Apparatus for automatically processing both encoded and unencoded data

Abstract

An apparatus for automatically rendering both encoded and unencoded data files comprises a data processor and a decoder. The data processor receives a set of input data from a storage medium, such as an optical storage medium, and determines whether the set of input data is encoded or unencoded. If the input data is encoded, then the data processor provides to the decoder a set of encoded data, and generates an indication signal to cause the decoder to be activated. In response, the decoder decodes the set of encoded data and provides as output a set of decoded data. This decoded data may then be provided to a signal transport mechanism, such as a digital signal bus, to be rendered by a digital device such as a computer, or to a digital to analog converter which converts the decoded data into analog signals for driving an analog device, such as a speaker. On the other hand, if the data processor determines that the input data is unencoded, then the data processor processes the set of input data to derive a set of processed data, and provides this set of processed data at its output. No indication signal is generated; thus, the decoder is not activated. The processed data may then be provided to a signal transport mechanism, such as a digital signal bus, to be rendered by a digital device such as a computer, or to a digital to analog converter which converts the processed data into analog signals for driving an analog device, such as a speaker. Regardless of whether the input data is encoded or unencoded, the apparatus automatically renders it properly to a user.