A single-slot multi-flash-card reader is disclosed. The flash card reader
includes an Integrated Device Electronics (IDE) interface for transferring
data to a personal computer; and an IDE converter, coupled to the IDE
interface, for converting multiple flash-card interfaces to a format used
by the personal computer interface. The multiple flash-card interfaces
include a CompactFlash interface and smaller interfaces having fewer pins
that the CompactFlash interface. The flash card reader includes a
CompactFlash connector, coupled to the IDE converter, for receiving a
CompactFlash card through a single slot in the single-slot
multi-flash-card reader, the CompactFlash connector making electrical
connection with the CompactFlash card for signals in the CompactFlash
interface. The flash card reader also includes an adapter, having a
physical shape to remove or insert into the CompactFlash connector. The
adapter has a mating CompactFlash connector that fits the CompactFlash
connector. The adapter also has a smaller connector, the smaller connector
for fitting to other flash-memory cards having the smaller interfaces. The
reader includes a wiring means, in the adapter, connected between the
smaller connector and the mating CompactFlash connector, for directly
connecting signals from the smaller connector in the smaller interface
with signals in the mating CompactFlash connector. The adapter allows the
other flash-memory cards having the smaller interfaces to fit into the
CompactFlash connector through the single slot to be read by the IDE
converter. A system and method in accordance with the present invention
allows an IDE interface to replace the USB interface. This will allow a
flash reader to be built that could be put into the front panel of a PC in
a manner that is similar to placing a CDROM into the front panel.
