WO2006129202A2 - Process and apparatus for operating an external device - Google Patents

Process and apparatus for operating an external device Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2006129202A2
WO2006129202A2 PCT/IB2006/001999 IB2006001999W WO2006129202A2 WO 2006129202 A2 WO2006129202 A2 WO 2006129202A2 IB 2006001999 W IB2006001999 W IB 2006001999W WO 2006129202 A2 WO2006129202 A2 WO 2006129202A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
computer
sim card
file
memory unit
external device
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2006/001999
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
WO2006129202A3 (en
Inventor
Tsz-Yung Chan
Chi-Kit Yung
Original Assignee
Dragonchip Limited
Johnson, Terence, Leslie
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Dragonchip Limited, Johnson, Terence, Leslie filed Critical Dragonchip Limited
Priority to CN2006800271327A priority Critical patent/CN101228537B/en
Publication of WO2006129202A2 publication Critical patent/WO2006129202A2/en
Publication of WO2006129202A3 publication Critical patent/WO2006129202A3/en

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F9/00—Arrangements for program control, e.g. control units
    • G06F9/06—Arrangements for program control, e.g. control units using stored programs, i.e. using an internal store of processing equipment to receive or retain programs
    • G06F9/44—Arrangements for executing specific programs
    • G06F9/4401—Bootstrapping
    • G06F9/4411—Configuring for operating with peripheral devices; Loading of device drivers

