Abstract: A watchdog timer circuit modified to operate during periods of microcomputer shut-down or sleeping, as for energy conservation purposes, controlled by an independent external rectangular-wave signal for inhibiting watchdog timer reset signal generation for the microcomputer during such shut-down periods and until a wake-up signal is generated at the end of such microcomputer sleeping, whereupon the watchdog circuit will generate a reset signal in the absence of proper microcomputer operation.

Abstract: A watchdog timer circuit modified to operate during periods of microcomputer shut-down or sleeping, as for energy conservation purposes, controlled by an independent external rectangular-wave signal for inhibiting watchdog timer reset signal generation for the microcomputer during such shut-down periods and until a wake-up signal is generated at the end of such microcomputer sleeping, whereupon the watchdog circuit will generate a reset signal in the absence of proper microcomputer operation.

Abstract: Remote resistance measurement technique using a programmable current source to enable accurate measurement of resistance, such as physical parameter sensing resistors such as for the remote monitoring of vehicular construction equipment or the like, particularly where full physical access to the sense resistor is not possible, as, for example, in vehicular fuel gauge applications and the like.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for regulating power consumption by electronic equipment containing integral rechargeable backup batteries used, among other places, in systems operating with vehicle engine main batteries and the like, and wherein techniques are employed to minimize the depletion of the main batteries used to maintain the charge on the backup battery, particularly under circumstances of engine shut down, but with electronic equipment continued power demands on the backup batteries.

Abstract: A novel technique for distinguishing fuel-operated engine idling and working periods by monitoring the different values of the engine alternating-current alternator frequencies for distinguishing engine idling and working, and, where desired, total engine operating run time.

Abstract: Flexible serial communication switching system and technique for serially connecting peripheral devices with a microprocessor, and with accommodation for switching either for substitute communicating with an external auxiliary device when connected to the microprocessor port, or to permit the auxiliary device directly serially to communicate with a peripheral device, and with the microprocessor being informed as to which switching mode automatically to assume.

Abstract: Remote resistance measurement technique using a programmable current source to enable accurate measurement of resistance, such as physical parameter sensing resistors such as for the remote monitoring of vehicular construction equipment or the like, particularly where full physical access to the sense resistor is not possible, as, for example, in vehicular fuel gauge applications and the like.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for regulating power consumption by electronic equipment containing integral rechargeable backup batteries used, among other places, in systems operating with vehicle engine main batteries and the like, and wherein techniques are employed to minimize the depletion of the main batteries used to maintain the charge on the backup battery, particularly under circumstances of engine shut down, but with electronic equipment continued power demands on the backup batteries.

Abstract: A novel technique for distinguishing fuel-operated engine idling and working periods by monitoring the different values of the engine alternating-current alternator frequencies for distinguishing engine idling and working, and, where desired, total engine operating run time.

Abstract: An integrated monitoring system for integrating and displaying the location of widely dispersed construction vehicle equipments at their respective sites together with the present location and recent track of respective maintenance vehicles for servicing the equipments, through the use of satellite positioning, wireless data communication and Internet facilities for determining such locations.

Abstract: A novel method of and system for remotely monitoring location, status, utilization and condition of a widely geographically dispersed fleets of vehicular construction equipment, using the resources of satellite positioning and communication and Internet facilities, and processing and displaying such information for fleet managers and the like.

Abstract: A locking clamp for a wheel secured by external lug bolts to an axle of a trailer or other vehicle and having an inner annular hub peripherally surrounded by a tire, the clamp having, in combination, first and second interlocking L-shaped members, the first member comprising a chock as one leg and carrying a tubular bar the inner surface of which is to be juxtaposed against the rear of the tire, and the other leg of which extends inwardly of the inner tire side surface; and the second member comprising an L-shaped tubular bar the front leg of which is of cross-section less than that of the first member tubular bar in order to slide through the same and extend inwardly therebeyond, with the other leg extending parallel to the said other leg of the first member but across the outer side of the tire and carrying a hub disc adjustable to cover the wheel outer hub lug bolts and prevent access to the same; and means at the inward extension of the second member front leg for receiving locking means.