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: Method for ‘Cool-Swap’, ‘Warm-Swap’ and ‘Hot-Swap’ of ‘Fixed’ ‘System’ hard disk(s) in and out of the computer and for re-cycling the computer between ‘diskly’ state to ‘diskless’ state by combining the following features in one way or the other: separating the power supply of the ‘Fixed’ ‘System’ hard disk(s) from the internal power supply that is supplying power to other components of the computer, in particular the motherboard; taking the operating system, capable of being taken to run as ramdisk-based operating system, in control of the computer to run as ramdisk-based operating system; putting the computer into different power management states; and issuing commands or instructions for logical disconnection and/or re-connection of hard disk(s).

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: An expansion unit detachably assembled to an electronic device is provided. The electronic device has a device connector on one side thereof. The expansion unit for the electronic device includes a base, a pivoting mechanism, and an expansion unit connector. The pivoting mechanism is located on one side of the base, and includes a shaft and a bearing fitting therewith. The expansion unit connector is disposed in the shaft and rotated along with the shaft in the bearing, and is detachably and electrically connected to the device connector. When the expansion unit connector is connected to the device connector, the position of the electronic device relative to the base may be adjusted by the pivoting mechanism.

Abstract: A portable computer adapted for electrical connection to a docking station having multiple power modes of operation is described. The portable computer has one or more CPU chips which have at least two power modes of operation, a low power mode and a high power mode. When the portable computer is operated as a stand-alone computer, it operates in the low power mode. When the portable computer is operated while electrically connected to the docking station, it operates in a high power mode. The docking station has greater cooling capacity than the portable computer alone to provide enhanced cooling of the high power mode of operation.

Abstract: A back support board is pivotable between a flat state and a standing state. A support interposition board lies flat together with the back support board and a base board when the back support board 420 is in the flat state. A front support board is pivotable between a flat state and a standing state.

Abstract: A base device meant to cooperate with one of a plurality of exchangeable docking adapters to enable the base device to cooperate with a personal portable device docked with the docking adapter to perform an audio/visual task. The base device incorporates a programmable logic that is programmed with a configuration data specifying a configuration of interconnections to enable the cooperation between the base device and the personal portable device, and may further incorporate a processor to execute a sequence of instructions of a routine causing the processor to cooperate with the personal portable device through the docking adapter to perform the task.

Abstract: A computer docking station is provided for supporting and electrically coupling to a portable computer that includes a docking connector and an aperture at least partly defining a carrying handle for the computer. The docking station includes a body with a cradle portion configured to support a portion of the computer and having a connector operable to electrically couple with the docking connector of the computer. The body further includes an arm portion sized and configured to be received in the aperture in the computer. A latching member is coupled with the arm portion and is movable between a first position relative to the arm portion, in which the arm portion can be inserted into or removed from the aperture in the portable computer, and a second position relative to the arm portion, in which the arm portion cannot be removed from the aperture in the portable computer.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a memory unit, a microcontroller, a first communication port providing a first communication path between the apparatus and a computer system, and a second communication port providing a second communication path between the apparatus and a peripheral device. The peripheral device is also communicatively linked with the computer system via a third communication path that bypasses the apparatus. Control of the peripheral device is subject to the apparatus.

Abstract: A docking system Including a clocking assembly which is able to surround and at least partially protect a handheld device such as a PDA or a smartphone, on In particular an IPho?e, as made by Apple Inq, whilst providing means for connection of a probe unit to the handheld device. The probe unit has a data acquisition function.

Abstract: An analog/digital switching circuit for connecting a primary electronic device to a peripheral electronic device, including D+ and D? signal lines connected to a primary electronic device, a first analog/digital switch connected to the D+ signal line, for multiplexing an input D+ signal to an output USB data signal or audio left or right signal, the multiplexed signal feeding into a peripheral device connector for connecting the primary device to a peripheral electronic device, a second analog/digital switch connected to the D? signal line, for multiplexing an input D? signal to an output USB data signal or audio right or left signal, the multiplexed signal feeding into the peripheral device connector, a headset left signal line connected to the primary device and to the output audio left signal of the first analog/digital switch, a headset right signal line connected to the primary device and to the output audio right signal of the second analog/digital switch, a first USB signal line connected to a USB conn

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 system for maintaining a large number of Handheld Electronic Devices (HEDs) includes a drawer having a divider structure configured to define compartments that are sized to hold the HEDs while the HEDs are stored in the drawer. A 20 port USB hub is provided in the drawer so that 20 HEDs may be connected to the USB hub while stored in the drawer. The USB hub allows the HEDs to be charged at a low rate while being synchronized with a computer and at a high rate when not being synchronized. The USB hub is designed using a tree structure of available USB hub chips to enable a larger number of USB ports. A microcontroller is provided to control the manner in which the computer is allowed to recognize the HEDs connected to the USB ports.

