Abstract: A game controller with a retractable cord is disclosed. The game controller can be a universal game controller that is compatible with many different gaming platforms and have many different physical shapes and user inputs. Game controller can have a connector at the end of a cord that can be plugged into the desired game platform. The game controller can include a housing with handles or a gripping surface such that a user can securely grip or hold the game controller. A spring loaded spool or reel can be integrated into the housing of the game controller such that the cord can be coiled by the reel when the entire cord length is not required or when the game controller is to be stored when it is not in use. The reel can also include a crank handle and a latching mechanism to reel in the cord and lock the reel into a desired position.

Abstract: A microcontroller or microprocessor-controlled broadcast receiver embedded in an external peripheral with a digital communications interface. In one embodiment, a microprocessor-controlled broadcast receiver is embedded in the housing of an external computer peripheral. The external computer peripheral is connected to a personal computer (PC) via a digital communications link such as USB (universal serial bus). Control data is relayed from the personal computer to the broadcast receiver in the external computer peripheral via the digital communications link. Audio signals received by the broadcast receiver in the external computer peripheral may also be relayed to the personal computer via the digital communications link or via an analog interface for recording storage, or manipulation by the personal computer. The broadcast receiver may also receive data signals in addition to audio signals (datacasting). The data or audio signals or both may be encrypted.

Abstract: A microcontroller or microprocessor-controlled broadcast receiver embedded in an external peripheral with a digital communications interface. In one embodiment, a microprocessor-controlled broadcast receiver is embedded in the housing of an external computer peripheral. The external computer peripheral is connected to a personal computer (PC) via a digital communications link such as USB (universal serial bus). Control data is relayed from the personal computer to the broadcast receiver in the external computer peripheral via the digital communications link. Audio signals received by the broadcast receiver in the external computer peripheral may also be relayed to the personal computer via the digital communications link or via an analog interface for recording storage, or manipulation by the personal computer. The broadcast receiver may also receive data signals in addition to audio signals (datacasting). The data or audio signals or both may be encrypted.