Abstract: A power supply switching controller for controlling on-off switching of an electronic device includes a microprocessor connected to a power supply, a communication unit connecting the microprocessor to the electronic device for communication between them, and a relay connected between the microprocessor and the electronic device. A power supply switching control method is also provided.

Abstract: A method for providing estimated power costs incurred by an electrical appliance, which is plugged into a receptacle of an extension cord, includes enabling operation of the extension cord so as to measure electric current flowing through a receptacle, so as to compute an amount of electricity consumed by the electrical appliance within a predetermined period of time based on the electric current measured by the extension cord, so as to compute the estimated power costs incurred by the electrical appliance based on the amount of electricity computed by the extension cord, and so as to inform the costs computed by the extension cord to a user. An extension cord that performs the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A circuit for servicing a load connectable with a power supply is disclosed. The circuit includes a plurality of three-terminal switches and one control supply. The three-terminal switches define a series conduction path connectable between the power supply and the load. Each of the plurality of three terminal switches includes a source terminal, a drain terminal, and a gate terminal. The control supply is productive of a control voltage and in power connection between the gate terminal and source terminal of each of the plurality of three-terminal switches. Each of the plurality of three-terminal switches is responsive to the control voltage at its respective gate terminal to close a connection between the respective source terminal and respective drain terminal of each of the plurality of three-terminal switches.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the mounting of electronic display devices with portals for attaching various other electronic devices using cables in a streamlined, versatile fashion. More specifically, the present system relates to an apparatus that provides cable management for electronic devices such as audio speakers, LCD projectors, electronic text boards, televisions, liquid crystal display (LCD) or other flat panel monitors (“display monitors”), and many other electronic devices. Furthermore, the present invention provides a versatile mounting system whereby any of the above electronic devices can be conveniently affixed to a variety of surfaces, such as walls, desks, and even unconventional bases such as store displays or mannequins.

Abstract: A method of using a single pole, single throw switch having normally open contacts in a conductive path in a non-intuitive manner in an electric circuit to sequentially provide three operable states including latched engagement (path closed, circuit OFF), momentary disengagement (path opened, circuit ON momentarily), and latched disengagement (path open, circuit ON until switch actuated again).

Abstract: The present invention provides an overload protection circuit having a first switch connected at a first side to a source of electrical power and at a second side to a load, the switch having on and off modes and a second switch connected between the first switch second side and ground, the second switch having on and off modes. A control module generates at least one signal controlling the first switch mode and the second switch mode wherein the signal turns the second switch to the off mode when turning the first switch to the on mode and the signal turning the second switch to an on mode when turning the first switch to the off mode. Both over current and leakage protection are thereby achieved.

Abstract: A power interface operable to direct power from one of a first source and a second source to a load. The power interface includes a support plate, and a switch extending through the support plate. The switch is electrically connected to the first source and to the load and is movable between a first switch position in which power from the first source is directed to the load, and a second switch position in which power from the first source is inhibited from reaching the load. An electrical connector is electrically connectable to the load and is connectable to the second source to facilitate the delivery of power from the second source to the load. A movable cover is movable between a first cover position in which the cover inhibits connection between the electrical connector and the second source and a second cover position.

Abstract: The present invention discloses methods for protecting a peripheral device in a computing system from electrical surge currents, the method including the steps of: providing a controller operationally connected to a host system; and reversibly conductively connecting, via the controller, wires of the device to the host system. Preferably, the device is connected to the host system via a connector. Preferably, the device is hard-wired to the host system. Preferably, at least some wires of the device are isolated from the host system via a mechanical contactor. Preferably, at least some wires of the device are isolated from the host system via an optical isolator. Preferably, the method further includes the step of: charging a switching battery when the device is disconnected from the host system. Most preferably, the method further includes the step of: powering the device using the battery when the device is connected to the host system.

Abstract: A power control circuit includes an electronic switch (20) interposed between a power unit (10) and an electronic device (30), a driving circuit (40) and a mechanical switch (50). The driving circuit receives a power-on signal from the mechanical switch, and signals the electronic switch to turn on and supply power to the electronic device in accordance with the power-on signal. The electronic device controls the driving circuit to maintain the electronic switch to be on and continue the power supply to the electronic device. The electronic device further receives a power-off signal from the mechanical switch, and signals the driving circuit to turn off the electronic switch and discontinues the power supply to the electronic device.

