Mobile computing systems which automatically reconfigure to operate any devices attached to a docking module upon connection to the docking station

Abstract

A computing system includes a plurality of mobile modules, each having a multitude of possible computing states, and a plurality of docking modules, each docking module having an interface by means of which said docking module is capable of being removably connected to at least one of the powerless mobile modules. Each powerless mobile module has a central processing unit, a memory, a disk, and a docking interface, each powerless mobile module also having therein at least software for recording in that mobile module the state of that mobile module prior to that module being removed from connection to a docking module. The mobile module automatically reconfigures when connected to a docking module. It is preferred that the connection between the docking modules and the mobile modules be wireless. It is also preferred that the mobile module have no display permanently connected thereto.