Importance

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Abstract

The present invention relates generally to an apparatus for converting an open architecture computer into both an open and a closed architecture computer. The open architecture computer includes a housing defining a housing space and a computer processor disposed in the housing space of the housing. In one embodiment the apparatus comprises a modular computer peripheral physically connectable to only one open architecture computer, and a communication means electrically connectable to the open architecture computer and the modular computer peripheral for permitting communication between the computer processor of the open architecture computer and the controller of the modular computer peripheral. The modular computer peripheral comprises a housing defining a plurality of module bays. At least one module is disposed in one of the module bays and at least one of the modules comprising a closed architecture computer which is capable of operating independently of the open architecture computer. A controller capable of simultaneously controlling a plurality of the modules is provided and interface means electrically connected to the controller and the modules when the modules are disposed in the module bays of the housing is provided for permitting electrical communication between the controller and the modules.

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First Claim