Abstract: A digital camera takes interleaved photographs of two different kinds. In one example embodiment, the first kind of photograph is taken using a first set of pixels of the camera's electronic array light sensor and has a short exposure time. The second kind of photograph is taken using a second set of pixels and has a long exposure time. More than one of the short-exposure-time photographs is taken while each long-exposure-time photograph is exposed. The two kinds of photographs are used for different purposes. For example, one kind may be used for performing automatic focusing while the other kind is used for displaying in a live view display. In this way, live view may continue while automatic focusing is performed. In another embodiment, one kind of photograph is used for providing a live view display, and the other is used in selecting exposure settings for a final photograph.

Abstract: A data management system comprises a processor adapted to receive a transfer of an update. The system also comprises an update manager accessible by the processor and adapted to obtain a listing identifying each of a plurality of data packets corresponding to the update. The update manager is further adapted to access the listing to determine a transfer status of each of the data packets in response to a partial transfer of the update.

Abstract: A software loading method comprises providing a first software package on one of a plurality of primary partitions in a storage medium. The first software package comprises a first boot loader module, an installer system, and a secure operating system. The installer system is operable to install a second software package, which comprises a second boot loader module, a primary operating system operable to be executed by a processor, and an appliance application. The method also comprises automatically installing the second software package on a second of the plurality of primary partitions.

Abstract: A configuration server comprises a web server connected to an Internet and hosting a registration webpage accessible to a registrant on the Internet, the registration webpage including an input area receiving configuration information from the registrant, a configuration database connected to the web server for storing the configuration information, and a direct-dial interface connected to a telephone line and to the configuration database, the direct-dial interface operational to answer an incoming telephone call from an automatic appliance and, in response, transmit the configuration information to the automatic appliance.

Abstract: A system and method for providing at least a portion of the service history of a processor-based device is provided. The present invention is directed to a system and method for providing at least a portion of the service history of a processor-based device. In one embodiment, the present invention comprises an application for providing at least a portion of the service history of a processor-based device on which the application resides. The application comprises code for receiving information relating to at least a portion of the service history of the processor-based device, code for entering the received information into a data structure, and code for providing at least one web-based page, the at least one web-based page comprising at least a portion of the information entered in the data structure.

Abstract: A data management system comprises a processor adapted to receive a transfer of an update. The system also comprises an update manager accessible by the processor and adapted to obtain a listing identifying each of a plurality of data packets corresponding to the update. The update manager is further adapted to access the listing to determine a transfer status of each of the data packets in response to a partial transfer of the update.

Abstract: A configuration server comprises a web server connected to an Internet and hosting a registration webpage accessible to a registrant on the Internet, the registration webpage including an input area receiving configuration information from the registrant, a configuration database connected to the web server for storing the configuration information, and a direct-dial interface connected to a telephone line and to the configuration database, the direct-dial interface operational to answer an incoming telephone call from an automatic appliance and, in response, transmit the configuration information to the automatic appliance.