Abstract: An apparatus is provided to handle classes of data in computer systems that must not be permitted to intermingle due to their security classifications or criticality of their data content, as in banking or safety applications. An isolated path is established for transmitting a given class of data between elements of the computer system with assurance that the data has been transmitted from the proper source, has been received by an authorized recipient and that unauthorized elements of the system have not intercepted or altered the data. Plug in type secure bus arbiter (SBA) module or bus arbiter interconnect module (10) with a controller (11) provide a way to isolate data without modification of the computer back plane or motherboard in a computer chassis (12). Modules can be used with commercial off the shelf (COTS) and non-development item (NDI) cards for a wide variety of standard computer printed circuit boards.

Abstract: An apparatus to extend printed circuit board length allows for secure mounting of the printed circuit boards. More particularly, the extender bracket apparatus (30) is for stabilizing small or short, commercial off the shelf (COTS) circuit boards (20) for personal computers (PC). The apparatus will aid in operation of small circuit boards for rugged applications such as high vibration conditions in vehicles. The extender bracket apparatus (30) is first fastened to an adjustable clamp (60), which is then fastened to a COTS circuit board. The adjustable clamp has holes that facilitate attaching to slots in the extender bracket apparatus. The clamp and extender board may have a dielectric surface to prevent electrical conduction. The dielectric can be an adhesive to hold the printed circuit board. The apparatus can then be fastened to a computer chassis (40) for rigidly mounting the circuit board.

Abstract: An end bracket for ruggedization of Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) printed wiring cards is described. End bracket (400) has flanges (420,430) with holes for attachment of end bracket (400) to free end (250) of printed wiring card (210). End bracket (400) also has a flange (440) for attaching end bracket(400) to a fixed structure. The holes in flanges (420,430) generally form a hole pattern that matches a standard hole pattern found in free end (250) of printed wiring card (210).

Abstract: A gateway controller (100) for facilitating the exchange of information between PCI busses (101,103). The controller (100) may comprise a single printed wiring board (301) or two printed wiring boards (201,203) connected by cable (205). Busses (101, 103) are physically isolated from one another for security or other reasons.This technique provides for controlled communication capability which does not require direct linking of two subsystem buses. This technique also provides for a method of transparent communication between subsystems. This gateway controller (100) allows data control while providing bus security and physical isolation of communication buses.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for rigidly stabilizing or restraining circuit boards is provided. The apparatus has a rigid cross member (20) and a circuit board clamp (10). These provides stabilization of commercial off the shelf (COTS) circuit boards for use in harsh environments. A one piece clamp has hooks with notched ends that attach to opposite sides of each circuit board. The clamp has a surface parallel to the hook. The parallel surface has threaded holes. Threaded shafts are used with the threaded holes to contact the clamp hook and provide pressure on the printed circuit board. A threaded hole is used with a threaded shaft to engage a rigid cross member. The cross member has unthreaded holes to allow for attaching to the clamps with threaded fasteners. The rigid cross member is then attached to the chassis with a fastener. This eliminates flexing of the circuit board under vibration.