Abstract: The present invention relates to a line module protection method and a device utilizing that method. According to the line module protection method of the present invention, line module protection is performed by switching the connection from a broken line accommodating module to an auxiliary module. A plurality of line accommodating modules are included in a line accommodating unit connected to the lines in a network. The plurality of line accommodating modules are divided into a plurality of groups, and the auxiliary module is placed substantially at the same distance from all the groups. Thus, a large number of line accommodating modules for performing line module protection can be employed with one auxiliary module.

Abstract: For accomplishing an interruption-free power supply operation of a system unit (HDD) in a computer system with a plurality of system computers (Sa; Sb) sharing the system unit (HDD) without having the limitation to a local location, a method and an arrangement is [sic] proposed in accord wherewith the operation of the respective station computers (Sa; Sb) respectively ensues with their own interruption-free power supplies (USVa; USVb) and, for the power supply of the shared system unit (HDD), the shared system unit (HDD) is always connected to an active interruption-free power supply (for example, USVb) by an automatically switching switchover (PCS) that monitors the voltage of its inputs.

Abstract: A generator transfer switching system having a multi-position generator transfer switch that enables a homeowner or user to manually select a group of circuits from among a number of pre-selected groups of circuits for transfer from utility company service to a standby generator via a single cam-operated switch. The multi-position generator transfer switch is comprised of a contact block having multiple stages with a shaft and a handle to turn the shaft. Each stage contains electrical contacts and cams operably connected to the contacts. The cams are mounted on a shaft running through the center of the block and connected at one end to a handle. The handle can be manually turned to switch a group of selected household circuits from the utility company service to an electric generator service. The switch eliminates the potential for electrical back feed from either the utility company to the generator or from the generator to the utility company.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus that couple standby power to certain non-critical loads to implement load reduction and avoid power shortages and resultant blackouts. A primary power source is coupled to an electrical breaker panel that distributes power to a plurality of loads including non-critical loads, critical loads, and load reduction loads. A secondary power source is coupled to an automatic transfer switch that distributes power to the critical loads from the secondary power source if power is not available from the primary power source. A load reduction transfer switch, wired in parallel to the automatic transfer switch, distributes power from the secondary power source to the load reduction loads to reduce power demand on the primary source only when power from the primary power source is available and during times requiring load reduction. Preferably, the load reduction transfer switch is wirelessly controlled to permit simultaneous load reduction at multiple sites.

Abstract: A modularly attachable transfer switch assembly for operative connection to two alternate power sources and a power load is disclosed. The transfer switch can be quickly and easily installed upon existing electrical meters and therefore does not require modifications to existing electrical wiring systems. The transfer switch includes one power switch for selectively connecting a electrical utility power supply to the power load of a structure, such as a building for example, and a second power switch for selectively connecting an emergency power supply to the power load of the building. The transfer switch includes a mechanical interlock operatively connected to both the power switches for physically preventing both the power switches from assuming simultaneous ON positions, and a controller for controlling the emergency power supply and the transfer switches.

Abstract: Method and system for enhancing the reliability of an available storage subsystem. Data storage units are equipped with a number of I/O controller-card adaptors that mate with complementary adaptors affixed to a number of redundant I/O controller cards. The data storage devices plug directly into I/O controller cards and receive all data, control signals, and power equally from the I/O controller cards, eliminating the need for a midplane circuit card.

Abstract: A notebook-sized personal computer representing consumption-side hardware sends electric power data, which indicates an electric power (including voltage, alternating or direct current, cycle and wave shape) suited to the personal computer, to an electric power supply system through a communication line. In the system, the electric power data of the personal computer is analyzed in an allotter, and the allotter sends electric power data, which indicates an electric power required in the allotter, to an electric power supply adapter through a communication line. The electric power supply adapter converts an electric power received from an electric power company into another electric power matching with the electric power data of the allotter and supplies the converted electric power to the allotter through an electric power line.

