Abstract: A secure digital data distribution system (100) for preventing unauthorized access to digital data. The system utilizes an identification system module (116) embedded in a digital storage media (114) to grant authorization to media players (118). Prior to reading the digital data recorded on the media (114), an identification system interrogator (122) reads authorization data from the identification system module (116) to determine whether the media player (118) is authorized to read the media (114). If the authorization data matches the media player's unique identifier, authorization is granted and the media player (118) commences to read the media (114).

Abstract: A secure digital data distribution system (100) for preventing unauthorized access to digital data. The system utilizes an identification system module (116) embedded in a digital storage media (114) to grant authorization to media players (118). Prior to reading the digital data recorded on the media (114), an identification system interrogator (122) reads authorization data from the identification system module (116) to determine whether the media player (118) is authorized to read the media (114). If the authorization data matches the media player's unique identifier, authorization is granted and the media player (118) commences to read the media (114).

Abstract: A fixed optic sensor system (200) comprising a sensor system (210), and electronic sub-system (205) and a communications means (215). The system can be used for detecting the presence of various sample (236) properties and in that regard has widespread application by leveraging off various miniaturized sensor configurations including surface plasmon resonance (50), fluorescence (80), light transmission (125) and others (150). In one embodiment, the communications means (215) is a wireless transmitter/receiver. In another embodiment, a hand held instrument (358) can be used on-site and communicates with the sensor (350) to receive sample (352) related data and transmit it to a remote processing system (370) for further analysis. In yet another embodiment, a hand held instrument (403) has a plurality of cardiac marker binding ligands (400) deposited on the sensor/sample interface providing a medical diagnosis and point-of-care device (403).

Abstract: A fixed optic sensor system (200) comprising a sensor system (210), and electronic sub-system (205) and a communications means (215). The system can be used for detecting the presence of various sample (236) properties and in that regard has widespread application by leveraging off various miniaturized sensor configurations including surface plasmon resonance (50), fluorescence (80), light transmission (125) and others (150). In one embodiment, the communications means (215) is a wireless transmitter/receiver. In another embodiment, a hand held instrument (358) can be used on-site and communicates with the sensor (350) to receive sample (352) related data and transmit it to a remote processing system (370) for further analysis. In yet another embodiment, a hand held instrument (403) has a plurality of cardiac marker binding ligands (400) deposited on the sensor/sample interface providing a medical diagnosis and point-of-care device (403).

Abstract: An electronic hand-held, talking learning aid is disclosed. The learning aid includes a MOS speech synthesizer chip having an active surface area on the order of 45,000 square mils. The disclosed speech synthesizer chip includes a digital lattice filter, a voiced/unvoiced excitation circuit, a speech parameter interpolator, an input parameter decoder, a digital-to-analog converter and associated timing circuits. The learning aid is also provided with a microprocessor which functions as a controller for controlling the operation of the unit. A small speaker is driven by the digital-to-analog converter on the speech synthesis chip and a keyboard and display device are strobed by the microprocessor controller. Features include modes in which a speech synthesizer recites instructions or questions to the operator who must properly respond.

Abstract: A spelling learning aid in which an operator orally establishes the words and tactily establishes the correct spelling for later testing by the learning aid. In the preferred embodiment, the operator states words which are analyzed and synthesis control data is derived therefrom. This synthesis control data is combined with the operator inputted correct spelling, typically entered through a keyboard arrangement, and stored within the electronic apparatus. A plurality of words is preferably stored; the apparatus selectively withdraws one of the sets of synthesis control data with spelling and enunciates the word, using the synthesis control data via a synthesizer. The operator is able to attempt a spelling and have the attempt checked with the correct spelling previously stored within the apparatus. In this fashion the apparatus is able to be updated and varied according to operator desires so as to match the spelling requirements of the particular operator.

Abstract: An electronic handheld talking translator including a speech synthesis integrated circuit device. The speech synthesis integrated circuit device includes a digital filter, a voiced/unvoiced excitation circuit, a speech parameter interpolator, an input parameter decoder, a digital-to-analog converter, a speaker and associated timing circuits. A non-volatile memory stores digital data representative of the correct spellings of selected words in a foreign language and the model vocal tract control data necessary to control the speech synthesis circuit in a manner to cause the selected words to be audibly pronounced by the translator.

Abstract: An electronic talking learning aid is disclosed. The learning aid includes a speech synthesis circuit which, in the embodiment disclosed, includes a digital lattice filter circuit, a voiced/unvoiced speech excitation circuit, a speech parameter interpolator, an input parameter decoder, a digital-to-analog converter circuit and associated timing circuits. The learing aid is also provided with a controller and at least one memory for storing digitized speech parameters as well as other digital data. This other digital data may represent, for instance, correct answers to questions posed by the talking learning aid. A keyboard or other response insertion device is provided to permit an operator to input his or her answers to the questions posed by the learning aid. In the disclosed embodiment, the talking learning aid asks the operator to input the correct spelling of a spoken word and informs the operator whether or not the response was correct.