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to operation of an external device through a computer connected thereto.
  • Various devices or appliances such as printers, SIM card readers, mobile phone, etc, can be connected to a computer for operations thereof.
  • application softwares need to be installed on the computer for operating such devices.
  • dedicated hardware drivers need to be installed prior to use of the hardware as well.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates the example of a conventional SIM card reader/writer 101, which is connected to a computer 103 through universal serial bus (hereinafter USB) interfaces 105, 107.
  • USB universal serial bus
  • An application software 109 and a dedicated hardware driver 111 for the SlM card reader/writer 101 need to pre- installed for operating the SIM card reader/writer 101 through the computer 103.
  • the requirements for installing a specific software and/or dedicated driver may not be convenient, especially since the user may need to re-install the software and/or driver whenever the computer or its operating system is upgraded or reinstalled.
  • the external device in a proces ⁇ for operating an external device through a computer without prior installa ions of a specific software or a dedicated driver onto the computer, firstly, the external device exhibits to the computer as a storage device accessible Dy the computer through its operating system without said prior installations.
  • the computer In response to an instruction of operating the external device, the computer creates at least a file in a memory unit of the external device. Upon detection _>f a presence of the file in the memory unit by the external device, the external device functions or is operated under the instruction.
  • ⁇ medium having a program recorded thereon, wherein the program makes an external device execute a procedure comprising the following steps for operating the external device through a computer without prior installations of ⁇ specific software or a dedicated driver onto the computer, includes exhibiting the external device to the computed as a storage device accessible by the computer through its operating system without said prior installations; creating at least a file in a memory unit of the external device by the computer in response to an instruction of operatirliq the external device; and operating the external device under the instruction upon detection of a presence of the file in the memory unit by th ⁇ external device.
  • a o Dtnputer program element which makes an external device execute a procedure comprising the following steps for operating the external device through a computer without prior installations of a specific software or a dedicated driver onto the computer, comprising exhibiting the external device to the computer as a storage device accessible by the computer through its operating system without said prior installations; creating at least a file in a memory unit of the external device by the computer in response to an instruction of operating the external device; and operating the external device under the instrubtion upon detection of a presence of the file in the memory unit by the external device.
  • an external device operable by a computer without prior installations of a sp ecific software or a dedicated driver onto the computer includes an interface for connecting to the computer; a memory unit; a processor for managing various component s of the external device and for communicating with the computer tirough the interface; and means, controlled by the processor, for executing an operation in accordance with an instruction from the computer; wherein the memory unit is accessible by the computer without said prior installations; wherein the processor periodically detects presence of a file in the memory unit, which file is created hy the computer in response to the instruction of operating the external device; and wherein upon detection of the presence of the file , the processor controls said means to execute the operation in Accordance with an instruction from the computer.
  • a process for downloading information through a SlM card reader, to which the SIIMI card is inserted comprising connecting the SIM card reader to a computer; automatically exhibiting the SIM car reader to the computer as a storage device accessible by the computer without prior installations of a specific software or a dedicated driver onto the ; omputer; creating at least a first file in a memory unit of the SIM card reader by the computer in response to an instruction of d Dwnloading the information; upon detecting presence of the first file in the imemory unit by the SIM card reader, retrieving the information from the SIM card by the SIM card reader.
  • a SlIV card reader for downloading information stored in a SIM card inserted tr erein, comprising an interface for connecting to a computer; ⁇ a memory unit; a processor for managing various components of the SIM card reader and for communicating with the computer Through the interface; and a reading interface, controlled by the processor, for reading the SIM card; wherein the memory unit is accessible by the computer without prior installations of a specific software or a dedicated driver onto the computer; wherein the processor periodically detocts presence of a file in the memory unit, which file is created by the cc mputer in response to the instruction of downloading the information stored in the SIM card; wherein upon detection of the presence of the file , the processor controls the reading interface to download the information from the SIM card onto the memory unit of the SIM card reader.
  • a process for uploading information from a SIM card writer to a SIM c ⁇ rd inserted therein by using a computer comprising connecting the SIM card writer to the computer; automatically exhibiting the SIM car writer to t ie computer as a storage device accessible by the computer without prior installations of a specific software or a dedicated driver onto the computer; creating at least a first file in a memory unit of the SIM card writer by the computer in response to an instruction of uploading the information; upon detecting presence of the first file in the fnemory unit by the SIM card writer, retrieving the information stored i fi the SIM card writer; and uploading the retrieved information onto the S(IM card.
  • a SlM card writer for uploading information onto a SIM card inserted therein b
  • Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating operation of a co ⁇ ventional SIM card reader/writer
  • FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating operation of a SIM card reader/writer according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 3 is a snapshot of Windows Explorer on a personal computer useful in the present invention.
  • Figure 4 is a snapshot of a data editor on the computer Useful in the present invention.
  • Figure 5 is a flow-chart step-by-step illustrating an exemplary downloading process of the present invention
  • Figure 6 is a snapshot of the data editor in the downloading process of figure 5;
  • Figure 7 is a flow chart step-by-step illustrating an exemplary uploading process of the present invention.
  • Figure 8 is a snapshot of the data editor in the uploading process of figure 7.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary SIM card reader/writer 201 embodiment, which can be operated by a user of a personal compute " 203.
  • the SIM card reader/writer 201 has a USB interface 205 for connecting to a corresponding USB interface 207 on the computer 203, a processor 209 for controlling various components and hardwares of the SIM card reader/writer 201 and for communicating with the computer through the USB interfaces, 205, 207, a flash memory 211 for storing data, an application software (to be discussed in details) and a firmware, which runs on the processor 209 for controlling the SIM card reader/writer 201 , and a SIM card read/write hardware 213 for reading and writing information from and onto a SIM card 215, which is inserted into a receptacle (not shown) of the SIM card re
