Abstract: Another embodiment of the invention provides a dock for connecting to a portable device. The dock includes a charging module, a backup program and a controller. The controller controls the dock to operate at a first mode or a second mode. When the dock operates at the first mode, the controller controls the charging module to charge the portable device, and when the dock operates at the second mode, the controller controls the charging module to charge the portable device and the backup program is executed to backup data of the portable device simultaneously.

Abstract: Method for connecting mass storage device(s) with data connection device(s) connecting to data port(s) with the same data interface type(s) as that of the mass storage device(s) for data transmission and with power connection device(s) connecting to power port(s), for power supply, on a bus of technologies with power management capabilities and facilities in computer-related or computer-controlled or operating-system-controlled machines or devices for using and swapping the mass storage device(s).

Abstract: A patient monitoring system includes a patient monitor and a plurality of docking stations. Each docking station is associated with a set of patient monitor configurations. Interfacing the patient monitor with a particular docking station allows a user to select one or more of the set of patient monitor configurations associated with the particular docking station for use in the patient monitor.

Abstract: A single line docking station characteristic identifier is disclosed. In one embodiment, a portable computing device can include a dock detector circuit having an interface pin configured to be coupled to a docking station via a single line dock connection, where the dock detector circuit is configured to determine a characteristic of the docking station using a passive component in the docking station when the portable computing device is connected to the docking station via the single line dock connection. The dock detector circuit can include a resistor and a Schmitt trigger, while the passive component in the docking station can include a capacitor, for example.

Abstract: In general, the subject matter described in this specification can be embodied in methods, system and program products. A mobile computing device determines that the mobile computing device has physically paired with a docking system. Wireless communication between the mobile computing device and the docking system is automatically established in response to said determining that the mobile computing device has physically paired with the docking system. Data that encodes an audio signal is transmitted, by the mobile computing device and to the docking system as part of the wireless communication, so as to cause speakers of the docking system to audibly output the audio signal from the mobile computing device.

Abstract: In general, the subject matter described in this specification can be embodied in methods, system and program products. A mobile computing device determines that the mobile computing device has physically paired with a docking system. Wireless communication between the mobile computing device and the docking system is automatically established in response to said determining that the mobile computing device has physically paired with the docking system. Data that encodes an audio signal is transmitted, by the mobile computing device and to the docking system as part of the wireless communication, so as to cause speakers of the docking system to audibly output the audio signal from the mobile computing device.

Abstract: In general, the subject matter described in this specification can be embodied in methods, systems, and program products. A mobile computing device is determined to have electrically coupled by physical contact with a docking system that is adapted to supply electrical power for charging the mobile computing device. The docking system is determined to be a first type of docking system from a plurality of types of docking systems. A first user interface profile that corresponds to the first type of docking system is selected from among a plurality of user interface profiles. Each of the plurality of user interface profiles corresponds to a respective type of docking system from the plurality of types of docking systems. The first user interface profile is presented by the mobile computing device in response to selection of the first user interface profile.

Abstract: In general, the subject matter described in this specification can be embodied in methods, systems, and program products. A mobile computing device is determined to have electrically coupled by physical contact with a docking system that is adapted to supply electrical power for charging the mobile computing device. The docking system is determined to be a first type of docking system from a plurality of types of docking systems. A first user interface profile that corresponds to the first type of docking system is selected from among a plurality of user interface profiles. Each of the plurality of user interface profiles corresponds to a respective type of docking system from the plurality of types of docking systems. The first user interface profile is presented by the mobile computing device in response to selection of the first user interface profile.

Abstract: Techniques involving connecting an in-cab computing device to an onboard computing device mounted in a vehicle. Vehicle-related information may be communicated between the in-cab computing device and onboard computing device while the in-cab computing device is connected to the onboard computing device. Techniques involve facilitating disconnection of the in-cab computing device from the onboard computing device and operating the in-cab computing device in a stand-alone mode, and facilitating reconnection of the in-cab computing device to the onboard computing device to resume operations between the in-cab computing device and onboard computing device.

Abstract: Patient monitoring systems can include a docking station and a display unit. The display unit can be coupled with the docking station or decoupled from the docking station. Some display units can include one or more actuators that aid in decoupling the display unit from the docking station that can be actuated while the display unit is being gripped.

Abstract: A media device and docking device used in a home entertainment system are described. The entertainment system 100 includes a docking device operating in several modes allowing the media device to be charged by the docking device and allowing the docking device to be used for conveying a signal to the media device from the docking device when the media device is connected to the docking station and conveying the signal through the docking device to another media device when the first media device is not connected to the docking device.

