tranthtory computer-readable storage medium having stored thereoa computet-readabk code, which, when executed by computing apparatus, causes the computer apparatus to perform the method of claim 16.S</claim-text>
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB1111479.0A GB2492752A (en) | 2011-07-05 | 2011-07-05 | Portable memory apparatus |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB1111479.0A GB2492752A (en) | 2011-07-05 | 2011-07-05 | Portable memory apparatus |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| GB201111479D0 GB201111479D0 (en) | 2011-08-17 |
| GB2492752A true GB2492752A (en) | 2013-01-16 |
Family
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Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB1111479.0A Withdrawn GB2492752A (en) | 2011-07-05 | 2011-07-05 | Portable memory apparatus |
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| GB (1) | GB2492752A (en) |
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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| WO2015103517A1 (en) * | 2014-01-06 | 2015-07-09 | Imation Corp. | Universal portable storage device |
| WO2015103513A1 (en) * | 2014-01-06 | 2015-07-09 | Imation Corp. | Three-in-one portable storage device |
| WO2015103515A1 (en) * | 2014-01-06 | 2015-07-09 | Imation Corp. | Portable storage device with power bank |
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| WO2006084062A2 (en) * | 2005-02-02 | 2006-08-10 | Pocrass Alan L | Data storage and transfer device and method |
| US20070130413A1 (en) * | 2005-12-02 | 2007-06-07 | Yetukuri Nagarjun V | Removable memory storage device having a display |
| JP2008059165A (en) * | 2006-08-30 | 2008-03-13 | Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd | Portable storage device |
| WO2008054076A1 (en) * | 2006-10-31 | 2008-05-08 | Hyung-Lim Ji | An apparatus for direct-transmitting data for portable |
| US20100169814A1 (en) * | 2008-12-25 | 2010-07-01 | Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. | Data transferring system and method, and electronic device having the same |
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- 2011-07-05 GB GB1111479.0A patent/GB2492752A/en not_active Withdrawn
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| KR20050114988A (en) * | 2004-06-02 | 2005-12-07 | (주)디모텍 | A mobile apparatus for exchanging digital file, and method thereof |
| WO2006084062A2 (en) * | 2005-02-02 | 2006-08-10 | Pocrass Alan L | Data storage and transfer device and method |
| US20070130413A1 (en) * | 2005-12-02 | 2007-06-07 | Yetukuri Nagarjun V | Removable memory storage device having a display |
| JP2008059165A (en) * | 2006-08-30 | 2008-03-13 | Matsushita Electric Ind Co Ltd | Portable storage device |
| WO2008054076A1 (en) * | 2006-10-31 | 2008-05-08 | Hyung-Lim Ji | An apparatus for direct-transmitting data for portable |
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| WO2015103517A1 (en) * | 2014-01-06 | 2015-07-09 | Imation Corp. | Universal portable storage device |
| WO2015103513A1 (en) * | 2014-01-06 | 2015-07-09 | Imation Corp. | Three-in-one portable storage device |
| WO2015103515A1 (en) * | 2014-01-06 | 2015-07-09 | Imation Corp. | Portable storage device with power bank |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| GB201111479D0 (en) | 2011-08-17 |
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