Abstract: A system and method for managing a telecommunications network. The system and method employs a network management architecture that provides an overlay in which network management functions are performed. The network management architecture includes a workstation function that provides a graphical user interface (GUI) for a user to interact with an object model of the physical telecommunications network, a telecommunications network management subsystem that provides an object model of the network including object models of network equipment and connectivity between the equipment, a database subsystem that stores “current” and “future” views of the network, and an object request broker that translates objects from a first object-oriented paradigm to a second object-oriented paradigm for use by the GUI. The network management architecture facilitates network design by determining network performance metrics.

Abstract: A smart charger that includes a housing with an interface for power and data transmission and adapted for connection to a communication device, with a second interface adapted for connection to a power source, and with a third interface adapted for connection to a second communication device. A charger within the housing is connected to the second interface to receive power, and connected to the first interface to provide charging power. A control module within the housing provides for communication between the first interface and the third interface.

Abstract: A capturing and viewing appliance and method are used for capturing and communicating images. The capturing and viewing appliance is an instrument used to capture and communicate images to other devices with communication capabilities. The capturing and viewing appliance includes a processor for manipulating and viewing the images on a built-in display. Program code stored in internal memory includes a menu/image navigation application program which allows the user to use navigation buttons to view multiple images as well as navigate menus. According to another aspect of the invention, the menu/image navigation interface provides a user-friendly interface for effective communication of functionality of an appliance or other device to the user through use of animated transitions.

Abstract: Scanner apparatus may comprise a housing having a front side with an opening therein, a back side with an opening therein and a scanning device mounted within the housing. A transparent platen mounted within the opening in the front side of the housing allows an object positioned adjacent the scanning device so that the object may be thereafter scanned. A transparent window mounted within the opening in the back side of the housing allows a user to view at least a portion the object positioned adjacent the transparent platen.

Abstract: A system and method for managing a telecommunications network. The system and method employs a network management architecture that provides an overlay in which network management functions are performed. The network management architecture includes a workstation function that provides a graphical user interface (GUI) for a user to interact with an object model of the physical telecommunications network, a telecommunications network management subsystem that provides an object model of the network including object models of network equipment and connectivity between the equipment, a database subsystem that stores "current" and "future" views of the network, and an object request broker that translates objects from a first object-oriented paradigm to a second object-oriented paradigm for use by the GUI. The network management architecture facilitates network design by determining network performance metrics.

Abstract: A hand held electronic scanning device that preferably has a front surface provided with abutments so that, when the front surface is laid on a supporting surface, operating buttons on the front surface will not contact the supporting surface and a transparent member covering a display window opening will also not contact the support surface to avoid scuffing thereof.

Abstract: A housing for a portable scanning device is described having a front side and back side, with a scanning device sized to fit within the housing. A transparent platen located on the front side of the housing allows an object positioned adjacent the transparent platen to be scanned by the scanning device. A window located on the back side of the housing allows a user to view at least a portion the object positioned adjacent the transparent platen.

Abstract: A system and method for reducing undesirable phase transients caused by revertive switchover in a telecommunications network. Selector switch settings are assigned priorities. The priorities indicate an order of preference in which to assign selector switch source inputs or outputs. Selector switch sources connected to equipments that are to be used as backups of one another are assigned the same priority level. Assignment of the same priority level prevents undesirable phase transients by controlling revertive switchovers. In addition, network topology is controllable using the priority table. The controllable characteristic of the network topology provides flexibility to a network designer to provide diversity among network paths such that the network is made more robust.