WO2006105447A2 - Cellular data communication core - Google Patents

Abstract

A core device (221) is provided which is adapted to interface with a plurality of host communications devices (211, 213, 215, 217, and 219) of a diverse type to enable the host device communications devices (211, 213, 215, 217, and 219) to communicate with other devices over one or more networks (203, 205, 207, and 209). The core device (221) having a memory device (509) which stores account infomation related to the plurality of host devices (211, 213, 215, 217, and 219), an input/output device which interfaces with the circuitry of each of the plurality of host devices (21 1, 213, 215, 217, and 219) to allow data to be read from, and written to, the memory device (509), and one or more antenna (503, 505) which are adapted topermit communication between the core device (221) and a network (203, 205, 207, and 209).

Description

CELLULAR DATA COMMUNICATION CORE

[0001] The present application claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/666,804 filed on March 31, 2005.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

[0002] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or patent disclosure as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office, patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to communications devices and networks, and more particularly to a device that may interface with a variety of communications devices to enable communication using a single user account.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0004] Presently, users of communications devices are frequently required to maintain multiple accounts and wireless connection methodologies for different devices in their possession. This scenario is illustrated in the network 101 of FIG. 1, where several different communications devices associated with a single user are shown to communicate in redundant ways. Thus, a typical business professional might own a cell phone 115, a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) 109, and a laptop 113 with a wireless data modem 111. Each of these devices is equipped with its own wireless capability and distinct user account. Thus, in the network 101 illustrated, the laptop 113 (by way of wireless data modem 111) communicates wirelessly with a cable modem 103 and first 105 and second 107 land-based networks, while the PDA 109 communicates only with the cable modem 103 and the second network 107, and the cellular phone 115 communicates only with the cable modem 103 and the second network 107. Even though the user might prefer to maintain a single account for all of these devices, he or she will most likely need to purchase multiple wireless accounts for these devices, in part because more than one device is active.

WILL-P003PCT 1 [0005] GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) is a digital technology for wireless communication. GSM provides integrated voice mail, high-speed data, fax, paging and short message services capabilities. GSM has features for secure communications, call privacy, and fraud prevention. As members of the GSM Global Network, GSM subscribers may use their phones at home, across town, across the continent, or around the world (except for with country specific SIM cards). GSM currently operates on the multiple spectrum frequency bands used around the world - 1900MHZ, which is used in North America and 900MHz and 1800 MHz for other locations.

[0006] Security Interface Module (SIM) cards are currently available which work with GSM or GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) networks, the later of which is an enhanced GSM system for IP data packets needed for web browsing and file transfer. The SIM (Subscriber Identification Module or Subscriber Identity Module) card, which is typically a "smart card", holds all of a subscriber's personal information and phone settings. In essence, it acts as the subscriber's authorization to use the network. It also holds the phone number, personal security key and other data necessary for the handset to function. The card may be switched from phone to phone, letting the new phone receive all calls to the subscriber's number. Pre-paid wireless cell phone services take advantage of the fact that these SIM cards may be moved from device to device. [0007] The SIM card is typically disposed in the handset of a phone and functions as the phone's digital brain. The authentication and encryption capabilities of the SIM card prevent the phone account identification from being stolen, and also prevent calls made on the phone from being eavesdropped on. The digital memory on the SIM card, which stores information like the rate plan, phone number and service features, also allows personalization of the service and contains user ID and billing information that may be switched between different phones.

[0008] With a SIM card installed, a cellular phone user may make or receive calls personally, even when using a borrowed phone, as long as the cell phone is not "locked in" for a SIM card. Providers currently exist which provide such "unlocked" cell phones. When used in conjunction with an unlocked phone, upgrading the phone is as simple as slipping the SIM card into a new phone. Therefore, as long as the frequencies are compatible, the user is able to use any SIM with an "unlocked" phone. A number of

WILL-P003PCT 2 major cell phone carriers sell "locked in" cell phones for their networks, which frequently may not be used with a different SIM card.

[0009] Although SIM cards are prevalent, they currently may not be moved from one type of network to another, nor may they be readily moved from one type of communications device to another. There is thus a need in the art for a device which overcomes the aforementioned infirmities. In particular, there is a need in the art for a device which may be connected to any of a variety of host devices, and which may enable communications between the host device and other devices over a variety of networks. These and other needs are met by the devices and methodologies disclosed herein and hereinafter described.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0010] It has now been found that the above noted needs may be met by the devices and methodologies disclosed herein.

[0011] In one aspect, a core device is provided which is adapted to interface with a plurality of diverse host communications devices of diverse types to enable said host communications devices to communicate with other devices over one or more networks. The core device comprises a memory device which stores account information related to the plurality of host devices, an input/output device which interfaces with the circuitry of each of said plurality of host devices to allow data to be read from, and written to, the memory device, and one or more antennae which are adapted to permit communication between the core device and a network.

[0012] In another aspect, a network is provided which comprises first and second host communications devices of a diverse type, and a core device which interfaces with each of said first and second host communications devices to enable said first and second communications devices to communicate with other devices over a network. The core device is equipped with a memory device which stores account information related to the first and second devices. As used herein diverse types comprise different communication protocols, different transmission frequencies and other technological differences distinguishing one communication mode from another.

[0013] These and other aspects of the present disclosure are described in greater detail below with respect to the systems, methodologies, and software described herein.

WILL-P003PCT 3 [0014] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] For a more complete understanding of the systems, methodologies, and software described herein and the advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals indicate like features and wherein:

[0016] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a conventional communications network;

[0017] FIG. 2 is an illustration of a first embodiment of a communications network that employs a first embodiment of a cellular communications core device of the type disclosed herein;

[0018] FIG. 3 is an illustration of the functionality of the cellular communications core device utilized in the communications network of FIG. 2;

[0019] FIG. 4 is an illustration of a second embodiment of a communications network in accordance with the teachings herein;

[0020] FIG. 5 is an illustration of a second embodiment of a cellular Communications core utilized in accordance with the teachings herein and having two distinct antennas;

[0021] FIG. 6 is an illustration of a third embodiment of a cellular communications core utilized in accordance with the teachings herein;

[0022] FIG. 7 is an illustration of a third embodiment of a communications network in accordance with the teachings herein;

[0023] FIG. 8 is an illustration depicting the use of a cellular communications core of the type disclosed herein with a conventional laptop computer;

[0024] FIG. 9 is an illustration of a fourth embodiment of a communications network in accordance with the teachings herein in which a core server is provided which is equipped with a plurality of ports that releasably accept a plurality of communications cores of the type disclosed herein;

[0025] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a fourth embodiment of a communications network in accordance with the teachings herein in which a core server is provided which is equipped with a plurality of ports that releasably accept a plurality of communications cores of the type disclosed herein;

[0026] FIG. 11 is an illustration of a fourth embodiment of a cellular communications core utilized in accordance with the teachings herein;

[0027] FIG. 12 is an illustration of a radio equipped with a core device of the type described herein, wherein the core device is configured as a "plug-and-play" device; and

WILL-P003PCT 4 [0028] FIG. 13 is an illustration of a radio equipped with a core device of the type described herein, wherein the core device is configured as a built-in device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with reference to the Figures. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes as the invention extends beyond these limited embodiments. For example, it should be appreciated that those skilled in the art will, in light of the teachings of the present invention, recognize a multiplicity of alternate and suitable approaches, depending upon the needs of the particular application, to implement the functionality of any given detail described herein, beyond the particular implementation choices in the following embodiments described and shown. That is, there are numerous modifications and variations of the invention that are too numerous to be listed but that all fit within the scope of the invention. Also, singular words should be read as plural and vice versa and masculine as feminine and vice versa, where appropriate, and alternatives embodiments do not necessarily imply that the two are mutually exclusive.

[0030] It has now been found that the aforementioned needs may be met through the provision of a device, referred to herein as a "core device", which is adapted to interface with a variety of host devices, and which enables the host device to effectively communicate with a variety of other devices over a variety of networks. Although SIM (Security Interface Module) cards currently exist which may be moved from one cellular phone to another (provided the phones are unlocked) and which enable the host phone to communicate with other cellular phones, existing SIM cards are limited in use to a particular type of host device (i.e., cellular telephones). Existing SIM cards are also not portable from one type of network to another. The core devices disclosed herein extend the existing SIM concept of a digital card that may be moved from one cellular phone to another, to a core device that may be used to enable a variety of types of host devices to operate over networks beyond the typical GSM (Global System for Mobile communications) and CDMA (General Packet Radio Service) networks utilized by current cell phones.

[0031] The core devices described herein are adapted to operate in conjunction with a wide variety of host devices, including Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), laptop

WILL-P003PCT 5 computers, cellular phones, auto and military electronic devices, desktop computers, advanced high-definition TVs, MP3 players, DVD players, i-Pod^® devices, household appliances, or any communications device (or device equipped with a communications component) that is adapted to communicate digital or analog signal information to another device. The core device is also designed to work with wireless communication standards beyond GSM and CDMA.

