Abstract: An apparatus and method for performing speculative directory cache tag updates for read accesses to memory is herein disclosed. A control unit for performing tag updates is coupled between the memory controller and the memory bank in a multiprocessor system that employs a directory-based coherency protocol. The control unit transmits data read from the memory bank to the memory controller while calculating the updated tag that it then writes back to the memory bank. In this manner, the memory bank busy time and memory bus traffic are reduced thereby improving the overall performance of a memory access.

Abstract: Current consumption of a device under test (DUT) is measured using a tester including a device power supply (DPS) having force and return lines terminating in respective power supply terminals. The DUT is removably received by a load board having contact elements which are in electrically conductive pressure contact with the power supply terminals of the force and return lines and are connected to power supply pins of the DUT. A circuit branch including a bypass capacitor and an nMOSFET is connected between the force and return lines.

Abstract: An extracting assembly is used to extract a spare tire from a wheel well disposed below a load platform of a motor vehicle. The extracting assembly includes a base with a pivoting member extending out therefrom. A tire platform pivots from the pivoting member. The spare tire rests on the tire platform. When a handle which is secured to the tire platform is pulled, the tire platform pivots up and out of the wheel well. The spare tire which rests on the tire platform is pulled out of the wheel well also. The pivoting member provides mechanical advantage and supports the back half of the tire platform as it rests on the load platform while the spare tire is being removed therefrom.