Abstract: A power back-up unit is provided which includes a primary power source that is connected to a plurality of loads, including a critical load and a non-critical load. A secondary power source is also provided. A first low voltage disconnect is electrically connected to the secondary power source and the critical load. A second low voltage disconnect is electrically connected to the secondary power source and the non-critical load. In one embodiment, the second low voltage disconnect disconnects the non-critical load upon loss of the primary power source. In another embodiment, the second low voltage disconnect has a voltage threshold that is greater than the voltage threshold of the first low voltage disconnect such that the non-critical load is disconnected by the second low voltage disconnect prior to the critical load being disconnected by the first low voltage disconnect.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for selecting a test load and/or bias resistor utilized in an expandable load system employing a backup power source. The test load and/or bias resistor is selected based on the actual load present in the expandable system. The backup power source is periodically tested during normal operation of the expandable load system utilizing the test load. A test load is provided that is sized for the actual load of a local load under worse case conditions. If an expansion load is connected to the local load the test load is adjusted, so that the test load is based on the actual load of the local load and the expansion load. Additionally, a bias resistance can be provided for driving a switch that allows power to be provided to the local load during power loss mode. If an expansion load is connected to the local load, the bias resistance is adjusted to correspond to a bias resistance necessary to provide the current for the actual load of the local load and the expansion load.

Abstract: An electric power distribution system includes a first power distribution apparatus for distributing power to individual load circuits from a main power source and a second power distribution apparatus adjacent the first apparatus. The second panel has a base, an electric power distribution conductor supported by the base for providing electric power from the alternate electric power source and a load circuit selector site on the base and is operable to supply power from the main electric power source and the electric power distribution conductor to a signal-controlled selector installed at the load circuit selector site.

Abstract: A dual power sources apparatus operates in a normal low power mode and a momentary high power mode. One of the power source is of limited current capability and unlimited energy capacity. The other power source has much higher current capability but of limited energy capacity.

Abstract: An electronic power supply for use with a personal computer exhibits a construction including an external power section located exterior to a personal computer and including a direct current voltage source in combination with a battery source for providing a load adjusted direct current voltage. A first supervisory computer is connected to the direct current voltage source and the battery source for controlling the load adjusted direct current voltage. An internal power section is located interior to the personal computer and in electrical contact with the external power section. The internal power section comprises a plurality of voltage output devices for providing a plurality of direct current output voltages. A second supervisory computer is connected to the plurality of voltage output devices for controlling the plurality of direct current output voltages distributed to the personal computer. A signal communication link exists between the second supervisory computer and the first supervisory computer.

Abstract: The present invention is a switching power supply having efficient light load regulation at high input voltage. The power supply comprises a pulse-width modulator integrated circuit along with two separate voltage buses. A transformer is connected to the first voltage bus via a first primary winding and is connected to the second voltage bus via a second primary winding both primary windings have a predetermined number of turns proportional to voltages supplied by the two voltage buses. The power supply further comprises a pair of switches connected to the two primary windings and driven by the integrated circuit.

Abstract: A power conditioner interfaces a load to a fuel cell 10 that produces a low voltage that varies with the load. A dc-to-ac inverter 16 operates with a low voltage input provided by a dc bus 14. When a positive step load change occurs, a low voltage battery 22 provides power equal to the step change until the fuel cell 10 is able to provide enough power to support the entire load. The power from the battery 22 is supplied to the varying dc bus 14 through a boost converter 12. When very large positive load step changes occur, the battery can feed power to the dc bus through diode D1, rather than through the boost converter. Diode D1 does not need to be used, but its use allows the boost converter to be sized for common load changes rather than for the maximum possible load change (such as might be seen during a faulted output). A buck converter converts the variable voltage on the dc bus 14 to the appropriate float charging voltage of the battery.

Abstract: The present invention provides a power distribution system with a split section panelboard that provides two interior sections. Each section is supplied power from a separate power source. A common bus bridges the two sections. Remotely-operated circuit breakers for both the sections are connected to the common bus. A power interface unit converts power from one of the power sources to provide low voltage power for the circuit breaker motors and a control unit. The control unit in the panelboard controls the operation of the circuit breakers of both the sections.

