Abstract: A method to pre-compile configuration information for a network connection device includes receiving a rule file defining behavioral requirements for the network connection device. An operations file, describing operations supported by a plurality of components of the network connection device, is received. A rule program, executable by the network connection device, is generated utilizing the rule file and the operations file. The rule program comprises a set of operations, selected from operations supported by the plurality of components of the network connection device, for performance by the respective components of the network connection device in accordance with the behavioral requirements defined by the rule file.

Abstract: A method to implement policy-based network traffic management includes receiving data pertaining to a network device at a network traffic manager, the first data being received out-of-band of network traffic. Second data is extracted from the network traffic. A network traffic management policy is implemented at the network traffic manager utilizing the first and second data.

Abstract: A heat transfer ring that is readily usable in any application requiring heat transfer from a heat source to a medium coming in contact with the ring. The ring may also be used in a reverse application where it is used to cool the medium coming into contact with it. The ring is a cast body consisting of a plurality of integrally connected circular rings to which a series of tapered prongs are attached so as to provide a large heat sink. The prongs are of a tapered conical shape and are specifically positioned with respect to each other thereby spanning a larger dimension of the medium being treated so as to effectively and efficiently transfer heat thereto or therefrom.

Abstract: An advanced network processor or concentrator which uses distributed processing to interface a plurality of subscriber data input lines to a packet network. The concentrator includes removable line terminators boards (ULT) which can be configured to handle a variety of signal characteristics. Each ULT interfaces to a line director unit (LDU). The line director units process and packetize the data. All the LDU's are interfaced to each other over a high speed data bus which is also accessible by a nodal director unit (NDU). Each LDU is programmed by the NDU to recognize and process the data at each subscriber line and instructed by the NDU to down load it's processed data to a selected trunk line director unit (TLDU). The TLDU transmits the data over a trunk line to a packet switching network. The system is modular, expandable and reprogrammable to handle differently typed subscriber inputs as necessary.