Abstract: An embodiment of a handset cradle includes a base component and a handset component configured to couple with the base component. The handset component provides an interface with a particular type of handset selected from a plurality of handset types. This interface enables an exchange of data between the base component and a handset interfacing with the handset component.

Abstract: First and second portions of a docking system are releasably connected with one another using at least one latch mechanism that can be reusably released either from the first portion of the docking system or from the second portion of the docking system.

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 holster provides a carrier for removable storing a portable electronic device, such as a cellular phone, PDA or MP3 player, and a fastener for securing the carrier to the user's clothing or bag. The holster includes a docking station inside the carrier and a pair of guide rails extending from the docking station to guide a device into electrical contact with the docking station. The docking station and rails are preferably pivotally mounted to the carrier to that they can be pivoted for convenient and easy insertion and removal of a device from aligned contact with the docking station. The dock equipped holster can then provide several power supply options for the user, including solar cells along an exterior surface of the carrier, wireless charging tags or pass through power cord ports, as well as data port and audio port pass through.

Abstract: A system for detecting a peripheral device is used to detect whether the peripheral device is completely inserted into a peripheral interface slot of a mother board before booting. When the peripheral device is inserted into the peripheral interface slot, the system judges whether the peripheral device is completely inserted into the peripheral interface slot according to a potential of fins of the peripheral interface slot. If the system detects that the peripheral device has not been completely inserted into the peripheral interface slot before booting, a booting procedure of the mother board is interrupted and an alarm signal is output.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for providing a connector system are disclosed. The exemplary device may have system and device flow contacts on the system and device connectors, respectively. A first set contacts and a second set of contacts may be electrically connected to each other to verify that system and device contacts are properly mated to each other. A controller linked to a contact circuit may regulate the power and/or signals provided to an end device.

Abstract: An accessory for an electronic device detects manipulation of a user input of the device and alters an operating parameter of the accessory in response to the detected manipulation of the device's controls. The accessory is preferably an FM transmitter designed to be coupled to a portable media player such that an audio signal from the player is broadcast by the accessory. The user controls of the player can be used to select a transmission frequency of the accessory. The accessory can also preferably control the display of the device such that an image corresponding to the selected transmission frequency is generated by the accessory and displayed on a screen of the player.

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 modular computer includes a display with a docking station on its back side. A CPU module connects to the docking station. Peripheral modules connect with the resulting display/CPU assembly so that the peripheral modules contact the back side of the display screen.

Abstract: A data communication system including a portable electronic device, a server device and a cradle device for mediating transmission and reception of data between the portable electronic device and the server device.

Abstract: A computing device having a unique form factor and adapted for connecting to an external device is described. The computing device includes external connector(s), computing node(s), a power unit, and a flexible enclosure structure encasing them. The enclosure structure is made of flexible materials so that the computing device forms a physically integrated unit free of a rigid frame and can be mechanically supported by its external connectors without a chassis. At least one computing node has a computing state machine and programs that controls the behavior of the computing nodes at least during a connection event and a disconnection event. The computing device can be hot-swapped and function properly between these events. Also described is a reconfigurable computing system that includes one or more computing devices described above and one or more host computers, as well as programming techniques for accomplishing hot swapping of the computing devices.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, an electronic apparatus includes a housing, a battery pack, an ODD unit having a thickness smaller than the battery pack, and an additional device contained in the housing. The battery pack is arranged in a back section of the housing. The ODD unit is arranged to be one-sidedly shifted to a front section in the housing, and includes a front end portion opposed to the front section, and a back end portion opposed to the battery pack. The additional device is away from the front end portion of the ODD unit, and overlaps the back end portion of the ODD unit in the vertical direction.

Abstract: Spa apparatuses are provided. In this regard, a representative spa apparatus, among others, includes a basin structure and housing. The housing has an outer surface that has a partial oval shape and an opening that is located in front of the housing and designed to contain a chair. The housing is coupled to the basin structure at a bottom portion of the housing.

Abstract: An electronic device bearing seat includes a casing, a hook, a first resilient element, an ejector, a second resilient element, a pivot, a connecting rod and an ejecting button. The casing has a first opening and a second opening. The hook is movably provided in the first opening and includes a first withstanding post and a recess. The first resilient element is disposed between the casing and the hook. The ejector is movably provided in the second opening and is detachably fastened in the recess. The ejector includes a second withstanding post. The second resilient element is disposed between the casing and the ejector. The shaft is disposed in the casing. The connecting rod is rotatably disposed at and passed by the pivot and pushes against the first and second withstanding post. The ejecting button is movably disposed on the casing and abuts against the connecting rod.

