Including Electronic Identifier Or Coding Means Patents (Class 439/955)
  • Patent number: 12120551
    Abstract: Secure architectures and methods for improving the security of mobile devices are disclosed. Also disclosed are apparatuses and methods to detect and mitigate fraud in device-assisted services implementations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2023
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2024
    Assignee: Headwater Research LLC
    Inventors: Gregory G. Raleigh, James Lavine, Jeffrey Green
  • Patent number: 10449915
    Abstract: A system for transmitting a piece of information to a subunit, including at least one connection position and at least one subunit, the at least one connection position being configured for accommodating a subunit, and the at least one connection position including at least one coding lug which is configured for engaging into a corresponding recess on a subunit, the arrangement of the at least one coding lug coding the piece of information to be transmitted, and the at least one subunit having at least one recess which is configured for contactlessly detecting the presence of a coding lug in a recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2019
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Hans-Joerg Mathony, Burkhard Iske, Albrecht Irion, Maik Hansen, Marcus Schneider, Michael Schumann
  • Patent number: 10387284
    Abstract: Example methods, apparatus, systems and articles of manufacture (e.g., physical storage media) to verify interconnection between media devices and device meters with touch sensing integrated circuits are disclosed. Example methods disclosed herein include accessing an output of a touch sensing integrated circuit associated with a meter, the touch sensing integrated circuit to electrically couple with an interface of a media device monitored by the meter. Example methods disclosed herein also include determining the meter is coupled to the media device via the interface in response to the output of the touch sensing integrated circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Assignee: The Nielsen Company (US), LLC
    Inventor: Andrej Barbis
  • Patent number: 9898381
    Abstract: A signal detection system includes a motherboard and a signal detection card. The signal detection card includes a connecting plate, a first interface, and a detection module. The first interface is mounted in the connecting plate. The connecting plate includes a first signal detection terminal. The first interface is coupled to the first signal detection terminal of the connecting plate. The first interface is coupled to the motherboard to receive a signal from the motherboard. The detection module is configured to couple to the first signal detection terminal of the connecting plate and detect the signal via the first interface. A signal detection card is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Assignee: Shenzhen Airdrawing Technology Service Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Qing Zhu, Zhi-Yong Zhao, Tai-Chen Wang
  • Patent number: 8992261
    Abstract: A connector arrangement includes a single-piece plug nose body defining a cavity in which a storage device is held. The storage device provides physical layer information (PLI) functionality as well as physical layer management (PLM) functionality to the connector arrangement. A pivotable cover for the cavity is attached to the plug nose body by a living hinge. Example storage devices include an EEPROM on a printed circuit board. The storage device is electrically isolated from primary contacts of the connector arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventor: Loren J. Mattson
  • Patent number: 8992260
    Abstract: An electrical connector arrangement includes a storage device coupled to a connector housing. The storage device is configured to store physical layer information pertaining to the electrical connector arrangement. The storage device also has contacts that enable the physical layer information to be read from the storage device by a media reading interface. A connector assembly includes at least one receptacle assembly; a printed circuit board; and a media reading interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph C. Coffey, Loren J. Mattson
  • Patent number: 8876559
    Abstract: An electronic device including a switch unit and a socket is provided. The switch unit has an output end, a first input end, a second input end and a control end. The control end is coupled to the first input end. The socket has an intake cavity on which a first terminal and a second terminal are disposed. The first terminal is electrically connected to the first input end, and the second terminal is electrically connected to the second input end. When the intake cavity holds a plug and the control end receives a high level voltage, the control end switches the first input end to the output end. When the control end receives a ground voltage, the control end switches the second input end to the output end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Quanta Computer Inc.