[0032] The core devices described herein are also adapted to operate a wide variety of wireless networks and wire-based networks, including, but not limited to, satellite networks, television broadcasts, radio broadcasts, digital and analog cable television, broadband cable or DSL (Digital Subscriber Line), and citizens band send and receive. Each of these devices is adapted to communicate with numerous wireless and wire-based networks.

[0033] The operation of a core device made in accordance with the teachings herein may be appreciated with respect to the particular non-limiting embodiment shown in FIG. 2 of a network 201 equipped with a core device 221 of the type described herein. As shown in FIG. 2, the particular core device 221 depicted interfaces with a variety of host devices, including a PDA 211, a laptop computer 213, a cellular phone 215, the communications system of an automobile 217, and a desktop computer 219. The core device 221 is adapted to communicate over an Iridium L-Band network 203 (10+ kbit/sec), a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) network 205 (typically at 2000+ kbit/sec), a WWAN (Wireless Wide Area Network) CDMA network 207 (typically at 50+ kbit/sec), and a TDMA (Time Division Multiplex Access), GSM, and/or GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) network 209 (typically at 14.4 kbit/sec). Hence, a core device 221 might enable a PDA 211 to send e-mail, allow a cell phone 215 to make a call or receive streaming video, allow a repair technician to diagnose a fault in an automotive electronic system 217, or allow a desktop computer 219 to access the Internet for web browsing. Hence, the core device 221 imitates the flexibility of SIM, but extends that capability to devices and wireless communications that do not use SIM. The core device 221 tracks wireless account subscriptions and other configuration information, such as e- mail account information, that it needs to interface with each host device and to communicate over each network. A core device also may have various applications installed such as a digital phone interface software, a CRM type application,

WILL-P003PCT 6 synchronization software, security software, voice over IP configuration information, and many other types of applications.

[0034] A core device 221 may assume a variety of configurations, shapes and designs. For example, it may be configured as a digital smart card, a smart media card, a credit-card device, a small plug-in card with cellular antenna and communications core, or as a more full-featured version that retains its digital storage function but adds the ability to have a miniature handset that is built around, or included as a component of, the core device 221.

[0035] FIG. 3 illustrates one possible embodiment of the memory content 301 of the core device 221 of FIG. 2. As shown therein, the memory content 301 includes account information and associated data for various communications networks. In the particular embodiment depicted, the account information includes wireless LAN account information 305, WWAM CDMA IX account information 307, and TDMA, GSM, and/or GPRS account information 309. The associated data includes e-mail account information 311, address books 313, and SIM security codes 315. The account information and associated data may be stored in any suitable memory medium, but is preferably stored in a non-volatile memory medium such as read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), ferroelectric random access memory (FROM), non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM), or flash memory.

[0036] In order to facilitate the use of multiple communications networks, the core device 221 may be pre-programmed by the manufacturer with account information for a variety of communications networks. These accounts may then be selectively activated by the user, a process which will typically result in the user being associated with the accounts. Alternatively, the device may be associated with a single account that has user priλάleges on multiple networks. One or more business entities may be created that act as an intermediary between the user and the entities managing the various networks so mat the owners of the individual networks are compensated for network usage by the user, while the user is provided with consolidated account and/or billing information. [0037] In some embodiments, the core device may be provided with multifunctional slots or ports. For example, the core device may be equipped with a LAN card that

WILL-P003PCT 7 accepts multiple cables or connectors in each slot or port, and is adapted to operate over each one separately.

[0038] In addition to storing account information and associated data for various communications networks, the core device may also be equipped with wireless communications antennae and other radio components. As hardware or software upgrades become available or additional protocols or capabilities are developed, these upgrades may be distributed with newer versions of the core device. Consequently, these upgrades are seamlessly provided to any host device that the core device is interfaced with.

[0039] In some embodiments, the core device is adapted to permit a plurality of diverse host communications devices to communicate over a plurality of diverse networks, even when the core device is not physically interfaced with each of the plurality of diverse host communications devices. Such an embodiment is depicted in FIG. 4. The particular network 401 illustrated therein contains a plurality of communications devices, including a laptop computer 405, a desktop computer 407, a cellular phone 409, and a PDA 411. The core device is interfaced with the desktop computer 407, from which it communicates with the laptop computer 405, cellular phone 409, and PDA 411 using a suitable protocol such as Bluetooth, and further communicates with a satellite network 403 and a land-based wireless network 413. It will be appreciated from FIG. 4 that the core device provides access to the satellite network 403 and the land- based wireless network 413 even if the host communications devices are not specifically registered on these networks, and even though some of the host devices in the network are not physically interfaced with the core device.

[0040] A core device may utilize a variety of communications protocols in communicating with various host devices and/or networks, including Bluetooth and Wi- Fi ((Wireless-Fidelity), the latter of which is a protocol from the Wi-Fi Alliance that certifies that Ethernet devices comply with the IEEE 802.11 wireless standard, WiMAx and other standards to be developed. This allows nearby authorized devices to share a wireless connection or other resources. Physical network protocols and connections may also be used between the core device and the host devices and include, but are not limited to, USB, TCP/IP Ethernet, serial Port, PCI and parallel port connections. [0041] Various embodiments of the core device are possible in accordance with the teachings herein. One particular embodiment of the core device 303 is depicted in FIG. 5.

WILL-P003PCT 8 The core device 303 depicted therein comprises a wireless communications body 507 which is equipped on one end with an interface 509 (shown here in the Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) style) that permits the core device 303 to communicate with a host device, and which is equipped on the other end with first 503 and second 505 antennae that operate over first and second bandwidths, respectively. The wireless communications body 507 may be equipped with suitable communications circuitry and an optional power supply. The power supply may include one or more batteries, solar panels, fuel cells or other power sources. [0042] In one embodiment of the core device 303 depicted in FIG. 5, the second antenna 505 is designed for use with GSM cellular networks for which compact antennas are sufficient, and the first antenna 503 is adapted for use in satellite communications which require relatively large antennas. When large antennas are provided (as for satellite), the antenna may be removable by the user when not in use. Antennas for (geosynchronous) satellite phones are directional antennas with high gain, since the satellites are, for practical purposes, fixed in location and very far away from the user, and since each satellite serves a relatively large geographic area. In contrast, cellular and PCS handset antennas must be omni-directional, because the relative tower position varies signifϊmaytly as the user travels among relatively small geographic "cells" of wireless data service.

[0043] In some variations, rather than being provided with antennae 503 and 505, the core device 303 of FIG. 5 may be provided with suitable ports which permit the device to be connected, either directly or indirectly, to an external antenna. It will also be appreciated that, rather than being adapted for direct communication with a network, the antennae 503 and 505 may be adapted to communicate with an external device that amplifies the signals from the core device 303 and transmits these signals over one or more networks.

[0044] While the core device 303 of FIG. 5 is illustrated with external antennae 503 and 505, it will be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the core device 303 may be equipped with one or more internal antennas or with multiple antennas disposed in a single antenna body. Of course, in some applications, in order to obtain acceptable transmission and reception for multiple and simultaneous wireless protocols, communication in remote areas may require multiple antennas that protrude from the body of the core device 303, and/or one or more external antennas. Alternatively

WILL-P003PCT 9 antennas may be removeable; alternatively antennas may comprise various input/output devices enabled to communicate with one or more diverse host communication devices; diverse host communication devices may comprise an index identifier to facilitate network security and communication.

[0045] The particular embodiment of the core device 303 illustrated in FIG. 5 must be inserted into a laptop computer, cellular phone, PDA, or other host device in order to operate. However, it will be appreciated that variations of this embodiment may be designed in accordance with the teachings herein which are self-powered and which operate merely by being in proximity to, or within a certain distance of, the host device. For example, the core device may be configured so that it may be carried or worn by the user. Specific, non-limiting examples of such embodiments include embodiments wherein the core device is configured as a wristband or key chain (see, e.g., the device of FIG. 6). In some such embodiments, a given host device will be automatically empowered for communications over one or more networks simply by virtue of the fact that the user is in proximity to the device.

[0046] A further variation of the core device is illustrated in FIG. 6. In the core device 601 depicted therein, the chassis 605 is equipped with a keychain loop 611 which permits the device to be attached to a key chain. The antenna 603 in this embodiment may be disposed inside of the body, may be integrated with the keychain loop 611, or may be of an extendible/retractable design. The core device 601 is equipped with a display 613 which may be used to display such information as the status of the core device, the status of one or more networks or devices that the core device is in communication with or is attempting to communicate with, and various data, such as account information or configuration data or preferences, that may be stored in the memory of the core device. The display may be a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), a plasma display, or any of the various other types of displays as are known to the art. However, the display is preferably adapted for low power, compact, rugged operation. In some embodiments, the display may have one or more areas that are touch sensitive to permit data to be input to the device by a user, either directly or with the use of a stylus or other such device.

[0047] The core device 601 of FIG. 6 is further equipped with a keypad 609. The keypad 609 may comprise touch-sensitive pads, keyboard buttons, or a region of a touch- sensitive display. In embodiments in which the keypad 609 is a touch-sensitive display, it

WILL-P003PCT 10 may be integrated with the display 613. As with other embodiments disclosed herein, the core device 601 is equipped with a suitable connector 607 which enables the core device 601 to effectively communicate digital information to, and interface with, various host devices, including cell phones, laptop computers, and other computerized or electronic devices.

