Abstract: Some embodiments are directed to a processor based control system for enabling users to configure implementation of software updates to a vehicle system. The system can include a processor based controller that is configured to perform a first searching step that includes searching for software updates to the system, and a second downloading step that includes downloading software updates to the system that are discovered in the first searching step. The processor based controller can be configured so that each of the first searching step and the second downloading step can be implemented in either an automatic mode or a manual mode. The system can also include a user interface that is configured to enable each of the first searching step and the second downloading step to be manually set in either the automatic mode or the manual mode.

Abstract: A device powered by solar or wind energy that produces multicolored lighting effects by virtue rotation or movement caused by air currents or the wind. Solar cells or a electromechanical generator produce electrical energy that stored through a control circuit for use at nighttime to power a number of light emitters. Air currents induce movement of the light emitters, or movement of the entire energy storage system, with the resulting visual effect of intermixing and changing colors as the rotation or movement varies in response to the force of the air currents.

Abstract: A phase lock loop for use in gate array applications with fixed transistors geometries maintains a predetermined phase delay between an input signal and an output signal. The phase comparison cycle operates over multiple periods of the input signal for increasing the operating frequency and simplifying timing considerations throughout the phase lock loop. A phase detector circuit detects a predetermined phase difference between the input signal and the output signal and provides a control signal and a clock signal at different transitions of the input signal. An up/down counter provides a count value migrating within a range of values in response to the control signal at the occurrence of the clock signal. The counter value selects a tap point of a delay line having signal inverter resolution for delaying the input signal and maintaining the predetermined phase relationship between the input signal and the output signal of the phase lock loop.

Abstract: A transimpedance amplifier having improved gain/bandwidth product utilizes a direct current feedback circuit to provide improved stability of bandwidth and frequency response flatness as well as a much higher gain times bandwidth product than prior art circuits.