Abstract: Circuitry and methods are provided for a standardized serial interface. The interface uses auxiliary port connector pin of a device conforming to the Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) standard as a serial bus. Protocols are provided that allow a host computer to selectively connect to and communicate with either the PCMCIA based device or with devices connected to the serial bus. The circuitry and protocols support a daisy-chain of multiple devices from a single PCMCIA based device.

Abstract: A system and methods are provided for displaying and processing communications via a variety of communications media using a personal computer. Messages received either wirelessly, for example, wireless e-mail, or over telephone wireline, such as voice mail or facsimile, are segregated and presented for review by the subscriber according to whether the originator is within a select group of routinely contacted individuals and also by type of media. The system includes a graphical user interface to provide an intuitive and efficient message processing capability. In alternative embodiments the apparatus and methods are self-documenting and facilitate communication to the system manufacturer.

Abstract: A computer peripheral is provided that combines the functionality of multiple devices, for example, a pager, a facsimile machine, and a data modem. The computer peripheral is designed as one or more separable modules, or functional components, including a module for interfacing the peripheral to a host computer. At least one of the functional components can be operated either as part of the computer peripheral, or may be separated from the remainder of the computer peripheral and used as a self contained functional module.