Abstract: A computer mouse accessory comprises a cover which is configured to fit over a computer mouse in such a way that the pressure-sensitive switches associated with the computer mouse are operable through an opening in the cover.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for controlling the clustering of nodes which implement a cluster-based routing protocol in a data communications network system where the system comprises a plurality of such nodes which are interconnectable to form a plurality of ad hoc networks. For each node which is a member of a cluster, cluster control information (CCMs) is maintained, this cluster control information being dependent on the size of at least the cluster of which that node is a member. On connection of two nodes which are members of two respective clusters, each of the two nodes transmits its cluster control information to the other node, and then determines whether a clustering condition is satisfied. In each node, the clustering condition is dependent on the cluster control information maintained for that node and the cluster control information received from the other node. In each node, if the clustering condition is satisfied, the node then communicates a clustering agreement to the other node.

Abstract: Solid material, e.g., coal, is upgraded, e.g.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for managing protocol information in a PNNI hierarchical network. In a PAR-enabled device (1) of the network, topology indicators (HC, LC) are assigned to protocol information encapsulated in PAR PTSEs received by the PAR-enabled device (1) from the network. The assignment of a topology indicator (HC, LC) to protocol information in a PAR PTSE is dependent on the location of the network node which originated that PAR PTSE in the PNNI topology as seen by the PAR-enabled device (1). Protocol information in received PAR PTSEs is then supplied to a protocol device (5) associated with the PAR-enabled device (1) in a manner dependent on the assigned topology indicators (HC, LC), for example with tags comprising the assigned topology indicators (HC, LC). The information supplied to the protocol device (5) thus reflects the topology indicators (HC, LC) which in turn reflect the location in the PNNI topology of the originating nodes of the PAR PTSEs.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for managing protocol information in a PNNI hierarchical network. In a PAR-enabled device (1) of the network PAR PTSEs received by the PAR-enabled device (1) from the network are checked to identify redundant protocol information encapsulated in the PAR PTSEs. Protocol information in received PAR PTSEs is then supplied to a protocol device associated with the PAR-enabled device (1). In some embodiments, protocol information identified as redundant is excluded from the protocol information supplied to the protocol device. In other embodiments, the protocol information supplied to the protocol device is tagged to distinguish redundant protocol information from non-redundant protocol information. This facilitates efficient configuration of the network topology for the protocol in question.

Abstract: A power sensor that enables determination of the frequency of a microwave signal comprises a signal input that receives the microwave signal at a particular frequency, at least one sensor that produces a first and second output corresponding to the power of the microwave signal, and a means for coupling the signal input to the sensor so that the coupling means distinguishes the first output from the second output in order that the ratio of these outputs produces a unique value at the particular frequency.