Abstract: An electronic device with automatic switching input interfaces and a switching method thereof. The electronic device supports an Advanced Configuration Power Interface (ACPI), and includes a display unit, a storage unit, a memory unit, and an embedded controller. The display unit can be changed to a first position or a second position, and sends a signal to an embedded control unit when the display unit is at different positions. A management program running in the electronic device queries the ACPI and the embedded control unit to check the position and state of the display unit, so as to automatically load and run a corresponding program of a virtual input interface or a physical input interface into the memory unit, and remove the other program from the memory unit at the same time.

Abstract: A process control system is provided having a plurality of I/O devices in communication using a bus. A primary redundant I/O device and a secondary redundant I/O device are coupled to the bus, where the secondary redundant I/O device is programmed to detect a primary redundant I/O device fault. The secondary redundant I/O device, upon detecting the primary redundant I/O device fault, publishes a primary redundant I/O device fault message on the bus. The controller may deactivate the primary redundant I/O device and activate the secondary redundant I/O device responsive to the primary redundant I/O device fault message.

Abstract: The present invention permits registry settings and other pertinent shared artifacts to be distributed across many different computing devices. More specifically, the invention permits applications installed on an external drive to be activated, when the external drive is connected to a main computing device. When connected, a drive agent can detect registry settings stored on the external drive and can synchronize these settings with a main registry of the main computing device. Further, interface elements, such as icons for the new applications can be added to a GUI of the main computing device. Once the registry settings are included in the main registry, applications on the external drive can used from the main computing device. When the external drive is detached from the main computing device, the device agent can automatically remove all registry settings, shared artifacts, and interface elements.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for connectivity in networks configured for non-disruptive disconnection of one or more peripheral devices are disclosed. The apparatus includes a first logical layer associated with a first peripheral device, the first peripheral device arranged in a network configured for non-disruptive disconnection of at least one peripheral device, at least a second logical layer associated with at least a second peripheral device, the at least a second peripheral device arranged in the network configured for non-disruptive disconnection of at least one peripheral device, at least one power source associated with the first logical layer and the at least a second logical layer, and a first electrically conductive link coupled to the first logical layer, the at least a second logical layer, and the at least one power source associated with the first logical layer and the at least a second logical layer.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for dynamic allocation of DMA buffers in the DRAM banks of an I/O adaptor. The method and apparatus determine the functional status of the adaptor, allocate critical, volatile DMA buffers in non-critical DRAM banks if the adaptor is fully functional, and allocate critical, volatile DMA buffers in critical DRAM banks if the adaptor is partially functional.

Abstract: A signal line used in a key matrix is shared between a signal line used in a first display unit and a signal line used in a second display unit. Two types of periodical pulse signals are superimposed on a level signal which indicates data displayed on the second display unit. One type is a pulse signal for detecting key input and another type is a pulse signal which indicates data displayed on the first display unit.

Abstract: A protocol adapter for transferring diagnostic messages between networks within a vehicle and a host computer. The protocol adapter operates as a voltage translator to support J1708 software. The protocol adapter also recognizes when the protocol adapter is connected to a host computer running the J1939 and/or J1708 protocols and automatically switches to that protocol.

Abstract: A system and method for reducing jitter during an optical navigation operation operates to automatically switch the current resolution based on jitter-resolution correlation data.

Abstract: An accessory computing device or display detachable from another computing device such as a mobile computing device. The accessory computing device displays data from the mobile computing device including notifications relating to electronic mail messages, voice mail messages, stock prices, sports scores, etc. A user interacts with the accessory computing device to control the mobile computing device by, for example, replying to messages, controlling a game executing on the mobile computing device, or silencing a ringer on the mobile computing device. In some embodiments, a plurality of the accessory computing devices interact with the same mobile computing device (e.g., in a multi-player game or device location tracking application executing on the mobile computing device).

Abstract: A memory card of one published standard, such as the Multi-Media Card (MMC) or Secure Digital Card (SD), is modified to include the function of a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) according to another published standard. The controller of the memory card communicates between electrical contacts on the outside of the card and both the memory and the SIM. In one specific form, the memory card has the physical configuration of the current Plug-in SIM card with a few external contacts added to accommodate the memory controller and data memory. In another specific form, the memory card has the physical configuration of the current SD card, including external contacts.

Abstract: In an information handling system, a universal serial bus (USB) key emulation system includes a USB hub operable to communicate with a USB host, a USB bus communicatively coupled with the USB hub, a USB controller communicatively coupled with the USB bus via a set of endpoints, and a USB virtual media module communicatively coupled with the USB controller and operable to communicate data between the USB controller and a plurality of data storage devices as if the plurality of data storage devices are a single USB key.