Abstract: A high frequency switching circuit is disclosed. The high frequency switching circuit is provided with first and second high frequency signal terminals, a control terminal, a field-effect transistor having a drain, a source and a gate. The field-effect transistor is connected between the first and the second high frequency signal terminals so as to switch a high frequency signal. The high frequency switching circuit is further provided with a variable resistance circuit which is connected between the gate of the field-effect transistor and the control terminal.

Abstract: A switching arrangement is connected between a PC and a communications line. The switching arrangement is controlled by a power supply voltage in the PC that can be accessed externally. When the PC switched off, this supply voltage disappears and the device in the communications line goes into a blocked state. This makes it possible to completely disconnect the PC from the communications line without conducting any operations in the PC, even if the communications card or the modem wants to maintain a constant connection with the outside world.

Abstract: An addressable power switch for selectively connecting a device to main power in response to command instructions received over a control bus. The control bus supplies a low voltage power source and the addressable power switch includes an energy storage device and charge circuit for deriving a charge current from the low voltage power source and charging the energy storage device. The addressable power switch also includes a latching relay for connecting the device to main power. The change in state of the latching relay is realized through controlling discharge of the energy storage device, which supplies an energy pulse upon discharge. The switch may be used in connection with addressable lighting systems.

Abstract: A method and a control unit for driving a control circuit (1) are suggested which make possible an improved distribution of the generated power loss. A component (15), especially of a motor vehicle, is driven via at least two outputs (5, 10) of the control circuit (1). Each output (5, 10) is connected pairwise to one of several potentials (40, 45) via controllable switch means (20, 25; 30, 35) and a drive voltage (UA) is formed for the component (15) from a difference between the potentials at the two outputs (5, 10). A pregiven clocked course of the drive voltage (UA) is adjusted by switching more than one of the controllable switch devices (20, 25; 30, 35).

Abstract: An improved electrical lockout mechanism includes a first connection means to a power source, and a second connection means to the power input terminal of the machine being protected. The machine being protected includes a manually-operated ON/OFF switch. A switching element is operably coupled between the first and second connection means. The switching element is adapted to selectively complete and break an electrical circuit between the first and second connection means in response to a control signal supplied thereto. A control circuit generates a control signal that is supplied to the switching element thereby causing the switching element to complete the electrical circuit between the first and second connection means under a first set of operating conditions and causing the switching element to break the electrical circuit between the first and second connection means under a second set of operating conditions in a manner that prevents unwanted machine restarts.

Abstract: A controller for on-off switching of power supplies includes: a microprocessor, to which a memory and a power supply interface and reset circuit are connected; a communication interface converting voltage signals between the microprocessor and an RS232 interface; an on-off control circuit which is connected to the microprocessor, comprising at least one relay for controlling on-off switching of the power supplies, and an amplifying circuit for driving said relay; a feedback circuit feeding on-off states to the microprocessor; and a voltage converter providing steady voltage to the power supply interface and reset circuit, the communication interface, and the on-off control circuit. The on-off control circuit is capable of controlling a large number of power supplies, and the communication interface connects the controller to a remote console.

Abstract: A plug which is attached to a power cord of an appliance, such as a clock or an appliance having an internal clock, includes a battery that will supply power to the appliance during a failure of utility power whereby the clock associated with the plug need not be reset after restoration of power. The plug is interposed between the plug of the appliance associated therewith and the source of utility power.

Abstract: A controller that can move the effect of a wall switch from its associated a controller that can move the effect of a wall switch from its associated switched power outlet socket to any regular (always on) socket by use of a transmitter/receiver paired device located separately in the switched and non-switched power outlets respectively, thus moving the effect of the wall switch without any wiring modifications to the sockets. The invention may use infrared light, ultrasonics, or radio-frequency radiations, or modulations on the power supply within the building such as the X-10 system. The preferred (and prototyped) solution does not require replaceable batteries but instead uses capacitive power storage for use after power has been removed from the transmitter in order to send the “off” signal to the receiver. Both transmitter and receiver use a capacitive power supply.