Abstract: A power station (10) includes a generator (13) which is driven by a turbine (11). The power station produces electrical power and outputs the electrical power to a network (17) via a generator switch (14). An electrical standby load (18) is also provided. When a network fault occurs, the generator is disconnected from the network by the generator switch and connected to the electrical standby load. The electrical standby load emulates the real load of the network that was present prior to the network fault, so that the voltage of the generator is stabilized at a constant phase difference or phase angle with respect to the voltage of the network that was present prior to the network fault. Alternatively, the value of the electrical standby load is adjusted during isolation of the generator from the network, to track the network while the generator is disconnected from the network and match the voltage phase angle of the generator to the network.

Abstract: Disclosed is an integrated uninterruptable power supply (UPS) for a computer powered by a commercial power supply. The uninterruptable power supply is operative to feed power from a normal power supply to a first load to be operated at a first DC voltage and a second DC voltage that is lower than the first DC voltage. If a characteristic of the normal power supply is deviated from a defined value, the UPS of the present invention will continue feeding power from a battery power supply to the first load. The uninterruptable power supply includes a power supply unit, having an output connected to the first load, for converting a voltage of the normal power supply to the first DC voltage and for outputting the same. The UPS also includes a first voltage converter having an input connected to the battery and an output connected to the first load, for converting an output voltage of the battery to the second DC voltage and for outputting the same.

Abstract: A shunt connected superconducting energy management system (SEMS) is provided at a single switched connection between a utility grid and one or more power sensitive loads such as a semiconductor manufacturing plant having power requirements in the range on the order of 2 megawatts (MW) to 200 MW. When a voltage disturbance is sensed in the grid, power control circuitry acts to simultaneously isolate the load and the SEMS from the grid using a single switch which simultaneously provides full back up power to the load instantaneously without voltage transients or disturbances.

Abstract: An automatic transfer switch apparatus for use with a stand-alone generator, for supplying emergency power to a residence or small business. The automatic transfer switch apparatus is configured to sense a utility line failure, start up and stabilize the generator, and switch over the household circuits from the utility to the generator, and switch back when the utility recovers. A load-shedding feature is provided for shedding and restoring different circuits within the residence, that represent loads of different priority, with loads being shed and restored, according to their priority.

Abstract: An energy storage and distribution system provides energy from a first energy related infrastructure characterized by a first energy grid to a second energy related infrastructure characterized by a second energy grid that is substantially independent of the first energy grid. The system includes an energy storage facility that is located in substantial proximity to a common boundary of the first and second energy related infrastructures, and a first energy transport mechanism that is coupled to the first energy related infrastructure and is capable of providing energy for storage in the energy storage facility. The system also includes a second energy transport mechanism that is coupled to the energy storage facility and is capable of providing energy from the energy storage facility to the second energy related infrastructure. Each of the first and second energy grids has an electrical power generation unit and high voltage A/C transmission lines.

Abstract: A control system and method for acquiring and providing backup power to a plurality of distributive communication devices using a single DC APS system is described. The control system comprises a controller that senses the DC bus voltage of each distributive communication device connected to the controller, and controls the output of an auxiliary power source such as a DC generator, fuel cells, or any other suitable DC backup power source that is connected to the controller. The controller further comprises one or more switches which selectively connect each of the distributive communication devices to the APS in manner that prevents power surge currents. The controller further comprises a blocking diode to prevent ground loops between the co-located cabinets, and diodes to isolate each of the co-located cabinets power and ground.

Abstract: In a power supply apparatus including a plurality of batteries and a plurality of power supply portions for connecting to loads, a plurality of switches connect these batteries to these power supply portions, respectively. The apparatus further includes a control mechanism which controls the opening and closing operations of the switches. When one of the switches is turned on in one of the power supply means, the control mechanism executes the control in such a manner that the other switches are turned off. The control mechanism further controls each of the switches on the basis of the remaining capacity of each battery and the load state of each power supply portion. Accordingly, the power supply operation can be flexibly carried out.

