Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed that provide smart alerts to users, e.g., alerts to users about diabetic states that are only provided when it makes sense to do so, e.g., when the system can predict or estimate that the user is not already cognitively aware of their current condition, e.g., particularly where the current condition is a diabetic state warranting attention. In this way, the alert or alarm is personalized and made particularly effective for that user. Such systems and methods still alert the user when action is necessary, e.g., a bolus or temporary basal rate change, or provide a response to a missed bolus or a need for correction, but do not alert when action is unnecessary, e.g., if the user is already estimated or predicted to be cognitively aware of the diabetic state warranting attention, or if corrective action was already taken.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for identifying the start of a data field using a fault tolerant sync word with 16/17 rate coding is enclosed. The invention provides a word sync field that uses a 16/17 byte pattern that is repeated. The format of the word sync allows the proper identification of the start of the data even if only certain portions of the word sync are recovered. An encoded data block includes a sync field for providing proper timing for bit synchronization and a word sync field following the sync field, the word sync field being written with a predetermined phase relative to the sync field to identify a start of a data field. The word sync field comprises N word sync patterns, each word sync pattern comprising two subpatterns, wherein the phase relationship of the word sync field and the sync field enables identification of the start of the data field by identifying any N subpatterns.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for providing equalization adjustment for a finite impulse response (FIR) digital filter are provided in a PRML data channel. A plurality of transformations are defined to transform effective tap weights in a digital filter into modified effective tap weight values by adding each said initial effective tap weight value with a selected cosine equalization adjustment function. A cosine expander circuit is provided for expanding 8-byte compressed equalizations into a 32-byte format and for altering the filter response by a selected cosine equalization adjustment function.

Abstract: A shell for a connector for flat shielded cable. The shell is formed of conductive material and is constructed so as physically and electrically to contact the shield so that grounding the shell will ground the shield. The shell also includes portions to grip firmly the cable so as to relieve strain from the cable-connector connection. Finally the shell defines a cavity for the connector; the cavity has one or more irregularities corresponding to mirror image irregularities in the connector cavity to assure proper positioning of the connector within the shell cavity. Associated with the receptacle adapted to receive the connector are two toggle latches; the shell is provided with external hooks adapted to cooperate with the toggle latches so as to achieve firm connection between the connector and the receptacle as well as connection of the shell to ground.

Abstract: A soft playing disc is made of a pliable material having a generally disc-cupped shape to provide an aerodynamically stable disc. The material from which the disc is constructed is sufficiently rigid to enable the device to maintain and hold an aerodynamically stable structure and yet is sufficiently soft and resilient to prevent or avoid damage or injury should it strike an individual.