    Inventor: Tai-Lin Wu
  • Patent number: 8864527
    Abstract: Disclosed are a universal serial bus (USB) memory device having a 5 pin USB connector which may be directly used for a portable terminal and a method of manufacturing the same. The USB memory device includes: at least one 5 pin USB connector; a memory to write data received from the 5 pin USB connector or reading out stored data to transmit the data to the 5 pin USB connector; and a controller electrically connected to the 5 pin USB connector and the memory to control data transmission between the 5 pin USB connector and the memory, wherein the 5 pin USB connector comprises a power terminal, a ground terminal, a D+ terminal, a D? terminal, and an ID terminal, and the ID terminal is connected to the ground terminal so that the 5 pin USB connector is grounded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Inventor: Byoung Jin Kwon
  • Patent number: 8795003
    Abstract: A connector system includes a jack module mounted to a circuit board, which is connected to at least one processor. The jack module is configured to receive a plug connector having a first set of contacts spaced from a second set of contacts. The jack module includes a first contact arrangement configured to engage the first set of contacts of the plug and a second contact arrangement configured to engage the second set of contacts of the plug. The second contact arrangement is provided on a media reading interface, which may provide presence sensing. The first and second contact arrangements engage landings on the circuit board. One example jack module defines a right-angle jack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventor: Loren J. Mattson
  • Patent number: 8749353
    Abstract: A system for setting up a wireless connection between two temporarily connected devices includes a device interconnector having a first end provided with a first wireless communication identifier and a second end provided with a second wireless communication identifier, a first device having a first interconnector mating unit, a first wireless communication unit and a first reading unit and a second device having a second interconnector mating unit, a second wireless communication unit and a second reading unit. The wireless communication units of each device is configured to receive an identifier being read by the corresponding reading unit as the device interconnector is attached to the corresponding mating unit and the wireless communication unit is configured to employ this identifier in setting up, together with the other wireless communication unit, a wireless connection between the two devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: ABB Research Ltd.
    Inventors: Lennart Balgard, Niclas Ericsson, Ewa Hansen, Mikael Gidlund
  • Patent number: 8668516
    Abstract: An identifiable plug and a plug assembly having the same are disclosed. The identifiable plug includes a power input port, a power output port, a storage unit, a signal transmission unit and a processing unit. The power output port is configured to insert into a plug of electronic equipment. The power input port is connected with the power output port. The processing unit is configured to transmit an identification information stored in the storage unit via the signal transmission unit. When the identifiable plug is assembled with an electric socket, the electric socket is capable to read the identification information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: Powertech Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yu-Lung Lee
  • Patent number: 8449318
    Abstract: A plug system for surgical devices includes a plurality of sockets into which connecting plugs of electrosurgical instruments can be inserted, and a switching matrix having a plurality of switches for connecting at least one of the sockets to at least two different outputs or inputs of an electrosurgery device. A control system having a preselection device for controlling the switching matrix is arranged in the plug system. The switching matrix connects predetermined sockets to predetermined inputs or outputs, depending on data input into the preselection device. The control system includes a storage element for storing a basic configuration of a connection between the sockets and the inputs or outputs of the electrosurgery device. The basic configuration is set if no data is entered into the preselection device, and all switches are open in the basic configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Erbe Elektromedizin GmbH
    Inventors: Jürgen Beller, Florian Eisele
  • Patent number: 8029313
    Abstract: An interconnect for connecting a needle electrode to a neurological testing device, the interconnect comprising: a needle-side connector and a device-side connector, wherein the needle-side connector and the device-side connector have complementary aspects so as to ensure that the correct needle electrode is used with a given neurological testing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: NeuroMetrix, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Fendrock, Louis J. Barbato, Charlie Wu
  • Patent number: 7982146
    Abstract: A telecommunications apparatus for use with a plug having at least first, second and third pins. The telecommunications apparatus includes a plug connector for receiving the plug. The plug connector includes at least first, second and third electrical contacts for electrically contacting the first, second and third pins, respectively, when the plug is inserted in the plug connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: ATX Networks Corp.
    Inventors: Todd A. Loeffelholz, Terry E. McClellan, Sara Manderfield, Zakhary Bluband, Par G. Peterson
  • Patent number: 7880474
    Abstract: A repeater, useable for connecting switches in a data communication network, is provided in a distributed and/or modular fashion. The repeater includes a plurality of separate and distinct components or modules connected to or at least partially housed in, the various switches which the repeater modules couple. Preferably, the repeater autodetects and/or autoconfigures some or all aspects of repeater operations, such as detecting and/or configuring appropriate full/half-duplex mode operation or detecting and/or configuring in response to appropriate or approved cable-type connections. The distributed and/or modular repeater facilitates accommodating various switching or repeater needs as a network grows or contracts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Cisco Technology Inc.