Abstract: The power semiconductor device of the present invention is provided with a conductive board 3, a switching element 1 mounted on the conductive board 3 and electrically connected thereto and an integrated circuit 4 mounted on the conductive board 3 at a distance from the switching element 1 and electrically connected thereto. The switching element 1 turns ON/OFF a connection between first and second main electrodes in response to a control signal inputted to a control electrode. The integrated circuit 4 has a control circuit 72 which controls ON/OFF of the switching element 1 and a back side voltage detection element 31 which detects a voltage of the back side of the integrated circuit 4.

Abstract: An enhanced power switch device is provided for enabling modular USB PC cards. The enhanced power switch may include a card sense circuit for sensing the type of card present, a card power switching circuit for supplying power to a modular USB card, and isolation circuit for isolating conventional PC Card control signals from the modular USB card and a connection circuit for connecting USB signals to the USB Card. The system of the present invention can modified for other bus technologies, in addition to USB bus devices.

Abstract: A signal exchange system includes a circuit board, a transforming connector and a network port. The transforming connector is electrically connected to the circuit board and includes at least one connecting terminal. The connecting terminal is electrically connected to an external device. The network port is disposed on the circuit board and electrically connected to the transforming connector for receiving a power signal transmitted from the transforming connector and transmitting a data signal.

Abstract: An electronic control that monitors the switching means used to operate transducers to detect conditions that can cause improper transducer operation. In the application the unenergized state of the transducer is always safe. Should a switch in the transducer circuitry be in an erroneous state, the control uses another switch to prevent improper operation of the transducer without requiring the involvement of the operator. Monitoring enables the control to prevent transducer operation before failures allow hazardous operation. Any switching means, activated by the control, an override, or both may be monitored as long as its intended state is known to the control. The control can also open the transducer circuitry when an externally controlled switch in the transducer circuitry changes state at a destructive rate.

Abstract: The invention relates to a power supply for electrical domestic appliances, comprising: at least one connection to the mains electricity supply, and at least one connector for releasable electrical coupling of the power supply to a domestic appliance, wherein the power supply is also provided with measuring and control means for controlling a feed signal generated by the power supply by means of at least one control signal transmitted by a coupled domestic appliance. The invention also relates to a domestic appliance for co-action with such a power supply.

Abstract: An electronic circuit for use with an exhaustible power source and load such as a light bulb, a radio or motor, includes a microchip with an input that transmits a signal to the microchip when the load is activated or deactivated. The input does not form a serial link between the power source and the load. The power switch, by on/off switching, controls energy flow from the power source to the load. The electronic circuit has an automatic delayed shut-off function for the load and, a find-in-the-dark indicator and a power source level indicator which are active when the load is not energized and the power source is not being charged. The input to the microchip acts as an activation/deactivation user interface. The microchip allows the user to select specific functions based on the time duration of activation signals, the time duration between activation signals and the number of activation signals at the input.

Abstract: A power outlet device for a charger comprises an input port, a DC power supply unit, a control unit, a current sensor, a switch, and an output port. The input port of the power outlet device for a charger is used to receive an AC power, and the current sensor and the switch are controlled by the control unit to output the AC power from the output port. Wherein the control unit monitors and controls the current value according to the current sensor and the switch to determine transmission of the AC power so as to effectively manage power and save energy.

Abstract: A user interface for a load control device allows a user to control an operating characteristic of a load to a plurality of discrete levels. The user interface comprises an adjustment member for allowing the user to select one of the discrete levels and a linear array of status indicators for displaying the discrete level. The number of discrete levels is greater than the number of status indicators. According to a first embodiment of the present invention, either one status indicator or two consecutive status indicators are illuminated to indicate the presently selected discrete level. According to a second embodiment, a fully illuminated status indicator is surrounded by two dimly illuminated status indicators to indicate the presently selected discrete level. According to a third embodiment, a single status indicator may be illuminated to indicate one or more of the discrete levels.