Abstract: Apparatus for controlling distribution of d.c. power to a plurality of remote d.c.-powered LAN transceivers, which includes a plurality of primary d.c. power supplies and at least one backup d.c. power supply, all having means for connection to a source of electrical power to provide output d.c. power independently of each other. A plurality of electrical switches are each operable in a first mode of operation to connect one of the primary power supplies to at least one set of output terminals for connection to a remote transceiver. Comparator circuits compare the output voltage at each of the primary power supplies to the output voltage at the backup power supply to indicate a failure condition at one of the primary supplies. Circuitry is responsive to a failure indication for operating one or more of the electrical switches in a second mode of operation in which at least one set of output terminals is connected to the backup power supply.

Abstract: A power distribution arrangement, especially in an aircraft, includes plural power sources, a power line having plural power supply strands connected to the power sources, plural power consumer groups each including plural power consuming devices, and branch lines respectively connecting the power line with the power consumer groups. A respective allocation unit selectively interconnects the power consuming devices of each group with selected individual branch line strands of the branch lines. A status unit acquires information regarding the respective operating status of the power sources and the power line strands, and conveys corresponding information regarding a power failure on any power line strand to a central power control unit, which correspondingly transmits control commands over a control bus to the respective allocation units.

Abstract: An aircraft electrical energy supply bus supplementing arrangement based on large capacitor or super capacitor storage of electrical energy for bus supplementation. Supplying of bus energy to the large capacitor is addressed in the invention. In this supplying energy is removed from the aircraft bus during quiescent conditions under the control of a energy coupling circuit which has a plurality of different energy removal rates, rates which are selected in response to the yet needed amount of capacitor charging and in a time-constant-controlled manner. Feedback control of this charging time constant selection is employed along with passive electrical device dissipation of major fractions of the time constant apparatus energy losses.

Abstract: Disclosed is a power supply apparatus which permits a docking station to be operated with a battery power from a battery pack of a portable computer even if supply of AC power to the docking station is accidentally cut off. The apparatus for a portable computer system for use with a docking station having a logic circuit for expanding functions of the portable computer comprises a DC input selection circuit placed on the portable computer side, for switching between the first and second DC voltages to provide a switched DC voltage to the portable computer as well as the docking station, so that the docking station is operated with the second DC power source even though supply of AC power to the docking station is cut off.

Abstract: A DC power distribution system can be configured to utilize a variable number of AC power distribution units. Installation of a converter unit in place of a PDU and resetting of associated switches permits inexpensive and rapid reconfiguration of the system without interrupting power supply to current receiving units. Techniques such as mechanical keying and sense switches minimize the possibility of human error in the reconfiguring operation.

Abstract: A power supply controller is capable of regulating the amount of electrical power supplied to semiconductor fabrication facilities to amounts in accordance with processing conditions of each facility. The apparatus includes a plurality of process status detectors corresponding to the facilities, each status detector detecting an operation mode of each of the facilities and generating a mode detection signal. A plurality of unit controllers are provided, corresponding to the process status detectors, each unit controller generating a power control signal in response to the mode detection signal. A plurality of power supply units are provided, corresponding to the unit controllers, each power supply unit controlling and providing an amount of electrical power from the main power supply to the facilities in response to the power control signal corresponding the operation mode of each facility.

Abstract: An aircraft electrical supply bus supplementing arrangement in which electrical energy is stored in a large capacitor and energy flow between the capacitor and the bus is controlled by a bi-directional electrical converter circuit of the switched inductance type. The varying terminal voltage of the energy storing capacitor, a super capacitor, is coupled to the relatively fixed voltage of the aircraft supply bus by way of the voltage changing capability of the converter circuit switched inductance. Current flow levels in this inductance are controlled with a negative feedback regulator circuit. Energy storage efficiency in the converter is enhanced with respect to weight and physical size of the capacitor element by ability of the converter circuit to accept a widely varying input voltage while generating a relatively constant output voltage.

