Abstract: A reference check bit pattern is stored in a nonvolatile storage medium of a vehicle-mounted microcomputer. A portion of a volatile storage medium is allocated for the purpose of storing the reference check bits. The microcomputer is programmed to compare the check bits stored in both the volatile and nonvolatile storage mediums. In response to a command signal, a mismatch is detected between the reference check bits of the volatile and nonvolatile mediums to indicate that data stored in the volatile memory have failed due to a power outage. The failed check data of the volatile memory is rewritten with the reference check data in the nonvolatile memory for later comparison. At the same time all data stored in the remaining portion of the volatile memory is erased so the remaining portion can accept a set of fresh input data. When a match occurs the computer proceeds with the normal computing functions.

Abstract: A thermo-sensitive reed switch in which the thermo-sensitive magnetic element is slit parallel to the reeds in the element.

Abstract: A temperature responsive reed switch having magnetic reed pieces, a permanent magnet disposed near a contact of the reed switch and being magnetized in an axial direction of the reed switch, two temperature responsive magnetic materials disposed adjacent the ends of the permanent magnet in the axial direction of the reed switch and a magnetic yoke disposed adjacent the outer surfaces of the temperature responsive magnetic material.