Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a client application for enabling access to an online service and displaying advertisements while the user is accessing the online service. The client application receives play lists from the online service provider. The play lists include information about advertisements to be played and the order of play. In conjunction with the client application displaying advertisements, the client application and an online service provider server also track and record the occurrence of hardware and software errors and malfunctions that occur in relation to the provision of the online service. The types of errors may include errors in a communication channel from a local device to an online service provider server, data access errors, and any other errors that may occur in the operation of software and hardware, such as software crashes and the incorrect display of advertisements.

Abstract: Disclosed is an ad server and local device that interface for selecting advertisements to be viewed by users of an online service based upon user activity. The local device preferably stores a targeted activity list of activity identifiers and associated advertisements in memory, preferably in cache memory. The local device monitors the activity on the local device and compares the activity to the identifiers in the targeted activity list. If the activity matches one of the identifiers, the local device causes one or more advertisements to be played.

Abstract: There are described apparatus and methods wherein ultraviolet light kills and/or degrades and vaporizes microorganisms and organic material which naturally form over time on a heat exchanger. As this matter is eliminated, the pressure drop is decreased (i.e., airflow is increased) and the heat exchange efficiency (capacity) is increased. Less energy per Btu removed is used by the cooling system, and less energy is used by the HVAC system to move air.

Abstract: A method and apparatus to control a client in a communication network accessed by the client through a service provider independent of a client controller. A hardware capable Internet Service Provider (ISP) functions as the communications network service provider. A virtual ISP operates the client controller, leases Internet access time from the hardware capable ISP, and resells Internet services to users. A client accesses the network through a two stage authentication process. First, the hardware capable ISP authenticates the client using a user-provided ID and password. After successfully logging on to the hardware capable ISP, the client automatically sends a start session message containing user identity information to the client controller. In response, the client controller sends a control message to the client authorizing use of the network for a predetermined time period. When the client stops accessing the network, the client informs the client controller using an end session message.

Abstract: A germicidal lamp is disclosed. The lamp's tube has a single stem and may be installed in the lamp's fixture without touching the tube's envelope. The fixture includes a mounting mechanism and a damping mechanism which ease installation and render the tube less susceptible to adverse forces.