    Inventor: Gordon Mackay
  • Patent number: 7828586
    Abstract: A connector system is provided for coupling an ionization emitter to an high voltage (HV) supply. The connector system includes one or more contacts for distributing voltage from the HV supply to the emitter. The connector system further includes a detection device that detects an element of an emitter that provides one or more properties of the emitter. The connector system further includes a detection logic device that sets one or more operating parameters of the HV supply according the one or more properties provided by the element of the emitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: John A. Gorczyca, Richard D. Rodrigo
  • Patent number: 7668685
    Abstract: An electrical connector for connection to a sensor has an integrated microcontroller, with a plug-and-socket connection for connection to an interface of the sensor and with an electronic circuit. With the connector, the data of a sensor, especially the parameter data, can be mirrored outside the sensor in a simple and economical manner so that the data are available at any time and as much as possible on site. The electronic circuit has a memory for storage of data, especially parameter data and characteristic data of the sensor, and a microcontroller, the microcontroller operating the interface of the sensor, and depending on the characteristic data of the sensor, either reading data, especially parameter data, out of the sensor via the interface and storing it in the memory, or reading data stored in the memory, especially parameter data, out of the memory and transmitting them via the interface into the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: i f m electronic GmbH
    Inventors: Benno Kathan, Alfred Wagner
  • Patent number: 7648387
    Abstract: A jumper including a control module and a plurality of conduits connected to the control module is provided. A connector is connected to each of the conduits. The control module controls the flow of a communications medium through the conduits and the control module. The control module may be configured for activation by a user specific identification input.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: Wurtec Elevator Products & Services
    Inventors: Steven P. Wurth, Stephen W. Pratt, Dan Zeitz
  • Patent number: 7620754
    Abstract: A carrier module is physically compatible with a XENPAK/X2 10 GE slot and includes a socket for accepting a non-XENPAK/X2 module and interface circuitry for providing appropriate signals to a XENPAK/X2 70-pin connector on an interior side of the carrier module. The carrier module includes a cookie, accessible by host software, identifying the type of carrier module and non-XENPAK/X2 module accepted by the carrier card.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Cisco Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan Yee, Eric Wiles, James P. Rivers, Sandeep Arvind Patel, William F. Edwards, Jr., Jeffrey Provost
  • Patent number: 7597592
    Abstract: According to some embodiments, systems, methods, and apparatuses are provided to detect a coupling of a first cable plug to a bimodal host receptacle and to configure a function of the bimodal host receptacle based at least in part on a first cable plug, where if the first cable plug's relief is a different shape than a key, the bimodal host receptacle will act in a first function, wherein if the first cable plug's relief is a same shape as the key, then the bimodal host receptacle will act in a second function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Robert A. Dunstan, Gary Solomon, Bradley Saunders
  • Patent number: 7597582
    Abstract: A backplane for use in a push-in rack for peripherals includes slots with plug connectors that connect with peripherals which have been pushed into the push-in rack, and at least one further plug connector that connects the backplane to a control apparatus. An assigned optical signaling device is also provided for each slot. The backplane further includes a monitoring device operable to determine, for each connected peripheral, whether a peripheral is compatible with the connected control apparatus and, if the peripheral is incompatible, the monitoring device activates the respective optical signaling device assigned to the slot for the incompatible peripheral. The backplane is suitable for use in data processing apparatuses in conjunction with peripherals which are designed in accordance with the SAS (Serial Attached Small Computer System Interface) or SATA (Serial Advanced Technology Attachment) specification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Fujitsu Siemens Computers GmbH
    Inventors: Kornelius Nehling, Robert Depta
  • Patent number: 7575467
    Abstract: An electrically safe receptacle that in it's normal quiescent state will not have electrical current flow. Said electrically safe receptacle will be equipped with normally-open switches on one or both female conductors that are controlled by a strategically placed sensor to detect the insertion of a male plug. Detection of the male plug insertion will signal the normally open switches to close the circuit pathway and allow for the flow of electrical current to the device permitting normal operation. Insertion of a foreign conductive device such as a hair pin, knife blade, or metallic tool in one or both female conductors will fail to activate the sensor and thereby reduce or eliminate the possibility of accidental electrocution by preventing the flow of electrical current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Inventors: Thomas Wilmer Ferguson, Gregory W. Veith
  • Patent number: 7568933
