Abstract: A method includes generating a first set of commands for an imaging device. The first set of commands are associated with a first task to be performed by the imaging device. A second set of commands are generated for the imaging device during a second time interval that overlaps the first time interval. The second set of commands are associated with a second task to be performed by the imaging device. The first set of commands is transmitted to the imaging device during a third interval of time, and the second set of commands is transmitted to the imaging device during a fourth interval of time that does not overlap with the third interval of time.

Abstract: Dual still image and video mode features are provided for a digital camera whereby the digital camera and an associated computer system support the concurrent capture of still images and video streaming operations. Capture and retrieval of a still image during video streaming operations of a digital camera tethered to a computer system includes pausing video streaming operations, capturing a still image by the digital camera, transferring the still image from the digital camera to the computer system, and resuming video streaming operations. Transfer of the captured still image is performed by camera device driver and bus interface software executing on the computer system. In one embodiment the digital camera is tethered to the computer system by a Universal Serial Bus (USB) and the camera device driver and bus interface software control access and usage of the USB.

Abstract: A method for using a driver program to communicate with multiple serial bus devices includes selecting one of the serial bus devices and automatically coupling the selected serial bus device to a computer. The other serial bus devices are isolated from the computer, and the driver program is executed to communicate with the selected serial bus device.