Abstract: A skateboard axle assembly includes a base attached to the underside of a skateboard, and a hanger which supports the axle. The hanger is connected to the base by a bolt and two nylon washers that permit a slight motion of the axle with respect to the base when the skateboard user makes a turn. In addition a small stud mounted on the hanger screws into the base an adjusted depth to adjust the clearance between the wheels and the skateboard.

Abstract: The present invention provides apparatus and methods for performing Bluetooth communications. The apparatus comprises a plurality of antennas and a signal strength monitoring means for monitoring signal strength seen at each antenna. The apparatus also includes a selection means for selecting one of the plurality of antennas for use in receiving or transmitting a respective data packet, as well as control means for controlling the selection means in dependence on the monitored signal strength. In operation, the control means monitors signal strength seen at each antenna and selects one of the plurality of antennas for use in receiving or transmitting a respective data packet in dependence on the monitored signal strength.

Abstract: The 802.11b wireless LAN specification is compromised by the weaknesses of WEP. The invnetion routes wireless transmissions to the LAN via a firewall or VPN gateway and encrypts them.

Abstract: The transmission of data packets by communications equipment is tested and/or monitored. One or more transmission protocols is registered to enable communication according to any registered protocol. A request specifying at least one testing and/or monitoring operation is submitted. A received request is decoded into one or more processable events in accordance with one or more predetermined rules. The writing of data packets to, and the reading of data packets from, communications equipment is controlled. Decoding of received requests and execution of one or more processable events in accordance with the read/write control is scheduled. The above is arranged such that, when a request is received, the following is scheduled: a) decoding the request into one or more processable events; b) initialization of the processable events; and c) reading and writing data packets from and to communications equipment in accordance with the processable events.

Abstract: The invention is concerned with a method of monitoring one or more network devices and exploits the realisation that monitoring and testing can occur by analysing the content and source of broadcast messages. Embodiments of the invention are implemented on otherwise conventional devices, and gather and process information that has been broadcast during data communications between network devices.

Abstract: A method of determining one or more paths through a communications network, which one or more paths are arranged to transmit data between at least one transmitting node and at least one receiving node, the method comprising the steps of:

Abstract: Apparatus for simulating transmission conditions over communications equipment, the apparatus including:

Abstract: Apparatus for testing and/or monitoring the transmission of data packets by communications equipment, the apparatus comprising:

Abstract: In a pressure diffuser, clogging of the tapered inlet passageway at the bottom of the vessel is minimized by providing a number of lubricating fluid introducing nipples disposed circumferentially around the annular passageway. The nipples introduce lubricating fluid so that it flows upwardly along the inner wall of the vessel. The vessel inner wall and the bottom support for the screen at the passageway are polished and free of projections, so that friction is minimized. The nipples are provided in sets that are staggered so that a nozzle is placed about every 15.degree. around the circumference of the vessel, and a common annular header--mounted on the support legs of the vessel--provides the lubricating fluid. Should screen movement slow as a result of paper pulp properties near the screen bottom support, the flow rate of lubricating liquid can be increased so as to significantly dilute the pulp at the passageway until slow movement of the screen is overcome.