Abstract: Uninterruptible power supplies (UPSs) are generally discussed herein with particular discussions extended to fuel-cell-based UPSs used in conjunction with DC power supplies for improved operating efficiencies. With a wide voltage DC power supply, a DC-AC inverter may be omitted from the UPS and power from a back up power source, such as a battery or a fuel cell, may be applied directly to the DC power supply without performing two power conversions. The end result is a more efficient system capable of longer operating time.

Abstract: A modular, low weight impedance dropping power supply with battery backup is disclosed that can be connected to a high voltage AC source and provide electrical power at a lower voltage. The design can be scaled over a wide range of input voltages and over a wide range of output voltages and delivered power.

Abstract: A control unit is disclosed for controlling the usage of an electrical device, such as a television. The control unit maintains a plurality of time accounts for a plurality of users. The control unit, responsive to receiving a request to operate the electrical device from a user, identifies a time account for the user and begins decrementing time from the time account for the user when the electrical device is turned on. The control unit decrements time from the time account based on one or more desired algorithms. The algorithms as disclosed herein cause the control unit to continue decrementing time from the time account of the user even after the electrical device is shut off.

Abstract: A power supply and a switch apparatus are disclosed. The power supply is designed for providing a liquid crystal display with a power source. In the present invention, a bouncing switch is used for power-on and power-off functions. When the bouncing switch is activated, the power to the main system is also activated and the supply of power to the main system is maintained. A controller of the main system is then activated to acquire an authorization for controlling the power to the main system so that power is continuously supplied to the main system. Then, the main system sequentially activates the power supply of each sub-system. If the bouncing switch is activated by a second triggering, the main system may sequentially turns off the power module inside each sub-system. Finally, the power to the main system is shut down to lower the static power consumption of the whole system.

Abstract: A touch sensor interfaces with a control system or controlled device using two wires. The output of the touch sensor controls an output switch.

Abstract: An electronic circuit for use with an exhaustible power source and at least one load such as a light bulb, a radio or motor, includes a microchip with an input that transmits a signal to the microchip when the load is activated or deactivated. The input does not form a serial link between the power source and the load. The power switch, by on/off switching, controls energy flow from the power source to the load. The input to the microchip acts as an activation/deactivation user interface. The microchip allows the user to select a specific load, specific functions for the selected load based on the time duration of activation signals, the time duration between activation signals and the number of activation signals at the input.

Abstract: A self-latching power supply apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus comprises an activation transistor in electrical communication with an input voltage source and a battery-switching transistor. Voltage detection circuitry may be intermediate the input voltage source and the activation transistor. An input port may be intermediate and operably connected to the input voltage source and the activation transistor. The activation transistor is in electrical communication with a battery-switching transistor. The battery-switching transistor is connected to a battery and a power supply node for an electric device. The activation transistor may be configured to activate the battery-switching transistor, enabling voltage from the battery to be available at the power supply node for the electric device. A deactivation transistor is in communication with the battery-switching transistor, and is configured to disrupt power flow from the battery.

Abstract: A closed loop power converter circuit of a UPS or other power supply includes a pulse width modulator circuit in a forward path of the closed loop power circuit. A compensation circuit provides pulse width commands to the pulse width modulator at a first rate. A feedback circuit digitally filters samples of an output of the closed loop power converter at a second rate greater the first rate and that provides the filtered samples to the compensation circuit. In some embodiments, the compensation circuit may be operative to compensate for the phase lag associated with a low pass output filter.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a power tool including a wireless remote stop for terminating the flow of electricity to an electric motor. The electric motor is configured for operating a working element assembly of a power tool, such as an arbor/circular saw blade included a table saw. In an embodiment, a remote stop is a hand-held fob, having a housing and a button. Alternatively, the remote stop may be implemented as a foot pedal apparatus, for being disposed on a shop floor.