[0048] FIG. 7 illustrates a network 701 that utilizes a further embodiment of the core device described herein. The particular network 701 depicted includes a laptop 705 or tablet PC₅ a workstation 707, a cellular phone 709, and a PDA 711, which are in communication with a satellite network 703 and a land-based network 713 by way of a master device (in this case, workstation 707). In the embodiment depicted, the core device is a virtual device which operates in a manner similar to the hardware-based version, with some important differences. Unlike its hardware analogs, in implementations of the virtual core device, the master device is designated through software settings rather than through physical hardware. More specifically, the master device has a data packet or file that contains all the data that would normally reside on a hardware implementation of the core device. This data could be stored on various media, including, but not limited to, a hard drive, floppy disk, RAM, flash, SIM, Smart Card, or other memory or storage device local to the master. Thus, each host device that is to participate in the communication must at least be able to communicate as a client through wireless or physical communication layers and protocols. In contrast to hardware embodiments of the core device in which the core device is moved from one host device to another, in the virtual core device implementation, the user transmits a virtual software core device as a special data file from one device to another. Authenticated authorizations on both ends of the transmission path help to ensure safe transfer of the virtual core device.

[0049] Another important difference between the virtual core device and its hardware analogs is that one or more of the host devices used in conjunction with the virtual core device must have multi-network wireless communications capabilities. In networks utilizing a virtual core device, one or more of the host devices could be permanently equipped with such capability. Alternatively, multiple host devices could be equipped with multi-network cellular functionality, and then one or more key multi-network communication points could be designated.

WILL-P003PCT 11 [0050] In some variations of the virtual core device, rather than storing the core device as a local data packet which designates the master device and which stores the appropriate data, the virtual core is implemented as a hosted web site, remote database, or other remote device which designates the device that is to serve as the master device and which provides the information that would normally reside on the master device or its associated memory. In one preferred implementation of this type of embodiment, a corporate server is provided that has a web site that presents this data to devices that are authorized to access it. In another preferred implementation, one of the devices serves as designated master data storage, but allows another device to be designated as the central server for designating which device is the master device and which devices are client devices.

[0051] FIGs. 8 and 9 illustrate two possible variations of a further embodiment of the core devices described herein. In the assemblies 801 and 802 depicted therein, the core device 807 is equipped with a hub 811 that contains a plurality of ports. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 9, the hub 811 is directly or integrally attached to the core device 807, while in the embodiment of FIG. 8, the hub 811 is attached to the core device 807 by way of a cable 809. The hub 811 permits multiple devices (such as, for example, laptops, PDAs, and cell phones) and multiple users to simultaneously access the wireless communications capabilities of the core device 807 and to communicate with one another through a high-speed digital interface, such as Ethernet, Firewire, USB, or serial or parallel communications. These networks may either have individual network cables connected to the ports of the hub 811 or may contain multi-segment network cables that have more than one network cable in them that may be connected to the ports of the hub 807 to simultaneously connect those ports to another device or location. In addition, provisions may be made to connect antennas of different power levels and additional power supplies to the core device 807 to boost its transmission power. At the extreme, an external high-power antenna may be connected to the cellular core. [0052] In some variations of the core device disclosed herein, the hardware may be located separately from the data. In such embodiments, the hardware of the core device would serve as the centralized communication hardware point, but would allow another device to store the master data, and would allow yet another device to serve as a hub or switch for local devices to communicate with one another. As an optional variation, multiple cellular cores could be employed by a single user. This could be useful, for

WILL-P003PCT 12 example, if the user wishes to have a key multi-network communication point and a backup communication point that either takes over if the primary one experiences degraded performance, if additional communication bandwidth (capacity) is desired over what one device could provide, or if the number of networks supported by one core device is insufficient and multiple core devices, each for a certain range of networks, must be employed due to issues relating to communication circuitry, antennae, service providers, or other system requirements.

[0053] Because a single wireless network device is used, it may act as a unique key for all of the accounts for encryption and fraudulent activity prevention. The core device may contain a unique MAC address or other industry standard identifier that may be used for all the subscriber's accounts and which uniquely identifies a subscriber on a variety of networks. If a duplicate address is observed, or the use of another, for example, MAC (media access control) address for this subscriber occurs without an appropriate change request, the event may be flagged as fraudulent activity. In addition, because a single core device is employed, it may be upgraded whenever security or performance improvements or upgrades are developed, thus allowing the improvements or upgrades to be immediately applied to all host devices.

[0054] Since communication between the user's networked devices presents a possible security loophole that must be guarded against, the host devices and/or the core device may be configured such that the host devices maynot connect arbitrarily per the Bluetooth standard. Password or other secure authorization, such as a swipe card with a code or a fingerprint or retinal smay, may be employed to authorize the connection on both the master and client devices.

[0055] A further embodiment of the networks disclosed herein is illustrated in FIG. 10. The network 901 depicted therein comprises a central core server 909 which is equipped with a plurality of core devices 925. In the particular embodiment depicted, each of the core devices 925 is in communication with a land-based wireless network 905, a satellite network 903, a cellular phone 911 and a PDA 913. Each of the core devices is also in communication, by way of the central server 909, with a switch or hub 915, a workstation 917, a plurality of laptop or tablet PCs 919, and a plurality of desktop computers 921. As indicated with respect to traveling laptop 907, any of the core devices may be removed from the server 909 and interfaced with a host device.

WILL-P003PCT 13 [0056] The core devices shown in FIG. 10 enable a small office, or a small part of a larger office, to connect to the Internet, make cellular phone calls, and otherwise transmit data wirelessly using several wireless connections of several possible types, including 2G, 3 G, CDMA IX, and WI-FI connections. As more core devices are connected to the server 909, the bandwidth of the network 901 increases. If a user wishes to travel around the office without a physical network connection or outside the office, he or she may take one of the cellular cores and connect it to a laptop, PDA, or other device. Such a cellular server will contain ports for multiple cellular core devices and make them available for communication. This cellular core server may be wired to hubs, switches, and routers using Ethernet, Firewire, USB, or any number of digital network standards commonly available.

[0057] FIG. 11 illustrates a further core device 1001 that may be utilized in the systems and methodologies described herein. In this particular embodiment, the core device is a thin device that combines a digital video camera 1003 with a thin display 1011 that may have touch screen capabilities. Wireless communications with the cellular core device are enabled by way of an antenna 1009. The device is further equipped with a microphone 1007 and audio speakers 1005. The core device 1001 is equipped with memory and an operating system so that it may be programmed and configured. It may either communicate over wireless telephone connections or wireless data links. [0058] In some embodiments, the core device 1001 of FIG. 11 may be adapted to provide specialized programming through the host device. Thus, for example, the core device 1001 may be adapted to interface with television monitors, VCRs, radios, and other types of communications devices of the type commonly found in hotel rooms, where they may be used to provide specialized or proprietary programming to the user. For example, a corporation may wish to produce its own programming with news and/or special interest stories relating to the corporation or its industry, possibly on a 24/7 basis. An employee of the corporation may then use a core device to obtain access to the corporate programming, while he or she is traveling, through the communications devices found in a typical hotel room. In some embodiments, the content of the programming may differ depending on the employee's job description, security level, job level or the like.

[0059] In the systems and devices described herein, the core device need not interact in the same manner with respect to each host device. For example, in some embodiments,

WILL-P003PCT 14 the core device is adapted to detect the resources available to a host device, and will supplement those resources on an as-needed basis. Thus, for example, the core device may be equipped with audio capabilities that are activated when the core device has determined that the host device lacks audio capabilities.

[0060] The core device may also be adapted to determine whether a particular resource available to the host device is superior to the same type of resource that the core device is equipped with. Thus, for example, if the core device is equipped with audio capabilities and the host device is equipped with superior audio capabilities, the core device may be adapted to recognize the superior audio capabilities of the host device and to preferentially utilize the host's audio resources over its own audio resources. [0061] An example of the foregoing principles is illustrated in FIGs. 12-13. FIG. 12 illustrates a configuration 1101 comprising a host device 1103 - in this case, a stereo receiver - which is equipped with a core device 1105 that is interfaced with the host device 1103 via an external cable 1107. The cable 1107 plugs into one or more ports 1109 that are provided in the host device 1103. The core device 1105 is equipped with an antenna 1111 that permits it to communicate wirelessly over any of the various networks noted herein.

[0062] As previously noted, the core devices described herein are designed to insert into a number of different devices which, in their current configuration, may or may not have an existing hardware and software interface suitable for the communications and control modes required between the core and the device. For devices that do not typically have a suitable interface, such an interface is provided as part of the core device 1105, Such interfaces may be indirect (e.g., through an adapter) as shown in FIG. 12, or may be direct as illustrated by the configuration of FIG. 13, in which the core device is built into the host device 1103.

