Abstract: This invention relates to a method and apparatus for providing a coding competition. In one embodiment, a method for providing a coding competition includes transmitting a coding problem to contestants, receiving computer code created by a contestant, determining a response of the computer code to test data, and evaluating the response of the computer code to the test data. In another embodiment, a method for evaluating a skill level of a contestant includes electronically communicating a coding problem to contestants, electronically receiving a software program in response to the coding problem from one of the contestants, evaluating the received software program, awarding points to the contestant based on the received software program, and determining a rating for the contestant for the competition based on the number of points awarded to the contestant.

Abstract: A self-supporting post leveling device (10) operable to both level and support a post (12) or other structural or support member, such as, for example, a pole or beam, during erection or installation. The device (10) broadly comprises an adjustable sleeve (14), including two post adjustment mechanisms (16,18); two leveling mechanisms (20,22); and two, three, four or more legs (24,26,28,30). The post (12) is received within and substantially surrounded by the sleeve (14). The post adjustment mechanisms (16,18) tighten to immobilize the post (12) within the sleeve (14). The leveling mechanisms (20,22), such as, for example, fluid bubble leveling mechanisms or laser leveling mechanisms, may be secured to or incorporated within the sleeve (14). The legs (24,26,28,30) support the sleeve (14) and the post (12) immobilized therewithin.

Abstract: A drop cloth construction 10 for a structure having an elongated top cap 101 supported by a plurality of vertical supports 102 such as a bannister or railing 100. The construction 10 includes an elongated cover member 20 fabricated from a strip of protective material 22 such as plastic or treated canvas. The cover member 20 is operatively associated with a plurality of securing unit 12 disposed on the opposite ends and the intermediate portion of the cover member 20 for releasably engaging the cover member 20 with the top and opposite sides of the elongated top cap.

Abstract: Apparatus and associated methods of detecting optical carriers and measuring characteristics thereof provide optical carrier wavelength determination and measurement of other characteristics with improved precision. In a preferred embodiment, a method of detecting optical carrier wavelengths utilizes a controller to direct a stabilization circuit to adjust an optical filter to sample selected wavelength portions of an optical spectrum. The controller then evaluates the samples' intensities and directs the stabilization circuit to adjust the filter to sample other selected wavelength portions of the spectrum based upon the results of the evaluation.

Abstract: A video display system employs a memory arrangement for the video data which is sequentially accessed for serial read-out of the bit-mapped video information at a high clock rate, and also randomly accessed in parallel by a microcomputer for generating and updating the information to be displayed. Parallel access to the memory by the microcomputer can occur while the serial video data is being clocked out, so microcomputer I/O and video output conflict only a very minimum amount. Dynamic MOS RAMs with a serial register added provide this dual port memory.

Abstract: A video display system employs a memory arrangement for the video data which is sequentially accessed for serial read-out of the bit-mapped video information at a high clock rate, and also randomly accessed in parallel by a microcomputer for generating and updating the information to be displayed. Parallel access to the memory by the microcomputer can occur while the serial video data is being clocked out, so microcomputer I/O and video output conflict only a very minimum amount. Dynamic MOS RAMs with a serial register added provide this dual port memory.