System and method for prioritizing and balancing simultaneous audio outputs in a handheld device

Abstract

A system and method for prioritizing multiple audio sources and balancing them in a single combined output in a handheld device. Audio sources are sensed and combined with the level of each source subject to adjustment by an attenuator/amplifier. A priority logic unit controls the attenuator/amplifier associated with each source. the level of each source being combined is adjusted on the basis of the character of the sources being combined and a set of programmed rules. For example, if source A is a high priority source (e.g. a telephone ring or other alert tone) and source B is a lower priority source (e.g. a music program) then the sound management system may lower the volume on source B combine with source A and output the result. Alternatively, source A may be raised in volume, combined with source B, and then output. In one embodiment, the sound management system is integrated with a palm sized handheld computer system.

1 . A handheld device comprising: 
 a) a first audio source coupled to a first variable attenuator/amplifier;    b) a second audio source coupled to a second variable attenuator/amplifier;    c) a priority logic unit for assigning priority levels to coupled to said first audio source and said second audio source, and also coupled to said first variable attenuator/amplifier and said second variable attenuator/amplifier;    d) a mixer coupled to said first variable attenuator/amplifier and to said second variable attenuator/amplifier; and    e) an audio output connected to said mixer.