Abstract: A method of loading pre-authorized funds into an integrated circuit (IC) payment card includes interfacing the IC payment card to a loading device. The method further includes receiving a cash payment to cover a proposed load transaction, and operating the loading device to load pre-authorized funds into the IC payment card on an off-line basis.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is described that allow the creation of virtual routing domains in an IP network. These virtual routing domains allow individual networks to be configures so that it appears that its routing domain covers the entire IP address space. A network processing system is used to implement the virtual routing domains and to allow network traffic to cross the individual routing domains. The network processing system is able to use application layer information to allow the crossing of virtual routing domain boundaries. By examining application layer information the network processing system is able to look up customer/user information and use that information to determine destination virtual routing domains and route otherwise unroutable addresses between domains.

Abstract: An endoscope is described in which the diameter of the image relay assembly is less than that of the objective lens assembly. An endoscope sheath is also described for sheathing the endoscope and housing or directing optical fibers for use in illuminating the endoscope view of view. An endoscope-sheath system is further described comprising the combination of the endoscope and the endoscope sheath in eccentric alignment to reduce fluid flow impedance between the two.

Abstract: An endoscope is described in which the diameter of the image relay assembly is less than that of the objective lens assembly. An endoscope sheath is also described for sheathing the endoscope and housing or directing optical fibers for use in illuminating the endoscope view of view. An endoscope-sheath system is further described comprising the combination of the endoscope and the endoscope sheath.

Abstract: A video camera head configured for use with an endoscope and having a conductive inner chamber for shielding the imager and imager electronics from electro-magnetic interference is described in which the inner chamber is substantially isolated from contact by a human or conductive fluid through a sealed outer non-conductive housing. Another aspect of the invention involves hermetically sealing the inner chamber, thus facilitating the use of steam autoclave sterilization, including flash sterilization, to sterilize the camera head.

Abstract: A video camera system is provided in which the camera head is powered at least in part by electrical energy converted from optical energy provided by a light source. In one implementation, communication between the camera head and control circuitry thereof occurs by means of a wireless communications interface.

Abstract: A video camera head configured for use with an endoscope and having a conductive inner chamber for shielding the imager and imager electronics from electro-magnetic interference is described in which the inner chamber is substantially isolated from contact by a human or conductive fluid through a sealed outer non-conductive housing. Another aspect of the invention involves hermetically sealing the inner chamber, thus facilitating the use of steam autoclave sterilization, including flash sterilization, to sterilize the camera head.