Abstract: A printer operable to print on a multi-layer print media includes a non-impact printhead, an impact printhead, and a controller operable to control the non-impact printhead to produce an image on a first layer of the print media and to control the impact printhead to produce a corresponding image on a second layer of the print media.

Abstract: A method for intervaled memory transfer access provides periodic authorization signals to a memory access controller. The method cycles between: 1) inhibiting the memory access controller from writing data to a memory until the memory access controller receives a periodic authorization signal to cause the memory access controller to remove the inhibition and write a predetermined amount of data to the memory through a data bus, and 2) releasing the data bus following writing of the predetermined amount of data to the memory by inhibiting the memory access controller from writing further data.

Abstract: A printer operable to print on a multi-layer print media includes a non-impact printhead, an impact printhead, and a controller operable to control the non-impact printhead to produce an image on a first layer of the print media and to control the impact printhead to produce a corresponding image on a second layer of the print media.

Abstract: A hybrid printing assembly includes a first printing subassembly operable to produce a first pattern on a medium, and a second printing subassembly operable to generate a second pattern on the medium.

Abstract: A cell phone is used to access product information. The cell phone obtains a universal product code (UPC) for a product. A product identifier for the product along with a request for information about the product is sent from the cell phone to a remote site. The remote site obtains the requested information. The remote site sends the requested information to the cell phone. The cell phone communicates the requested information to the user.

Abstract: A processor is operable to identify characters in a file that represents a scanned image, and generate a font that includes the identified characters.

Abstract: A hybrid printing assembly includes a first printing subassembly operable to produce a first pattern on a medium, and a second printing subassembly operable to generate a second pattern on the medium.

Abstract: A hybrid printing assembly includes a first printing subassembly operable to produce a first pattern on a medium, and a second printing subassembly operable to produce a second pattern on the medium.

Abstract: A method of automatically sterilizing mail all mail received provides assurance to the recipients of the mail and facilitates efficient processing of the mail. The method comprises the steps of: providing an internal electromagnetic radiation source to sterilize mail deposited in the mail box; providing an electric door switch serially connected to the electromagnetic radiation source adapted to close only when the mail box door is closed so that the electromagnetic radiation radiates from the source only when the front door is closed; and, providing a sterilization timer activated when the mail box door is closed, said timer configured to maintain the electromagnetic source on for a sufficient period after the mail box door is closed to radiate and thereby sterilize any mail deposited therein. One aspect of the invention comprises a method of retrofitting a mail box with an assembly containing all of the components listed above.