Abstract: A MOSFET based, high voltage, high current AC electronic relay includes a MOSFET switching circuit selectively switching between switch conducting and switch isolation. The relay also includes a transformer coupled to the MOSFET switching circuit, the transformer selectively applies a predetermined voltage to the MOSFET switching circuit which establishes the MOSFET switching circuit in switch conducting. In addition, a switching assembly for use in an AC power control system includes a first MOSFET switching circuit and a second MOSFET switching circuit electrically connected between a first terminal and a second terminal, an electrical conducting member positioned between the first MOSFET switching circuit and the second MOSFET switching circuit. The switching assembly also includes a third MOSFET switching circuit electrically connected between the electrical conducting member and ground.

Abstract: In a load drive control system containing a control apparatus and a drive apparatus which drives a load in accordance with a drive control signal supplied from the control apparatus, a single signal produced from the control apparatus serves both as the drive control signal and as a power supply enabling control signal for the drive apparatus, without the need to provide an internal DC power supply in the drive apparatus. A switching element in the drive apparatus is controlled to apply a supply voltage from a drive power source to circuits in the drive apparatus only while the drive control signal is being supplied from the control apparatus.

Abstract: A circuit breaker system has been provided for the controlled interruption of at least one circuit, with a mechanical breaker element and an adjustment device coupled to the breaker element, so that the mechanical breaker element can be placed in at least a first, second, and third position in order to selectively break or let pass neighboring circuits in the first, second, or third position. The breaker element is rotatably secured in a fastening device, connected with one foot. The interruption conditions are provided by a magnetic coil, which exerts power by way of a magnetic field on a permanent magnet, which is secured to the breaker element. In the simplest case the circuit breaker system has three conditions at its disposal, by which one of two circuits can be broken. When the coil is without power, one circuit is broken. The other circuit is broken by reversing the circuit direction.

Abstract: A current supply circuit includes an input, a load terminal, a selectively activatable current regulator, a selectively activatable adjustable current source, and a comparator circuit. The input is configured to receive a first value signal. The load terminal is configured to provide a load current that is dependent on the first value signal. The current regulator is operable to, when activated, cause a first current to be provided through the load based on the first value signal. The adjustable current source is operable to, when activated, cause a second current to be provided through the load based on the first value signal. The comparator circuit is operable to generate a comparison of the first value signal and a second value signal, and is further operable to cause selective activation of one of the current regulator or the adjustable current source based on the comparison.

Abstract: Switching converter to convert an input direct current (UE) into at least one output direct current (UA), wherein an internal auxiliary voltage (UH1, UH2) is derived from at least one auxiliary winding (WH1, WH2) of a transformer (Tr), a controllable load element (BAL) is provided for the output voltage, and a stop signal (ss) can be fed to turn the output voltage of the switching converter ON/OFF, which is used to connect the load element (BAL) to the output direct current to such an extent that a short-circuit-like condition is produced, in which the output voltage (Ua) is adequately close to null, but the at least one auxiliary voltage (UH1, UH2) is adequately high to supply the units associated therewith.

Abstract: A power supply device of a video display apparatus and a method thereof is capable of improving operation reliability of a video display apparatus, preventing erratic operation of the video display apparatus caused by higher harmonics and preventing erratic operation of other apparatus caused by unnecessary transmitted radiative wave. The power supply device can include a rectifying section for converting AC power into DC power, a harmonic suppressor for cutting off higher harmonics included in the DC power and a smoothing circuit for smoothing the higher harmonics cut-off DC power. A standby power supplier is for supplying the smoothed DC power to the video display apparatus as standby power, a main power supplier is for supplying the smoothed DC power to the video display apparatus as main power and a control unit is for controlling an operation of the harmonic suppressor.

Abstract: A switching circuit includes a microchip which, in response to a signal from a signal switch, controls the operation of a power switch which, when closed, connects a load to a battery. The microchip can monitor the status of the battery and control the power switch to ensure optimum operation of the load and optimum usage of the energy in the battery. The microchip can control the connection of the load to the battery in different ways according to the manner of operation of the signal switch.

Abstract: A power-sharing controller module comprises a processor, power manager, and at least one connector for detachably electrically connecting an application module to the controller module. The power manager is operable to manage power from a battery to the application module through said connector and to monitor the voltage of the battery. The processor is programmed to send a power reduction command to the application module in response to the monitored battery voltage moving outside of a permissible range. A power sharing method comprises supplying power from the battery in the controller module to the application module detachably connected to the controller module. Power supplied to the application module is reduced in response to an adverse power indication to conserve power for the controller module.