    Abstract: A connector (10) having a waterproof function is provided which includes a female member (20) and a male member (40). The female member includes an inner tube portion (23) having a base part (26) having an outer peripheral surface covered with a sealing member (27). The female member includes an outer tube portion (22) having a peep window (28) formed therein such that the sealing member is visible. When coupling of the male member and the female member is complete, the sealing member is hidden by a tube (42) of the male member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshiaki Shirai, Yasuyuki Tachino
  • Patent number: 7563102
    Abstract: A communication network device and corresponding patch field system are disclosed. The device includes a port module, ports, and an appliqué attached to a face of the port module. The appliqué includes a printed circuit board (PCB) with conductive pads. A patch cord connects the device with an intelligent patch panel. The patch cord contains at least one system wire. The patch panel is adapted to measure a resistance associated with each port via the system wire. An open circuit indicates that no patch cord is attached to the port, a resistance within a first range indicates that the patch cord is attached only to the port of the intelligent patch panel, and a resistance within a second range less than the first range indicates that the patch cord connects the intelligent patch panel and the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Panduit Corp.
    Inventors: Ronald A. Nordin, Jack E. Caveney
  • Patent number: 7563996
    Abstract: A telecommunications apparatus for use with a plug having at least first, second and third pins. The telecommunications apparatus includes a plug connector for receiving the plug. The plug connector includes at least first, second and third electrical contacts for electrically contacting the first, second and third pins, respectively, when the plug is inserted in the plug connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd A. Loeffelholz, Terry E. McClellan, Sara Manderfield, Zakhary Bluband, Par G. Peterson
  • Patent number: 7533611
    Abstract: A method for detecting a type of one of plurality of devices attached to a graphics machine, each device being one of at least a first type and a second type. The method includes detecting at a controller the type of device attached to or to be attached to the machine. The controller is capable of preadjusting the device or machine as a function of the detection. A graphics machine includes a controller, a first device connected to the controller, the first device being categorizable as one of at least a first type and a second type, the controller detecting the type of the first device, and a memory accessible by the controller, the memory storing information regarding the first type and the second type.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: Goss International America, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith Edward Foley, Glenn Alan Guaraldi, Craig Steven Harris
  • Patent number: 7444936
    Abstract: A method for detecting a type of one of plurality of devices attached to a graphics machine, each device being one of at least a first type and a second type. The method includes detecting at a controller the type of device attached to or to be attached to the machine. The controller is capable of preadjusting the device or machine as a function of the detection. A graphics machine includes a controller, a first device connected to the controller, the first device being categorizable as one of at least a first type and a second type, the controller detecting the type of the first device, and a memory accessible by the controller, the memory storing information regarding the first type and the second type.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Goss International Americas, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith Edwards Foley, Glenn Alan Guaraldi, Craig Steven Harris
  • Patent number: 7442073
    Abstract: The present invention provides an interconnect for an attitude control device. The interconnect includes at least one bus adapted to provide at least one bus signal to the attitude control device and a plurality of electrical contacts external to the attitude control device and capable of providing a signal indicative of a physical location of the attitude control device when the attitude control device is installed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin
    Inventors: William L. Black, Steven J. Marian
  • Patent number: 7318744
    Abstract: A power connector (100) is adapted for connecting with a power input port of an electrical device and includes an insulative housing (1), first and second terminals (2, 3) received in the housing for power transmission, a third terminal (4) received in the housing for signal transmission and a resistor (50) having certain resistance detectable by the electrical device electrically connecting with the second and third terminals. The first and second terminals respectively served as a positive pole and a negative pole of the power connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Peter Kuo
  • Patent number: 7234944
    Abstract: A communication network device and corresponding patch field system are disclosed. The device includes a port module, ports, and an appliqué attached to a face of the port module. The appliqué includes a printed circuit board (PCB) with conductive pads. A patch cord connects the device with an intelligent patch panel. The patch cord contains at least one system wire. The patch panel is adapted to measure a resistance associated with each port via the system wire. An open circuit indicates that no patch cord is attached to the port, a resistance within a first range indicates that the patch cord is attached only to the port of the intelligent patch panel, and a resistance within a second range less than the first range indicates that the patch cord connects the intelligent patch panel and the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2007
    Assignee: Panduit Corp.
