Abstract: The instant invention broadly contemplates an energy saving subsystem comprising a secondary CPU that utilizes less power than a main CPU, thereby allowing an electronic device (e.g. a laptop PC) having the secondary CPU to use less power and run for longer periods of time on a limited power supply. Thus, the invention permits the electronic device to be utilized for extended periods and extends the battery life.

Abstract: The instant invention broadly contemplates an energy saving subsystem comprising a secondary CPU that utilizes less power than a main CPU, thereby allowing an electronic device (e.g. a laptop PC) having the secondary CPU to use less power and run for longer periods of time on a limited power supply. Thus, the invention permits the electronic device to be utilized for extended periods and extends the battery life.

Abstract: A system for measuring power-on parameters for data processing systems is disclosed. During periodic System Management BIOS states that interrupt operation of the data processing system, code is executed that estimates the amount of time a data processing system has been powered on. Also, code is executed that tracks the number of times a data processing system has been powered on. Variables related to power-on-time and number of times powered on are incremented and stored in PROM, for example an Asset ID EEPROM, during SMBIOS states. Incrementing and storing these variables during SMBIOS states minimizes latencies.

Abstract: Disclosed is an extension device for use with a computer system which includes a memory for storing an application program which can perform at least one software function. A modem is operative to encode the at least one software function to first tone signals and transfer the first tone signals onto a telephone line. The modem is further operative to decode second tone signals received from the telephone line and transfer the first tone signals in response thereto. The second tone signals are operative to control the at least one software function. The extension device includes a user operable keypad for inputting command signals corresponding to the at least one software function. A display is included on the extension device for displaying information related to the at least one software function. The extension device also includes a controller which is coupled to and controls the keypad, display, a signal generator and a signal decoder.

Abstract: Described is an extension device for use with a computer system which includes a memory for storing an application program which can perform at least one software function. A modem is operative to encode the at least one software function to first tone signals and transfer them onto a telephone line. The modem is further operative to decode second tone signals received from the telephone line and transfer the first tone signals in response thereto. The system includes power management circuitry (PMC) for changing the system from a low power state to a normal operating state responsive to a wake up control tone signal. The extension device includes a keypad for inputting (1) command signals corresponding to the at least one software function and (2) a wake up command signal. A display is included on the extension device for displaying information related to the at least one software function. The extension device also includes a controller coupled to a signal generator and a signal decoder.