Abstract: Additional routing information is added to a transaction packet without recalculating an ECRC by inserting the additional routing information at predetermined bit positions in the transaction packet known to have predetermined bit values. The modified transaction packet can then be routed using the additional routing information. The predetermined bit values can subsequently be reinstated at the predetermined bit positions in the packet.

Abstract: An electronic apparatus includes a main body and a panel unit removable from the main body. The electronic apparatus also includes an attachment unit in the panel unit that indirectly attaches a removable memory device to the main body through the panel unit. The main body includes a control unit that logically disconnects a data line logically connecting the removable memory device to the main body through the attachment unit, upon an operation before a power line electrically connecting the removable memory device to the main body through the attachment unit is physically disconnected.

Abstract: An information handling system includes a cable, a backplane, and a processor. The cable is connected to a storage controller of the information handling system. The backplane is configured to connect a drive to the information handling system. The processor is in communication with the cable and with the backplane. The processor is configured to detect a presence of the drive, to output a pulse in response to the detection of the presence of the drive, to determine a first storage technology of the drive in response to the output pulse, to determine a second storage technology of the storage controller, to determine whether there is a misconfiguration between the first storage technology and the second storage technology, and to generate a notification when the misconfiguration is determined.

Abstract: A docking station for a computing device can include an interface for electrically connecting the docking station to a computing device. The interface may supply power from a power supply. The docking station can include a surface for attaching a pin, wherein the location of the pin prevents a computing device from electrically connecting to the docking station if the computing device is not compatible.

Abstract: A system may comprise multiple master/slave devices coupled to a common bus, where one of the devices may operate as the current master device and the other devices may operate as current slave devices. Current slave devices may embed bus ownership request information within response packets transmitted in response to standard bus operations, such as reads and writes, issued by the current master device. When the current master device is idle, its bus interface may continually poll the current slave devices at regular intervals, according to a specified protocol, to ascertain whether any of them are requesting bus ownership. A response to a request for bus ownership received by the current master device may be configured according to desired system functionality. In one system, ownership may always be transferred to the requesting device.

Abstract: Portable computer structures are provided. The portable computer structures may include hard drive mounting structures. The hard drive mounting structures may include elastomeric support members. Each elastomeric support member may have a relatively rigid inner portion. The inner portion may include a hole that receives a hard drive mounting pin. Each elastomeric support member may also have a relatively flexible outer portion. The relatively flexible outer portion may be mounted within an opening in a plastic support member. The rigid inner portion may have a square outline and may be mounted within a square opening in the flexible outer portion.

Abstract: An adapter may couple an electronic device to a host such as a computer. When coupled in this way, the host may transfer media files to the device. The host may also supply power to the electronic device using power lines in the adapter. The electronic device may have a status indicator such as a light-emitting diode status indicator. The adapter may also have a status indicator. During operation, the electronic device may transmit coded information on the current state of the status indicator in the electronic device by modulating the status indicator or other load in the device at a selected frequency. Control circuitry in the adapter may detect the transmitted state information by monitoring the power lines. The control circuitry may control the status indicator in the adapter so that the status indicator in the adapter replicates the current state of the status indicator in the electronic device.

Abstract: A device and method for outputting BIOS POST code, applied to a computer system. The device includes a basic input output system (BIOS), a transfer module and a video graphics array (VGA) connector. The BIOS generates a power-on self-test (POST) code using a low pin count (LPC) interface format. The transfer module receives the POST code and transfers the format of the POST code to a system management bus (SMBus) format. The VGA connector receives and outputs the POST code transmitted from the transfer module.

Abstract: Relating with board numbers of the boards mounted with the logic circuits and mounted places on the boards and in relation to log information to be collected from the logic circuits, analysis information describing information to be processed when the log information is generated, information of a condition for which the log information is to be valid, and information of a condition for which the log information is to be invalid are defined for analyzing failures using the analysis information based on the logic circuits. Upon the realization of the failure analysis based on the logic circuits, the analysis information further describes information of the priority of the log information to realize a thorough analysis of critical failures.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for docking of a mobile device supporting a docking station are provided. The apparatus includes a connection detector, an undock execution unit, and a hotdock execution unit. The connection detector performs a function for transitioning to a hotdock mode. The undock execution unit performs a function for transitioning from the hotdock mode to an undock mode. The hotdock execution unit performs a function for transitioning from the undock mode to the hotdock mode.

Abstract: A turntable with a dock for handheld computing devices is disclosed. The turntable includes a housing having a record player with an analog output. An analog-to-digital converter has an analog input operatively connected to the analog output and a digital output. A serial interface device is operatively connected to the digital output of the analog-to-digital converter. A moveable dock connected to the housing is configured and arranged to support a handheld computing device therein.

