Abstract: A system configurable at least between powered and unpowered states is provided. The system comprises a human interface device for receiving a multi-character alphanumeric code, one or more processors, memory storing programs executed by the processors, and a private key associated with the system. The one or more programs comprise instructions for evaluating usage of the system against a usage threshold. When usage of the system is within the usage threshold, the one or more processors permit the system to be in the powered state. When usage of the system exceeds the usage threshold, the one or more processors force the system to the unpowered state. Responsive to a determination that a received multi-character alphanumeric code is valid, the usage threshold is adjusted by an amount specified by the received code.

Abstract: A controller receives electrical power at an input from one or more energy capture device and outputs electrical power to one or more external loads. The controller adjusts, according to a first algorithm, an electrical property affecting an apparent load resistance applied across the input. The controller determines, while the first algorithm is running, whether a first amount of power received by the input is satisfactory. If it is, the controller continues using the first algorithm. If it is not, the controller switches to a algorithm. The first and second maximum algorithms may be optimized for different environmental conditions, such as different amounts of sunlight incident on the one or more energy capture devices.

Abstract: A controller for controlling operation of a solar power system is disclosed. The controller receives electrical power from an energy capture device and outputs electrical power to one or more external loads. The controller initiates a first maximum power point tracking algorithm during an epoch. The controller then determines whether the first maximum power point tracking algorithm is satisfactory. If it is, the controller continues using the first maximum power point tracking algorithm. If it is not, the controller switches to second maximum power point tracking algorithm. The first and second maximum power point tracking algorithms may be optimized for different environmental conditions, such as different amounts of sunlight incident on a solar panel.

Abstract: A method for creating a customized audio track involves the steps of creating a song template, and then defining insert regions where sounds, vocals, or the like are inserted into the template. The invention includes the steps of generating a list of inserts, and pre-recording or otherwise acquiring a recording of each insert. When a particular insert is selected, it is introduced into the insert region, and the customized audio track may be recorded, streamed, or otherwise used or delivered to a listener. The audio track may comprise a personalized song (using appropriate name inserts) or a cell phone ring tone that identifies the caller.