Abstract: A prefetch apparatus optimizes bandwidth in a computer network by prefetch accessing data blocks prior to their demand in an ATM network thereby effectively reducing memory read latency. The method of the preferred embodiment includes the steps of: 1) computing a prefetch address of a next sequential data block given an address of a requested data block; 2) comparing a current request address against a previously computed prefetch address; and 3) generating a hit/miss indication corresponding to whether the current request address matches the previously computed prefetch address.

Abstract: A low power, single master, variable clock rate, daisy-chainable, serial bus connects a bus dispatch (master) to a chain of one or more daisy-chained peripheral devices (slaves). The bus has a bidirectional serial data line, a bidirectional clock line, unidirectional interrupt line, power and ground lines. All bus transactions over the bus occur under bus dispatch commands. If a peripheral device interrupts the bus dispatch, bus dispatch issues commands over the bus to determine which device caused the interrupt and what service is being requested by the device. The bus dispatch may then turn control of the data and clock lines over to the peripheral device for a limited amount of time depending on the service requested. New peripheral devices can be connected onto the bus and unused peripheral devices can be disconnected from the bus while the bus is operating without causing a bus failure. Similarly, bus dispatch may enter a low power sleep mode from which it may be awakened by a peripheral device.

Abstract: A low power, single master, variable clock rate, daisy-chainable, serial bus connects a bus dispatch in a base station (master) to a chain of one or more daisy-chained peripheral devices (slaves). The bus has a bidirectional serial data line, a bidirectional clock line, unidirectional interrupt line, power and ground lines. Data and commands are sent from the base station to a peripheral device, and data is received from the peripheral device by the base station by configuring each peripheral device on the bus to receive data and clock signals from the base station in an idle mode of operation. Upon a command send being transmitted by the base station, all peripheral devices on the serial bus between the base station and an addressed peripheral device remain in the idle mode and the addressed peripheral device is connected to the bus so that clock and data signals on the bus to are passed to the peripheral device.

Abstract: The measuring device has a bowl. The bowl's capacity is adjusted by a dam structure located within the bowl and attached to a cover structure slidably mounted on the bowl. The slidable cover extends beyond the bowl for use as a handle. The handle has a downwardly-directed extension which is used to support and stabilize the device when the device rests on a flat surface. The handle also has a rounded indentation at the junction between the extension and the handle, so as to reinforce the junction and provide means for easily gripping the device. The sides of the bowl structure are flexible so that they can be squeezed together to release the cover so that the device can easily be disassembled and reassembled for cleaning. A detent structure is provided to locate the sliding dam at pre-marked measurement locations. The detent structure is centrally located to permit strengthening of the sliding attachment means and reduce wear.

Abstract: The invention disclosed relates to a composition and method for enhancing the contrast of polycyanoacrylate-developed fingerprints and the like. The composition includes a metal chelate of the structural formula ##STR1## wherein R is a UV-absorbing aromatic group, X is an electron attracting group and M is a suitable metal ion, a suitable water-soluble organic solvent and water, at a pH of 3 to 10.

Abstract: The measuring device has a bowl. The bowl's capacity is adjusted by a dam structure located within the bowl and attached to a cover structure slidably mounted on the bowl. The slidable cover extends beyond the bowl for use as a handle. The handle has a downwardly-directed extension which is used to support and stabilize the device when the device rests on a flat surface. The handle also has a rounded indentation at the junction between the extension and the handle, so as to reinforce the junction and provide for easily gripping the device. The sides of the bowl structure are flexible so that they can be squeezed together to release the cover so that the device can easily be disassembled and reassembled for cleaning. A detent structure is provided to locate the sliding dam at pre-marked measurement locations. The detent structure is centrally located to permit strengthening of the sliding attachment and reduce wear.

Abstract: A lawnmower has an improved clutch-brake mechanism interposed between the engine drive shaft and the rotating blade to stop the blade except when an operator tensions a control cable. The clutch-brake includes cylindrical input and output members selectively drivingly coupled by a clutch spring wound around both members. A control sleeve positioned around the clutch spring connects with the input end of the clutch spring. When the control sleeve is braked, the clutch spring releases its grip on the input member and the output is no longer driven. A coiled brake band extends around the control sleeve to selectively effect this braking action. An improved floating mount is provided for the brake band. An improved lost-motion connection is provided between the control sleeve and the output member to limit the twisting of the clutch spring. An optional slip clutch is provided for connecting the output member to the blade.