Abstract: A broadband system that simultaneously delivers output power and supplies a broadband signal and has a redundant bus power supply. The system includes a central office having a video gateway. The system further includes a plurality of nodes having a power supply and a combiner for coupling the broadband signal to the power supply output. At each node, a distribution line delivers broadcast services and power to a consumer site. The power supply comprises a battery source, rectifier, filter, inverter and generator to provide a secondary DC power source. The various elements of the power supply are diode isolated and are interconnected via a redundant power bus, thus allowing power to be maintained to the subscribers even in case of failure of one or more elements of the power supply. The power supply further includes a plurality of inverters, each inverter supplies power to a distribution line. A controller monitors the status of each inverter and secondary power source.

Abstract: A synchronization device for a redundant power supply system synchronizes resetting of tripping type current limiter devices which are reset automatically, to prevent the current limiters tripping out in cascade when the system is started up or automatically reset after the disappearance of a short-term current surge. It includes a synchronization link interconnecting all the current limiters of all the power supply units. Each current limiter includes a generator sending a synchronization signal on the synchronization link periodically and independently for each current limiter. The generator which sends a synchronization signal first resets all the current limiters simultaneously. The device has applications in electronic equipment comprising a plurality of power supply units connected in parallel.

Abstract: An uninterruptible power supply control system of for controlling power supply to an internet type apparatus, a CPU type apparatus requiring a shutdown processing and a printer type apparatus not requiring the shutdown processing. The uninterruptible power supply control system comprises an uninterruptible power supply device which is connected to a power source and arranged to be supplied with power from a battery. The uninterruptible power supply device is arranged to output a shutdown signal to the CPU type apparatus when a power service interruption occurs. The CPU type apparatus makes its shutdown processing in response to the shutdown signal. The internet type apparatus is allowed to be directly electrically connected to the battery so that the internet type apparatus is kept in an uninterrupted power supply condition.

Abstract: Heavily relied upon network devices require backup power systems. To efficiently allocate power, a highly programmable backup power system is desired. The present invention discloses a redundant power supply unit that provides backup power to network devices. The redundant power supply unit will supply power to the network devices in the case that their local internal power supplies fail. Furthermore, if there is a power outage from the utility company, the redundant power supply will supply power to the network devices from a internal battery pack. When the internal battery pack is engaged, the redundant power supply uses programmed control logic that controls how the power from internal battery pack will be allocated. Specifically, since the power from the batteries is limited, it can be used to power some network devices for a certain amount of time and other network devices for a longer amount of time.

Abstract: A recovery system for a power supply. The inventive system includes a first circuit which detects a reapplication of wall power to the power supply and generates a signal in response thereto after an interruption in the output thereof. A second circuit then automatically reactivates the power supply on receipt of the signal without operator intervention. The invention is particularly well suited for systems having multiple power supplies each operating within an associated power boundary. In this case, a first power supply provides power to a first load and a second power supply provides power to a second load. A control circuit is provided in each load. The control circuit is equipped to receive the signal indicating a reapplication of power to a power supply within another power boundary and automatically reactivate the power supply.

Abstract: A docking system according to the present invention comprises a first detecting means 13 for detecting combination states of a personal computer 2 and a station 1, a second detecting means 14 for detecting separating operation of the personal computer 2 from the station1, a combination holding means for holding a combination state of the personal computer side connector 33 and the station side connector 12, a switching means 32 for switching the personal computer side electric power source portion 39 to the station side electric power source portion 18, a third detecting means 34 for detecting a state of placement of the personal computer 2 on the station 1, and a control unit which cuts the personal computer side electric power source 39 after performing backup processing of an execution program when the personal computer side electric power source portion 39 is in a conductive state when the third detecting means detects a state of placement, supplies electric power from the station side electric power sour

Abstract: A transfer switch system includes a controller which sends separately timed restart signals over a communications network to an addressable relay associated with each load in order to sequentially restart the loads following a transfer. When the loads are elevators, the controller sends a prepare to transfer signal to each elevator through the associated addressable relay directing the elevator to park at a floor with its doors open and delays making a discretionary transfer until all elevators send a reply message over the network that they are appropriately parked. A message from the utility directing a reduction in use of their power can be sent to the controller over the communications network through an additional remote station. The controller can then transfer to the alternate power source and/or send messages to selected loads to shut down.