Abstract: A height adjustment mechanism disposed in a body is provided, which includes two axle seats disposed on the body, a spindle, two support parts fixed on the spindle, and a stop component. Each of the support parts has a fitting hole, and the spindle is rotatably disposed in the body, and drives the support parts to rotate simultaneously, the spindle has a positioning part having a plurality of grooves, and each of the two support parts has a plurality of asymmetric end surfaces. Any one of the end surfaces is selectively pressed against a plane, such that different height differences exist between the body and the plane. The stop component is corresponding to the positioning part, and is movably disposed in the body, and the stop component moves between a stop position that is clamped in the grooves and a release position where the spindle is allowed to rotate freely.

Abstract: The present invention features a non-peripherals-based processing control unit having an encasement module that is very small and durable compared to conventional computer encasement structures. The process control unit is capable of being incorporated into various devices and/or environments, of accepting applied and impact loads, of functioning as a load bearing structure, as well as being able to be processed coupled together with one or more processing control units to provide scaled processing power. The processing control unit of the present invention further features a unique method of cooling using natural convection, as well as utilizing known cooling means, such as liquid or thermoelectric cooling.

Abstract: A method for protecting a connection interface in a computer-docking assembly in which a computer-support assembly is partially rotated about an arm assembly while moving the computer-support assembly toward a connection interface of the base station. The computer-support assembly is generally aligned with the connection interface of the base station to posture the computer-support assembly in proximity to the interface connection of the base station for protecting the interface connection.

Abstract: A method of managing telephone calls via a portable computing device (PCD) and a PCD docking station is disclosed and may include receiving a call via the PCD, determining whether the PCD is docked with the PCD docking station, and ringing the call through one or more PCD docking station speakers when the PCD is docked. Moreover, the method may include displaying caller identification information at a PCD docking station display. The method may also include determining whether the call is answered through a headset or the PCD docking station, connecting the call through the headset, connecting the call through the PCD docking station, and providing full duplex calling through the one or more PCD docking station speakers and a PCD docking station microphone.

Abstract: A portable computing device (PCD) docking station is disclosed and may include an upper housing portion, a lower housing portion hingedly connected to the upper housing portion, and a PCD engagement mechanism formed in the lower housing portion, the upper housing portion, or a combination thereof, wherein the PCD engagement mechanism is configured to removably engage a PCD when the PCD is docked with the PCD docking station. Further, the portable computing device may include a wired dock connection formed in the lower housing portion, the upper housing portion, or a combination thereof. The wired dock connection may be configured to provide connectivity between the PCD and the PCD docking station.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for adding an autonomous controller to an existing architecture such as by way of example, portable devices such as cell phones, MP3 players, and digital cameras. A circuit interposed between the memory card and the system controller of the device is controllable to couple the memory card to the system controller, or to couple the memory card to a high speed I/O controller on the circuit. When the memory card is coupled to the high speed I/O controller on the circuit, the circuit provides signals to the system controller indicative of a memory card removal event. In systems having an I/O connection such as a USB connection, the circuit also disconnects that connection from the system controller, provides signals to the system control indicative of a USB disconnect and connects the I/O connection to the memory card through a high speed data transfer unit to provide a higher speed I/O capability. Various features and capabilities are disclosed.

Abstract: A connecting device for detachably holding an electronic apparatus having a housing formed in a plate shape and serving as an interface for a signal input/output between the electronic apparatus and at least one external device. The connecting device includes a base portion and a support plate coupled with the base portion. The device includes a connector that can be provided on the surface of the support plate and to which the signal input/output terminal is connected and a guide member that is supported by the lower end of the support plate so as to freely turn in the direction of moving close to and away from the support plate with the lower end as the axis and that is in contact with both of a part of the lower end surface and a part of the back surface of the electronic apparatus when the electronic apparatus is attached.

Abstract: A portable computer adapted for electrical connection to a docking station having multiple power modes of operation is described. The portable computer has one or more CPU chips which have at least two power modes of operation, a low power mode and a high power mode. When the portable computer is operated as a stand-alone computer, it operates in the low power mode. When the portable computer is operated while electrically connected to the docking station, it operates in a high power mode. The docking station has greater cooling capacity than the portable computer alone to provide enhanced cooling of the high power mode of operation.

Abstract: A portable computer adapted for electrical connection to a docking station having multiple power modes of operation is described. The portable computer has one or more CPU chips which have at least two power modes of operation, a low power mode and a high power mode. When the portable computer is operated as a stand-alone computer, it operates in the low power mode. When the portable computer is operated while electrically connected to the docking station, it operates in a high power mode. The docking station has greater cooling capacity than the portable computer alone to provide enhanced cooling of the high power mode of operation.

