Abstract: A method and system are disclosed for configuring PnP devices for a computer operating system by initiating a power on self test (POST) within a computer system for configuring PnP and PCI devices. During the process of configuring PnP and PCI devices, a list is composed of devices that are not absolutely necessary for booting the system (e.g. modem or ethernet controller). While the PCI devices are configured, if the system has no usable IRQ's, POST takes one from a nonessential PnP ISA (Industry Standard Architecture) device in the list, and gives it to the PCI device. The POST operation searches for the presence of a PnP operating system option while progressing through the startup sequence (of bootable media), and activates or deactivates all devices, depending on the type of media being attempted. If the medium is the hard disk (where the PnP operating system option resides), all of the PnP devices in the list are deactivated.

Abstract: A notebook computer has a base and a cover that is pivotally mounted to the base with a hinge. An integrated circuit chip is mounted to the base and has one end of a heat pipe attached to it or to an associated heat dissipation device. The other end of the heat pipe lies along the hinge. A spreader plate is mounted in the cover and attached to the other end of the heat pipe to form a nested, rotational joint. One end of the plate is located along the hinge and formed into a slotted cylinder. The heat pipe is pressed into the slot to form the joint which is tight around the heat pipe, but still allows it to rotate to accommodate the pivot motion of the cover. A retainer may be incorporated into the design to further enhance the strength of the joint and assure thermal continuity. The retainer is a hollow cylinder with an axial slit through which the plate extends.