Abstract: Intelligent notification generation. Communications from various sources are received and stored in memory as individual event entries. Each event entry is dynamically assessed for generation of a notification based on criteria. This criteria is dynamic and employed by feedback generated by user input and acknowledgements from delivered notifications. Generated notifications are translated into an audio format for delivery. The delivered notification, including the status of the delivered notification and attributes of the delivered notification, are stored in memory for purposes of establishing and aligning the criteria.

Abstract: A system for holding a device in a computer system, the computer system including a drive cage for holding the device, is disclosed. The system comprises a first rail coupled to one side of the device and adapted to fit into the drive cage and a second rail coupled to the device at a side opposite the one side and adapted to fit into the drive cage, wherein the first and second rails are coupled to the device without requiring a tool. Computer systems utilizing the system in accordance with the present invention, will be better equipped to handle the acoustic vibrations created during the operation of different types of drives such as Direct Access and Storage Devices (DASDs). Accordingly, this will enable computer system manufacturers to incorporate faster DASDs without acoustically coupling the DASD to the chassis. Furthermore, by employing a screw-less rail, PC manufacturers and users will no longer be required to use a tool to remove the attached rails.

Abstract: A system and method of mounting components to a frame, such as a disk drive in the mounting frame of a personal computer shaped to receive the disk drive in a releasable fashion within the frame. A tubular spring member with a z-shaped base and outwardly-extending legs is made of a spring steel and formed with flattened leg ends fits within holes in the component to secure the component to a guide member, with the guide member mounted within the mounting frame. The disk drive component with the guide member secured by the Z-spring slides into a slot on the frame of the personal computer and is secured in place to provide a releasable assembly for replacement of the disk drive as desired.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an electrically insulating polymer coating on a conductive metal substrate, especially zinc and tin-plated sheet steel. The polymer is applied to at least one side of the sheet, the amount being adequate to create a uniform layer of 0.5 to 0.8 micrometers thickness after curing. The polymer coated sheet is heat cured at 200° C. to 210° C. for 10-15 minutes. The thickness of the polymer layer is selected to be within a specified range. The range is determined based upon subsequent manufacturing operations which require an electrically conductive path between a component and the metal substrate. The curing conditions are selected for the dual purpose of heat curing the polymer to the substrate surface as well as to stress relieve the tin or zinc-plated sheet steel. This treatment helps to prevent tin whisker growth and improves the corrosion resistance of the substrate.

Abstract: A system for mounting components within a frame of a personal computer where access to only one side of the frame is needed to mount or remove the components with fasteners and fastening tools. The components are secured and restrained from movement in three orthogonal directions. The fasteners are mounted to the exposed side. Bracket guides and spring fingers extend from the frame to provide location and biasing forces to secure the components in their proper locations. This system requires fewer fasteners and reduces assembly time during manufacturing and/or repair. It is easier and quicker to remove and replace a defective component or one which is being upgraded in the system.

Abstract: A frame is provided at the front end of the adapter card receiving area of a personal computer which includes card guides, a flex bar for retaining inserted cards and a dual function blocking member which has opposed blocking surfaces so arranged that they retain the locking bar respectively in a lock and open position respectively and transition between the two with simple, one-hand activation.