Abstract: A method of adjusting a timer is disclosed. The method includes adjusting a timer activation period based on a characteristic of a network and setting the timer using the timer activation period. The timer is used in communicating information over the network.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and apparatus for combining data segments. At a combiner node, data segments are received from a first node that are destined for a second node. At the combiner node, the received data segments are combined and buffered with previously buffered data segments from the first node if present until a first condition is met. At the combiner node, at least a portion of the combined data segments are sent to the second node when the first condition is met. The received data segments are combined in the combiner node prior to being sent to the second node so as to reduce processing and/or storage resources consumed by the second node.

Abstract: A page turning device for use with any bound pages such as books, music scores, or binders, which have small ferrous elements (14) attached to the edge of each page. The device uses a motorized arm (16) with a magnetic tab (17) mounted on the end to engage individual pages and turn them in either the forward or reverse direction. The magnetic tab (17) is raised during a page turn, but rests in a downward position between page turns so as to not interfere with manual manipulation of the pages. The device further incorporates foot actuated user switches (12,13) which control the mode of operation and cause the device to turn a page in the appropriate direction.