Abstract: A method for validating flash memory includes selecting for execution and executing, from a plurality of setup procedures available for the memory, a memory validation setup procedure setting respective values for a plurality of parameters that are also parameters set by execution of the other of the plurality of setup procedures. The method also includes determining that validation of a particular sector of the flash memory is desired and validating the particular sector of the flash memory, including examining the values of the plurality of parameters.

Abstract: A method for validating flash memory includes selecting for execution and executing, from a plurality of setup procedures available for the memory, a memory validation setup procedure setting respective values for a plurality of parameters that are also parameters set by execution of the other of the plurality of setup procedures. The method also includes determining that validation of a particular sector of the flash memory is desired and validating the particular sector of the flash memory, including examining the values of the plurality of parameters.

Abstract: A method for configuring an integrated circuit chip having a non-volatile memory having a plurality of registers and a volatile memory includes, the method comprising: storing a plurality of configuration data in the non-volatile memory and, providing power to the volatile memory. After providing power to the volatile memory, serially loading the configuration data into the registers of the volatile memory to configure the semiconductor device.

Abstract: A system whereby a short-range base station (pico-station) controls mobile communications within a limited area, such as a theater or airport, where the use of mobile phones or other communications devices is annoying or hazardous. The pico-station determines if mobile communications devices under its control are equipped to operate in a silent-communications mode. Within the limited area, calls to and from the communications devices are either blocked or restricted to silent operation, depending on the capabilities of the communications device.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for storing a data value by implementation of electrical fuses. Typically, the electrical fuses are provided in a fuse array broken up into a plurality of fuse chains addressable by a control logic circuit. The control logic circuit provides control signals for serially loading data values into the chain. Preferably, the control logic circuit also provides control signals for testing and programming of the loaded data values in addition to subsequently reading the loaded data values. A chain can include a plurality of sub-chains. Each chain or sub-chain includes optional write protection fuse cells, optional read protection fuse cells and at least one data fuse cell. Preferably, one of the optional write protection fuse cells is located first in the chain or sub-chain and one of the optional read protection fuse cells is located last in the chain or sub-chain.

Abstract: A balanced sensing scheme (300) for a "flash" electrically programmable and erasable read only memory (EEPROM) is disclosed. In a read operation, an upper memory cell bank (302a or 302b) and a corresponding lower memory cell bank (302c or 302d) are coupled to a sense amplifier bank (306). One of the memory cell banks provides data while the other functions as a balanced load. In the event the memory cell bank that is to function as the balanced load is in the process of being erased, an alternate memory cell bank is coupled to the sense amplifier bank (306) to provide an equivalent balanced load.

Abstract: A device for protecting a structure from scorching during heat-producing operations such as welding includes a silicon bonded board about 1/2 inch thick, a metal channel frame surrounding the board and a hanger for hanging the device from the structure. The board is interposed between the heat-producing source and the structure to be protected, whereby the structure is protected from scorching or burning.

Abstract: A method for cleaning oil-contaminated water in a bathing or swimming area comprising circulating absorbers of open-cell cross-linked polyolefin foam on the surface of said oil-contaminated water, the contaminating oil being removed by said absorbers.