[0063] FIGs. 12-13 illustrate how the core devices described herein may interface with a "simple device" such as a stereo receiver. In the present context, the term "simple device" refers to a device that is unable to take advantage of several cellular core features for various reasons, such as lack of a digital communications and control port or lack of computing or logic capabilities. A typical stereo receiver typically does not have a digital communications port and as such maynot control a device such as the cellular core. In the configuration 1101 of FIG, 12, the core device 1105 plugs into a special adapter 1107 that, in the preferred embodiment, provides electrical power and communications with the

WILL-P003PCT 15 core device 1105. One advantage of using an adapter is that it requires no modifications to a standard stereo receiver design. A disadvantage of using an adapter is that the configuration is less elegant and potentially more limited than the configuration 1102 of FIG. 13 which is equipped with a built-in interface. An adapter will typically be required to interface simple devices that do not have an advanced communication port that is able to communicate control, selection, and digital audio signals. In the illustrated example, the adapter 1107 communicates with the core device 1105 to indicate which functions to activate. For example, the adapter 1107 could indicate to the core device 1105 that a particular Internet radio station signal is desired and select that signal for communication to the stereo receiver through the cable 1107 to an audio-in jack 1109 provided in the receiver. The receiver may then amplify and make the signal audible through its speakers. Similarly, the adapter could be set up to detect cell phone calls on one of the users' accounts and automatically route the audio through the cable 1107 to the audio-in jack 1109. For such a cell phone call, a microphone would be required to enable a conversation. A microphone signal from the stereo could be transmitted back to the core device 1105 through an audio-out jack 1109.

[0064] For simple devices that have a built-in digital communications port, the core device may be able to communicate through that port and provide a more elegant implementation. Such a communications port must be able to recognize the cellular core through Plug & Play™ or other mechanisms. Likewise, the communications port must be able to provide control information, such as selecting a cellular core feature to activate and provide any data needed for that feature. For example, if the simple device wishes to initiate a phone call, it must be able to communicate a telephone number and specify which of the available communications protocols to attempt to use.

WILL-P003PCT 16

[0065] 1 : Yes - a different edition; also may require a different design

2: Listen only; may add display for advanced pay phone functionality

3: Listen only; may add display for advanced pay phone functionality, or may design radio with built-in display

4: No, but the designs described herein may contain the necessary circuitry for a built-in interface and display

5: Yes, with advanced display functionality

6: Yes, with advanced functionality

7: An adapter for legacy devices refers to adapters for traditional electronics, older products, industrial products, electrical devices or components not commonly equipped with wireless communications capabilities.

[0066] Examples of device functionality enabled by the core device are presented in TABLE 1. One of the key benefits of the devices disclosed herein is the ability of these devices to enable host devices to perform new communication functions, communicate more efficiently, take advantage of features that come with added communication capabilities, and avoid getting redundant communication accounts. For example, with the core device it is possible to make a cell phone call on a laptop or listen to a local radio

WILL-P003PCT 17 station on a PDA using the same device. As another example, the capability of making a cell phone call using a cell phone account could be used by a laptop and then transferred back to a cell phone use a physical cellular core or a virtual cellular core. [0067] The devices described herein have a number of advantages. These include (a) the ability to centralize wireless accounts, including cell phone accounts, wireless data, satellite, and Internet accounts; (b) enhanced portability of this functionality; and (c) the ability to easily upgrade the functionality. The software that operates the core device may be adapted to manage interfacing with a wide variety of devices. The best way to handle interfacing with a large number of devices is to use a standard interface, if at all possible. For example, one hardware design of the cellular core would have a PCMCIA interface and Windows Plug & Play capability. An alternate version of the hardware design would have a USB connector and plug-and-play software.

[0068] In addition to typical phone system capabilities such as conference calling, call forwarding, call screening, voice mail, putting calls on hold, multiple simultaneous calls, the core device may also enable advanced phone system features that might otherwise not be readily available on wireless accounts. One feature of the core device is to transmit an incoming cell phone call number or name to a user's laptop or PC workstation and automatically bring up information from a customer database. If desired, an incoming e- mail message could be translated into an audio format for a user to listen to over a cell phone using a computer program that converts text into audio. Likewise, the user could reply with audio and, this could be converted into a text e-mail reply using voice recognition software. The user could select an option to pick up cell phone calls on his or her laptop instead of a cell phone or transfer a call from a laptop to a cell phone in case the user needs to leave the office. The core device could contain customer database information so that when a customer calls in, information relevant to that customer stored in the core device may be retrieved automatically based on caller ID. Similarly, outbound calls or e-mails could be stored for particular customers in a CRM database on the cellular core and then synchronized with other customer databases. [0069] Another important feature that may be included in the devices described herein is encryption of data and a security firewall. By encrypting the voice signal, the user may enjoy secure communication, so long as all parties to the conversation have encrypt and decrypt capabilities and the appropriate keys.

WILL-P003PCT 18 [0070] In some embodiments, different core devices may be utilized with different host devices. For example, high functionality core devices may be provided to interact with lower functionality host devices, and lower functionality core devices may be provided to interact with higher functionality host devices. In these embodiments, the core device may have a modular construction so that different functionalities may be added to the core device as may be required for a particular host device. Thus, for example, the core device may be adapted to accept audio, display, software, antenna, dial- up modem, microphone and specialized circuitry modules. The core device may also be provided with software modules to enable it to perform specific tasks. In this way, the core device may be readily customized for a particular host device. [0071] In one specific example of the foregoing type of embodiment, a modular antenna component may be provided that may be attached to the core device. The antenna may be adapted to connect to the core device through a port provided in a surface thereof. This port may be similar in design, for example, to the type of port used to connect headsets to audio devices. The antenna component may be provided with its own circuit board, or may rely on a circuit board or motherboard provided in the core device. The antenna may also be of various types including, but not limited to, cellular, WiFi, satellite, radio, microwave, and TV antennas.

[0072] In some embodiments, the core device may be built into the host device. For example, all of the components of the core device may be added or built into the motherboard of the host device, or may be included as elements of an integrated chip that is present in the host device, whether or not that chip is an element of the motherboard. These components may also be built into other components of the device, or may be disposed in one or more locations in the device or distributed throughout the device. [0073] In embodiments in which the core device is built into the host device, the host device may be provided with one or more ports that are in communication with the core device or the appropriate components thereof, and these ports may be adapted to accept one or more external antennas. The external antennas may be convertible from an expanded configuration suitable for use, to a compact configuration suitable for storage or transportation. For example, the antennas may be foldable, or may have a telescopic design that permits the antenna to be extended or retracted. In some embodiments, one or more antennas may be built into the host device. For example, if the host device is a personal computer or laptop, one or more antennas may be built into the motherboard of

WILL-P003PCT 19 the host device and/or into the monitor or keyboard of the host device (other devices, such as microphones or cameras, may also be built into the monitor or keyboard of the host device). The antennas may also be removable or retractable, and may be attachable to the core device. The antennas may also be attachable to an exterior port or surface of a host device.

[0074] In some embodiments, the antennas described herein may come equipped with additional software or circuitry that imparts additional functionality to the core device, the host device, or the combination of the two. For example, in some embodiments, the antenna may come equipped with lenses, mirrors, optical fibers, light pipes, and other such components that allow the antenna to be used as a telescope. The antenna may also be provided with software that allows the core or host device to operate the telescope. These components may either be built into the antenna or, alternatively, the antenna may be provided with the necessary hardware and/or software to support the addition of these components. In the later case, the components may be packaged together as an upgrade kit. In some embodiments, some or all of the components of the telescope may be built into the host device.

[0075] The antennas may also be intelligent antennas. For example, the antennas, which may have the capability to operate in a directional or omni-directional mode, may be adapted to switch from one mode to another based on the environment. Thus, for instance, the antenna may be adapted to sense whether it is moving and, if it is not, may switch from an omni-directional mode to a directional mode if the later provides a better signal. The antenna may also be adapted to utilize various algorithms to compensate for any movement of the antenna so that it may run in a directional mode even while the core and/or host device are moving. The antenna may also be equipped with various LED or status indicator lights that indicate the status of the antenna or its current operation. [0076] Similarly, the host device may be provided with one or more ports that are in communication with the core device or the appropriate components thereof, and these ports may be adapted to accept one or more external cameras or microphones. The cameras or microphones may by adjustable to point in a particular direction, and may have a pop-up design. In some cases, the host device may have these elements built into it, in which case the core device may be adapted to utilize these elements. [0077] The systems and devices disclosed herein may also be used to implement various software platforms, such as email. For example, the core devices described

WILL-P003PCT 20 herein may be used to start an email session, go to a website, or pull up a contact name from the host device or a device in communication with the host device. The core device may operate to determine the resources available to it and to coordinate the use of these resources. In some embodiments, the software platform implemented by the core device may include the ability to send, receive, retrieve, store, and manage audio messages and contact information. For example, the core device may allow a user to record and send an audio note with the click of a single button. In some embodiments, the audio messages may be sent as conventional email messages with an audio attachment. It will be appreciated that that a similar approach may be used to utilize the core device to send facsimiles or to perform Customer Relationship Management (CRM) functions. [0078] The systems and devices disclosed herein may also be used to implement various communications plans or "calling plans" as are known to the art, including the use of pre-paid cards. Thus, for example, the core or host devices may be adapted to accept a card that provides the user with a predetermined amount of usage of communications resources, most typically in the form of a set number of minutes of usage of one or more networks. The card may be discarded when the usage limit is met, or may be "re-chargeable" through the purchase of additional minutes or usage. The card may take the form of one or more SIMS cards, or it may take the form of a plastic card (similar to conventional calling cards) that is insertable into a card reader. The card reader may be built into the core or host device, or it may be a peripheral device that communicates to the host or core device through one or more ports or wireless connections. The card may be usable with the devices and methodologies described herein to implement a "voice- over-IP" system which uses the Internet or other networks as a backbone for communications between a variety of host devices. In the event that the card is a SIMS card, it may be insertable into the motherboard of the core or host device. Alternatively, the SIMS card may not be a physical card at all, but may be a virtual card that is implemented by appropriate software.