Abstract: A docking apparatus for a portable device, comprising a base and a mounting part which is connected to the base, wherein the mounting part is pivotally mounted within said base and consists of a cover portion which in a first position lies in substantially co-planar relationship with a lip of said base, said cover portion capable of being pivoted to a second position wherein part of the cover portion extends substantially from the docking apparatus, said pivotal motion also revealing a fin part depending from the underside of said cover portion so that in said second position, said fin part lies in substantially co-planar relationship with said lip instead of said cover portion.

Abstract: A mobile computing device with a mobile operating system and desktop operating system running concurrently and independently on a shared kernel without virtualization. The mobile operating system provides a user experience for the mobile computing device that suits the mobile environment. The desktop operating system provides a full desktop user experience when the mobile computing device is docked to a secondary terminal environment. The desktop operating system may be suspended when the mobile computing device is not docked with a secondary terminal environment and resumed when the mobile computing device is docked with a secondary terminal environment that provides a desktop computing experience. The mobile computing device may be a smartphone running the Android mobile OS and a full desktop Linux OS distribution on a modified Android kernel.

Abstract: A docking station apparatus interfaces a portable electronic device with one or more electrical systems of a vehicle. The apparatus includes a docking assembly having an internal cavity and configured to hold the electronic device, and a mechanical interface in the cavity and configured to provide a wired or wireless connection to the electronic device. A power supply conversion circuit translates vehicle power levels to electronic device power levels, and one or more support circuits or connectors provide different connectivity functions for the electronic device.

Abstract: A method and computer program product for improving or optimizing the configuration of expansion cards and expansion card slots in a computer system. The slot width of each slot is serially set to two or more link widths supported by the expansion card that is connect in each slot and each of the plurality of expansion cards is retrained at each of the set slot widths. The current link speed and a current link width for each of the plurality of expansion cards may be identified at each of the set slot widths to enable a determination of a configuration of the plurality of expansion cards within the plurality of expansion card slots that will improve collective throughput of the expansion cards. Optionally, the throughput of one expansion card may be prioritized over the throughput of another expansion card, such as those expansion cards or functionalities specified by user preferences or identified by system monitoring of loads placed on the expansion cards.

Abstract: Various aspects of a method and system for a mobile device docking station are provided. A docking device may comprise a screen, controls, and a receptacle for holding a mobile device. A mobile device may generate and display information for on its screen while concurrently generating and outputting information to the docking device for display on the screen of the docking device. A user may be enabled to interact, via the controls of the docking device and/or the controls of the mobile device, with the information displayed on the screen of the mobile device and/or with the information displayed on the screen of the docking device. The information displayed on the screen of the docking device may comprise a window of a first application. The information displayed on the screen of the mobile device may comprise a window of a second application.

Abstract: An IC includes a processing module, on-chip memory, one or more block input/output (I/O) interfaces for coupling to one or more off-chip block I/O devices, one or more character I/O interfaces for coupling to one or more off-chip character I/O devices when active, a main memory interface for coupling to off-chip main memory, a baseband processing module, an RF section, a processing module interface, and an IC bus structure. The processing module interface couples the processing module to an off-chip connection structure, wherein, when a handheld computing unit that includes the IC is docked to an extended computing unit, the off-chip connection structure couples the handheld computing unit to the extended computing unit such that the IC is in a docked mode.

Abstract: Disclosed are a method, system and computer program product for determining hardware diagnostics during initial program loading (IPL). A space is allocated for a diagnostics hardware table storing hardware identifications corresponding to hardware to be tested. A hardware monitor function detects new and/or defective hardware. Hardware can be manually selected. A runtime diagnostics detects defective hardware. The hardware identifications corresponding to the new, failing, and/or selected hardware are added to the diagnostics hardware table. The hardware identification to be tested is acquired during the building of a system Hardware Objects Model (HOM). A diagnostics flag is set within HOM according to the diagnostics hardware table. Diagnostics are performed per HOM diagnostics flag indication. The diagnostics table is cleared, and the operating system is run. At system runtime, diagnostics code monitors for runtime error.

Abstract: A handheld computing device includes a video camera for generating a local video signal. A handheld memory stores at least one handheld application that includes a video application. A handheld processing module, coupled to the handheld memory, executes the video application, based on the local video signal. A network interface sends the local video signal to a remote device via a network. A physical docking interface accesses at least one resource of an extended computer unit in a physical docked mode when the handheld computing unit is coupled to the extended computer unit via the physical docking interface. A quasi docking interface accesses at least one resource of the extended computer unit in the quasi docked mode when the handheld computing unit is coupled to the extended computer unit via the quasi docking interface.

