Data adapter unit for infrared communications

Abstract

A data adapter unit, for converting data signals for IR wireless transmission between electronic devices, containing an IR-electrical converter, and IR and electrical input/output ports, and accommodating a removably connectable device, such as a cellular phone, and a removably connectable data converter such as a PC or cellular data card. The phone, when mounted in the adapter unit, exchanges voice and data signals through an internal interface with the removable PC card which converts the data signals for exchange through either the IR or electrical input/output signal ports. The signal ports communicate the data signals to an external device such as a personal computer or a modem and return signals therefrom. When the electrical port is connected to an outside device, the normal IR transmission is ceased in favor of the electrical output, or this function may be achieved by a user operated switch. The removable data converter may also have a signal coding component to encode the signals into a form that renders the transmission and reception of wireless IR signals more reliable. In that event, the data adapter unit itself may be kept simple, rather than incorporating such additional components. An internal power source may be included in the unit to power the signal exchange activities.