Abstract: An external power adapter prevents damage to contacts of power connectors by reducing current in-rush when the powered-up external power adapter is coupled to an information handling system. A control signal from the information handling system is used to initiate a voltage output of the external power adapter such that substantially no voltage is present on the contacts of the power connectors until the control signal is detected by the external power adapter. The external power adapter may determine the presence of an electrical load before applying the output voltage to the information handling system. The output voltage may be ramped from substantially no voltage to operating voltage over a period of time.

Abstract: A safety interlock apparatus for an electrical device includes a DC power supply, a ballast power supply including a ballast control circuit that controls a ballast power circuit, and a lamp. A relatively low voltage electrical connection is present between the DC power supply and the ballast control circuit. A relatively high voltage electrical connection is present between the lamp and the ballast power circuit. A safety interlock switch is positioned on the relatively low voltage electrical connection, the switch having a closed state wherein the relatively low voltage is supplied to the ballast control circuit and an open disconnected state wherein the relatively low voltage electrical connection is disconnected. A panel is fixable to the electrical device frame, and is selectively movable to expose the lamp for removal.

Abstract: A power supply control device for an image forming apparatus of the present invention includes a shutoff detector for monitoring the state of a power switch. In response to the output signal of the shutoff detector representative of the turn-off of the power switch, a shutoff processing section executes processing for avoiding accidental error detection and protecting a memory before the output voltage of a DC power supply drops to a preselected level.

Abstract: An electronic circuit for use with an exhaustible power source and load such as a light bulb, a radio or motor, includes a microchip with an input that transmits a signal to the microchip when the load is activated or deactivated. The input does not form a serial link between the power source and the load. The power switch, by on/off switching, controls energy flow from the power source to the load. The electronic circuit has an automatic delayed shut-off function for the load and, a find-in-the-dark indicator and a power source level indicator which are active when the load is not energized and the power source is not being charged. The input to the microchip acts as an activation/deactivation user interface. The microchip allows the user to select specific functions based on the time duration of activation signals, the time duration between activation signals and the number of activation signals at the input.

Abstract: An improved electrical lockout mechanism includes a first connection means to a power source, and a second connection means to a power input terminal of the machine being protected. The machine includes a manually-operated ON/OFF switch. A switching element, which is coupled between the first and second connection means, selectively completes and breaks an electrical circuit between the first and second connection means in response to a control signal supplied thereto. A control circuit generates this control signal in a manner that prevents unwanted machine restarts. The switching element may be realized by an electromagnetic relay device, or by a thyristor-based switching device such as a triac device. The electrical lockout mechanism can be integrated with a power cord that delivers electrical power to a machine, or can be integrated into the machine itself.

Abstract: The present invention achieves the above objects, among others, by providing, in a preferred embodiment, a transformer system for use with either a dimmer switch or an on/off switch, including: a transformer; a load connected to the transformer; a first tap connected to the transformer to provide a first voltage; and a second tap connected to the transformer to provide a second voltage higher than the first voltage. A method of using the transformer system is also provided.

Abstract: A hot swappable system is described. It included software controlled hot swapping operations which provided a graceful booting or power-down of the system. In the even of force insertion or extraction of the system blades, a set of hardware features (such as using different pin lengths in the connectors and dampening resistor) prevents these types of operations from damaging the system hardware or affecting the operation states of other blades within the system.

Abstract: A dynamic battery array of individual discrete cells, controllably interconnected for instantaneous dynamic configuration into a plurality of individual power buses having different electrical power output characteristics, each of which is tailored to supply the electrical power required at the instant by a particular electrical load within a circuit. Preferably the cells are fungible and randomly available so that at any given instant any given cell can be poweringly associated with a particular electrical load. The dynamic battery array, consisting of discrete cells lends itself to mounting on physically flexible substrates such as credit cards. The programmable array employs low resistance switch arrays for dynamically and instantaneously forming individual power networks or power buses between selected power cells and individual electrical loads in electrical circuits.