Abstract: A method and a related apparatus for using a dynamic random access memory (DRAM) in substitution of a hard disk drive in a computer system. The computer system has a request format transformation module for transforming a hard disk request signal into a corresponding memory request signal, a memory read/write control circuit for accessing the DRAM, and a memory refresh circuit for periodically refreshing the DRAM to maintain data stored in the DRAM. When the computer system issues the hard disk request signal, the hard disk request signal is transformed into the corresponding memory request signal to access the DRAM instead of a hard disk drive. In addition, when the computer system executes an S4 or S5 state according to the specification of advanced configuration and power interface, the memory refresh circuit will repeatedly refresh the DRAM.

Abstract: An embedded control unit is installed in a notebook computer, so as to take the place of the programmable processor in many conventional notebook computers for controlling peripheral devices. The embedded control unit includes a plurality of peripheral controllers, so as to control the peripheral devices usually used by typical notebook computers. The peripheral controllers can be directly connected to the peripheral devices, according to the specifications for different types and/or brands of notebook computers. In addition, the peripheral controllers can achieve control of the peripheral devices according to the non-adjustable internal register settings. In this way, the control of the peripheral devices can be achieved without using firmware, thereby simplifying the notebook computer development process and reducing the development cost.

Abstract: A primary functional circuit board with the capability to verify the chip function by an alternative manner and a simplified design for reducing the fabrication cost includes circuit board, chip, verifying apparatus, and extending connection terminals distributed on periphery of the chip. The chip is disposed on the circuit board to execute a functional instruction of the primary functional circuit board. The extending connection terminals are the extension of connection pins of the chip. The verifying apparatus is implemented with a programmable chip having a firmware program needed for controlling the circuit under control. After the verifying apparatus is connected to the extending connection terminals, the switching device is used to select the chip or the programmable chip to control the circuit under control. The engineer can easily compare the difference between the two without a power interruption.

Abstract: A signal compensation circuit of a bus is disclosed in the present invention, wherein the amplitude of a surge is obtained by inputting a test pattern into the bus and comparing a reference voltage and a peak-value signal filtered out from the bus. For continual correction of the damping resistance, the test pattern can be inputted into the bus repeatedly to optimize the effect of the compensation. Then, a proper damping resistor is selected and connected to the bus in series to absorb the energy of the surge. The signal compensation circuit is embedded in the chip, such as in the south bridge.

Abstract: A new apparatus for reading keyboard-commands of a portable computer comprises a shift register, a keyboard-matrix circuit, a filter, a buffer, an address generator, a mapping device, a comparator, and an output device. The shift register is for outputting a plurality of scan-input signals and a reference signal. The keyboard-matrix circuit is for outputting a scan-output signal according to the scan-input signals. The keyboard-matrix circuit includes a plurality of nodes corresponded to the keyboard buttons, respectively. The filter is for filtering the noise of the scan-output signal. The buffer is for further stabilizing the filter signal. The address generator is for reading the location of the node corresponding to the button being pressed. The mapping device is for outputting a mapping signal corresponding to the button being pressed. The comparator is for outputting a comparing signal, which represents the command corresponded to the pressed button.