Abstract: A cloud computer includes a base, a host, and a battery, in which the host includes a motherboard, a memory connected to the motherboard, and a base connector connected to the motherboard, and the base includes a host connector corresponding to the base connector of the host, and a plurality of input/output ports to connect to peripherals. The battery is mounted on the host and connects to the motherboard to provide electronic power to the motherboard, and the host is detachably connected with the base.

Abstract: A client-host detection device for detecting connecting a connected peripheral is disclosed herein. The device comprises a peripheral sensor connected to a terminal, a terminal sensor connected to or for connection to a peripheral and a terminal electrical connector connected to the terminal for electrical connection with a peripheral electrical connector connected to a peripheral. The peripheral sensor is positioned to sense the terminal sensor upon connection of the terminal electrical connector with the peripheral electrical connector. The device allows for an electrical connector to be maintained in an unpowered state unless a peripheral is connected thereby reducing or preventing de-plating of the contacts of the electrical connector caused by conductive solution across the contacts as a result of the voltage on the connections. The device also allows for the use of an unpowered peripheral.

Abstract: There is provided with a method performed in an image transmission apparatus capable of executing first communication and second communication whose communication speed is lower than that of the first communication with a display apparatus, including: generating an image to be displayed on the display apparatus; detecting whether the first communication is executable or not; transmitting the generated image to the display apparatus via the first communication when the first communication is executable; transmitting a compressed image obtained by compressing the generated image to the display apparatus via the second communication when the first communication is not executable; and transmitting compression utilization information required to display the compressed image on the display apparatus to the display apparatus via at least one of the first communication and the second communication when the first communication is executable.

Abstract: A fastening device includes a cover, an actuating member rotatably attached on the cover, and a locking member disposed on the cover and engaging with the actuating member. The cover includes a hook capable of being locked and unlocked on an electronic device, and defines a through hole near the hook and the actuating member capable of rotating around a rotating center. The actuating member is locked on the cover while being pushed. The locking member including a locking portion capable of passing through the through hole and inserting into the electronic device to lock the hook on the electronic device and withdrawing from the through hole when the actuating member is pushed to rotate.

Abstract: A docking system is disclosed. The docking system includes a single docking station and a plurality of inserts that are placed in the docking station so that the docking station can accommodate hand held devices with differing sizes and shapes. The docking system is configured with a docking station and insert that matingly engage with one another via a rotating action. The docking system is also configured with a latching retention mechanism that secures the insert to the docking station when the insert is rotated into engagement with the docking station.

Abstract: A portable apparatus includes an electronic device defining a locking slot and a positioning device for detachably attached to the electronic device. The positioning device includes a cover defining an opening and a through hole; a supporting member comprising a hook protruding from the through hole to insert in the locking slot to lock in the electronic device and a supporting portion protruding from the opening of the cover to support the electronic device; and a dampening member fixed to the supporting member in the cover.

Abstract: An improved computerized device and system for data collection and communication. The system can include component identification capability, multiple communication options, multiple optical reading and imaging options and multiple audio components. Further, the computerized can include a removable shock protection system. Multiple additional features and combinations of features are also disclosed.

Abstract: A data communication system includes a server apparatus and a cradle apparatus. The cradle apparatus includes a first communication section, a second communication section, a connection detection section, a notification control section, and a relay control section. The server apparatus includes a communication section, a data preparation section, and a communication control section.

Abstract: In at least one embodiment, an apparatus for providing resources from a plurality of on-board device nodes to a hot-plugged device node in a computer is provided. The apparatus comprises a resource manager configured to receive a resource request over a bus system indicative of a set of desired resources from the hot-plugged device node. The resource manager is further configured to probe a parent device and at least one upper level device node positioned above the parent device node for the set of desired resources. The resource manager is further configured to provide the set of desired resources from the parent device node and one or more nodes of the at least one upper level device node over the bus system for transmission to the hot-plugged device node to enable the hot-plugged device node to operate in the intended manner.

Abstract: An embodiment of a method for operation of an input/output block is disclosed. For this embodiment of the method, a first attribute is set for a first disable signal for an input driver. A first tri-state condition is removed from an output driver. In response to the removing of the first tri-state condition, the input driver is placed in a second tri-state condition.

Abstract: A transmitting accessory includes a base dock for receiving a portable electronic device and a transmitter that is removably coupled to the dock. When the device and transmitter are mounted on the dock, the transmitter receives signals from the device through the dock and transmits the signals to a remote receiver. The transmitter can be decoupled from the dock and coupled directly to the portable electronic device when the device is removed from the dock such that the device and transmitter can be carried and function as a single unit. The user inputs of the portable electronic device can preferably be used to control functions of the accessory and the device's display to display the selected transmission frequency or channel of the transmitter.