Abstract: A hot key register request is created in an extensible firmware interface application, the hot key register request has a key number and a pointer to a hot key function for the new hot key. The hot key register request is sent to a keyboard driver in the extensible firmware interface. A hot key table is created in working storage from the hot key table in the keyboard driver, and a hot key entry is inserted into the hot key table in working storage. The entry includes the key number and pointer from the hot key register request to add the new hot key as a registered hot key. A success message is sent from the keyboard driver to the extensible firmware interface application. The success message indicates the new hot key has been registered.

Abstract: An interface is provided between a handwriting receiving panel and an auto complete process. A user writes onto the handwriting receiving panel which recognizes the handwritten text. The handwritten text is forwarded to the auto complete process which provides suggested content to the user based on the handwritten text. The user can select the suggested content for use with another application. Alternatively, the user may add additional information to the handwriting receiving panel to enable the auto complete process to provide more or different suggested content.

Abstract: An apparatus for and method of providing haptics of an image displayed through an image unit. The apparatus includes: a touch unit checking whether a user has touched a portion of the displayed image, and searching for a position of the portion when the user touches the portion; and a magnetic force changing unit changing magnetic forces in response to haptic information corresponding to the position and expressing the changed magnetic forces through the image unit. The haptics of the portion are provided through the change of the expressed magnetic forces.

Abstract: Apparatus, methods, systems, and computer-readable media are provided for remotely controlling the connection between a host computer and a multitude of connected devices. One apparatus described herein includes a multiplexer that has a host port for connection to a host computer, device ports for connection to the devices, and control lines. The multiplexer is operative to connect a device port to the host port based upon the status of the control lines. The apparatus further includes a controller connected to the multiplexer. The controller has an input interface and is operative to receive control data on the input interface that identifies a device port on the apparatus that should be connected to the host port. In response to receiving such control data, the controller is operative to place signals on the control lines that cause the multiplexer to connect the identified device port to the host port.

Abstract: A mouse with expandable memory capacity includes a button set with a plurality of buttons, a build-in memory, a card connector, and a controller. Therein, the card connector is for connecting with a memory card. The controller is connected to the button set, the build-in memory, and the card connector, wherein the controller is for controlling the operation of the build-in memory and for controlling the operation of the memory card so as to store a button instruction set. The controller further controls and uses the memory card to form an expansion memory for the build-in memory. The button instruction set records an operation instruction that is represented by combinations formed from one or more of the buttons. Therefore, the goal of expanding memory capacity of the mouse is achieved.

Abstract: An accessory for use with a portable computing device is provided. The accessory includes a keypad and a pedestal to house the control circuitry and provide mechanical stability for the accessory. The accessory includes a metal mass that performs dual functions of providing the mass for stability as well as acting as a ground connection for the keypad and other control circuitry. The accessory includes a connector for interfacing with a portable computing device and an additional connector for interfacing with an additional accessory.

Abstract: A distributed blade computer system and a method for operating a distributed blade computer system. More specifically, a computer system having one or more blades configured to operate as stand-alone computers are coupled to an infrastructure which includes one or more video modules. When a remote user wishes to implement video functions with a blade, a management subsystem in the infrastructure allocates a video module and couples the video module to the requested blade such that the blade can implement the video functions of the video module.

Abstract: An automatic testing system and method for judging whether a universal serial bus device is configured to a computer are provided. The automatic testing system includes a computer and a testing device for testing the universal serial bus device. By judging whether the universal serial bus device is configured to the computer, the automatic testing system could determine the timing of performing an automatic testing procedure on the universal serial bus device.

Abstract: Computer program products and methods for efficient handling of queued-direct input/output (QDIO) requests and completions at an adapter in communication with an I/O device are provided. A method includes accessing a queue with one or more storage block address lists (SBALs), where each SBAL includes a plurality of storage block address list entries (SBALEs) and is associated with an SLSB. The method further includes reading an SBAL count in one of the SBALEs, where the SBAL count indicates a number of the SBALs forming an I/O request to the I/O device. In response to determining that the SBAL count is greater than one, a number of the SBALs from the queue and associated SLSBs equivalent to the SBAL count are prefetched without waiting for a notification of completion of each of the SBALs forming the I/O request, and states of the associated SLSBs transition from adapter-owned to program-owned.

Abstract: A data storage system has a first storage unit and a second storage unit for storing the same data received from a plurality of higher-level devices. The first storage unit transmits sequence information representative of a sequence for storing the data received from the higher-level devices, to said second storage unit.

Abstract: A keyboard, video, mouse (KVM) switch implements a picture-in-picture (PIP) function to allow desktop images from multiple computers to be displayed on the user console monitor. The KVM switch switches a first one of the multiple computers to the user console in a manner. The KVM switch further establishes a desktop sharing and remote control relationship between the first computer and each of the other computers, so that the first computer acts as a client which can see the desktop of the other computers (servers) and control them. The desktop images of the other computers are displayed on the console monitor as windows, which can be moved and re-sized. Audio data from the other computer are also transmitted to the user console. The PIP function is primarily implemented in software and no special video processing hardware is required in the KVM switch.

