Abstract: A stacked multiple connection module that provides multiple times the input/output (I/O) signal capacity of a single connection module. In one embodiment, a stacked dual connection module includes first and second circuit boards with respective edge connectors maintained at a parallel offset and configured to couple to a mating two slotted stacked edge connector. A connection means is provided to couple signals between the first and second circuit boards, such that components mounted on the first and/or second circuit board are enabled to access I/O signals via both of the edge connectors, thus doubling I/O signal capacity. In one embodiment, the stacked dual connection module comprises an Advanced Mezzanine Card (AdvancedMC) module having edge connectors configured to mate with an AdvancedMC connector.

Abstract: An Advanced Mezzanine Card (AMC) adapter may be used to connect a non-AMC mezzanine card to an AMC carrier. The AMC adapter may include a card edge connector configured to be connected to an AMC connector on the AMC carrier and one or more mezzanine connectors configured to be connected to the non-AMC mezzanine card. The AMC adapter may also include a bridge to convert between communication protocols used by the non-AMC mezzanine card and the AMC carrier. Of course, many alternatives, variations, and modification are possible without departing from this embodiment.

Abstract: A reconfigurable interconnect/switch for selectably coupling network devices, media, and switch fabric. The reconfigurable interconnect/switch enables network devices, such as network processor units (NPUs) to selectively communicate with other NPUS, media (via a media interface), and switch fabric (via a switch fabric interface), thus providing flexibility in the use of network line cards and the like. Embodiments of the switching/routing scheme may be employed to support network devices having separate media and/or switch fabric interfaces, as well as network devices having selectable media switch fabric (MSF) interfaces that share signal lines.

Abstract: Insertion and ejection mechanisms for modular boards and cards. Mechanisms are provided for coupling the motion of insertion/ejection handles coupled to a modular board or a board carrier frame to which a board is attached. The mechanisms include a single-bar linkage, a rack and pinion-based configuration, a two-bar linkage, and a telescoping configuration. Applying an input force to one of the handles causes the board to be urged inward in a chassis slot, thus coupling the connectors on the board with mating connectors on a backplane mounted within the chassis. The input force is coupled via the various handle-coupling mechanisms to the other handle, producing a result similar to if a force was applied to both handles at the same time. In a similar manner, a board may be ejected by applying a force to a single handle to cause that handle to rotate outward. An automated retention screw insertion and extraction mechanism is also disclosed.

Abstract: A switching system includes a backplane having slots, each including a first set of connectors designed according to a common specification. The slots include at least one extended slot and at least two normal slots, each normal slot including the first set of connectors, each extended slot including the first set of connectors and an additional second set of connectors. The backplane has signal lines to connect the connectors of the extended and normal slots to support at least one data channel between the first set of connectors of each of one or more of the at least one extended slot and the first set of connectors of each of one or more of the at least two normal slots. The backplane also has signal lines to connect the connectors of the extended and normal slots to support at least one data channel between the second set of connectors of each of one or more of the at least one extended slot and the first set of connectors of each of one or more of the at least two normal slots.

Abstract: A lift dolly is provided for lifting and transporting stand-mounted power tools and the like, with little effort. The dolly includes a pair of platforms and a wheel system having at least three castors extending downwardly from the platforms. The dolly is designed such that one step onto a latching or locking mechanism by the operator causes the wheel system to be forced downward relative to the stand thereby slightly lifting the power tool and stand off of the ground and enabling transport of same via the castors. Another step on the locking or latching mechanism disengages the wheel system and permits gravity to return the stand and tool firmly to the ground for use.