A data processing apparatus capable of operating in a plurality of modes includes a technique for automatically determining the proper mode from user inputs. This invention is most applicable to small hand held or desk top data processing apparatuses which operate in one mode like a calculator and which include provisions for entering, editing and running computer programs in a higher order language. User inputs, such as those from an ordinary keyboard, are stored in an input buffer memory until an end-of-entry key is actuated. Depending upon the nature of the end-of-entry key and the particular set of keyboard entries stored in the input buffer memory, the apparatus automatically determines the required mode for processing the data in the input buffer, enters that selected mode and peforms the function required by the input characters.
A computer system has a system bus with several sockets or slots therein which receive memory modules. Each module can be used to implement at least one of a variety of functions. The functions include operating system programs, application programs, and random access memories (RAM). Each slot has a module select line coupled to it at the same location. A module select circuit is provided which enables the module select lines to select the appropriate module or modules. Modules implementing the same type of function, or different functions, can be plugged into the slots in any order. Each module implementing the same type of function is allocated the same address block and starts at the same address. In the cases of operating system modules and application program modules, the module which is enabled by the module select line acts as the program memory for the processor so that the program is instantaneously in memory from the time the module is selected. The computer system of the instant invention does not load a program from a storage medium into memory and then execute it. In the case of a RAM module, the selected module becomes a memory for the processor when selected and the processor can access the RAM module to store and retrieve data.
A data input/output device is provided having a memory which includes a plurality of memory areas each of which has a particular format for storing input data. A display device displays the data in a format corresponding to a selected one of the formats. Inputted character data is stored in the memory area corresponding to the selected one of the formats and simultaneously into non-selected ones of the memory areas.
A data processing system capable of processing data in a plurality of modes including an input/edit mode is disclosed. The system includes a data name memory, start address memory and edit condition memory wherein the status of data being processed in the input/edit mode is stored when processing in the input/edit mode is interrupted to enable processing in a different mode and based upon which the system resumes processing in the input/edit mode.
A computer system enabled with a Universal Serial Bus data communication interface and a USB enabled input device, such as a computer keyboard, capable of operating in a standard USB mode or in one or more non-standard USB modes. Also disclosed is a method of communicating between the input device and the computer's application program while the device is operating in each mode and a method for switching between operating modes.
A processor which has two different communications modes, a test mode, an an emulator mode is shown. These modes are selected by controlling inputs to two pins. More modes could be added with more pins. When a given mode is switched into, certain I/O pins instantly change function. Minimal hardware and software is required to implement a switch thus allowing rapid switches.
