Abstract: An operating system (OS) is provided including a hardware-based task scheduler, with a method for managing OS sourced tasks to be performed by a central processing unit (CPU). An OS, partially enabled as software instructions stored in a computer-readable medium and executed by the CPU, generates CPU tasks. The CPU tasks are buffered in a computer-readable task database memory. CPU task IDs associated with the buffered CPU tasks are enqueued in a CPU queue. Subsequently, the CPU dequeues a first task ID from the CPU queue, and accessing a first CPU task from the task database associated with the first CPU task ID. The CPU delivers the first CPU task to the OS. The OS generates the CPU instructions needed to perform the first CPU task, and sends the CPU instructions to the CPU for performance.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for managing a database in a photo-image discovery device. A photo-image discovery device acquires photo-images from a photo-capable device, and automatically classifies the acquired photo-images, without user intervention, in a database management directory. Then, the acquired photo-images are managed in a photo-image discovery device storage-in-transit memory using database management directory rules cross-referenced to classification. For example, the method may uplink photo-images to a network-connected site in response to their classification. Photo-image classification may be based upon photo-capable device type, photo-capable device ID, image creation data, image creation location, or file format.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for automatic photo-image discovery and storage. A photo-image discovery device scans communication interfaces for photo-capable devices. The photo-image discovery device is capable of concurrently scanning wireless and hardwired connector interfaces. A determination is made of whether the detected photo-capable devices have stored electronically formatted photo-images, which may be either still or video images. The photo-images are acquired into the photo-image discovery device. Then, the acquired photo-images are automatically uploaded to a network-connected storage site.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for automatic photo-image uplink confirmation. A photo-image discovery device scans communication interfaces for photo-capable devices, and determines if detected photo-capable devices have stored electronically formatted photo-images. The photo-images are acquired into the photo-image discovery device and uploaded to a network-connected storage site. A log is generated chronicling the photo-image upload status. The log is automatically supplied to the photo-capable device sourcing the photo-images, or to a discovery device user interface. In one aspect, the log is supplied in a photo-image file format (e.g., JPEG) for display of a user interface display of the photo-capable device.

Abstract: A virtual kiosk system and method are provided for stored photo-image reproduction. A photo-image discovery device, having no dedicated display, scans communication interfaces for photo-capable devices, and determines if detected photo-capable devices have stored electronically formatted photo-images. The photo-images are acquired into the photo-image discovery device, and the acquired photo-images are uploaded to a network-connected storage site. Subsequently, the photo discovery device may be interfaced to a display monitor. A menu of photo-image user prompt options is depicted on the display monitor, originating from the photo discovery device. The storage site is accessed from the photo discovery device in response to a first user prompt. In response to a second user prompt, a stored photo-image is selected. In one aspect a delivery option for the selected photo-image is selected in response to an additional user prompt.