    Inventors: Ronald A. Nordin, Jack E. Caveney
  • Patent number: 7230192
    Abstract: A telecommunications apparatus for use with a plug having at least first, second and third pins. The telecommunications apparatus includes a plug connector for receiving the plug. The plug connector includes at least first, second and third electrical contacts for electrically contacting the first, second and third pins, respectively, when the plug is inserted in the plug connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd A. Loeffelholz, Terry E. McClellan, Sara Manderfield, Zakhary Bluband, Par G. Peterson
  • Patent number: 7138926
    Abstract: A sensor head component is configured for use with a monitoring tool assembly in the performance of one or functions as part of a monitoring process. The sensor head component is configured to include at least one electrical component for performing the function as well as a memory device upon which operational information for the component is storable. The sensor head component is further configured to include an elongated body within which the electrical component is positionable and a base portion connectable to the elongated housing which further provides for mechanical and electrical engagement in a port for the tool assembly through application of a linear force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Assignee: In-Situ, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent D. Henry, Mark A. Watson, Shanen Onken-Shaw, Todd Hochwitz
  • Patent number: 7135649
    Abstract: A telecommunications apparatus for use with a plug having at least first, second and third pins. The telecommunications apparatus includes a plug connector for receiving the plug. The plug connector includes at least first, second and third electrical contacts for electrically contacting the first, second and third pins, respectively, when the plug is inserted in the plug connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd A. Loeffelholz, Terry E. McClellan, Sara Manderfield, Zakhary Bluband, Par G. Peterson
  • Patent number: 7119456
    Abstract: A switch system capable of being automatically configured and used with any electrical system, particularly vehicle electrical systems, having an operator-activated control and an electrical device. This switch system generally includes an electro-mechanical switch and a switch module. Upon activation of an operator-activated control, such as a turn signal lever, the electro-mechanical switch sends an electrical activation signal to the switch module. The switch module uses an electrical identification signal, also obtained from the electro-mechanical switch, and a look-up table to convert the activation signal into an electronic control message. The electronic control message is then used to control a corresponding electrical device, such as a turn signal lamp. A particular electro-mechanical switch embodiment providing error detecting capabilities is also shown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: James E. Rouleau
  • Patent number: 6988905
    Abstract: A jack (90) typically mounted in an aircraft seat is adapted for use with a variety of headset types. A jack has sockets (92, 93, 94) accepting any of several different types of plugs associated with different types of noise cancellation headsets or aviation industry headsets including one, two, or three pin types. The jack includes sensing components to correctly detect from the number of pins inserted, and the impedance and/or voltages sensed on those pins, the type of headset being used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: Slab DSP Limited
    Inventors: John Frederick Corey, Mark Donaldson
  • Patent number: 6890197
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for detecting plug types capable of being inserted into a socket includes a processor, a housing having a plug receiving cavity for one or more plug types including a proper and improper plug type. Actuators are associated with the housing, and are coupled to switches electrically coupled to the processor. A first actuator is capable of contacting the proper and improper plug type and a second actuator is capable of contacting only the proper plug type. Switches may provide a signal to the processor when the improper and proper plug type has been plugged into the socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: Gateway, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank Liebenow
  • Patent number: 6888078
    Abstract: A telecommunications apparatus for use with a plug having at least first, second and third pins. The telecommunications apparatus includes a plug connector for receiving the plug. The plug connector includes at least first, second and third electrical contacts for electrically contacting the first, second and third pins, respectively, when the plug is inserted in the plug connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd A. Loeffelholz, Terry E. McClellan, Sara Manderfield, Zakhary Bluband, Par G. Peterson
  • Patent number: 6857896
    Abstract: An electrical assembly includes a plurality of electrical modules. Each of the plurality of electrical modules, such as power receptacles of a wall panel system, are sequentially electrically connected to at least one other of the plurality of electrical modules. Each of the plurality of electrical modules include a prior module detection circuit that determines a number of modules being connected and is formed to limit the activation of more than a certain number of such modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: Pent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian K. Rupert, Gavin L. Replogle
  • Patent number: 6831443
    Abstract: A power adapter assembly for use between a portable electrical device and a power source is disclosed. The power adapter assembly includes a power connecting device having a first joint at one end thereof for electrically connecting to the portable electrical device and a second joint at the other end thereof, a data storage unit electrically connected with the second joint of the power connecting device and storing the power supply data corresponding to the portable electrical device, and a power adapter having a socket for electrically connecting to the second joint of the power connecting device. The power adapter reads the power supply data stored in the data storage unit, converts the power from the power source into a required power form according to the power supply data, and transfers the required power to the portable electrical device through the power connecting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Primax Electronics, Ltd.
