Importance

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Abstract

A method and apparatus is provided for automatically detecting whether a video output port on a computer video display adapter is currently externally connected or disconnected. In practice the method and apparatus can be utilized, for example, on a video display adapter having an S output port and an AV output port to detect which one of them is currently externally connected for video transmission. The method and apparatus is characterized in the provision of a microswitch on one of the video output ports, for example the S output port. The microswitch is set to a first state when the S output port is externally disconnected (i.e., no insertion connector is inserted therein), and will be actuated to a second state when the S output port is externally connected (i.e., the insertion connector of a cable is inserted therein). Accordingly, when the microswitch is in a connected state, it indicates that the other port, i.e., the AV output port, is currently externally connected for video transmission; and whereas, when the microswitch is in disconnected state, it indicates that the S output port is currently externally connected. Therefore, the video display adapter can discern which one of the two video output ports is currently externally connected simply by detecting the connected/disconnected state of the microswitch.

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First Claim