Abstract: A preparation of 3-amino-1-hydroxypropane-1,1-diphosphonic acid includes the steps of: mixing N-alkoxycarbonyl-.beta.-alanine, phosphorous chloride and phosphorous acid in the ratio of 1:1:1.about.1:3:3 in a reaction solvent, xylene at 70.degree.-140.degree. C.; hydrolyzing; and obtaining 3-amino-1-hydroxypropane-1,1-diphosphonic acid as a product, thus decreasing the production of unidentified by-products and giving and low production cost by using xylene instead of chlorobenzene as a reaction solvent.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for processing cells in an asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) communication system. An ATM cell processor provides a modulo arithmetic feature which permits branching on the modulo portion of the result of an arithmetic operation. An arithmetic logic unit (ALU) or other processor instruction is modified to include a modulo field which specifies the number of right to left bits after which the result of the corresponding ALU operation will be truncated. Conditional branch instructions such as branch on zero result, branch on non-zero result, branch on negative result, branch on carry and branch on overflow may be configured to operate only on the modulo portion of the ALU instruction result and/or on a carry out of the most significant bit (MSB) position of the modulo portion.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for differential video data encoding which utilizes a reduced number of bits per pixel to encode chroma and luma components of a video data stream. A 4-bit absolute code is determined for a given 8-bit luma or chroma component in the data stream. The determined absolute code is indicative of a particular one of a plurality of ranges into which the given component falls. The given component is encoded using the determined absolute code if the absolute code produces a lower encoding error than a 4-bit delta code which encodes the component as a difference relative to a previously-encoded component. If the delta code produces a lower encoding error than the determined absolute code, the given component is encoded using the delta code. In a situation in which the given component is the first component of its type on a line of video, an absolute code may be used regardless of whether or not the absolute code produces a higher encoding error than the delta code.

Abstract: An analog modulator employing .DELTA.-.SIGMA. transformation and comprising timings generator, at least a single operational-amplifier (OP-amplifier) filter of Biquadratic transfer function and saturation detection circuit, is provided. This novel approach solves the stability issue by controlling the switching timings of the single operation-amplifier biquadratic filter in the .DELTA.-.SIGMA. modulator. During normal operation, this high-order .DELTA.-.SIGMA. modulator constructed by the single OP-amplifier biquadratic filter functions a third-order or fourth-order modulator. As unstable condition occurs, via the saturation detection circuit and timings generator, the third-order or the fourth-order modulator functionally converts into and performs as a stable .DELTA.-.SIGMA. modulator of second-order.

Abstract: A multistep process for producing 8-chloro-6-(2-fluorophenyl)-1-methyl-4-H-imidazo?1,5a!?1,4!benzodiazepine (midazolam) comprises treating a compound of Formula II with a lower alkyl dithiol to produce a compound of Formula III, wherein n=2 or 3, converting the compound of Formula III to a compound of Formula VII, and then treating the compound of Formula VII with a deprotecting agent, thereby producing midazolam. Novel intermediate compounds are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for use in a set top box processing system to permit simultaneous utilization of two system clocks in applications in which certain processing system elements utilize one system clock operating at a non-integer multiple of another system clock used by other processing system elements. A synchronous phase detector is used to generate a clock enable signal suitable for use in a pipeline structure to facilitate data transfer between the different elements of the processing system. The clock enable signal includes phase information extracted from the first and second clock signals, and is suitable for use in driving one or more multiplexers in a pipeline structure or other state-based logic device to thereby allow data transfer between an element of the processing system operating at the first clock rate and an element operating at the second clock rate.

Abstract: A data carrier with an electronic circuit for storing and processing data is provided with an information strip with optically readable markings, and preferably a test field and an authentication feature. An optical interface, for example, can be provided for communication with a write/read device. The markings represent a digital signature. Testing of the authenticity of the data carrier can be done on the basis of the physical properties of the markings, the internal structure of the signature and/or the proof that a test number stored in the electronic circuit is equal to a number calculated from the signature according to a pre-determined function. The signature can also serve as a cryptographic key for encoding and decoding the data to be exchanged between the electronic circuit and the write/read device. The test field can be irreversibly modified when the data carrier is used.