Abstract: An interconnectable power supply module includes a battery; a battery charger for charging the battery; a power generator capable of converting an electrical charge stored in the battery to generate output power for an external load; a control unit for controlling operation of the power supply module; a power supply plug for receiving external power from an external power source; a power supply socket capable of coupling the external power received from the external power source to an adjacent power supply module; an external load output socket, selectively coupled to one of the external power source and the power generator, for providing output power to the external load; and a connecting terminal capable of coupling the external load output power to the adjacent power supply module.

Abstract: A fault tolerant isolation system providing fault tolerant electrical isolation between different components receiving power from separate power sources regardless of which of the power sources fails. One power source provides operating voltage to an isolation device, which is a transceiver, buffer, quick switch, etc. The other power source activates a transistor switch coupled to the output enable input of the isolation device, and a current limit device is provided between the output enable and power inputs of the isolation device. In this manner, failure of either power source disables the isolation device and therefore provides fault tolerant isolation between the devices on either side. In the preferred embodiment, the isolation device acts as a high impedance open switch if its power is removed thereby isolating the devices on either side.

Abstract: A programmable power controller for controlling power between a primary power source and a second power source and powering first circuitry, each of which has a voltage, comprises a control register having a first field, which is used to activate circuitry used to direct power from the primary power source to the second power source, and circuitry to compare the first voltage and the second voltage to determine which is greater and then coupling the primary power source or the second power source depending upon which is greater to power the first circuitry. The control register also has a second field used to select an electrical path having a first voltage drop that ensures the primary power source will have a higher voltage when the primary power source is active under normal operating conditions and a third field used to select an electrical path of a plurality of electrical paths, each electrical path having a variety of voltage drops and resistances.

Abstract: A vehicle safety exit apparatus for use in a vehicle having a main battery, an ignition switch and a plurality of electric window and door lock operators is provided. The vehicle safety exit apparatus includes an auxiliary battery operable for delivering power to the vehicle's electrically operated window and door lock operators in emergency situations. The apparatus also includes a control assembly coupled between the auxiliary battery and the window and door lock operators for controlling the delivery of power therebetween. The control assembly automatically opens the vehicle's windows and door locks when the vehicle's main battery is destroyed or disconnected from the vehicle's electrical system during a collision.

Abstract: A voltage conversion circuit of the present invention is equipped with means for generating a first voltage stabilized with respect to ground potential of a semiconductor integrated circuit device including the circuit, means for generating second voltage stabilized with respect to an external supply voltage of the semiconductor integrated circuit device, and selection means for selecting either the first voltage or the second voltage. The first voltage age, stabilized with respect to the ground potential, is selected and used as the voltage at the time of normal operation, and the second voltage, stabilized with respect to the external supply voltage, is selected and used at the time of aging test. In this case, means for trimming the first voltage and/or the second voltage is, preferably, provided to raise the voltage accuracy.

Abstract: A docking system comprising a first detecting element 13 which detects combination states of a personal computer 2 and a station 1. A second detecting element 14 is provided which detects a separation of the personal computer 2 from the station 1. The docking system also includes a combination holding element for holding a combination state of the personal computer side connector 33 and the station side connector 12. Furthermore, the docking system includes a switching element 32 for switching the personal computer side electric power source 39 to the station side electric power source 18. A third detecting element 34 is provided which detects placement of the personal computer 2 on the station 1. A control unit is provided which has three functions. First, it cuts the personal computer side electric power source 39 after performing backup processing of an execution program under a first set of predetermined conditions.

Abstract: A digital computer is provided having a clock generation circuit for generating a clock signal in response to an input signal from a fixed-frequency oscillator, which includes a first fixed-frequency oscillator and a second fixed-frequency oscillator, each providing an output signal. Also included is failure detection circuit for detecting a failure of either of the fixed-frequency oscillators, wherein a failure occurs when the first fixed-frequency oscillator or the second fixed-frequency oscillator ceases generating an output. A circuit synchronizing the output from the oscillators is coupled to both the first fixed-frequency oscillator and to the second fixed-frequency oscillator. This synchronizing circuit modifies the output from the second fixed-frequency oscillator to produce a synchronized output that is substantially synchronous with the output from the first fixed frequency oscillator.

