Abstract: A theft deterrence system is provided for a portable computer. The system includes a portable computer, a theft. deterrence label, a sensor, and circuitry. The theft deterrence label is provided on the portable computer at a visually perceptible location and has indicia that visually alert a reader to deter theft of the computer. The sensor is carried by the portable computer and is configured to enable detection of removal of the label from the portable computer. The circuitry communicates with the sensor and is configured to receive an alert signal from the sensor responsive to removal of the label from the portable computer. The circuitry also disables a functionality component of the computer responsive to the alert signal. A method is also provided.

Abstract: A battery management system in the form of a gas gauging system is disclosed for enhancing the monitoring of battery power supply. The battery management system includes a battery powered device and a battery selectively connected to the device for supplying operating power to the device. The system also includes an auxiliary power supply configured for connection with the battery for supplying charging power to the battery. A processor is carried by the device and is configured to enable the battery and the power supply, respectively, for powering the device. The processor is further configurable during connection of the auxiliary power supply to completely discharge the battery from a fully charged state to a fully discharged state via a discharge cycle. The system also includes a detector that is configurable to measure battery capacity during the discharge cycle of the battery. Finally, the system includes an output device for outputting a value based upon the measured battery capacity.