[0079] In some embodiments of the devices described herein, location information from GPS, manually entered location data for a fixed core device (at a pay phone etc.), location information from a wireless provider, or location information from RFID tags may be incorporated into the device, and the device may be adapted to transmit or process this information. For example, a pay phone equipped with the core device could have an option to call a cab or for a person at the present location or to transmit directions to

WILL-P003PCT 21 someone that they would like to meet at this location. The core device could take its current location and transmit that information for another user or system to use. Alternatively, the core device could connect to mapping software and actually determine turn-by-turn directions and could display or transmit those directions, or display or transmit a map of the location where the core device is.

[0080] In some embodiments of the devices described herein, the device may be provided with a security feature which allows the core device to be locked into the host device. Such security features may include, for example, mechanical latches that are movable from a locked to an unlocked position. In some embodiments, the latch may be movable to the unlocked position only through the provision of a security code or with a hardware or software key.

[0081] The devices described herein may also be provided with software and hardware (e.g., circuitry, connectors, and the like) designed to implement or facilitate the use of Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP), either directly or indirectly, through the host device. The use of VOIP may, in many cases, provide a lower cost alternative to the use of other communications networks, and also provides an alternative communication medium in the event that other networks (e.g., cellular networks) are not available at the time that voice communication is desired.

[0082] Various operating systems may be used with, or installed on, the various core devices described herein. These include, without limitation, WINDOWS^®, LINUX, MAC, SOLARIS^®, JAVA, and UNIX^® operating systems.

[0083] In addition to the various core devices described herein, various host devices may be provided which take advantage of, implement, or facilitate various aspects of the technology described herein. For example, specialized host devices may be provided that are adapted to accept, test, and perform various maintenance or upgrade operations on a plurality of core devices. Such a host device could be used, for example, to simultaneously test batches of core devices at the point of manufacture, or to perform software upgrades on these devices at a retail location.

[0084] Various host devices may incorporate or utilize the devices and methodologies disclosed herein. Such host devices include, but are not limited to, personal computers, laptop computers, servers, radios, televisions, monitors, cameras, printers, fax machines, scanners, copiers, all-in-one machines, household appliances, VCRs, DVDs, MP3

WILL-P003PCT 22 players, i-POD^® devices, optical disk readers and players, navigational systems, and the like.

[0085] In many of the embodiments described herein, a core device is described as being inserted into, or coupled with, a host device. However, in some embodiments, the core device may form a component of the host device. For example, cell phones may be made in accordance with the teachings herein that have a first portion which contains the core device, and which is preferably foldably and detachably connected to a second portion. Together, the first and second portions provide all of the normal functionalities, and look and feel, of a cell phone. However, the first portion may be detached from the second portion and used as a core device with a variety of other host devices. A variety of other devices, including, for example, Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), may be constructed in a similar manner.

[0086] As noted previously, the core devices described herein may be adapted to communicate over a variety of networks and communications media. However, it should also be noted that these core devices may also be adapted to communicate over a plurality of networks and/or communications media simultaneously. This enables a variety of hybrid communications. For example, the core device may, either directly or through the host device, transmit information or data simultaneously over a cellular and wi-fi network. The information or data transmitted may be identical, or may be broken down into packets, each of which are transmitted over one network or communications medium. [0087] A variety of new and hybrid devices may be made in accordance with the teachings herein that incorporate the concept of a core device and a host device. For example, a headset device may be made that incorporates a core device. The headset may be adapted to play music from a radio station, read news reports from the Internet, permit the user to participate in a chat room (e.g., through the use of voice recognition software, a heads-up display, or other such accessories), and perform a variety of other functions that utilize the ability of the device to communication over a variety of networks and communications media.

[0088] The cellular core may provide access to television, radio, cable, and broadvision. The firmware and software can store any account information related to any of these services. Pay for View and any other pay for service will still be available using the cellular core.

WILL-P003PCT 23 [0089] The cellular core allows its users to listen just to a television broadcast with or without the actual show on a display, thus allowing a user to continue working while listening to CNN, as an example. Advanced software and analysis can record and tape segments of the sound or the actual show. These segments and clips may be saved to any number of file structures including objects with advanced annotation methods wrapped around the saved images. Advanced recording software will allow any sound heard to be recorded to a file structure.

[0090] An additional embodiment to the cellular core technology is a device that provides wireless and cellular capability without having to be connected to any host device whatsoever. This edition is extremely small and possibly sits in one's ear. An edition of this may still operate across a core and a host device. Other technologies may be combined with this embodiment such as scanning and medical imaging.

[0091] A cellular core may be used by more than one user and may be quickly programmed with a different cellular number /assigned specifically to one or more users..

This allows cellular cores to be shared across an organization.

[0092] A cellular core may have more man one SIM card in any given computing environment. The SIM card may be inserted into other devices such as the cellular core, or if adapted, other electronics.

[0093] An integrated circuit specifically for prepaid accounts may be designed, or the cellular core may be adapted to accommodate prepaid account information. Prepaid account information may be installed using a virtual implementation, or any number of other configurations described.

[0094] The cellular core as discussed does not need an actual SIM card, but it may include this technology. The cellular core device may incorporate circuitry and software applications on the circuit board to mimic the SIM technology. The cellular core chip, the built-in embodiment, may use any of the configurations described. Hosted websites or the virtual software methods may be used for account information instead of a SIM card.

[0095] The SIM-like access for the cellular core may be configured as a digital smart card, a smart media card, a chip, an integrated circuit, an adapter, or as a small additional circuit board or controller board that connects to the cellular core's structural housing or the host device's circuit board or the host device's structural housing. In addition, an integrated circuit may be designed that sits on the cellular core's circuit board or the host

WILL-P003PCT 24 device's circuit board that provides SIM-like access with advanced microprocessors, memory, storage, and applications.

[0096] The cellular core configuration may be found inside a car's transmission, communication system, battery, etc... to provide advanced cellular and computing functionality.

[0097] A handset may serve as an optional attachment to a host device any number of ways. The handset may be designed any number of ways, without limitation, a traditional- handset, a much smaller handset that folds when not in use, a handset that attaches to the host device by way of a clip, to a handset that appears to be built-in the host device that may be pulled out partially or completely when needed. This handset may optionally include the cellular core technology any number of ways described thus far. [0098] The cellular core may resemble a credit card device in size and thickness. It may also take on the shape of a smart media storage card.

[0099] Cellular phones in general, but specifically a cellular core or host device, may have a secondary method to access emergency numbers even if the primary cellular account is not accessible. This secondary method allows a user to always be able to call 911. This is implemented through hardware, software, and through the service provider, without limitation. Another use for the secondary method, is simply to have a second bandwidth if the first bandwidth shall fail. Any cellular telephone may have this capability. For instance, Voice Over IP communication protocol may take over if the primary account fails to connect. The secondary method may be implemented as a self- operating embodiment.

[00100] The size and shape of core devices described herein may also vary. For example, without limitation, while the core devices are preferably rectangular in shape, core devices having various other geometries may also be utilized, including, but not limited to, core devices that are circular, elliptical, or polygonal in shape. In some embodiments, core devices may be odd-sizes, and, when multiple core devices are used, these core devices do not necessarily need to be the same size or type. In the preferred embodiment, core devices are as wide as possible, and any action button on the frame of the core device or the host device should be as small as possible for functional use. The buttons may optionally retract/expand as needed, for example, without limitation, the buttons may pop out of the frame when ready for general use and retract back into the case of the frame when not in use. In some embodiments core devices have a clear

WILL-P003PCT 25 coating similar to glass or a touch-screen type of material. The core devices are preferably framed with a plastic material or metallic material, buttons appear slightly raised on outer areas of core devices or on host device, and the core devices are standard color components. The core devices may have rounded edges and may use a soft material.

[00101] The exterior and interior of the devices described herein may also vary in shape, for example, without limitation; they may be rectangular, square, round, have rounded edges, etc.

[00102] Some embodiments may include a carrying case with or without a handle. Carrying cases may be made of many materials such as, but not limited to, leather, plastic, nylon, rubber, metal, marble-like material, granite-like material, wood-like material, or a flexible material, may be any color, and may be engraved for example, without limitation, with a corporate name or the user's initials. Carrying cases may be designed any number of ways. For example, without limitation, the core device may be wrapped in a leather binder or positioned inside a carrying case with space for paper and items such as, but not limited to pens, pencils and business cards. In some embodiments core device may be secured in a carrying case by way of means such as, but not limited to, a latch, a pocket, or Velcro. Some carrying cases may be opened and closed by means such as, but not limited to, a zipper, snaps, or Velcro. Since in many of the embodiments, the core device has a durable outer case, a separate carrying case may not be necessary. Also, the carrying case may include a lock on the outside to secure the core device within, controllable by the same key or remote as used with the core device, although a different key or remote may be used.