Abstract: An adapter for connecting an electrical load which is mobile, such as the electrical system of a pleasure craft, to a stationary power source, such as the electrical pedestal at a marina. In its preferred embodiment, the adapter serves to connect a higher voltage load (such as a 240 volt electrical load of a pleasure craft) to a pair of conventional 120 volt sources. Input cables include a pair of connectors for independent connection to sources on the pedestal. Isolation means within the adapter serves to isolate the input connectors from each other during the connection operation such that a user holding one connector while connecting the other will not receive an electrical shock. Sensing means within the adapter determines that the sources are in the proper relationship to sum to the level required by the mobile load. When the sensing means determines that the sources are connected and in the proper relationship, contacts are closed connecting the summed inputs to the output for driving the load.

Abstract: A power supply apparatus for supplying a direct current to a load includes a circuit breaker, and an AC/DC converter for converting an alternating current passed through the circuit breaker into a direct current. The direct current is supplied to the load. A battery supplies a direct current to the load when the AC/DC converter is in an abnormal state, and a switch is connected between the output of the AC/DC converter and the battery and between the load and the battery. Switch drive units control the switch in such a way that, when the circuit breaker is in an on state, the switch is turned on to connect the battery to the AC/DC converter and to the load. When the circuit breaker is in an off state, the switch is turned off to disconnect the battery from the load, whereby an unnecessary battery back up operation is prevented.

Abstract: A voltage maintenance system is provided for an engine-driven vehicle having a primary battery, a starter that is energized by the primary battery, an ignition switch for selectively and momentarily activating the starter to start the engine and one or more electrical accessories that are electrically connected to and energized by the primary battery during normal operation of the vehicle. The voltage maintenance system includes a secondary battery. The system senses activation and subsequent de-activation of the starter each time the engine is started. A switching circuit is provided for electrically connecting the secondary battery to the electrical accessories and electrically isolating the primary battery from the electrical accessories such that the secondary battery energizes the electrical accessories each time activation of the starter is sensed.

Abstract: A remote control mechanism for controlling electricity from a non-interruptible electric supply, and for optionally and simultaneously controlling electricity from a second, but interruptible electric supply like that provided by a clock-actuated switch in series with a continuous electric supply. The mechanism is useful as an actuating means for electrical apparatus plugged-in to its outlet.

Abstract: An electronic appliance having a microcomputer, peripheral devices controlled by the microcomputer, a main battery acting as power source, and a backup battery for outputting signals indicating the presence and absence of the main battery. Checking is made of whether the main battery is loaded in the appliance or not and whether the output voltage of the main battery is above a predetermined voltage or not. When the main battery is not loaded or when its output voltage is below the predetermined voltage, the backup battery is made available for preserving information in the memory inside or outside the microcomputer in good order, with operations of the peripheral devices being restricted at such times. Further, the disclosed electronic appliance provides for limiting malfunctioning of the microcomputer and the peripheral devices when a new main battery has been loaded in the appliance as replacement for an exhausted main battery.

Abstract: An emergency power supply including an input for connection to a power line, an output for connecting the input to electrical equipment so as to supply power thereto from the power line, a supplemental power supply connected to the output and adapted to supply power to the electrical equipment upon a power abnormality in the power line, an electrical energy storage means connected to the supplemental power supply and adapted to supply electrical energy thereto; and a circuit for detecting the abnormalities in the power line.

Abstract: An electronic appliance having a microcomputer, peripheral devices controlled by the microcomputer, a main battery acting as power source, and a backup battery for backing up the main battery. Checking is made of whether the main battery is loaded in the appliance or not and whether the output voltage of the main battery is above a predetermined voltage or not. When the main battery is not loaded or when its output voltage is below the predetermined voltage, the backup battery is made available for preserving information in the memory inside or outside the microcomputer in good order, with operations of the peripheral devices being restricted at such times. Further, the disclosed electronic appliance includes means to prevent malfunctioning of the microcomputer and the peripheral devices when a new main battery has been loaded in the appliance as replacement for an exhausted main battery.