  • MS Windows 217 such as XP, 2000, and ME is used as the operating system of the computer 203
  • the flash memory 211 is also formatted by a corresponding MS Windows ⁇ Jersion to be compatible with the computer 203.
  • the flash memory 211 is provided with a standard FAT file system therein.
  • MS Windows 217 ha a standard built-in driver, a Mass Storage device driver 219, which allows /IS Windows 217 to communicate with externally-connected devices via the JSB interface 207 that complies to the Mass Storage Device Class of USB
  • MS Windows 217 recognises the presence of this USB device and solicits communication s with the SIM card reader/writer 201 under standard USB protocol. Throug such communications, the SIM card reader/writer 201 , or mor j specifically, the flash memory 211 , is recognised as a Mass Storage-compliant device, and
  • MS Windows 217 will activate the built-in Mass Storage device driver that is then responsible for subsequent communications/data-e xchange with the flash memory 211 of the SIM card reader/writer 201.
  • a File System on Removable Disk 223 will be mounted on top of this Mass Storage device driver 219 in order to provide all the Application Program Interface
  • API needed for applications of upper layer(s) to get ac ess to the files on the flash memory 211 of the SIM card reader/writer 201.
  • th 5 SIM card reader/writer 201 upon connection to the computer 203 through the USB interfaces, automatically exhibits itself as a standard reniovable disk to the computer 203 as illustrated in the snap-shot of Windows Explorer of figure 3, without additional instalments of any softwares or drives onto the computer
  • the application software 221 which is physically stored in the flash memory 211 , can now run atop MS Windows on the computer 203, as generally could be understood. Furthermore, the computer 203 can now access, create, modify or delete files in the flash memorv 211.
  • Figure 5 illustrates the flowchart of downloading the information from the SlM card 215 onto the SIM card reader 201. Such information can further be manipulated by application software 221 on the computer 203 through standard operations.
  • step 501 a user (not shown) of the computer 203 solicits via manipulations on the application software 221 to start reading the content of the SIM card 215. Such manipulation is not shown in the figures but qould generally be understood by the person in the art.
  • the application software 221 creates a standard "DOWNLOAD.TXT" file with attributes "System” in the D rectory Entry area of the flash memory 211 by using standard Windows API C reateFile().
  • a file as well as the various files discussed in the following description, complies wit ⁇ i the standard FAT file system of Windows.
  • step 505 the processor 209, on which the firmware ⁇ jns, periodically reads the content of the Directory Entry area of the flash memib ry 211 and detects if a file name called "DOWNLOAD.TXT" can be found. If y s, the processor 209 further checks if the file attribute of this file is "System", f both conditions are met, the processor recognises this as a valid command ram the computer 203 for the initiation of a download action from the SlM ⁇ ard 215. I hen in step 507, the processor 209 controls the SIM card read/write hardware 213 to read the content from the SIM card 215 The downloading of content from the SlM card 215 is realized according to the ETSI (European
  • Figure 6 illustrates a snapshot of the interface of application software 221 on the computer 203 during the downloading of the content
  • step 509 the processor 209 stores the content retrieved from the SIM card 215 in a file "PHONE_BK.TXT" in the flash memory 211.
  • the processor 209 creates a file ⁇ CK.TXT" in the flash memory 211.
  • step 513 the application software 221 , which runs on the computer 203, periodically exercises the Windows API FindFirstFileQ wth an attempt to read from a file called ACK.TXT from the flash memory 211.
  • the attempt to read this file will be successful if such a fiie exists, otherwise the attempt will fail.
  • the transition from a read failure to a read success woul j lead to the application software 221 's awareness of the creation of ACK.TXT by the processor 209.
  • step 5f15 the application software 221 reads the content from the flash memory 2 1 by using Windows
  • Figure 7 illustrates the flowchart of uploading the information from the SIM card reader/writer 201 onto the SIM card 215.
  • step 701 the user (not shown) of the computer 203 solicits via manipulations on the application software 221 to start writing of the content stored in the flash memory 211 onto the SIM card 215.
  • step 703 the application software 221 creates aj standard "UPLOAD.TXT" file with attributes "System” in the Direciory Entry area of the flash memory 211 by using standard Windows API Crea
  • step 705 the processor 209, on which the firmware ⁇ ns, periodically reads the content of the Directory Entry area of the flash memory 211 and detects if a file name called "UPLOAD.TXT" can be found. If yes, tie processor 209 further checks if the file attribute of this file is "System". f both conditions are met, the processor 209 recognises this as a valid command from the computer 203 for the initiation of an upload action from 1he SIM card reader/writer 201 to SIM card 215.
  • the processor 209 retrieves the content to be uploaded from the file "PHONE_BK.TXT" in the flash memory 211 , and in step 709, the processor 209 controls the SIM card read/write hardwar 5 213 to upload the content onto the SIM card 215.
  • the uploading of conten t onto the SIM card 215 is realized according to the ETSI (European Teleco nmunications Standards Institute) Specifications "Digital cellular telecommunications system (Phase 2+); Specification of the Subscriber Identity Modlule - Mobile Equipment (SIM-ME) interface (GSM 11.11)".
  • Figure 8 illustrates a snapshot of the interface of application software 221 on the computer 203 during the uploading of the content.
  • step 711 the processor 2D9 creates a file "ACKTXT" in the flash memory 211.
  • step 713 similarly to step 513, the application softwar e 221 , which runs on the computer 203, periodically exercises the Windows A Pl FindFirstFileQ to detect the existence of file ACK.TXT in the flash memo ⁇ 211.
  • step 715 the application software 221 presents to the user that the upload is corrjpleted.
  • PDA personal computer
  • £ IM card reader/writer can be used to replace the personal computer so long as such computing devices can recognize and operates on the £ IM card reader/writer as a removable disk without additional installations of any softwares or drivers
  • various operating systems and/or interfaces can be used so long as the computer may recognize and cooperate on the re ader/writer as a removable disk and operates in compliance to the standard file system of the operating system, without additional installations of any softwares or drivers.
  • flash memory 211 instead of the flash memory 211, other typ is of memory units can also be used.
  • SiM card, reader/writer is described to illustrate the operation of an external devic ⁇ through a computer without additional installations of any softwares or drive ;.
  • operations of various external devices or appliances can also be achieved by replacing the SIM card read/write hardware 213 with other types of hardwares suitable for operating the external devices.
  • control of a radio module can eas ily be achieved based upon the fundamental concept of the present applicatior
  • a generally skilled person in the art would also apprecia :e that the present invention simplifies the operations of external devices or a computer or a computing device by exhibiting the external device as a raditional mass storage device, in other words, a removable disk, to the computer or a computing device such that additional installation of softivares or drivers can be avoided.
  • the present invention allows c perations of or communications with the hardwares of such external de rices through file creations and operations in a memory unit of the extern* I device.

