Abstract: The present invention is a means and method for synchronizing closed free-running systems, such as graphics systems, with no external synchronization signals required. Video games and most computer display controllers are closed free-running systems. Because most such systems have the means to switch between an interlaced and non-interlaced operation, and because interlaced and non-interlaced modes have a relative timing variation, the timing between two or more such closed free-running systems can be synchronized. This method allows synchronization with an imprecise timing reference. The vertical display timing is the free-running oscillator and the interlaced/non-interlaced mode transition is used as the timing adjustment means. The actual arrival time of data in a communication medium connecting two systems being synchronized is used in relation to an expected arrival time to provide the clock reference.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
September 12, 1996
Date of Patent:
August 4, 1998
Assignee:
Catapult Entertainment
Inventors:
Stephen G. Perlman, Steven G. Roskowski
Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting and recovering from call waiting interference to data communications is disclosed. In a system wherein a first party communicates with a second party via a telecommunications link, the telecommunications link may be disrupted by a third party's attempt to call the first or second party. The present invention detects such a disturbance on the telecommunications line and allows the first or second party to answer the call from the third party. The invention re-establishes communications after the call with the third party is completed.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
April 10, 1996
Date of Patent:
July 22, 1997
Assignee:
Catapult Entertainment, Inc.
Inventors:
Harold E. Cohn, Shannon A. Holland, Konstantin Othmer
Abstract: A video game enhancement system for modifying and enhancing the operation of a video game is disclosed. The system includes: 1) a processor interface for coupling the video game enhancement system with a processor; 2) a memory interface for coupling the video game enhancement system with a first memory having executable game logic residing therein; 3) a second memory having executable enhancement logic residing therein; and 4) control logic including: a) logic for detecting an access to a patch address by the processor; b) logic for directing the processor to access an exception region in the second memory upon detection of the access to the patch address, the access to the exception region causing activation of an exception mode; and c) redirection logic for redirecting memory accesses by the processor from the first memory to the second memory for a plurality of memory accesses upon activation of the exception mode, the processor thereby executing a portion of the executable enhancement logic.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
June 6, 1994
Date of Patent:
April 29, 1997
Assignee:
Catapult Entertainment Inc.
Inventors:
Steven G. Roskowski, Stephen G. Perlman