Abstract: An accurate-automated-multi-axis machine for projecting objects. Multiple axes are employed to impart predetermined velocities and rotational components to the projected object. Projection of the object may be synchronized with a displayed video image to simulate the throwing of an object.

Abstract: A method and system for protecting and controlling personal computers (“PCs”) and components installed in or attached to PCs. The method and system may be used to protect PCs from use after being stolen. An exemplary embodiment of the system includes a server running on a remote computer and hardware-implemented agents embedded within the circuitry that controls the various devices within a PC. The agents intercept all communications to and from the devices into which they are embedded, passing the communications when authorized to do so, and blocking communications when not authorized, effectively disabling the devices. Embedded agents are continuously authorized from the remote server computer by handshake operations implemented as communications messages.

Abstract: A method and system for providing an Internet-based competitive speculation forum in which participants can submit predictions of future events, obtain rewards for correct predictions and suffer penalties for incorrect predictions. Each competitive speculation forum is defined by a number of future events, such as sporting contests, elections and election debates, and stock price fluctuations. Participants may submit straight predictions, each based on a single future event, combination predictions, each based on a set of future events, and aggregation predictions, each based on a single future event and automatically resubmitted at fixed intervals.

Abstract: An electronic hand-held device and method for inputting and sending requests and for receiving and outputting responses to the requests. The electronic hand-held device is a coupled to a telecommunications link over which requests are sent and responses are received. The electronic hand-held device derives sufficient electrical power from the telecommunications link in order to power the internal components of the electronic hand-held device that input request data, format requests, send requests, receive responses, and output responses. The electronic hand-held device can input request data in any number of different information media, including audio tones and voice signals, mechanical input to a keypad, printed barcodes, magnetic data stored in credit cards, and electronic data stored in electronic smart cards. The electronic hand-held device can output responses through an audio speaker, a visual LCD display device, and, optionally, through other output devices including printers.