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 handheld computing device includes a handheld memory for storing at least one handheld application that includes a file transfer application and for storing at least one handheld file. A handheld processing module executes the file transfer application. A physical docking interface accesses at least one extended file stored in an extended computer unit in a physical docked mode. A wireless local area network (WLAN) transceiver communicates with at least one remote unit via WLAN communications. When the handheld computing unit is in the physical docking mode, the file transfer application provides the remote unit access to the handheld file and the extended file via WLAN communications. When the handheld computing unit is uncoupled from the extended computer, the file transfer application provides the remote unit access to the handheld file via WLAN communications.

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: A micro-watt class sensing device uses host-computer Input/Output (I/O) capabilities when transferring data to/from the host-computer directly from/to memory in the sensing device. This capability allows data to be directly transferred (downloaded/uploaded) to/from the host system at a higher rate when a host system is present.

Abstract: A portable computer adapted for electrical connection to a docking station having multiple power modes of operation is described. The portable computer has one or more CPU chips which have at least two power modes of operation, a low power mode and a high power mode. When the portable computer is operated as a stand-alone computer, it operates in the low power mode. When the portable computer is operated while electrically connected to the docking station, it operates in a high power mode. The docking station has greater cooling capacity than the portable computer alone to provide enhanced cooling of the high power mode of operation.

Abstract: A connector interface system for a communication device is disclosed. The interface includes a docking connector. The docking connector includes first make/last break contacts that minimize internal damage to the internal electronics. The docking connector also includes specific keying arrangement to prevent noncompliant connectors from being plugged in, and thereby minimizes potential damage to the multi-communication device. The connector interface system also includes a remote connector which provides for the ability to output audio, input audio, provides I/O serial protocol, and to provide an output video. Embodiments of the present invention allow for a standard headphone cable to be plugged in but also for special remote control cables, microphone cables, video cables could be utilized in such a system. The connector interface system also includes a serial protocol to control device features. These controls help a user sort and search for data more efficiently within the device.

Abstract: A system and method for providing DP capabilities on a computer system is provided. The DP capabilities include hot-add and hot-replace of various hardware components such as a processor, memory, and an I/O device to the computer system. The namespace of the hardware components on a computer system is separately created and stored. Some portion of the hardware components is prevented from being recognized during an initial boot. The unrecognized hardware components can be recognized by manipulation of the namespace modules.

Abstract: A portable computer adapted for electrical connection to a docking station having multiple power modes of operation is described. The portable computer has one or more CPU chips which have at least two power modes of operation, a low power mode and a high power mode. When the portable computer is operated as a stand-alone computer, it operates in the low power mode. When the portable computer is operated while electrically connected to the docking station, it operates in a high power mode. The docking station has greater cooling capacity than the portable computer alone to provide enhanced cooling of the high power mode of operation.

Abstract: A keyboard sled adapted to communicatively interact with a portable computer system. In one embodiment, the keyboard sled is comprised of an integral receiving portion adapted to mechanically and electronically receive a portable computer system. An interface connector is disposed within the receiving portion and adapted to provide a communicative link between the keyboard sled and a portable computer system, when a portable computer system has been inserted in the receiving portion. The keyboard sled further has at least one mounting hook disposed within the receiving portion for providing positive retention of a portable computer system when coupled with the keyboard sled. A keyboard portion also present on the keyboard sled and also coupled with the interface connector provides input keys. The keyboard sled is also comprised of an integral data storage access slot which is adapted to provide access to a data storage device receptacle of the portable computer system.

Abstract: A digital player interface device with exchangeable adapter is provided to comprise an adapter providing with a through hole for load-on/off of a digital player and a first and a second engaging parts on its both end; an adapter-fixing element having a guiding rib and a concavity with a fixing spring; and a chassis having a guiding groove, a restriction groove and a adapter snapper. When the adapter is sliding on the chassis, the adapter pushes the adapter-fixing element moving along the guiding groove, and the fixing spring is released from the restriction groove to engage the first engaging part of the adapter. When the adapter is removed from the chassis, the adapter-fixing element moves back to a home position.

Abstract: A hard drive includes an external hard drive and a stand integrally formed with the external hard drive. The external hard drive includes a housing maintaining a hard drive assembly configured to exchange data with a computer system, with the housing having opposing first and second major faces. The stand includes a first leg configured to project from the first major face of the housing and a second leg configured to project from the second major face of the housing.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for converting, through add-on hardware and code, any of a variety of types and vintages of general purpose personal, laptop, or notebook computers to be an efficient, secure, dedicated system which run independently of the host system's resident operating system.

Abstract: A first docking interface includes a substrate. A first power receiver is formed in the substrate. The first power receiver is operable to be automatically docked to a power provider, such as a burn rack, and to receive power from the power provider. A first power transmitter formed in the substrate and coupled to the first power receiver. The first power transmitter is operable to receive power from the first power receiver and transmit power to an information handling system (IHS).