Abstract: The metadata-based intermediation between two data sources. A computing system accesses a query message (e.g., a query or a query response). The query message is structured to be compatible with the first data source. The computing system uses metadata either directly, or indirectly through the execution of code referenced by the metadata to convert the query message into a semantically equivalent query message that is compatible with the second data source. If the query message were a query, then a query response may be acquired and the metadata may perhaps be used again to convert the query response into a form that is compatible with the first data source. In one embodiment, the conversion using the metadata is performed with the assistance of a framework, making changes to the conversion process as simple as perhaps just editing the metadata itself.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to analysis of materials using a capacitive sensor to detect anomalies through comparison of measured capacitances. The capacitive sensor is used in conjunction with a capacitance measurement device, a location device, and a processor in order to generate a capacitance versus location output which may be inspected for the detection and localization of anomalies within the material under test. The components may be carried as payload on an inspection vehicle which may traverse through a pipe interior, allowing evaluation of nonmetallic or plastic pipes when the piping exterior is not accessible. In an embodiment, supporting components are solid-state devices powered by a low voltage on-board power supply, providing for use in environments where voltage levels may be restricted.

Abstract: Pairing service technologies is described. In embodiment(s), peripheral devices can be discovered, such as by a computer device, and a peripheral device can be configured with multiple services that each correspond to one or more data communication protocols. The multiple services of the peripheral device can be determined, and a pairing sequence can be prioritized for the multiple services. The data communication protocol(s) can then be paired according to the pairing sequence to configure the multiple services of the peripheral device.

Abstract: Various embodiments enable network users to efficiently discover network proxies. A computing device may employ various techniques to discover and collect network proxies from various network domains. A user, through a network client or network device, can select one or more proxies from the collected proxies and then query the selected proxies for information related to a network service or resource. The user can then select a network service or resource based in part on the proxy information.

Abstract: Pairing service technologies is described. In embodiment(s), peripheral devices can be discovered, such as by a computer device, and a peripheral device can be configured with multiple services that each correspond to one or more data communication protocols. The multiple services of the peripheral device can be determined, and a pairing sequence can be prioritized for the multiple services. The data communication protocol(s) can then be paired according to the pairing sequence to configure the multiple services of the peripheral device.

Abstract: One embodiment of an edge connector for a field changeable graphics system includes a right angle edge connector having a plurality of contact pins adapted to engage contacts on a graphics card. The edge connector is adapted to interface the graphics card with the motherboard of a computing device, without directly mounting the graphics card to the motherboard. One advantage of the disclosed edge connector is that it is compatible with a plurality of graphics cards and systems, thereby enabling a computing device user to upgrade the existing device's graphics system. Thus, the user is not forced to purchase an entirely new computing device in order to take advantage of graphics innovations. A further advantage of the disclosed edge connector is that it enables upgrades to low voltage differential signaling (LVDS) features, without the need for additional costly devices capable of operating at LVDS data rates.

Abstract: One embodiment of an edge connector for a field changeable graphics system includes a right angle edge connector having a plurality of contact pins adapted to engage contacts on a graphics card. The edge connector is adapted to interface the graphics card with the motherboard of a computing device, without directly mounting the graphics card to the motherboard. One advantage of the disclosed edge connector is that it is compatible with a plurality of graphics cards and systems, thereby enabling a computing device user to upgrade the existing device's graphics system. Thus, the user is not forced to purchase an entirely new computing device in order to take advantage of graphics innovations. A further advantage of the disclosed edge connector is that it enables upgrades to low voltage differential signaling (LVDS) features, without the need for additional costly devices capable of operating at LVDS data rates.

Abstract: One embodiment of a field changeable graphics system for a computing device includes a graphics card and an interface assembly. The interface assembly is adapted to interface the graphics card with the motherboard of a computing device, without directly mounting the graphics card to the motherboard. One advantage of the disclosed graphics system is that it enables a computing device user to upgrade the existing device's graphics system. Thus, the user is not forced to purchase an entirely new computing device in order to take advantage of graphics innovations. This advantage is particularly significant for users of portable computing devices, such as laptop computers and PDAs.

Abstract: A manual pipette having a cushioned hand grip area and a tip ejector. The ejector is located strategically so that an operator can easily manipulate either the ejector or a pipette fluid plunger which introduces and expels fluid to be sampled. The pipette is ergonomically balanced and designed to prevent operator fatigue. The pipette includes structure for in field calibration and volume variation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for securely transferring an encrypted-data key and a medium key, from a media storage such as a DVD disk to an output device in a computer system, using a randomly generated first secure transfer key generated by a disk drive of the computer system, the first key having a uniqueness factor derived from a phase locked loop circuitry. The first secure transfer key is combined with an output key stored in the output device forming a second secure transfer key. The second secure transfer key is used to encrypt the data key and the medium key to form a third secure transfer key. The third secure transfer key is passed to the output device where the data key and the medium key are decrypted. The data key and the medium key are then used by the output device to decrypt encrypted program data from the disk.

Abstract: A scanning fingerprint reader provides a set of digital data representing interface topology of a fingerprint pressed against a platen (20). The platen (20) is formed by one surface of a prism (10) utilizing total internal reflection of an illuminating beam (30) directed at an interior surface of the prism. The beam (37) that is output from the prism is fed through a scanning lens (40) to a scanning mirror (48) that causes the fingerprint image (68) to scan across a linear array (60) of CCD sensors that is repetitively sampled to provide a print readout of the entire surface of the prism for reading a slap print. The signal from the CCD array is read out and digitized (72,74,76) to provide a serial bit stream (78) representing the set of multiple fingerprints on the platen. An optical architecture (40,48,56) employing dual telecentricity eliminates keystoning distortion.

Abstract: The present invention provide an apparatus and method for verifying that a record carrier has been transformed from a first state to a second state in accordance with the state of a binary information signal being recorded thereon. In operation, the apparatus detects the signal generated by the record carrier during the supposed transformation and compares this signal to the corresponding portion of the binary information signal to determine whether or not the transformation has taken place, i.e., verifies the transformation. The present invention, in one embodiment, is employed in an optical disk system.