Abstract: Some implementations may include obtaining a security control configuration for a pair of endpoints for a security control type. A virtual security control instance of the security control type may be assigned to the pair of endpoints. The virtual security control instance may be configured according to the security control configuration. A software defined network may be configured to forward packets from one of the endpoints to the other one of the endpoints through the virtual security control instance.

Abstract: An apparatus for gauging the dimension of an object. The apparatus has a wall with a generally flat front surface, facing a first direction, and a peripheral edge. Space graduations are provided on the wall relative to which a dimension of an object placed in front of the wall can be gauged. The surface on the wall reflects an image of an object located in front of the wall. At least one of i) a depiction of at least one of a) an animate object; b) an inanimate object; and c) a scene; ii) at least one word; iii) a design; and iv) a logo is provided on the wall and is viewable from in front of the wall in conjunction with the spaced graduations and a reflected image from the surface on the wall.

Abstract: The availability of a data processing system is measured on the basis of availability of each function of the system separately, rather than availability of specific machines or sub-systems. Also, aggregate availability figures are computed using weighting factors reflecting the importance of each function to the overall operation, and the relative quantity of usage of the function during different times of the day or week. Controllable interruptions in service such as for maintenance, are scheduled so as to ensure the availability of sufficient facilities for performing each function.

Abstract: An apparatus for gauging the dimension of an object. The apparatus has a wall with a generally flat front surface, facing a first direction, and a peripheral edge. Space graduations are provided on the wall relative to which a dimension of an object placed in front of the wall can be gauged. The surface on the wall reflects an image of an object located in front of the wall. At least one of i) a depiction of at least one of a) an animate object; b) an inanimate object; and c) a scene; ii) at least one word; iii) a design; and iv) a logo is provided on the wall and is viewable from in front of the wall in conjunction with the spaced graduations and a reflected image from the surface on the wall.

Abstract: A single-stage process for drying, roasting, and grinding of green coffee beans in a single unit operation in a continuous manner. Heat-treated and ground coffee beans having savory flavor and aroma are achieved in a unique process described herein that combines all these different treatments in a single-stage operation.

Abstract: A system and circuitry is described for a programmable PCI/PCI-x bus that accepts PCI and PCI-x controller cards and associated IO devices. The operating speed of the bus is reduced in accordance with the number and speed of the device as prearranged. The speed is to assure that the IO devices and the bus controller are compatible. A mix of PCI and or PCI-x devices can be accommodated by the present invention. Moreover, for high speed devices, the physical length of the bus itself is changed to better accommodate the higher speeds involved.