Abstract: A method and apparatus for extending initialization of a personal data processing system using multiple levels of bootstrap code is provided. The first level of bootstrap code is stored in a non-volatile memory device associated with a processor of the data processing system. The second level of code is stored on a system partition or other section of a fixed disk memory storage device. The second level of bootstrap code is user configurable, and also provides access to a file system. A first initialization procedure is performed by executing the first level of bootstrap code, where the first initialization procedure performs a memory check self-test of the data processing system and conditions the data processing system for a program load. The second level of bootstrap code is then executed performing a second initialization procedure which performs specific initialization steps according to the configuration of the second level of bootstrap code.

Abstract: What is disclosed is a drinking system for a rider of a bicycle characterized by inflatable bladder with suitable conduit and valves for conveying the potable beverage stored in the inflatable bladder to the drinker on the bicycle so the bicycle rider can drink a potable beverage without having to stop the bicycle. Also disclosed are specific preferred embodiments.

Abstract: A transient electromagnetic apparatus for use in detecting irregularities on conductive walls of containers forms a multichannel distributed system and includes at least one transmitting antenna, at least one transmitter unit, plural receiving antennas, plural receiver units, and a computer for controlling the transmitter and receiver units. The receiver units each include elements that suppress noise in the received signals. Each receiver unit has a preamplifier, first and second low pass Bessel type filters, a gain ranging amplifier, and an A/D converter. The gain ranging amplifier receives feedback from the output of the A/D converter and provides increased small signal resolution. Each receiver unit also rejects common mode noise with a choke and balanced input impedances in the preamplifier. The apparatus allows an arbitrary number of receiving antennas, receiver units, and even transmitting antennas, and transmitting units, so that the apparatus can be configured to a variety of containers.

Abstract: A shaped charge has a case, a cap, and an O-ring. The case has first and second ends and a cavity therein. The case first end has a cylindrical first surface that circumferentially surrounds the cavity. The case second end has a bifurcated projection for receiving a portion of detonating cord. The cap also has first and second ends and cavity therein. The cap first end has a cylindrical second surface that circumferentially surrounds the cap cavity. The case and cap first ends matingly receive each other such that the first and second surfaces face each other. The first and second surfaces have respective circumferential grooves that are aligned with each other when the case and cap are assembled together. The grooves receive the O-ring, which retains the case and cap together while permitting the case to rotate relative to the cap. The cap second end is adapted to couple to a shaped charge carrier.