[00103] A core device or a host device may have a mini-display to display seconds and minutes transpired during a voice or recording session. Seconds and minutes transpired may be recorded inside of software applications on the core device or the host device, without limitation, an email package, a customer database, or any number of other applications. This may be applied to instant messages text or voice. [00104] The preferred embodiment may use internal flat batteries so that more batteries may fit into the device. The device may have one or more batteries installed, thereby extending the number of hours the device may be used without power. An all- day battery may be installed that allows the core device to be used eight hours or more without a power cable. If multiple batteries are installed, they are installed and configured

WILL-P003PCT 26 any number of ways without limitation on the design. Battery power status appears somewhere on the core device or the host device. A toggle button may be pushed to toggle to the number of minutes remaining on each battery installed. Some embodiments may have battery eject buttons to release battery from housing of the core device. A USB cable may be used to charge the internal batteries from an external source, and in some embodiments internal batteries may be used to charge other internal batteries. Batteries may be used with the core or host device for any number of reasons, without limitation, cellular communication without the host device's power..

[00105] Those skilled in the art, in light of the present teaching, will recognize that the core device technology described herein may be implemented in a number of other types of devices such as, but not limited to, laptops, desktops, PDAs, electronic organizers, planners, servers, telephones, cameras, camcorders, binoculars, remote controls, televisions, monitors, displays, keyboards, printers, medical devices, CPU boxes, cellular phones, mp3 players, calculators, musical instruments, GPS devices, automobiles, water vehicles, aviation products, video cassette recorders, stereos, DVD/CD players, and home appliances. These devices may use and apply this technology by enabling them with cellular communications and computing resources found on the core device. Also, a core device according to the embodiments described herein may connect to any other electronic enabled device including, but not limited to, exercise equipment, pay phones, cash registers, ATM devices, scanners, copiers, file cabinets, office equipment, motorcycles, kiosks in the mall, automotive devices, motor vehicles, water vehicles, sports equipment, etc.

[00106] The cellular core device may be designed and configured to be a chip, an integrated circuit, a headset, a PCMCIA-like item, a PCI device, a recorder, or even resemble a flash drive that fits into a USB port. The product may be a software application installed on a device, or even installed on a chip. The device may take on a cellular phone design. Many other designs may be considered.

[00107] The core device may operate with a wireless headset; a core may provide audio capabilities to the host device. Using a core device with a wireless headset is preferred. The wireless headset may be built into the frame of the host device, connected to the host device, or connected to the insertable core device but detachable from the core device. A wireless headset may be designed that works with cellular phones, core devices, recorders, mp3 players, DVD players, and a laptop in general for recording, listening to

WILL-P003PCT 27 music, and even for talking on a regular phone. A wireless headset may selectively operate any number of devices separately or simultaneously. The wireless headset may take on any number of designs but may resemble any of the ones on the market. [00108] A core device may use a USB port. A cellular core allows for multiple cellular accounts including one or more regular cellular accounts along with 1 or more prepaid cellular accounts. Automatic backup of a core device's data to a host device may be configured to execute using software or firmware. A television with USB ports, microprocessor, circuit board with memory and other circuitry may be connected to a core device.

[00109] A television may be configured with USB ports, microprocessors, circuit boards, memory, hard disk, and other circuitry.

[00110] A core device, although described as a single framed product such as a PCMCIA card, may be designed any number of ways including designs that may open and close in some manner revealing additional technology inside the core device itself. A core device may be placed in a secondary adapter that sits outside of a host device, and then connected to the host device via a USB port for instance or via a wireless method that connects to the host device.

[00111] Host devices include items such as motor vehicles, law enforcement vehicles, jukeboxes, water vehicles, pay phones, military, and aviation equipment. Every cellular phone may have a cellular core attached or detachable. Every laptop or computing device may include a cellular core chip, adapter, PCMCIA card, or a virtual method. The cellular core design may resemble a small chip; it may resemble the wireless mouse connector that must be placed in the USB port.

[00112] One extension is to allow a device such as the wireless mouse adapter to be a multi-purpose and function device. In other words, the wireless mouse adapter may potentially be used with other wireless products that need to be connected to a host device such as a laptop simultaneously. A cellular core device may be combined with a wireless mouse or the wireless mouse adapter that sits inside a USB port.

[00113] Another hardware product is an advanced wireless mouse with advanced capabilities even combined with audio capabilities and other processing and computing capabilities. A mouse may include various types of indicator buttons positioned on the structural housing. These indicator buttons may be programmed with any number of applications. A mouse has advanced circuitry such as circuit boards, memory, processing

WILL-P003PCT 28 capabilities, storage areas, processors, and other circuitry in and around the structural housing. This mouse may provide computing and processing capabilities. A mouse may include a microphone, speaker, and a USB port. A mouse may be transformed into a computing device instead of a "dummy" device. The mouse control more than one device simultaneously including laptops, desktops, and PDAs, without limitation, similarly for pen and stylus devices.

[00114] Even though this core communication product is primarily used with mobile devices such as laptops, users may simply insert the device into a USB port, for instance, on the desktop, a keyboard, or a USB port on a display, providing instantaneous access to cellular communications. A computer remote or any other type of controlling device may operate the cellular core device or the host device. A core device may resemble a LAN card traditionally used with computing devices. Several servers may utilize the same cellular core device and the same cellular core account, separately or simultaneously. Advanced applications may be developed for administrative purposes. A cellular core device may be used to call anyone in an organization through cellular or Voice Over IP. The cellular core product does not have to be installed directly on a host device. Advanced enterprise solutions may be developed around this notion. [00115] A core device itself may be protected with a RFID like tag. A core device may also have a mechanism to lock the device from use when released from the host device. This is applicable for all editions of the cellular core including the built-in edition. The built-in edition may be locked and secured from use. The device may be unlocked using a remote, key, or other method. The device may also be locked even when inserted into a host device.

[00116] A button may lock the core device in place on the host device so that it may not be moved, shifted, or detached while in use. This same button or a different button may place the core device in an unlocked mode so that it may be released from the host device. We should protect this notion in general - for instance, for flash drives, cameras, mp3 players, etc. A button may also selectively release many different devices, and may be located any number of places including, without limitation, the frame of the host device, the frame of a computing device for instance, a display, a keyboard, and any other areas or components of a host device.

WILL-P003PCT 29 [00117] The cellular core may be plugged into an available USB port on any host device, and cellular communications will be available instantly with the appropriate communication circuitry installed.

[00118] Microphones may be bundled with the core device as a separate component or as a detachable component from the core device. The microphone may be any number of sizes and configurations without limitation, such as a clip or a much larger component. If the cellular core is able to hold the weight of a microphone, the microphone may extend from the core device any number of ways, and will be able to pick up voice from a reasonable distance. Special microphones and speakers may be designed with the cellular core specifically in mind. For instance, microphones that may be adjusted and manipulated (volume, mute, able to selectively mute individuals on line) may be used with the device or, optionally, may be attached to the device. Dependent on the design, the microphone is attached or detached from the core. For instance, for an installed cellular core chip, the microphone is attached to the host device or detached from the host device. The microphone may be built-into the host device as with most computing devices including PDA, laptops, desktops, DVD players, etc. without limitation. . [00119] Many designs may be configured such that a core device may be turned on or off by use of buttons located on a core device itself, or buttons may be located on a host device. A core device functioning in a cellular phone may be answered any number of ways - through buttons, through software, through movement of one component of the device, or through buttons or function keys on the host device. Buttons may be located on a core device adapter edition to selectively use various functionalities, without limitation, for instance, to place a party on hold. Buttons may be highlighted when in use, mini-displays may be located on the core device or on the host device to provide, without limtation, phone or call status to the user. Speaker volume may be adjusted through buttons on a core device, on a host device, or through software. Status lights on the device or on the host device may provide indicators if the phone is ringing even while talking on the phone. Ring tones may be enabled.

[00120] Extensive firmware software may be made available; firmware may provide an initial phone interface instantly on a host device mimicking plug and play capability. Advanced enterprise and consumer software may be sold separately from the core device that provides an advanced, extensive cellular interface. Voice over IP may be managed with the same package. A core device may be combined with any number of

WILL-P003PCT 30 technologies including a flash drive, mp3 players, a recorder, etc without losing its advanced and superior capabilities.

[00121] The size of a core device may vary. One of the preferred designs for an external adapter is very small (almost the size of a chip). A larger cellular core edition may be preferred by some users.

[00122] Processing and computing capability may be extended on the circuit of the core device such that the device mimics a small computing device. We may also install any number of components on the device. For instance, many processors, many network ports, many sets of memory cache - extending and transforming the core device into a portable, mobile platform.