Abstract

In a process for operating an external device (201) such as a SIM card reader/writer through a computer (203) without prior installations of a specific software or a dedicated driver onto the computer (203), firstly, the external device (201) exhibits to the computer as a storage device accessible by the computer through its operating system (217, 219) without said prior installations. In response to an instruction of operating the external device (201). Upon detection of a presence of the file in the memory unit by the external device (201). Upon detection of a presence of the file in the memory unit by the external device (201), the external device functions or is operated under the instruction.

Description

PROCESS AND APPARATUS FOR OPERATING AK EXTERNAL DEVICE
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to operation of an external device through a computer connected thereto.
2. Background of the Invention
Various devices or appliances, such as printers, SIM card readers, mobile phone, etc, can be connected to a computer for operations thereof. Conventionaliy, application softwares need to be installed on the computer for operating such devices. Furthermore, very often, dedicated hardware drivers need to be installed prior to use of the hardware as well.
Figure 1 illustrates the example of a conventional SIM card reader/writer 101, which is connected to a computer 103 through universal serial bus (hereinafter USB) interfaces 105, 107. An application software 109 and a dedicated hardware driver 111 for the SlM card reader/writer 101 need to pre- installed for operating the SIM card reader/writer 101 through the computer 103.
The requirements for installing a specific software and/or dedicated driver may not be convenient, especially since the user may need to re-install the software and/or driver whenever the computer or its operating system is upgraded or reinstalled.
OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a process and an apparatus, which allows a more convenient operation of an external device through a computer, or at least provide the public with a useful choice. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a process and an apparatus, which allows a more convenient uploading ar d downloading of information onto/from a SIM card, or at least provide the public with a useful choice.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to an aspect of present invention, in a procesέ for operating an external device through a computer without prior installa ions of a specific software or a dedicated driver onto the computer, firstly, the external device exhibits to the computer as a storage device accessible Dy the computer through its operating system without said prior installations. In response to an instruction of operating the external device, the computer creates at least a file in a memory unit of the external device. Upon detection _>f a presence of the file in the memory unit by the external device, the external device functions or is operated under the instruction.
According to a second aspect of the present invention, ύ medium, having a program recorded thereon, wherein the program makes an external device execute a procedure comprising the following steps for operating the external device through a computer without prior installations of φ specific software or a dedicated driver onto the computer, includes exhibiting the external device to the computed as a storage device accessible by the computer through its operating system without said prior installations; creating at least a file in a memory unit of the external device by the computer in response to an instruction of operatirliq the external device; and operating the external device under the instruction upon detection of a presence of the file in the memory unit by thφ external device.
According to a third aspect of the present invention, a o Dtnputer program element, which makes an external device execute a procedure comprising the following steps for operating the external device through a computer without prior installations of a specific software or a dedicated driver onto the computer, comprising exhibiting the external device to the computer as a storage device accessible by the computer through its operating system without said prior installations; creating at least a file in a memory unit of the external device by the computer in response to an instruction of operating the external device; and operating the external device under the instrubtion upon detection of a presence of the file in the memory unit by the external device.
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, an external device operable by a computer without prior installations of a sp ecific software or a dedicated driver onto the computer includes an interface for connecting to the computer; a memory unit; a processor for managing various component s of the external device and for communicating with the computer tirough the interface; and means, controlled by the processor, for executing an operation in accordance with an instruction from the computer; wherein the memory unit is accessible by the computer without said prior installations; wherein the processor periodically detects presence of a file in the memory unit, which file is created hy the computer in response to the instruction of operating the external device; and wherein upon detection of the presence of the file , the processor controls said means to execute the operation in Accordance with an instruction from the computer.
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, a process for downloading information through a SlM card reader, to which the SIIMI card is inserted, comprising connecting the SIM card reader to a computer; automatically exhibiting the SIM car reader to the computer as a storage device accessible by the computer without prior installations of a specific software or a dedicated driver onto the ;omputer; creating at least a first file in a memory unit of the SIM card reader by the computer in response to an instruction of d Dwnloading the information; upon detecting presence of the first file in the imemory unit by the SIM card reader, retrieving the information from the SIM card by the SIM card reader.
According to a six aspect of the present invention, a SlIV card reader for downloading information stored in a SIM card inserted tr erein, comprising an interface for connecting to a computer; ■ a memory unit; a processor for managing various components of the SIM card reader and for communicating with the computer Through the interface; and a reading interface, controlled by the processor, for reading the SIM card; wherein the memory unit is accessible by the computer without prior installations of a specific software or a dedicated driver onto the computer; wherein the processor periodically detocts presence of a file in the memory unit, which file is created by the cc mputer in response to the instruction of downloading the information stored in the SIM card; wherein upon detection of the presence of the file , the processor controls the reading interface to download the information from the SIM card onto the memory unit of the SIM card reader.