Abstract: A unique DRAM structure has increased capacitance by using a parallel fin capacitor structure. A preferred embodiment of the invention includes a silicon substrate having a first conductivity type. Field oxide (FOX) regions are defined in the substrate to separate DRAM cells. Drain and source regions are formed in the substrate by forming in the substrate regions. On the substrate surface and between the drain and source, a gate region is formed. The gate region comprises a gate oxide, a first polysilicon layer (Poly-1) doped to have a second conductivity type opposite the first conductivity type, a tungsten silicide (WSi) layer, and an oxide layer, such as SiO.sub.2 or SiN. Oxide or TEOS (tetraethylorthosilicate) spacers cover the sides of the gate region. Above the gate region is an insulating layer of TEOS. A second polysilicon layer (Poly-2) having the second conductivity type contacts the source region and forms a bitline. Layers of WSi, oxide or thin TEOS, and Si.sub.y N.sub.x, such as Si.sub.3 N.sub.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing power management functions in a computer or other electronic system which includes a primary power supply, a trickle power supply and a battery back-up power supply. A power management circuit includes a storage element which stores an indication of the current turn-on or turn-off condition of the primary power supply. The power management circuit also includes a group of logic gates which process signals which are supplied to the storage element under normal operating conditions to control the turn-on or turn-off condition of the primary power supply. The power management circuit senses when the trickle supply is deactivated due to a line power failure or the like, and subsequently switches the power supply inputs of the storage element and certain of the logic gates from the trickle supply to the battery back-up supply.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for blowing off surplus coating material in the continuous coating of a metal band, in particular in the zinc coating of steel bands, with a pair of blow-off nozzles, between whose nozzle bodies 2, which are chargeable with a blow-off medium, in particular compressed air, the metal band 1 is guided at a distance from the nozzle orifices 3 extending transversally to the running direction of the band. To improve the axial arrangement of the metal band between the nozzle bodies 2 it is provided that at least one of the two nozzle bodies 2 which are adjustable relative to the metal band carries an optical measuring device 4a, 4b which is movable parallel to the nozzle orifice 3 covering at least the zone of an edge K of the metal band 1 and that the opposing nozzle body is provided with a reflector 11 towards which the optical axis of the measuring device 4a, 4b is directed in its position outside of the metal band edge.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for recording and replaying variable speed data uses a rotating drum device. When information to be recorded is presented to the transfer rate of the information, be recorded is determined. If this information is not presented at a standard information transfer rate (N), it is converted to that standard rate. If the information not only is not at the standard rate N, but is outside a predetermined amount from that standard rate, the travel speed of the magnetic medium is slowed and the activation sequence of the magnetic recording head is altered. In the case where the information to be recorded is at a rate outside of the predetermined rate, the magnetic medium travel speed is reduced from the standard speed (L/T) in relation to the information transfer rate of the information to be recorded. If the tape speed is reduced to L/XT, then the activation sequence is every Xth head.

Abstract: A system is provided for retrieving a selected one of a plurality of encrypted software products stored in at least one storage device, such as a CD-ROM. Each software product is decryptable by a unique decryption key. The CD-ROM storage device is coupled to a end-user station having a unique serial number and a processor that is responsive to an application program stored therein. The user can select a software product to decrypt upon receipt of the corresponding decryption key. A remote vender station, having a unique password, is selectively coupled to the end-user station, via a network, to receive a request for the decryption key corresponding to the selected software product. Further, the vender station receives the serial number from the end-user station. A remote server is connected to the vender station, via a network, when the password transmitted from the vender station is validated.