[00123] A core device product may be used in an automobile through a USB port or any number of other types of adapters. A USB port may be made available, for instance, on a car radio. An advanced radio for a car that includes a microprocessor, storage, and memory may be designed and configured any number of ways. Music from the radio may be recorded, software applications may be installed and accessed, and a cellular core device may be used that operates with the car audio capabilities. A chip may be installed within the radio and stereo system. Any of the features described may be used with the core device even installed in a car. The advanced radio - although a separate product - allows us to extend the capability of the radio and stereo within any car. The cellular core may also reside in a separately installed host device in a car, similarly for other motor, transportation, and water vehicles. For instance, a stand alone display host device that mimics a computing device may be installed in a car with a built-in cellular core chip or with interface adapters for a USB edition for instance.

[00124] Synchronization and integration software will always be available to synchronize any devices used with the cellular core communications. This software may be installed on a host device, a core device, or, applications may be installed on the circuit board of a host device, included with firmware, or included as a separate application from the firmware. Alternatively, applications may be installed separately from the core device, without limitation, on a specific application chip, suite of chips, or a set of integrated circuits installed on the host device, the core device, or an external device. Conference calling is enabled with most cellular phones; a core device may have buttons on the device itself, within software, or on the frame of the host device to control and manage conference calling using intuitive and sophisticated interfaces.

WILL-P003PCT 31 [00125] A cellular core device may also connect to an auxiliary display, any number of sizes, although the preferred size is much smaller than a laptop display but larger than a PDA display. The auxiliary display may be a PDA device or a DVD/CD player, for instance. This display may be used to enable video conferencing. For instance, one may plug a core into a USB port on the laptop, connect the auxiliary display into another USB port, and provide instant video conferencing capabilities. The weight of the auxiliary display may be too much for the core device to bear, but the display could possibly extend from the core or host device as an attachable device. When a core device is an internal product such as a chip on a circuit board, an auxiliary display may be connected to a host device via a USB port, for instance. The auxiliary display may be used for any number of other purposes, without limitation, as a digital interface for a cellular phone, as a messaging device for the cellular core, or as an alternative display area that extends from the display area on the host device. This auxiliary display, even the small editions, may provide computing capabilities to a core device or to the laptop. In addition, any number of applications may be installed on the auxiliary display. Thus, the auxiliary display may have processing technology installed on its circuit board. [00126] An "application" installed on a cellular core device, a host device, or on any type of chip may be available instantly similarly as plug and play devices. [00127] A core device may provide Voice Over IP communications even simultaneously as cellular communications are being provided. In one embodiment, a core device along with a host device, provides an interface for Voice Over IP when needed. Virtual software implementations of a core device include a completely virtual cellular phone interface on a host device or an auxiliary display.

[00128] A cellular core device may allow multiple simultaneous phone calls to different parties by different users. This may be designed as a hardware or software embodiment. For instance, a corporation may need a product that may handle hundreds of simultaneous cellular or Voice Over IP phone calls. This embodiment may be designed similarly to the cellular core server as discussed previously, or may take on any number of other configurations. .

[00129] A core communications product may be used just for satellite access, or just for television or radio access, or just for cellular use. A core product may provide access to video conferencing through a dedicated data access method.

WILL-P003PCT 32 [00130] Cellular core software may provide management capabilities for all data and voice accounts including Voice Over IP and any other data or voice access technologies available now or in the future. For instance, an access method designed specifically for medical imaging capability, access to real blood samples for instance, or even access to environmental type data or substance may become available.

[00131] Cellular core or Voice Over IP applications may be developed that work with back office servers and critical application servers. These applications may place phone calls to administrative resources in case of critical errors. Multiple phone numbers may be accessed to provide this type of service.

[00132] There are a number of applications that may take advantage of automatic intelligent phone call placement. For instance, a sales representative may use a communication method for customer and prospects by scheduling automatic phone calls promoting a product or a seminar through invitations. These type of applications may extend customer relationship or sales applications.

[00133] A cellular core product enables one to send contact information via email messages to a receiver instead of a receiver writing the notes down. An option may be made available in the software package so that these types of methods may be executed.

[00134] A cellular core may resemble an embodiment as small as an antenna that may be slid into an antenna slot on a host device. An antenna slot is defined as an opening on a host device where an antenna may fit inside providing the capability of receiving communication signals.

[00135] A multi-purpose antenna is defined as an antenna capable of receiving various types of signals - either selectively or simultaneously. A multi-purpose antenna may be used with any embodiment described.

[00136] A cellular core may also be used with a host device without connecting to any communication interface or port, without limitation, it needs to be in the vicinity of the host device to operate, or it is attached to a host device^'s display through a compartment, a slot, or a clip-on but it is not connected via a communication interface.

[00137] A cellular core may be referred to as a cell chip - it is extremely small and fits into a USB port. A cellular core may be as small as a smart media card.

[00138] A pay phone may have a USB port or another port (designed without limitation) to accept a core device and other devices so that someone may use a cellular account on a pay phone. Optionally, a cellular phone may be used at a payphone through

WILL-P003PCT 33 an account setting - i.e.: by dialing a special number. This technique may be used with any type of phone even traditional phones. A payphone may have a cellular core chip installed in the payphone. The payphone may have a microprocessor, memory, and a storage area installed inside of its unit to provide any number of functionalities including cellular core access.

[00139] Voice Over IP may be installed and configured any number of ways as described for cellular. Voice Over IP may be managed and accessed through cellular core management software or using its own interface. For instance, Voice Over IP may be enabled on any cellular phone, pay phone, or regular traditional phone with the appropriate technology installed, with or without the cellular core product being installed. [00140] A SIM card may be used for more than just cellular and include data, etc. A SIM card may be included in a small "chip" like component that plugs into a cellular phone and locks into place providing all of the same capabilities that are provided today, referred to as a SIM chip component. A cellular core device may use a different type of card from a SIM card such as the SIM chip component. A SIM chip component may fit into a PDA, a cellular phone, or any other type of device enabled with extensive communication capabilities. This SIM chip component may take on any number of shapes, sizes, designs, and configurations, without limitation. It is preferably very small, fits into a side slot on a cellular phone for instance, and locks and secures itself in place. When "unlocked" phones become prevalent, a SIM chip component may be easily removed from one cellular device and placed in the next. A SIM chip component also may have installed cellular applications that enables it to operate as a fully functional advanced cellular device. A SIMS card may be a SIMS chip component with technology and application all in the same package.

[00141] A SIM chip component may work with cellular core devices or other "ready" communication devices. A SIM chip may work with PDA's. PDAs and cellular phones may be adapted to accept a SIM chip component which means it slides into a slot specifically for its size or fits/plugs into a USB port and locks in place. A Sims chip component may take on the shape of a chip that plugs into a PDA or a cellular phone. [00142] A cellular chip may be designed that mimics the SIMs chip component except the SIMs card is not included. The cellular chip may use other types of circuitry or software that provides the same capability that the SIMs card provide. A cellular chip

WILL-P003PCT 34 slides into an opening and locks into place such as a USB port. This chip may take on any number of designs.

[00143] Law enforcement and the military may use a configuration that includes multiple cellular cores, multiple cellular chips, or multiple SIMs chip components installed in any one device for emergency, backup, or as a secondary access line. [00144] Figure 3 may include any number of applications that provide any number of functionalities, without limitation, including software that emulates and controls a phone interface.

[00145] The SIM card may be extended to operate in any number of other devices. Any number of other devices may use and take advantage of a SIM card by providing a USB port or a slot such that a SIM card may be inserted to gain cellular capability. The SIM card may be configured to work with multiple networks simultaneously or multiple networks separately. A SIM card may be configured so that multiple SIM cards may operate in any one device simultaneously, closely coupled or fully integrated. The core device may be adapted to accept the SIM card.

[00146] A core device may operate wirelessly with a host device. Given a set of core devices used in an organization such as {corel, core2, ... , corei,.., corej, ...., coren), any core(i) may be synchronized with any core(j) with regards to the address books, email accounts, and the applications installed on the device itself. The same is true for host devices. There are many software and hardware methods to synchronize the devices with other core devices and host devices, without limitation. For instance, a cellular phone may be synchronized with a host device or with a core device using a USB adapter, a wireless method, a cradle, or by the push of a button on the cellular phone or by the push of a button on the host device or on the core device.

[00147] Sims account information may be optionally stored on a core device. [00148] A core device may allow different types of network cables to connect, and in some cases, ports or slots may be adapted so that different types of cables may be inserted into the same slot. Also, since a core device may accept multiple connectors, multiple streams of data may be sent in and out of the one core device operating any number of ways without limitation, separately, one at a time, or as simultaneous streams. The various streams may be of the same type, of varying type, or one stream broken across multiple connectors.

WILL-P003PCT 35 [00149] A core device may be adapted so that it is a stand-alone device communicating to a primary host device and distributing its services to other available host devices. A stand-alone core device may be configured and designed any number of ways, and it may take on any number of shapes and sizes. The stand-alone device may have advanced and extended capabilities such that a hard drive, computing resources, and extended memory installed. For instance, a stand-alone device may be configured and designed with extended displays, compartments, and a stand.