Abstract: A laptop docking apparatus having a base and lap rest. The base has an internal duct and fan for venting heat away from the underside of the laptop as well as an accessory bay for removable hard drives or the like, as well as a removable battery to power the device and the laptop. The laptop rest is connectable to the base and has a keyboard, mouse, and internal speakers.

Abstract: Apparatus, methods and computer-code are disclosed where an impending decoupling between a peripheral device and a host is detected. In some embodiments, in response to the detected impending disconnection, a user alert signal is generated. In some embodiments, an ‘onboard detector’ that is associated with housing of the peripheral device and operative to detect the impending disconnection is provided. In some embodiments, the user alert signal is generated in accordance with inter-device data flow between the host and the peripheral device. Exemplary peripheral devices include but are not limited to transient storage devices such as a USB flash drives (UFD).

Abstract: There is provided a first dock for a portable hard disk, where the first dock is connectable to a host device. There is also provided a corresponding method for accessing content on the host device during use of the dock. It is advantageous that the host device is able to access content from portable hard disks that are docked with the first dock and a second dock.

Abstract: A handheld computing device includes a handheld memory for storing at least one handheld application. A handheld processing module executes the handheld application. A physical docking interface facilitates co-processing with an extended processing module of an extended computer unit in a physical docked mode, when the handheld computing unit is coupled to the extended computer unit via the physical docking interface. A quasi docking interface facilitates co-processing with the extended processing module in a quasi docked mode when the handheld computing unit is coupled to the extended computer unit via the quasi docking interface. A graphical user interface presents a selectable quasi docking interface graphic for display to a user and responds to a user selection of the selectable quasi docking interface graphic by generating a quasi docking command. The quasi docking interface couples the handheld computing unit to the extended computing unit in response to the quasi docking command.

Abstract: Sleeves for different portable electronic devices (portable media players, wireless telephones, handheld computers, etc.) adapt the outer contours of the devices such that all can fit within the pocket of a standard device dock. Each sleeve situates its portable electronic device within the pocket of the dock such that at least one of its power/communications ports is situated at a standard location. The device dock then also accommodates a connector which fits within the dock pocket, and which has power/communications ports situated at the standard location, such that when the sleeved device is inserted into the pocket, its power/communications ports interface with the power/communications ports of the connector. The connector can incorporate data storage devices, power supplies, interface cables extending to other devices (such as personal computers, stereo systems, etc.) such that it lends the functionality of these devices to the sleeved device situated within the pocket.

Abstract: An information processing apparatus configured to connect an external device in conformity with a predetermined interface specification, includes: a control LSI configured to control signal output to an external device effectively connected; and a CPU configured to control the operation within the apparatus including the control LSI as a whole; wherein the CPU includes an interface circuit connected to a detecting unit configured to detect the validity of connection to an external device, a control LSI control unit configured to control reset of the control LSI, and release of the reset state of the control LSI according to the detection result of the detecting unit, and the control LSI.

Abstract: A computer dock has a lock slot and media on which driver code is encoded. When a lock is inserted into the slot, it causes a switch to open so as to disconnect the media from a docking port of the dock. When the lock is not inserted into the slot, the media is connected to the docking port.

Abstract: A docking station for a handheld computer is provided. The docking station is installed in a wall and has multiple buttons that can send command signals to the handheld computer. The buttons could be programmed to provide a variety of different signals to the handheld computer, but generally allow a user to operate and manage the computer while it is docked. The docking station can also receive commands or other signals from the handheld computer and increase the functionality of the computer, for example by projecting a movie onto a screen, by transmitting music to a remote speaker or by connecting the computer to a network. In some embodiments, multiple docking stations could be networked together to allow for a dramatic increase in the functionality of the computer.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing I/O support to a computer system and a method of use thereof is disclosed. The apparatus in accordance with the present invention includes an internal control element located within the apparatus. The control element allows the apparatus in accordance with the present invention to relinquish ownership of the associated I/O devices for the purpose of being used by another computer. Accordingly, through the use of the apparatus in accordance with the present invention, expensive KVM switches and cabling, along with the accompanying I/O devices, are no longer needed to provide I/O support for computer networks. A first aspect of the present invention provides an apparatus for providing I/O support to a computer system. The apparatus comprises an I/O device and an internal control element coupled to the I/O device for relinquishing ownership of the I/O device from the apparatus to the computer network.