According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, a process for uploading information from a SIM card writer to a SIM c^rd inserted therein by using a computer, comprising connecting the SIM card writer to the computer; automatically exhibiting the SIM car writer to t ie computer as a storage device accessible by the computer without prior installations of a specific software or a dedicated driver onto the computer; creating at least a first file in a memory unit of the SIM card writer by the computer in response to an instruction of uploading the information; upon detecting presence of the first file in the fnemory unit by the SIM card writer, retrieving the information stored i fi the SIM card writer; and uploading the retrieved information onto the S(IM card.
According to another aspect of the present invention, a SlM card writer for uploading information onto a SIM card inserted therein b|y using a computer, comprising an interface for connecting to the computer; a memory unit; a processor for managing various componentjs of the SIM card writer and for communicating with the computer through the interface; and a writing interface, controlled by the processor, for uploading information onto the SIM card; wherein the memory unit is accessible by the computer without prior installations of a specific software or a dedicated driver onto the computer such that said information can be storei i in the memory unit by the computer; wherein the processor periodicε Hy detects presence of a file in the memory unit, which file is created ty the computer in response to the instruction of uploading the infomation; wherein upon detection of the presence of the file, the processc r retrieves the stored information and controls the writing interface to upload the retrieved information onto the SIM card.
Other aspects and advantages of the invention will beccj me apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with \he accompanying schematic drawings, which description illustrates by way of example the principles of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating operation of a coηventional SIM card reader/writer;
Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating operation of a SIM card reader/writer according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 3 is a snapshot of Windows Explorer on a personal computer useful in the present invention;
Figure 4 is a snapshot of a data editor on the computer Useful in the present invention;
Figure 5 is a flow-chart step-by-step illustrating an exemplary downloading process of the present invention;
Figure 6 is a snapshot of the data editor in the downloading process of figure 5;
Figure 7 is a flow chart step-by-step illustrating an exemplary uploading process of the present invention; and
Figure 8 is a snapshot of the data editor in the uploading process of figure 7.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Figure 2 illustrates an exemplary SIM card reader/writer 201 embodiment, which can be operated by a user of a personal compute " 203. The SIM card reader/writer 201 has a USB interface 205 for connecting to a corresponding USB interface 207 on the computer 203, a processor 209 for controlling various components and hardwares of the SIM card reader/writer 201 and for communicating with the computer through the USB interfaces, 205, 207, a flash memory 211 for storing data, an application software (to be discussed in details) and a firmware, which runs on the processor 209 for controlling the SIM card reader/writer 201 , and a SIM card read/write hardware 213 for reading and writing information from and onto a SIM card 215, which is inserted into a receptacle (not shown) of the SIM card re|ader/writer 201.
In the exemplary embodiment, MS Windows 217, such as XP, 2000, and ME is used as the operating system of the computer 203, and the flash memory 211 is also formatted by a corresponding MS Windows \Jersion to be compatible with the computer 203. In other words, the flash memory 211 is provided with a standard FAT file system therein.
As generally understood in the art, MS Windows 217 ha a standard built-in driver, a Mass Storage device driver 219, which allows /IS Windows 217 to communicate with externally-connected devices via the JSB interface 207 that complies to the Mass Storage Device Class of USB Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, as the SIM card reader/writer 231 is connected to the computer 203 through the USB interfaces, MS Windows 217 recognises the presence of this USB device and solicits communication s with the SIM card reader/writer 201 under standard USB protocol. Throug such communications, the SIM card reader/writer 201 , or mor j specifically, the flash memory 211 , is recognised as a Mass Storage-compliant device, and
MS Windows 217 will activate the built-in Mass Storage device driver that is then responsible for subsequent communications/data-e xchange with the flash memory 211 of the SIM card reader/writer 201. As a result, a File System on Removable Disk 223 will be mounted on top of this Mass Storage device driver 219 in order to provide all the Application Program Interface
(API) needed for applications of upper layer(s) to get ac ess to the files on the flash memory 211 of the SIM card reader/writer 201.
In short, by incorporating a standard FAT file system, th 5 SIM card reader/writer 201 , upon connection to the computer 203 through the USB interfaces, automatically exhibits itself as a standard reniovable disk to the computer 203 as illustrated in the snap-shot of Windows Explorer of figure 3, without additional instalments of any softwares or drives onto the computer
203. Consequently, the application software 221 , which is physically stored in the flash memory 211 , can now run atop MS Windows on the computer 203, as generally could be understood. Furthermore, the computer 203 can now access, create, modify or delete files in the flash memorv 211.
Upon running the application software 221 on the computer 203, an , exemplary interface is shown on the computer 203 as illijistrated in; Figure 4.
Figure 5 illustrates the flowchart of downloading the information from the SlM card 215 onto the SIM card reader 201. Such information can further be manipulated by application software 221 on the computer 203 through standard operations.
In step 501 , a user (not shown) of the computer 203 solicits via manipulations on the application software 221 to start reading the content of the SIM card 215. Such manipulation is not shown in the figures but qould generally be understood by the person in the art.
Then in step 503,.the application software 221 creates a standard "DOWNLOAD.TXT" file with attributes "System" in the D rectory Entry area of the flash memory 211 by using standard Windows API C reateFile(). As could also be appreciated by the person in the art, such a file, as well as the various files discussed in the following description, complies witηi the standard FAT file system of Windows.