[00150] Automatic and systematic synchronization of core devices may occur. Data, contacts, addresses, account information, and application files may all be updated with ease. All local devices may be registered, secured with password account information, and each is given authorization for varying tasks. Devices are given access to services of the local environment including wireless data access, cellular voice access, radio and television capabilities, and possible satellite data and voice access. Any of the devices may be enabled with video conferencing. A local environment may exist outside of the corporate LAN. Multiple core devices may be installed in a local environment or just one. Many of the devices may be used as the master device but most likely it is a laptop or a desktop. The local environment exists because of a wireless method such as Bluetooth or any other wireless method. The devices may all be hardwired as well. The local environment provides any of the devices access to any software installed on any of the devices. There are other ways to implement this local environment through, for instance, a hardware tray. A hardware tray comprises a flat surface device where small personal devices may sit such as cellular phones, PDAs, mp3 players, flash drives, and where larger devices are connected via USB, cable, or where each connects wirelessly. A hardware tray has the necessary circuitry and technology installed to accommodate such an environment. The smaller devices are all connected immediately through a wireless method or even through various types of ports such as USB ports. A hardware tray is more than a docking station - the ideal design consists only of wireless connections and possible USB connections. Any and all devices may communicate, have access to data, files and software on any of the other devices.

[00151] In one embodiment a PCMCIA type core device is designed to insert in a host device, but many other designs and configurations may be used such as the popular USB connector of varying sizes. A core device may also sit outside the case as it connects to a port. USB allows the core device to interface with many types of electronics and

WILL-P003PCT 36 computing devices including keyboards, displays, cpus, portable DVD players, and external computing peripherals. One may also install a multi-purpose antenna - an antenna that provides multiple types of signals - radio, television, cellular, and wireless data simultaneously or one at a time.

[00152] A self-powered devices may be self-operating as well.

[00153] A wired or wireless headset may be used with the core device (designed any number of ways). This headset is designed so that the user may walk around near or around the host device and still is able to communicate with a party. Other designs include attaching a secondary device with cellular communication capabilities to a first device such as a laptop. The cellular core software may be used in the same manner as described for other embodiments. For instance, a product that folds close, and when opened, reveals a writing display at the bottom, and one or more displays at the top that may be used for any number of technologies, may be designed that takes advantage of the cellular core capabilities. For instance, one portion of the top area may be used for cellular communications configured, without limitation, as an attachable cellular phone, a virtual cellular phone, a cellular core device may be inserted, or a cellular core chip may be installed inside of the top unit. The second portion of the top half may be used as a display for applications and Internet browsing. The bottom portion of the product may be used as a writing tablet. Other technologies may be used across the entire device. This product allows a user to talk on the phone using a cellular account while having access to a writing and a display area. Customer application may be displayed and used while talking on the phone. The top area of the device may be configured as a full display that sits across the entire upper portion of the device. In this configuration, the cellular core is installed as a chip or sits detached from the product and connects via the USB port. This product may be designed many different ways, take on any number of shapes, and sizes, and use any number of computing and processing capability. This device may connect to a host device, and continue to operate in a manner as described in other embodiments. Alternatively, the top portion may have an area for a cellular cradle so that a cellular phone may sit in a cradle, and integrate with any computing or display area on the device. Other designs include areas for scanning in business cards, areas for paper notepads, areas for pens and pencils, areas for credit cards, etc.

[00154] Host devices described herein may also be equipped with functionalities that are controlled by the core device. For example, if the host device is a cellular phone, it

WILL-P003PCT 37 may be equipped with first and second displays. The first display may be under the direct control of the cellular phone itself, while the second display may be controllable by the core device when the core device is inserted into the phone. Hence, when the core device is inserted into the phone, it may use the second display to display messages transmitted over other networks or communications media.

[00155] The above description of the present invention is illustrative, and is not intended to be limiting. It will thus be appreciated that various additions, substitutions and modifications may be made to the above described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should be construed in reference to the appended claims. Those skilled in the art, in light of the teachings of the present invention, will readily recognize a multiplicity of alternative and suitable configurations with other hardware/software/firmware components, quantities, and combinations depending upon the needs of the particular application.

WILL-P003PCT 38

Claims

What I claim is:

1. A network, comprising: at least a first and second host communication device wherein the first host communication device comprises a first communication protocol and the second host communication device comprises a second communication protocol; and a core device which interfaces with the at least first and second host communication devices to enable the at least first and second communication devices to communicate with one or more devices on the network; wherein the at least first and second host communications devices are of a diverse type, and wherein said core device is equipped with a memory device which stores at least one or more addresses of the at least first and second host communication devices.

2. The network of claim 1, wherein said first and second host communication devices are selected from a group comprising computers, servers, radios, televisions, monitors, cameras, printers, fax machines, scanners, copiers, all-in-one machines, household appliances, VCRs, DVDs, MP3 players, i-POD^® devices, optical disk readers and players, navigational systems, and predetermined wireless, communication enabled devices.

3. The network of claim 1, wherein said memory device additionally stores at least e- mail access cache of each of said first and second host communication devices.

4. The network of claim 1, wherein said core device is equipped with at least two antenna wherein the at least two antenna enable communication over at least said first communication protocol and said second communication protocol.

5. A core device adapted to communicate with a plurality of host communications devices on a network whereby the host communications devices employ at least two different communication protocols and two different transmission protocols and are enabled to communicate with multiple devices through the core device, wherein the core device comprises: a memory device storing at least account information related to the plurality of host communications devices;

WILL-P003PCT 39 at least one input/output device for communicating with the plurality of host communications devices and the memory device; and at least two antenna adapted to communicate between the core device and the plurality of host communications devices.

6. The core device of claim 5 wherein said plurality of host communications devices are selected from a group comprising computers, servers, radios, televisions, monitors, cameras, printers, fax machines, scanners, copiers, all-in-one machines, household appliances, VCRs, DVDs, MP3 players, i-POD^® devices, optical disk readers and players, navigational systems, and predetermined wireless, communication enabled devices.

7. The core device of claim 5 wherein said memory device additionally stores at least e-mail access cache of each of said first and second host communication devices.

8. One or more core devices built into a host device to enable said host device to communicate with a plurality of other devices over a network, the one or more core devices comprising: a memory device which stores at least account information related to the plurality of other devices; an input/output device which interfaces with the host device to enable communication with at least the memory device; and at least one antenna which is adapted to permit communication between the core device and the plurality of other devices over a network.

9. The core device of claim 8, wherein said plurality of host communications devices are selected from a group comprising computers, servers, radios, televisions, monitors, cameras, printers, fax machines, scanners, copiers, all-in-orie machines, household appliances, VCRs, DVDs, MP3 players, i-POD^® devices, optical disk readers and players, navigational systems, and predetermined wireless, communication enabled devices.

10. The core device of claim 8 wherein said memory device additionally stores at least e-mail access cache of each of said first and second host communication devices.

WILL-P003PCT 40

11. A core device adapted to communicate with a plurality of host communications devices on a network whereby the host communications devices are enabled to communicate with multiple devices through the core device, wherein the core device comprises: a memory device storing at least account information related to the plurality of host communications devices; an input/output device for communicating with the plurality of host communications devices and the memory device; at least one antenna adapted to communicate between the core device and at least one host communications devices; and at least one removable antenna to communicate between the core device and at least one of host communications devices wherein the removable antenna comprises an input/output device for communicating with at least one of host communications devices and the memory device;

12. The core device of claim 11 wherein said plurality of host communications devices are selected from a group comprising computers, servers, radios, televisions, monitors, cameras, printers, fax machines, scanners, copiers, all-in-one machines, household appliances, VCRs, DVDs, MP3 players, i-POD^® devices, optical disk readers and players, navigational systems, and predetermined wireless, communication enabled devices.

13. The core device of claim 11 wherein said memory device additionally stores at least e-mail access cache of each of said first and second host communication devices.

14. A core device adapted to communicate with a plurality of host communications devices on a network whereby the host communications devices are enabled to communicate with multiple devices through the core device, wherein the core device comprises: a memory device storing at least account information related to the plurality of host communications devices; at least one removable antenna to communicate between the core device and at least one of host communications devices wherein the removable antenna comprises an

WILL-P003PCT 41 input/output device for communicating with at least one of host communications devices and the memory device.

15. The core device of claim 14 wherein said plurality of host communications devices are selected from a group comprising computers, servers, radios, televisions, monitors, cameras, printers, fax machines, scanners, copiers, all-in-one machines, household appliances, VCRs, DVDs, MP3 players, i-POD^® devices, optical disk readers and players, navigational systems, and predetermined wireless, communication enabled devices.

16. The core device of claim 14 wherein said memory device additionally stores at least e-mail access cache of each of said plurality of host communications devices.

17. The core device of claim 14 wherein said memory device additionally stores at least one index identifier of each of said plurality of host communications devices.

18. The core device of claim 14 wherein said memory device additionally stores at least an inventory of said plurality of host communications devices.

19. The core device of claim 14 wherein said memory device additionally stores at least a security code of each of said plurality of host communications devices.

20. The core device of claim 14 wherein said memory device additionally stores at least a security code of a user.

WILL-P003PCT 42