Abstract: Methods of determining whether a network interface card entry within the system registry of a Windows™-based operating system pertains to “real” physical hardware or to a “virtual” device. In one embodiment of the present invention, the method includes the steps of: (1) opening the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\Class\Net key entry of the system registry; (2) examining each of the sub-keys for the “Net” key, and find one with a “DriverDesc” string value matching a NIC; (3) opening the “Ndi” key under the matching sub-key; (4) getting the “DeviceID” string value under the “Ndi” key; and, (5) searching the “DeviceID” string for a backslash “\” character. If the backslash character is found, then it can be concluded that the network interface card entry is associated with “real” physical hardware.

Abstract: A circuit includes a transmission function of transmitting data together with a source clock synchronized to the data to another module, a reception circuit for receiving the data outputted by the module and a source clock synchronized to the data, and a synchronization circuit for connecting the circuit having a transmission function to the reception circuit are formed on a single-chip integrated circuit. Even if the module connected to the bus is changed, i.e., even if the operation clock frequency of the module of the other party is changed, other modules can be used as they are without making any change. The cost needed at the time of system construction can thus be reduced. Furthermore, as for the aspect of performance, only one synchronization circuit is needed. The increase of latency caused by synchronization can also be suppressed to the minimum.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable computer having a power adapter unit and a detachable cooling fan. There is provided an adapter unit converting AC voltage into DC voltage and supplying the DC voltage to the portable computer, including an input terminal for receiving the AC voltage, a voltage-transformation member for converting the AC voltage into the DC voltage, an output terminal for supplying the DC voltage of the voltage-transformation member with the portable computer, and a ventilation member attached to the portable computer housing, wherein the ventilation member induces an airflow within the electronic circuit containing housing of the portable computer, and wherein the output terminal and the ventilation member are integrated to be electrically connected with the portable computer.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for enhancing the security of virtual private network (VPN) connections by automatic pre-negotiation of a secondary configuration. If snooping or other security breaches are detected, the VPN tunnel is modified automatically to the secondary pre-arranged configuration, stymieing attempted security violations.