International Business Machines Corporation

Richard J Grimm

Jerzy Maria Zalesinski

Brian John Connolly

Albert J Kerklaan

Steven Alfred Grundon

Jaroslav B Bartuska

David J Saunders

A PCMCIA card comprises a plurality of I/O functions. Each has an interrupt signal, but the card has only one interrupt request (IREQ) line. The card is provided with an interrupt status register (ISR) to receive the interrupt signals from each of the I/O functions. This ISR allows software to determine the function that signaled the interrupt. The card is also provided with interrupt control logic (ICL) that is responsive to the interrupt status of ISR. The ICL sends an IREQ signal to a host system.

Multiple independent I/O functions on a PCMCIA card share a single

This is a data card frame provided with a unique end rail which is bifurcated to form a receptacle port which can accept any number of different connector headers each of which is designed not only to mate with a selected external plug or terminal but is further uniquely designed to mate with a particular data card being supported in the frame. The receptacle port in the frame is also provided with locking detents coded to assure the correct positioning of the connector header in the receptacle port during insertion therein. The receptacle port is further provided with metal latching inserts matching locking hooks on a mating external plug that permit the external plug to be inserted into, with minimal force and securely latched thereto.

Universal frame for data card

Growing community of inventors

Shelburne, VT, United States of America

Richard J Grimm