    Inventor: Chien-Te Liu
  • Patent number: 6761580
    Abstract: An intelligent universal connector having 50 pins arranged into two parallel rows numbered from 1st through 25th for the right row and from 26th through 50th for the left row, the 1st and 26th pins being +12V power source, the 4th and the 29th pins being +5V power source, the 2nd, 3rd, 27th and 28th pins being grounding, the 5th and 30th pins being non, the pins of 6th through 25th and the pins of 31st through 50th corresponding to parallel ATA standard, the 41st, 42nd, 43rd and 45th pins being the two I/O signal terminals (HTX_P, HTX_M and HRX_P, HRX_M), the 28th, 3rd and 2nd pins being connectable to the 1st, 4th and 7th pins of a 7-pin serial ATA connector, the 41st, 42nd, 43rd and 45th pins being connectable to the two I/O signals of a 7-pin serial ATA connector, the 41st, 42nd, 43rd and 45th pins corresponding to grounding terminals of a parallel ATA connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Inventor: Cheng-Chun Chang
  • Patent number: 6736681
    Abstract: A communications connector assembly comprising a jack configured to mate with at least two different types of plugs. The jack comprises a wire board having first and second signal processing circuits thereon. When a first one of the different types of plugs is mated with the jack, the first signal processing circuit is activated. When a second one of the different types of plugs is mated with the jack, the second signal processing circuit is activated. The first signal processing circuit of the connector assembly includes crosstalk compensation circuitry. The first and second signal processing circuits constitute separate signal paths on the wire board. Thus, when the first plug is inserted into the jack, the signal is operated on in accordance with the configuration of the first signal processing circuitry and when the second plug is inserted into the jack, the signal is operated on in accordance with the configuration of the second signal processing circuitry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Assignee: Avaya Technology Corp.
    Inventor: Jaime Ray Arnett
  • Publication number: 20040023522
    Abstract: An intelligent universal connector having 50 pins arranged into two parallel rows numbered from 1st through 25th for the right row and from 26th through 50th for the left row, the 1st and 26th pins being +12V power source, the 4th and the 29th pins being +5V power source, the 2nd, 3rd, 27th and 28th pins being grounding, the 5th and 30th pins being non, the pins of 6th through 25th and the pins of 31st through 50th corresponding to parallel ATA standard, the 41st, 42nd, 43rd and 45th pins being the two I/O signal terminals (HTX_P, HTX_M and HRX_P, HRX_M), the 28th, 3rd and 2nd pins being connectable to the 1st, 4th and 7th pins of a 7-pin serial ATA connector, the 41st, 42nd, 43rd and 45th pins being connectable to the two I/O signals of a 7-pin serial ATA connector, the 41st, 42nd, 43rd and 45th pins corresponding to grounding terminals of a parallel ATA connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventor: Cheng-Chun Chang
  • Patent number: 6558201
    Abstract: An adapter and method for converting the data interface hardware of a computer peripheral device. A set of connectors is arranged to mate with the interface conductors of a computer peripheral device that contains the circuitry and firmware necessary to support the use of more than one computer peripheral data interface. Another set of connectors is provided to connect with the interfaces being used by a computer. An indication to the device of which of the supported data interfaces is to be used is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Assignee: Hewlett Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Paul V Begley, Gregory A Standiford
  • Patent number: 6517375
    Abstract: A technique for identifying multiple circuit components. More specifically, a technique for identifying the location of electrical components, such as memory cartridges which have been disposed on a substrate, is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: Compaq Information Technologies Group, L.P.
