Abstract: In a computer system having a display and a keyboard, a computer readable medium includes instructions for invoking a message hook procedure based on a mouse message indicative of a mouse event. Instructions also provide for identifying at least one focus application that has a current keyboard focus and of converting the mouse message into a command for the focus application. The command is then sent to the focus application and the mouse message is prevented from being routed to any other applications. In one embodiment, the commands include the command to page forward or backward through pages of Internet documents. In other embodiments, instead of converting the mouse message into a command, the message hook procedure displays a graphical user interface based on the focus application and the mouse message. The graphical user interface includes one or more commands that the user may select.

Abstract: A computing system that incorporates an auxiliary processor to the main system processor. The auxiliary system utilizes a separate application runtime for processes and is capable of operating even when the primary system is in an off state. Methods for load-balancing are provided based on computing needs respective to power consumption requirements. Processes that are not computationally intensive are processed by a low-power, auxiliary processor. In addition, peripheral components accessible to the overall computing system are shared.

Abstract: A computing system that incorporates an auxiliary processor to the main system processor. The auxiliary system utilizes a separate application runtime for processes and is capable of operating even when the primary system is in an off state. Methods for load-balancing are provided based on computing needs respective to power consumption requirements. Processes that are not computationally intensive are processed by a low-power, auxiliary processor. In addition, peripheral components accessible to the overall computing system are shared.

Abstract: A host computer is provided with a main display unit and an auxiliary display unit. The host computer can free up screen space on the main display screen by routing certain types of display information to the auxiliary display unit for display. Display information can range from notification of events such as receipt of email, appointments, system messages, and information from separate applications. The auxiliary display panel may function as a user interface for audio, video, “push information”, MP3 player or become the hardware equivalent of a multimedia player. The auxiliary display panel may be integrated together with the host computer in the same physical structure or may be part of a standalone display unit that is wired or wirelessly coupled to the host computer.

Abstract: A handheld remote control device for a Media Computing Device has a biometric sensor to authenticate a user. The handheld remote control device includes a microphone and speaker to enable integration of a telephony system with the Media Computing Device. The handheld remote control device can be used as the interface with the Media Computing Device, alternatively, the handheld remote control device can be used as a speakerphone for communication in a telephony system that is integrated with the Media Computing Device. A multifunctional handheld remote control device can implement a variety of routines for interfacing with the Media Computing Device or alternatively for communicating in the telephony system.

Abstract: A control panel unit for a computing device includes buttons having characteristics that define individual button states. Upon actuation of a button, the viewable states of the buttons may change. A portion of the button may be illuminated to represent the state and/or include an icon depicting an application controlled by the button. The control panel unit may include a display for displaying plural soft labels corresponding to the buttons and representing the current context that will be initiated when the corresponding button is actuated. The soft labels may identify users or applications available to one user. Upon actuation of an application, the soft labels can change to represent various actions or functions available in the application. In the user interface, each user may be assigned a specific color scheme. The color schemes allow a person to visually determine who is logged into the system and/or which individual has new information.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods for enabling an improved computing ecosystem are provided. In various embodiments, the invention includes an improved monitor stand, integrating and providing intelligence to a computing system regarding any of a handset, camera, monitor and keyboard. Additionally, a structure including a transparent or opaque layer and a lighting component can be employed with any computing device or peripheral in the computing system to convey a lighting scheme to a user based upon a state of or notification in the computing system.

Abstract: A control panel unit for a computing device includes buttons having characteristics that define individual button states. Upon actuation of a button, the viewable states of the buttons may change. A portion of the button may be illuminated to represent the state and/or include an icon depicting an application controlled by the button. The control panel unit may include a display for displaying plural soft labels corresponding to the buttons and representing the current context that will be initiated when the corresponding button is actuated. The soft labels may identify users or applications available to one user. Upon actuation of an application, the soft labels can change to represent various actions or functions available in the application. In the user interface, each user may be assigned a specific color scheme. The color schemes allow a person to visually determine who is logged into the system and/or which individual has new information.

Abstract: A navigation input device for navigating a graphical display includes a substantially elliptical sensing window and a touch sensor, which is sensitive to placement of a user's digit within the sensing window.

Abstract: In a method of the present invention, a device message is generated indicating that a touch sensor on an input device has been touched without indicating what location on the touch sensor has been touched. The device message is routed to an application and instructions within the application are executed based on the device message.

Abstract: An input device, such as a mouse, for a computer is provided which enables a user to quickly and accurately position the input device during poor lighting conditions and determine whether the computer is ON. The input device according to the present invention is also arranged to illuminate the area proximate the input device. The input device includes a housing and an illumination device that is supported by the housing. Illumination from the illumination device is visible when the input device is placed on a supporting surface.

Abstract: A computer system has a keyboard storage portion and carrier. The computer system may be a personal computer capable of generating a control signal. A keyboard holding carrier slides in and out of a processing housing. This enables selective positioning of a keyboard within the processing housing. A drive mechanism imparts reciprocal movement to the carrier and a drive control system is responsive to the control signal from the personal computer. Also included is a sensor connected to the drive mechanism that determines a position of the carrier relative to the personal computer.

Abstract: An input device for a computer system includes an exterior surface and a touch sensor located on the exterior surface. The touch sensor is adapted to generate an electrical signal when a user touches the touch sensor. The electrical signal contains touch information that is the same each time the user touches the touch sensor regardless of where the user's touch occurs on the touch sensor. The input device also includes an input generator capable of generating input information sent to the computer system. The input information includes at least a depressible key's state, a depressible button's state, sound information, or movement information.