In step 505, the processor 209, on which the firmware πjns, periodically reads the content of the Directory Entry area of the flash memib ry 211 and detects if a file name called "DOWNLOAD.TXT" can be found. If y s, the processor 209 further checks if the file attribute of this file is "System", f both conditions are met, the processor recognises this as a valid command ram the computer 203 for the initiation of a download action from the SlM έard 215. I hen in step 507, the processor 209 controls the SIM card read/write hardware 213 to read the content from the SIM card 215 The downloading of content from the SlM card 215 is realized according to the ETSI (European
Telecommunications Standards Institute) Specifications Digital cellular telecommunications system (Phase 2+) and Specification of the Subscriber
Identity Module - Mobile Equipment (SlM-ME) interface 5SM 11.11)". these specifications have also specified the hardware manipulations concerning the correct activation of signal pins called I/O, CLK, RST according to the signal level requirements and timing requirements and are herein enclosed by reference.
Figure 6 illustrates a snapshot of the interface of application software 221 on the computer 203 during the downloading of the content]
In step 509, the processor 209 stores the content retrieved from the SIM card 215 in a file "PHONE_BK.TXT" in the flash memory 211. When the download of the content from the SIM card 215 to the SIM card redder/writer 201 is completed, in step 511, the processor 209 creates a file ΑCK.TXT" in the flash memory 211.
In step 513, the application software 221 , which runs on the computer 203, periodically exercises the Windows API FindFirstFileQ wth an attempt to read from a file called ACK.TXT from the flash memory 211. The attempt to read this file will be successful if such a fiie exists, otherwise the attempt will fail. The transition from a read failure to a read success woul j lead to the application software 221 's awareness of the creation of ACK.TXT by the processor 209.
Upon successful detection of the ACK.TXT file, in step 5f15, the application software 221 reads the content from the flash memory 2 1 by using Windows
API ReadFileO and presents the content on the screen (not shown) of the computer 203. The downloading of the content from the SIM card 215 is now completed. After downloading, the user may edit the content throug i the application software 221 and the edited data can be stored in the flε sh memory 211 by using Windows API WriteQ as could be understood in th 3 art.
Figure 7 illustrates the flowchart of uploading the information from the SIM card reader/writer 201 onto the SIM card 215.
In step 701 , the user (not shown) of the computer 203 solicits via manipulations on the application software 221 to start writing of the content stored in the flash memory 211 onto the SIM card 215.
Then in step 703, the application software 221 creates aj standard "UPLOAD.TXT" file with attributes "System" in the Direciory Entry area of the flash memory 211 by using standard Windows API Crea|teFiIe().
In step 705, the processor 209, on which the firmware π ns, periodically reads the content of the Directory Entry area of the flash memory 211 and detects if a file name called "UPLOAD.TXT" can be found. If yes, tie processor 209 further checks if the file attribute of this file is "System". f both conditions are met, the processor 209 recognises this as a valid command from the computer 203 for the initiation of an upload action from 1he SIM card reader/writer 201 to SIM card 215.
Then in step 707, the processor 209 retrieves the content to be uploaded from the file "PHONE_BK.TXT" in the flash memory 211 , and in step 709, the processor 209 controls the SIM card read/write hardwar 5 213 to upload the content onto the SIM card 215. The uploading of conten t onto the SIM card 215 is realized according to the ETSI (European Teleco nmunications Standards Institute) Specifications "Digital cellular telecommunications system (Phase 2+); Specification of the Subscriber Identity Modlule - Mobile Equipment (SIM-ME) interface (GSM 11.11)". These sp cificatioπs have also specified the hardware manipulations concerning the co rrect activation of signal pins called I/O, CLK, RST according to the signal level requirements and timing requirements and are herein enclosed by ref rence. Figure 8 illustrates a snapshot of the interface of application software 221 on the computer 203 during the uploading of the content.
When the upload of the content from the SIM card reader/writer 201 onto the SIM card 215 is completed, in step 711 , the processor 2D9 creates a file "ACKTXT" in the flash memory 211.
In step 713, similarly to step 513, the application softwar e 221 , which runs on the computer 203, periodically exercises the Windows A Pl FindFirstFileQ to detect the existence of file ACK.TXT in the flash memoπ 211.
Upon successful detection of the ACK.TXT file, in step 715, the application software 221 presents to the user that the upload is corrjpleted.
Alternatives can be made to the exemplary embodiment described thereabove. For example, other computing devices such as a personal digital assistant
(PDA) can be used to replace the personal computer so long as such computing devices can recognize and operates on the £ IM card reader/writer as a removable disk without additional installations of any softwares or drivers
In addition, various operating systems and/or interfaces can be used so long as the computer may recognize and cooperate on the re ader/writer as a removable disk and operates in compliance to the standard file system of the operating system, without additional installations of any softwares or drivers.
Furthermore, instead of the flash memory 211, other typ is of memory units can also be used.
In the preceding description, the operation of a SiM card, reader/writer is described to illustrate the operation of an external devicέ through a computer without additional installations of any softwares or drive ;. A generally skilled person in the art would appreciate that operations of various external devices or appliances can also be achieved by replacing the SIM card read/write hardware 213 with other types of hardwares suitable for operating the external devices. For example, control of a radio module can eas ily be achieved based upon the fundamental concept of the present applicatior A generally skilled person in the art would also apprecia :e that the present invention simplifies the operations of external devices or a computer or a computing device by exhibiting the external device as a raditional mass storage device, in other words, a removable disk, to the computer or a computing device such that additional installation of softivares or drivers can be avoided. Furthermore, the present invention allows c perations of or communications with the hardwares of such external de rices through file creations and operations in a memory unit of the extern* I device.

