Abstract: A modem which can detect an incoming call and provide an indication of the incoming call to a host computer while the power to the modem is turned off, comprising a switchable power supply that can be turned on and off by a remote input from the host computer, a ring detector circuit that monitors for incoming calls and notifies the host computer through an open drain output without using power from the computer, and isolator circuits that provide isolation on all the input/output lines between the modem and the computer to prevent power leakage from the computer's power source when the switchable power supply is turned off.

Abstract: A variable reluctance motor having tapered stator teeth and more rotor teeth than stator teeth. The width of the stator and rotor teeth provides a relatively high rotor tooth ratio and a relatively low stator tooth ratio. With this configuration the motor has very low torque ripple. Magnetic saturation is limited to the tips of the stator teeth, so the motor can be operated at current levels above the saturation point, producing a linear torque to current function and high output torque.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is presented for calibrating instruments for time interval measurements, pulse width measurements, and rise and fall time measurements. The preferred method comprises generating two coherent pulses using a linear passive device. The coherent pulses are simultaneously a.c. coupled to two channels of, for example, a time-interval measuring instrument. The time interval between the coherent pulses passing through the instrument is measured at identical voltages on each signal. Then the coherent pulses are exchanged between the channels and a further interval measurement is made. The results of each of the measurements are compared and used to calculate calibration constants to correct systematic errors present in the instrument.

Abstract: A bucking station for small logs is disclosed, in which a log is scanned to determine its size and shape, the resulting data are analyzed by a computer which determines the optimum locations for cuts, and the proposed cut locations are displayed on the log optically for the operator's inspection. If the operator overrides any of the proposed cuts, the computer recalculates any cuts not specified by the operator. When all cuts have been approved, the log is kicked to a cutting bed, where the cuts are made by means of two independently controllable traveling saws. The cutting bed is preferably defined by three sets of parallel plates. The first set comprises stationary plates having V-shaped upper edges which define a V-shaped trough in which the log is initially received. The second and third sets of plates are vertically movable and, when raised, together define a second V-shaped trough located above the first trough.