Abstract: A method for verifying availability of reusable data space on a selected virtual scratch tape in a virtual tape system utilizes volume label information routinely maintained in an external tape inventory management arrangement to generate labels separate from the actual volume labels stored on a corresponding tape. The volume labels are generated in a format compatible for input to an external tape management system after the selected virtual scratch tape has been mounted on a virtual tape drive. The “on-the-fly” generation of the separate volume labels based on preexisting label information allows the present invention to significantly reduce processing time and needless data transfers typically required to verify whether a scratch tape can in fact be reused, thereby increasing overall efficiency in data storage management and storage space utilization.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for underfilling a gap between a multi-sided semiconductor device and a substrate with viscous underfill material. The viscous underfill material is moved into the gap to encapsulate a plurality of electrical interconnections formed between the semiconductor device and the substrate. A seal is provided between the semiconductor device and the substrate to seal the gap along multiple sides of the device, while the gap is left unsealed along at least one side of the device to permit fluid communication with the gap. The viscous underfill material is dispensed adjacent the at least one side of the device along which the gap is unsealed, and a pressure differential is created across the underfill material to draw the underfill material into the gap and thereby encapsulate the electrical interconnections.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for selectively reclaiming fragmented space on a multiple volume cartridge (MVC) device using a cost-benefit type analysis to determine whether making the fragmented space useable justifies moving all nonexpired data volume sets to another MVC. The present invention analyzes the allocation of space on the MVC to determine the location and size of any gaps between nonexpired data volume sets. Any gaps appearing at the end of the MVC are automatically reallocated for subsequent use. Any gaps appearing between nonexpired data volume sets are analyzed to determine whether the size and location meet predetermined criteria before moving any of the nonexpired data volume sets. In addition, the present invention allows selective movement of less than all of the nonexpired data volume sets if the size of the separating gap is larger than any nonexpired data volume sets appearing after the gap.

Abstract: The present invention provides a virtual automated cartridge system (ACS) and data storage device management method which incorporates a temporary data buffer arrangement between multiple user systems and conventional physical data storage devices. The temporary data buffer arrangement emulates a compatible physical data storage device when accessed by each of the user systems, but allows simultaneous allocation of different users to access to read and write data to the temporary data buffer. A control processor automatically transfers data stored in the temporary data buffer arrangement to one of the physical data storage devices when allocation to a user has ended.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for selectively storing data files on a multiple volume cartridge (MVC) device which maximizes the likelihood of gaps in stored data appearing at the end of a cartridge. All incoming data files are initially stored in a virtual disk buffer, and checked to determine time of expiration. The expiration information is then used to reorder the virtual data volume files when placed on the MVC device so that the last to expire is stored first, and the first to expire is stored last.

Abstract: The apparatus (101) and method provide for data transmission capability on bonded data channels of a communications network (104), such as an integrated services digital network, utilizing a single serial communication controller ("SCC") for the bonded data channels. The apparatus (101) includes an interface transceiver (210), interface circuitry (220), and an integrated multiprotocol processor (200). The integrated multiprotocol processor (200) contains an SCC (420) which may be utilized for data transmission on bonded data channels, with other SCCs (430, 440) available for use on other channels. The apparatus and method provide for proper data alignment of primary (or master) channel data and secondary channel data on the bonded channels, through the same SCC, through utilization of a predetermined information pattern transmitted in a loopback mode (810, 820) of the interface transceiver (210), to the receiver of the SCC (830).

Abstract: In order to cut soft concrete before it has completely hardened, or about 12 to 18 hours after finishing, a rotating cutting blade and its drive motor are mounted on a wheeled support platform. The blade extends through a slot in the platform, and also through a skid plate depending from the platform, in order to cut the concrete below the skid plate. The slot and the skid plate are sized to support the concrete as it is being cut and to inhibit cracking and chipping of the concrete during cutting. The slot preferably has as little space as possible between the sides of the slot and the adjacent sides of the cutting blade. An extendable handle allows the device to be used beyond the physical reach of the operator.

Abstract: The present invention relates to tribenzylcyclen compounds of formula I ##STR1## (where R is hydrogen, or a C.sub.1-12 alkyl group optionally substituted by hydroxy, alkoxy or aryl groups or R is an amphiphilic aralkyl group comprising a N, S, O or P interrupted C.sub.2-25 alkylene chain, e.g. a polyalkylene oxide chain or R provides a bridge to a second tribenzylcyclen group, but with the proviso that R is other than benzyl; X is CHR.sub.1, or where R is hydrogen two X groups may each represent CO groups; and R.sub.1 is hydrogen, a C.sub.1-6 alkyl group optionally substituted by hydroxy, alkoxy or carboxy groups or an aralkyl group having 1 to 6 carbons in the alkyl moiety and optionally. substituted in the aryl moiety by alkyl, alkoxy, hydroxy or isothiocyanate groups). These compounds are useful in the preparation of DO3A, N-substituted-1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-N',N",N'"-triacetic acids, and the phosphonic acid analogs.

Abstract: In order to cut soft concrete before it has completely hardened, or about 12 to 18 hours after finishing, a rotating cutting blade and its drive motor are mounted on a wheeled support platform. The blade extends through a slot in the platform, and also through a skid plate depending from the platform, in order to cut the concrete below the skid plate. The slot and the skid plate are sized to support the concrete as it is being cut and to inhibit cracking and chipping of the concrete during cutting. The slot preferably has as little space as possible between the sides of the slot and the adjacent sides of the cutting blade. An extendable handle allows the device to be used beyond the physical reach of the operator.

Abstract: A hair curling iron is arranged to have a handle with a concave portion pivotally connected to a heatable hair curling assembly including a tubular member heated by an electrical heater means and a plug for conducting electrical current to the electrical heater means. The plug is pivotally mounted on the hair curling assembly to withdraw a cavity in the hair curling assembly. The hair curling assembly is arranged to fold into the concave portion of the curling iron handle to provide a convenient package for carrying in a pocket or purse.