    Inventors: John M. MacLaren, John Larson
  • Patent number: 6509659
    Abstract: This invention includes a universal base unit having a plurality of cables, each corresponding to a unique electronic host device. The cable is manufactured such that the ground connection of the electronic host device is routed to one of a plurality of identification pins. In one embodiment, the identification pins are coupled to a plurality of current sense resistors. When the cable is coupled serially between the electronic device and the universal base unit, the universal base unit identifies the unique electronic device by sensing which resistor is connected to the ground of the electronic host. In another embodiment, pull-up resistors are used instead of current sense resistors. The system allows a user to carry a single power supply or universal base unit with multiple cables as opposed to having to transport a different accessory for each electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventors: Chason Carroll, Martin Ramsden
  • Patent number: 6462435
    Abstract: A repeater, useable for connecting switches in a data communication network, is provided in a distributed and/or modular fashion. The repeater includes a plurality of separate and distinct components or modules connected to or at least partially housed in, the various switches which the repeater modules couple. Preferably, the repeater autodetects and/or autoconfigures some or all aspects of repeater operations, such as detecting and/or configuring in response to appropriate or approved cable-type connections. A conductive, sealing member on a cable connector substantially reduces or eliminates EMI.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Assignee: Cisco Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Covaro, Gordon MacKay, Gopakumar Parameswaran, Robert Gregory Twiss, Robert D. Hastings
  • Patent number: 6431892
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an electrical connector for connecting combination electronic apparatus, which comprise a plurality of internal electronic devices, to networks or other devices. The connector of the present invention comprises a novel switching mechanism which selects between the plurality of internal electronic devices based on the attributes of the mating connector received by the connector. Device selection may be controlled by the physical characteristics of the mating connector, the electrical characteristics of the device or network attached to the mating connector or some other distinct attribute.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: 3Com Corporation
    Inventors: Allen E. Shupe, Carl Ketcham
  • Patent number: 6379184
    Abstract: A connector having reduced noise characteristics is provided having an electronic component, such as a capacitor, electrically connecting together the power ground and power voltage terminals of the connector, with the electronic component being located within the connector housing. Such a structure reduces any induced electrical noise from occurring in the signal terminals of the connector due to the power terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Molex Incorporated
    Inventors: Maxwill P. Bassler, David L. Brunker, Daniel L. Dawiedczyk, John E. Lopata
  • Patent number: 6368155
    Abstract: A connector that is particularly suitable for use in high speed data transmission is provided in the form of a plug connector that may be terminated to the end of a high speed cable. The connector has a plurality of terminals for terminating to respective signal wires, ground wires and power wires of the cable, and also has an additional terminal that serves to detect and identify status information about the cable to circuits on a circuit board to which the cable is connected thorough the plug connector and a mating receptacle connector. This detection terminal is shorted to another terminal of the connector, preferably a power ground, or return, terminal. The shorting is done with an electronic component that modifies the voltage passing from the shorted terminal through the detection terminal. The modified voltage may be easily read on the circuit board to determine the status of the cable (such as the speed of the cable) or an electronic device attached thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Molex Incorporated
    Inventors: Maxwill P. Bassler, David L. Brunker, Daniel L. Dawiedczyk, John E. Lopata
  • Publication number: 20010040127
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a dialysis machine with a device for preparing dialysis solutions. Simple and reliable preparation of dialysis fluids of different concentrations is achieved by the fact that the device has a detector device, at least two connections and at least two interchangeable storage containers to hold the solution ingredients to be metered, each being connected to at least one connector, and with the connectors being connectable to the connections, and with the connectors or the areas of a connecting tube near the connectors having identification means which can be detected by the detector device. The present invention also relates to a connector for connecting a storage container with solution ingredients to a medical apparatus, where the connector or areas of a connecting tube near the connector has identification means. The present invention also relates to a method of detecting a connection of a solution ingredient storage container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2001
    Publication date: November 15, 2001
    Inventors: Rainer Donig, Joachim Dopper, Wolfgang Schulz