Abstract: A method and apparatus for a dual power supply on a universal serial bus system using an overcurrent detect circuit. Dual power supplies in the universal serial bus system allows for greater flexibility of operation and is based on two separate power systems. The first power system is achieved using the power line on the bus connecting to the universal serial bus controller. The second power system is a separate power supply to power the downstream ports. Moreover, the universal serial bus system has an overcurrent and thermal error detect circuit based on the power system in order to achieve an efficient and cost effective method and apparatus in which to notify the universal serial bus controller of any error in the power system.

Abstract: A communications card cap of being mounted in electrical communication with a laptop computer has formed therethrough an aperture so sized and shaped as to be capable of receiving a physical/electrical media connector. In use, a media connector is inserted directly into the aperture in the communications card, the aperture being in contact with a plurality of contact wires fixed within the communications card. The communications card is divided into a retractable access portion of the communications card which can be directly accessed by manipulating an actuating mechanism releasing a retention means thereby allowing a spring to push the retractable access portion of the card outside of the computer housing. The retractable access portion of the communications card may be reinserted back into the computer housing to be carried internally when not in use.