Patents by Inventor Peter W. Fletcher

Peter W. Fletcher has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 6141212
    Abstract: A multiple function peripheral connecting device that allows more functionality in the limited port space of a computer is disclosed. The connecting device provides the capability for external devices having different functions to be connected to the computer through a single port. This is accomplished by wiring a first function, internal to the computer, to certain pins of a modular connector, and wiring a second function, also internal to the computer, to a certain different combination of pins on the same modular connector. Because differently sized plugs can fit with the modular connector, peripherals associated with different types of systems can connect with the computer through the same single jack. Also, an adapter may be connected to the computer to allow simultaneous use of the two internal functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Assignee: Apple Computer, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter W. Fletcher, Glen D. Stone