Abstract: The invention is directed to a magnetic field sensing device (FSD) capable of visually indicating exposure to a magnetic field with a strength that exceeds a threshold value. The magnetic FSD comprises a magnetic layer magnetized in a pattern and a material positioned adjacent the magnetic layer to render the pattern visible. When the FSD is exposed to a magnetic field with a strength that exceeds the threshold, the pattern visibly alters. The threshold value is approximately equal to a coercivity of the magnetic layer of the FSD, which is at least approximately 3000 Oersteds.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a magnetic field sensing device (FSD) capable of visually indicating exposure to a magnetic field with a strength that exceeds a threshold value. The magnetic FSD comprises a magnetic layer magnetized to define a pattern. The threshold value is approximately equal to a coercivity of the magnetic layer of the FSD, which is at least approximately 3000 Oersteds. The pattern becomes visible when a finely divided magnetic material is applied over the magnetic layer. Then, when the FSD is exposed to a magnetic field with a strength that exceeds the threshold, the pattern visibly alters (e.g., typically disappears altogether). Accordingly, upon re-application of the finely divided magnetic material, the alteration of the pattern is evidence of successful degaussing.

Abstract: A memory device is described that integrates the functionality of a single port hub into a conventional memory device. The memory device includes a host connector that allows a host computer access to a memory within the memory device. The memory device also includes a device socket that allows the host computer access to a device connected to the device socket. A hub within the memory device electrically couples the host connector to the memory as well as to the device socket. The memory device allows the device to be coupled to the host computer via the device socket while the memory device is coupled to the host computer via the host connector. The hub presents the memory device and the device coupled to the memory device to the host computer as separate and independent devices. In that way, a user may use both devices via a single host connector interface of a host computer.

Abstract: A magnetic field strength detector includes a magnetic field sensing element that outputs voltage as a function of magnetic field strength. In some embodiments, the magnetic field sensing element comprises a coil, and voltage is induced across the coil as a function of the magnetic field strength. A magnetic field strength detector also includes an indicator that alters as a function of the voltage output by the magnetic field sensing element when the magnetic field strength exceeds a threshold. The alteration is substantially irreversible and, in some embodiments, visible. The detector may be used to, for example, measure the strength of a magnetic field generated by a degaussing device, or to confirm that a particular medium was exposed to a magnetic field with a strength adequate to degauss the medium.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a memory card that includes a device connector conforming to the memory card standard, and a host connector conforming to a host connection standard and comprising a retractable shieldless tab compatible with the host connection standard. The presence of the two connectors adds versatility to the memory card. The host connector facilitates direct coupling of the memory card to a computing device without an adapter or reader. The memory card maintains a form factor of the memory card standard when the shieldless tab is retracted, which allows the memory card to be used similar to a conventional memory card of the memory card standard. In order to fit within the memory card standard form factor, the shieldless tab may be an altered version of a conventional connector interface conforming to the host connection standard.

Abstract: Data storage tape includes a substrate having a first side and a second side opposite the first side, a recording layer disposed on the first side of the substrate, and a coating disposed on the second side of the substrate. A surface of the coating has a pattern formed therein such that the pattern communicates with at least one of a first edge and a second edge of the data storage tape.