Abstract: A cable television converter with remotely modifiable functionality receives firmware downloaded over a cable television network. The integrity of the firmware is verified, and if valid, the firmware is executed to provide one or more converter functions. If the firmware is invalid, default operation software contained in ROM is executed instead of the firmware to return the converter to baseline operation. In one embodiment, the converter includes a frequency agile data receiver to receive control instructions on a first data channel and firmware on a second data channel. The receiver is forced back to the first channel if a successful firmware download does not occur on the second channel within a predetermined time period. The firmware is continuously transmitted in short segments, and the converter can continue to receive segments until all the segments of a designated firmware package have been successfully downloaded, unless the predetermined time limit expires sooner.

Abstract: A fuel monitor assembly for use in testing the contamination level of a fuel sample is disclosed, including a housing having a fuel inlet and a fuel outlet, and a fuel filter capsule disposed within the housing. The filter capsule includes an inlet half and an outlet half, wherein the halves interfit to retain a membrane filter therebetween. The inlet half of the filter capsule is integrally formed with an inlet dispersion structure that radially disperses an incoming stream of fuel so as to equalize the pressure across the face of the membrane filter, thereby resulting in even distribution of contaminant particulates deposited on the membrane filter. The outlet half of the filter capsule is integrally formed with a recessed, radially symmetric grid configuration that channels fuel passing through the membrane filter to the fuel outlet, and also encourages equal pressure distribution across the face of the membrane filter.

Abstract: A broadband digital transmission system is disclosed which enables high bit rate data streams to be transmitted over low bit rate telephone networks. A high bit rate stream of data from a source is distributed by a distributor into six separate streams to provide six low bit rate streams of data. A call unit establishes six channel communication with a receiver and the six data streams are fed in parallel along six channels. A reassembler receives the six low bit rate streams and reconstructs them to produce the original high bit rate stream of data.

Abstract: A signalling device for weight lifters performing exercises involving bending of the knees. The signalling device is provided with mercury switch for sensing deviation of the axis of the portion of the leg to which the device is attached and a buzzer or other signalling device which signals the lifter when that portion of the leg has deviated from the vertical by a preselected amount. The amount of deviation from the vertical required to activate the signalling device may be varied by an optional angle adjustment. The signalling device allows a weight lifter to exercise properly, but effectively, without risking injury.

Abstract: Solvent pretreating coal fines prior to briquetting to provide coal briquettes which have no added binder and which will withstand weathering conditions better than binder containing briquettes. The solvents are generally described as organic Lewis base solvents which are capable of electron donor action, and include among others, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, and ethylene diamine.