Claims

1. A process for operating an external device through a computer without prior installations of a specific software or a dedicated dijiver onto the computer, comprising exhibiting the external device to the computer as a storage device accessible by the computer through its operating system without said prior installations; creating at least a file in a memory unit of the external device by the computer in response to an instruction of operatir g the external device; and operating the external device under the instru ction upon detection of a presence of the file in the memory unit by th^ externa! device.
2. A medium, having a program recorded thereon, v 'herein the program makes an external device execute a procedure comprising the following steps for operating the external device through a computer without prior installations of a specific software or a dedicated driver onto the computer •,, comprising exhibiting the external device to the compute as a storage device accessible by the computer through its operating system without said prior installations; creating at least a file in a memory unit of the external device by the computer in response to an instruction of operatir g the external device; and operating the external device under the instruction upon detection of a presence of the file in the memory unit by th^ external device.
3. A computer program element, which makes an ektemal device execute a procedure comprising the following steps for operating the external device through a computer without prior installations of a specific software or a dedicated driver onto the computer, comprising exhibiting the external device to the computeh as a storage device accessible by the computer through its operating system without said prior installations; creating at least a file in a memory unit of the sxtemal device by the computer in response to an instruction of operating the external device; and operating the external device under the instru ;tion upon detection of a presence of the file in the memory unit by the external device.
4. An external device operable by a computer without prior installations of a specific software or a dedicated driver onto the compulter, comprising an interface for connecting to the computer; a memory unit; a processor for managing various componenijs of the external device and for communicating with the computer jthrough the interface; and means, controlled by the processor, for executing an operation in accordance with an instruction from the compute! ; wherein the memory unit is accessible by the computer without said prior installations; wherein the processor periodically detects presence of a file in the memory unit, which file is created ty the computer in response to the instruction of operating the external device; and wherein upon detection of the presence of the file , the processor controls said means to execute the operation in Accordance with an instruction from the computer.
5. A process for downloading information stored in £ SIM card, in which the SIM card is inserted, comprising connecting the SIM card reader to a computer; automatically exhibiting the SIM card reader :o the computer as a storage device accessible by the computer witho Jt prior installations of a specific software or a dedicated driver onto the computer; creating at least a first file in a memory unit o :the SIM card reader by the computer in response to an instruction of downloading the information; upon detecting presence of the first file in the memory unit by the
SIM card reader, retrieving the information from the SIM card by the SIM card reader.
6. The process of claim 5, wherein the step of retrieving the information includes storing the information in the memory unit, and the process further comprising presenting the retrieved information on the cDmputer by creating a second file in the memory unit by the SIM card reader when the retrieval of information from the SIM ca d to the SIM card reader is completed; detecting presence of the second file by the domputer; and upon detection of the presence of the second file, presenting the retrieved information by the computer.
7. A SIM card reader for downloading information sijored in a SIM card inserted therein, comprising an interface for connecting to a computer; a memory unit; a processor for managing various components of the SIM card reader and for communicating with the computer through the interface; and a reading interface, controlled by the processjor, for reading the SIM card; wherein the memory unit is accessible by the computer without prior installations of a specific software or a dedic ated driver onto the computer; wherein the processor periodically det sets presence of a file in the memory unit, which file is created by the computer in response to the instruction of downloading the information stc red in the SIM card; wherein upon detection of the presence of the files , the processor controls the reading interface to download the information from the SIM card onto the memory unit of the SIM card reade
8. A process for uploading information from a SIM Qiard writer to a SIM card inserted therein by using a computer, comprising connecting the SIM card writer to the computer, automatically exhibiting the SIM card writer to the computer as a storage device accessible by the computer without prior installations of a specific software or a dedicated driver onto the computer; creating at least a first file in a memory unit of the SIM card writer by the computer in response to an instruction of usloading the information; upon detecting presence of the first file in the memory unit by the
SIM card writer, retrieving the information stored in the SIM card writer; and uploading the retrieved information onto the IM card.
9. A SIM card writer for uploading information onto SIM card inserted therein by using a computer, comprising an interface for connecting to the computer; a memory unit; a processor for managing various componen s of the SIM card writer and for communicating with the computer through the interface; and a writing interface, controlled by the processojr, for uploading information onto the SIM card; wherein the memory unit is accessible by the computer without prior installations of a specific software or a dedicated driver onto the computer such that said information can be store i in the memory unit by the computer; wherein the processor periodic! Hy detects presence of a file in the memory unit, which file is created t y the computer in response to the instruction of uploading the infornation; wherein upon detection of the presence of the file, the processc r retrieves the stored information and controls the writing interface to upload the retrieved information onto the SIM card.
PCT/IB2006/001999 2005-05-27 2006-05-19 Process and apparatus for operating an external device WO2006129202A2 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CN2006800271327A CN101228537B (en) 2005-05-27 2006-05-19 Apparatus and method for operating external device

