Abstract: Disclosed is an adaptive multijunction unit apparatus for multiplexing data streams between a master computer and a plurality of slave computers coupled through telephone system communication lines. The apparatus receives and processes both user data and network data which can include commands instructing the apparatus to change the operating modes of its various circuit components. For example, the adaptive multijunction unit apparatus can respond to commands to raise or lower its data transmission rate or to switch between dual channel and single channel data transmission. The apparatus includes a splitter/combiner function which copies data received from the master computer, onto output ports directed to multiple slave computers.

Abstract: An improved computer network multiplexer is disclosed. In a computer network based on the multiplexer, a master computer can communicate with a plurality of slave computers such that each slave computer receives all data sent by other slave computers to the master computer.

Abstract: A start circuit for starting the generation of pulse width modulated switching pulses is disclosed for use in a DC/DC switching converter power supply. The starting circuit is responsive to the initiation of a DC voltage source and starts the operation of a pulse generator. The starting circuit also includes a relaxation oscillator connected to the DC voltage source for periodically generating a start pulse at a predetermined frequency. Ongoing power is coupled to the pulse generator once the generator begins operation. The relaxation oscillator is selectively disabled when the pulse generator is powered by the ongoing power supplied by the power supply during normal operation. The start circuit further includes a delay function for delaying the disabling of the relaxation oscillator for a preselected period after shutdown of the power supply and includes a rapid start function for reducing the time between restoration of input power and the operation of the start circuit.

Abstract: A method for forming a multilayer integrated circuit is described wherein the resultant top surface thereof is substantially planar. The method involves first forming a layer of connecting metallization on integrated circuit components formed in a conventional manner. Then a first layer of dielectric is formed on the metallization layer. Next a second dielectric layer is formed on the first dielectric layer. Via areas are then formed by etching the first and second dielectric layers in order to expose selected areas of the first metallization layer, and filled with metal to form vias. A layer of photoresist is deposited on all surfaces. Lastly, the surface is etched using an etchant that etches dielectric, metal and photoresist at substantially the same rate such that said vias are exposed and a planar top surface produced.

Abstract: The present invention discloses non-fat dairy dessert compositions, which in a preferred form consist essentially of non-fat milk, sweetener, water and stabilizer, wherein at least a portion of the milk sugars and milk solids from the non-fat milk have been caramelized. When frozen, the non-fat dairy dessert compositions of the present invention have body, texture and flavor characteristic of a good quality fat-containing ice cream.

Abstract: The voltage clamp circuit can clamp positive and/or negative voltages. The voltage clamp circuit includes voltage sensing and clamping circuit consisting of a chain of series connected diodes connected between an output and a reference terminal of the voltage clamp circuit. A current mirror circuit is connected to the chain of series connected diodes. A current generating circuit is connected to the current mirror circuit and sensing and clamping circuit. The voltage clamp circuit consumes only enough current to develop a threshold voltage across each of the chain of series connected diodes.

Abstract: A system for storing and retrieving encoded data on an optical recording medium using pit edge detection is disclosed. The pit extension characteristics of a given medium are determined by first using laser beam test write pulses to form one or more pits on the medium and then detecting the time durational difference between the pulse width of the test write pulses and the duration of the leading edge transitions to trailing edge transitions of the corresponding pits formed on said medium. This difference value may be stored in a certification sector of the medium. Subsequent write pulses are modified in duration in an amount equal to this detected durational difference. For forming a pit that is longer than a predetermined minimum length, the corresponding write pulse is made non-continuous in order to minimize cumulative pit extension.

Abstract: An inexpensive encryption device, system and method includes coded alphanumeric characters preprinted according to different key codes or mail-out forms that can be manipulated by a prospective user to yield encrypted data that can be returned over unsecure transmission channels for secure decryption by the operator of a computer-secured operating system.

Abstract: A protective leg pad for an athletic participant, such as a hockey goalie or the like, is described. The pad includes a thigh section, a knee section, a shin section, and a foot section. Each of the sections includes a front portion and first and second side portions appended to the front portion. Each side portion extends from a respective opposite lateral edge of the front portions and forms therewith a recess for accommodating the wearer's leg. Each of the front and side portions comprises a protective plate. The front portions of the thigh, knee, shin and foot sections are hinged to each other to accommodate the shape and movement of the wearer's leg. The adjacent edges of each adjacent pair of side portions are relieved to provide side relief gaps for enabling flexion of the leg pad during use. Plating is arranged with overlapping portions aligned with the side relief gaps to provide protection over the gaps while permitting the gaps to expand and contract with leg flexure.

Abstract: An integrated circuit in which a large potential can be maintained between the source of the device and the substrate on which this device and other devices are fabricated is described. The circuit employs a minority carrier sink region to remove minority carriers from the gate region of a MOS depletion device. The sink region is shielded from the substrate by a buried layer which prevents punch-through between the sink region and the substrate.

Abstract: An improved variable gain circuit is described having an input for an audio signal and an output for an audio signal. An operational amplifier having inverting and non-inverting inputs and an output has its input connected to the audio input. The first differential cell having inverting and non-inverting inputs, output, and a first control current terminal, has one input connected to the output of the operational amplifier and the other input connected to a reference potential. The output of the first differential cell is connected to one of the inputs of the operational amplifier in negative feedback relation and a source of controlling current is connected to the control current terminal. The second differential cell is also provided having inverting and non-inverting inputs, an output, and a second control current terminal. One input of the second differential cell is connected to the output of the operational amplifier and the other of the inputs is connected to the source of reference potential.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting and locating defective crosspoint switches in a path consisting of a plurality of conducting segments connected by switch points is disclosed. The method and apparatus utilize the change in capacitance of the path which occurs when the switches are operated in a predetermined order.