Abstract: A method of reducing transmission power for an encoded data stream includes the steps of receiving an incoming data stream having equal probability for a plurality of incoming data bits, assigning a symbol scheme to the received data bits of the incoming data stream according to probabilities of occurrence of individual ones of the received data bits, and transmitting an outgoing data stream according to the assigned symbol scheme having a second average transmit power, different than the first average transmit power, for a plurality of outgoing symbols.

Abstract: In one aspect of the teachings herein, an alert notification system provides targeted and mass notifications via wireless transmissions within a defined network coverage area served by a radio network, which may be a closed private radio network and which, in one or more contemplated embodiments, comprises an appropriately configured cellular communications network. The alert notification system includes a central monitoring station that is configured to perform one or more alert functions that are in some sense optimized for processing and responding to alerts to, among other advantages, rapidly and effectively notify persons included within a defined population of emergencies and other alert conditions.

Abstract: A private network emergency pager alert system as described herein can generally utilize a plurality of personal alert pager devices and a main controller in two-way communication with each personal alert pager device. Each personal alert pager device can be provided with a transceiver for receiving alerts from the main controller and for sending alerts to the main controller, a text display for receiving alert messages, switches for sending an alert to the main controller, and a GPS receiver for providing location data of the personal alert pager device to the main controller. The personal alert pager device could additionally be provided with an RFID module and/or a key pad for sending text messages.

Abstract: A private network emergency pager alert system as described herein can generally utilize a plurality of personal alert pager devices and a main controller in two-way communication with each personal alert pager device. Each personal alert pager device can be provided with a transceiver for receiving alerts from the main controller and for sending alerts to the main controller, a text display for receiving alert messages, switches for sending an alert to the main controller, and a GPS receiver for providing location data of the personal alert pager device to the main controller. The personal alert pager device could additionally be provided with an RFID module and/or a key pad for sending text messages.

Abstract: A data processing method includes, at an external computer, originating a ready control signal and, at a host, receiving the ready control signal. In response to the ready control signal, a control signal is produced by the host. In response to the control signal, a switch selectively couples one of the host and the first computer to a telecommunication device.

Abstract: A data processing method includes, at an external computer, originating a ready control signal and, at a host, receiving the ready control signal. In response to the ready control signal, a control signal is produced by the host. In response to the control signal, a switch selectively couples one of the host and the first computer to a telecommunication device.

Abstract: A method for supplying information to a driver of a vehicle is provided. The preferred method includes estimating a cognitive load on the driver, sensing information for the driver, selecting information based on the estimated cognitive load, and supplying the selected information to the driver.

Abstract: A method for supplying information to a driver of a vehicle is provided. The preferred method includes estimating a cognitive load on the driver, sensing information for the driver, selecting information based on the estimated cognitive load, and supplying the selected information to the driver.

Abstract: A system for disabling display illumination includes an electronic device, such as a radio, navigation system or entertainment device having a graphical display that may be covered with a door for enhancing vehicle interior appearance. To allow the graphical display to be read during night time driving conditions, the graphical display includes some form of graphical back lighting. A transceiver is coupled to the electronic device and generates an infrared signal for inter-module communication. When the door is closed, this infrared signal is reflected back to the electronic device indicating that the door is closed. Using this reflected signal, the graphical back lighting may be disabled to eliminate light leaks and reduce heat buildup.