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CN05104445.8 2005-05-27
CN05104445 2005-05-27

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2006129202A2 true WO2006129202A2 (en) 2006-12-07
WO2006129202A3 WO2006129202A3 (en) 2007-03-29

Family

ID=37482035

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/IB2006/001999 WO2006129202A2 (en) 2005-05-27 2006-05-19 Process and apparatus for operating an external device

Country Status (2)

Country Link
CN (1) CN101228537B (en)
WO (1) WO2006129202A2 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20100083386A1 (en) * 2008-09-30 2010-04-01 General Instrument Corporation Tokenized Resource Access

Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN1321933A (en) * 2000-05-01 2001-11-14 株式会社理光 Program down-loading method and compound device thereby
JP2003141458A (en) * 2001-11-08 2003-05-16 Dainippon Printing Co Ltd Ic card processing method
US6789111B1 (en) * 1999-12-09 2004-09-07 Microsoft Corporation Automatic detection and installation of client peripheral devices by a server

Family Cites Families (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6694354B1 (en) * 1998-11-30 2004-02-17 Telefonaktiebolaget Lm Ericsson (Publ) Host computer access to peripheral device drivers

Patent Citations (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6789111B1 (en) * 1999-12-09 2004-09-07 Microsoft Corporation Automatic detection and installation of client peripheral devices by a server
CN1321933A (en) * 2000-05-01 2001-11-14 株式会社理光 Program down-loading method and compound device thereby
JP2003141458A (en) * 2001-11-08 2003-05-16 Dainippon Printing Co Ltd Ic card processing method

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20100083386A1 (en) * 2008-09-30 2010-04-01 General Instrument Corporation Tokenized Resource Access
US8266684B2 (en) * 2008-09-30 2012-09-11 General Instrument Corporation Tokenized resource access
US8522361B2 (en) 2008-09-30 2013-08-27 Motorola Mobility Llc Tokenized resource access

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN101228537A (en) 2008-07-23
CN101228537B (en) 2010-06-30
WO2006129202A3 (en) 2007-03-29

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
CN101553783B (en) For receiving the system and method for control command at ancillary equipment
US8799521B2 (en) System and method for receiving control commands at a peripheral device
CN101110039B (en) Terminal unit self-installing and self-starting system and method thereof
US7739429B2 (en) Method for data processing device exchanging data with computer
RU2445676C2 (en) Method of communication with multifunctional memory card
US20110276724A1 (en) System and Method for Updating Device Drivers
US20110197055A1 (en) Firmware storage medium with customized image
US20040034861A1 (en) System and method for automating firmware maintenance
US8832289B2 (en) Wireless network connection system and method
US20050162688A1 (en) Printing terminal, printing data outputting device, and computer and peripheral device using therefor
WO1997024656A1 (en) Method and apparatus for providing an interface between a system and a peripheral device
CN107111568B (en) System and method for presenting drive installation files when USB device is enabled
US7383386B1 (en) Multi partitioned storage device emulating dissimilar storage media
JPH08272541A (en) Information recording medium and information reproducing device
JP3766429B2 (en) Detachable device
WO2006129202A2 (en) Process and apparatus for operating an external device
US10007529B2 (en) Data terminal running mode switching method, device, and data terminal
US7913263B2 (en) External device and operating method applied thereto
US20050045721A1 (en) Method of dynamic icons and labels showing status of the memory card in a card reader
CN107423075A (en) The register method and user terminal of driving
KR100794345B1 (en) Mobile Terminal Having UMS Data Communication Function and Method of Data Transmission Using The Same
CN108984218B (en) Method for supporting mouse left and right key exchange by BIOS
CN108762821B (en) Device and method for running application of electronic equipment and electronic equipment
EP2166447A2 (en) Computer and method for connecting computer to network disk
KR101016797B1 (en) Method and system for using portable storage device of mobile phone as CD-ROM

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
NENP Non-entry into the national phase in:

Ref country code: DE

WWW Wipo information: withdrawn in national office

Country of ref document: DE

NENP Non-entry into the national phase in:

Ref country code: RU

WWW Wipo information: withdrawn in national office

Country of ref document: RU

WWE Wipo information: entry into national phase

Ref document number: 200680027132.7

Country of ref document: CN

121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 06779885

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A2

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 06779885

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A2