Abstract: A process and an apparatus for pressure control, in particular, to adjust braking pressures in a utility vehicle, are proposed. Two individual controllers (10, 11) are assigned respectively to an inlet valve (2) and to a discharge valve (3). A pilot control value consisting of a fixed value y.sub.v and of a memorized value .DELTA.y.sub.v is additively input to the output values of these controllers. The memorized components .DELTA.y.sub.v are the integration result of the I (integration) components of the individual controllers (10, 11) for the duration of a pressure increase (inlet valve) or pressure decrease (discharge valve). The memorizing process is ended after approximately five to ten brake applications and the value of .DELTA.y.sub.v which is then reached is used as an individual pilot control value.

Abstract: The invention relates to a casting flux for steels or alloys on an iron, nickel or cobalt basis which make heavy demands on the degree of oxidic purity for continuous or ingot casting and contain as the main components calcium oxide (CaO), aluminium oxide (Al.sub.2 O.sub.3) and strontium oxide (SrO), the characterizing feature of the invention being that the chemical composition lies within the following limits (in % by weight):20 to 40% CaO,15 to 30% SrO,0 to 6% Mgo,0 to 8% MgF.sub.2,0 to 8% CaF.sub.2,0 to 8% NaF0 to 6% LiFresidue Al.sub.2 O.sub.3,the flux having a total content not exceeding 15% of oxygen-yielding compounds, such as SiO.sub.2, FeO, MnO, K.sub.2 O, Na.sub.2 O, P.sub.2 O.sub.5, Cr.sub.2 O.sub.3 and B.sub.2 O.sub.3.

Abstract: A process for time-stamping a digital document is provided. The process provides a certificate which not only allows for the authentication of a document at a later time but which includes a name or nickname which allows for the unique identification of the document at a later time. The name or nickname provided in accordance with the present invention is not only simple and concise but allows for the self-authentication of the document which it refers to. The name can be used when two independent parties desire to refer to the same unique document in a quick and simple way.

Abstract: A floating gate E.sup.2 PROM cell is provided with a poly silicon floating gate having a pointed, sloped edge. A poly oxide is disposed on the pointed, sloped edge of the floating gate. A select gate is disposed on the poly oxide. The select gate overlaps the pointed, sloped edge of the floating gate. The floating gate, poly oxide, and select gate cooperate so that electrons tunnel according to enhanced Fowler Nordheim tunnelling from a point of the pointed, sloped edge of the floating gate, through the poly oxide and into the select gate.A simple process is also provided for fabricating an E.sup.2 PROM cell including the step of forming a nitride layer on a poly silicon layer. The nitride layer is patterned, using a photo-lithographic technique, to form an exposed poly silicon layer surface window. The exposed surface window of the poly silicon layer is then oxidized using a LOCOS (local oxidation of silicon) process to form a poly oxide region.

Abstract: A rechargeable battery set includes a power supply encased in a housing, a rescue alarm electrically connected to and powered by the battery via a switch so that when the switch is turned on, sounds of high decibels are generated and emitted by a speaker or buzzer incorporated inside the housing and a pair of retractable electrodes arranged within the housing to be electrically connected to the power supply via a high voltage generation circuit under the control of the switch and manually extendible out of the housing to provide an electric shock for user's body protection purpose. A flash generator is also mounted within the housing and connected to the power supply to generate a flash signal for rescue purpose.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process and to a device for the rolling of bands (B) with uneven thickness and/or length distribution over their width by using at least one control roller (5, 9, 21, 27, 41, 43) located on the inlet and/or outlet side of a mill (W, W', W") and capable of swiveling in its position relative to the band (B), making it possible in case of minor disturbances, independently of the existing operating conditions, to compensate for the running of a band caused by unevenness in the thickness and/or length distribution over the width of the band. This is achieved according to the invention in that the distribution of the tensile stress over the width of the band (B) is detected with at least one measuring device (7, 11, 25) and in that the control roller (5, 9, 21, 27, 41, 43) is adjusted in function of the detected distribution of tensile stress until the detected distribution of tensile stress is equal to a desired value.