Abstract: A rendering cost estimation method is provided for generating a rendering cost estimate that that is sufficiently close to an actual rendering cost that would be incurred if computer-generated images were actually rendered from a computer-graphics model. A plurality of cost factors that affect the actual rendering cost are identified. Representative information, including rendering cost estimation parameters that adequately characterize the cost factors, is derived from the computer-graphics model. The estimation parameters are combined with rendering cost estimation relationships that express the affect of the cost factors on the rendering cost. A rendering cost estimate is generated based on the estimation parameters derived from the computer-graphics model and the estimation relationships.

Abstract: A switching multi-mode modem that switches on the four wire side of the DAA where the two-wire side of the DAA is connected to a land based telephone network. The modem includes a DAA, a first DSP capable of performing all modem digital signal processing functions and a second DSP capable of performing conversion and compression of analog voice signals to digital signals. The modem includes a headset connector and a cellular telephone connector and a switching network connected between the first DSP, the second DSP, the four-wire side of the DAA, the cellular telephone connector and the headset connector.

Abstract: The present invention provides method and apparatus for testing data transmissions between fax modems (and other data transmission devices which utilize asynchronous serial ports for connection of DTE equipment) through synchronization and resynchronization of data bits input to a computer from a receiving fax modem with a plurality of preshifted sequences of data bits stored in the computer's memory. In a closed loop testing environment, first and second fax modems are connected together via a synchronous telephone line and are coupled to a computer via first and second asynchronous lines input to the computer's COM ports. The program utilized by the computer initially stores in memory a first sequence of data bits partitioned into units with each unit comprising N data bits.