Abstract: A power tool including a braking and control circuit. The braking and control circuit includes a microcontroller-based control means circuit. The microcontroller assures control of switch means, such as triacs, switches and relays, and ensures that braking is effectuated regardless of the phase in the power cycle of the alternating current. Also, the microcontroller is programmable so that the braking and control circuit accommodates different braking conditions for different power tools and accommodates combinations of braking conditions for the same power tool. Further, the microcontroller is programmable to configure the braking and control circuit so that the braking force applied to the motor and the stopping time of the motor are regulated and adjustable. This may be accomplished by outputting a control signal so that the switch means skips cycles in the alternating current or by otherwise adjusting the operation of the switch means.

Abstract: An electronic strategy and battle game for one to four players including a visual display and audio sound effects. The game has three levels of complexity, namely basic, intermediate and advanced, and also has a self-teaching mode. In each level of play the object to win is to be the only player with remaining energy units. This is achieved by chasing and evading opponents through space and engaging in energy-depleting battles. In the basic level of play each player begins with ten units of energy and the entire game takes place in a combat mode. In the intermediate level of play each player starts with twenty energy units with play taking place on two different scales, one for combat and another for non-combat. In the advanced level of play each player begins with forty units of energy and additional features are added such as sensing scans in the non-combat mode. The advanced level of play also permits invisibility of a player's starship.