Integrated CD-ROM driving apparatus for driving different types of CD- ROMs in multimedia computer systems

摘要

A control apparatus for driving different types of CD-ROMs includes a control panel provided at the front panel of the computer frame. The control panel has a plurality of keys and a display window for outputting key signals representative of driving a specific CD-ROM title and the operation of the CD-ROM drive, and for displaying a message representing the kind of CD-ROM and icons representing the functions of the respective keys. A micro-controller cooperates with the control panel and the central processing unit (CPU) of the computer system for displaying the icons and the kind of CD-ROM on the display window, and in response to a key signal produces preset command signals for driving the CD-ROM title and the operation of the CD-ROM drive. The control panel of the invention simplifies the driving operations of various CD-ROMs, which results in easy access to the multimedia computer for beginners.