Abstract: The present invention provides an intelligent, modular multimedia computer management system for coupling a series of remote computers to one or more user workstations to allow each user workstation to selectively access and control one or more remote computers. The computer management system incorporates a centralized switching system that receives keyboard, cursor control device, audio, and auxiliary peripheral device signals from the user workstation and transmits and applies the signals to the remote computer in the same manner as if the keyboard, cursor control device, audio input source, or auxiliary peripheral device of the user workstation were directly coupled to the remote computer. Also, the user workstation receives audio signals and auxiliary peripheral device signals from the remote computer. In addition, the multimedia computer management system transmits video signals from the remote computer over an extended range for display on the video monitor of the user workstation.

Abstract: Apparatus, methods, and systems provide for remote management of a set of local computers by transferring screen frames produced by the local computer for viewing at a remote computer. A redirection module captures and transmits video signals from a local computer through over a network, such as the Internet, to a remote computer where the remote computer produces a display that contains the screen frames being transferred. The module is configured for use with and installation within a keyboard, video, and mouse switch configured for receiving the module. The redirection module is further configured for use with and installation on a server-blade to allow remote management of the server-blade.

Abstract: A method for preventing oversubscription to a file storage by multiple processes, whether such processes are operating on one node with directly attached storage or on several nodes of a computing cluster sharing a storage area network. Processes or nodes issue requests for bandwidth reservations to a controller daemon. The controller daemon maintains records of all existing bandwidth reservations and ensures that new reservations are granted only if a qualified bandwidth of the file storage will not be exceeded. The qualified bandwidth is empirically determined to take into account installation specific hardware configurations, workloads, and quality of service requirements.

Abstract: A switching device for automatically sharing a pointing input device between a plurality of computers is described. The switching device includes an input for receiving relative pointer position data from the pointing input device and a plurality of outputs, each connectable to a respective one of a plurality of computers. A controller receives the input relative position data and converts the relative pointer position data to absolute pointer position data. Which of the plurality of computers to route input data to is determined based on the absolute pointer position data. Input data is routed to one of the plurality of computers so that a cursor position on a display device of the computer can be controlled by the pointing input device.

Abstract: The present invention related to a mobile device and, more specifically, to a mobile device for communicating with an electronic device and a method for generating an action plan via the mobile device.

Abstract: A system for controlling multiple computers comprising a first host computer coupled to a first keyboard, a first cursor control device and a first display screen with a first display boundary; a second host computer coupled to a second keyboard, a second cursor control device and a second display screen with a second display boundary; and a switching unit having a switch coupled between the first host computer and the second host computer; wherein a pointer controlled by the first cursor control device is located within the first display screen with the first display boundary associated the first host computer; wherein the switching unit detects the first pointer controlled by the first cursor control device moving out of the first display boundary of the first display screen after the switch is activated, the second host computer associated with the second display screen is controlled by the first keyboard and the first cursor control device through the switching unit and the first host computer.

Abstract: A virtual media (VM) method for mounting a folder stored in a storage device of a client for accessed by a server as a virtual drive. The client assigns virtual cluster indices to each file in the folder, and creates a file-cluster index table to store the assigned virtual cluster indices. The client also creates a VM file system complying with the FAT file system standard except that only subdirectories and no data files are stored in the VM FAT file system. The VM FAT table uses virtual cluster indices rather than actual cluster indices. Data written by the server are stored in a temporary data area without modifying the actual file system of the storage device. The virtual sectors requested to be written are “dirty”, and the dirty sector numbers and corresponding temporary sector numbers are stored in a dirty sector index table for use in a write-back step.

Abstract: A mechanism for modifying resources in a logically partitioned data processing system is provided. A request to modify resources associated with a virtual adapter allocated on a physical adapter is invoked. The resources associated with the virtual adapter comprise a subset of the physical adapter resources. The request to modify the physical adapter is conveyed to the physical adapter. Responsive to receipt of the request by the physical adapter, the physical adapter modifies the resources allocated to the virtual adapter.

Abstract: A mobile device is configured to maintain data synchronization with a host server over a wireless network for user data of a host application program associated with a user account. The user account is associated with user account data which includes an encryption/decryption key, and the user data is communicated over the wireless network in an encrypted format in accordance with the encryption/decryption key. For the data synchronization, the mobile device regularly causes the user data associated with the user account to be stored in memory in a decrypted format for use with the client application program of the mobile device. The mobile device further causes a copy of the user data to be stored in the removable memory card in the encrypted format, for use in securely transferring the user data to an alternate mobile device for use with a client application program of the alternate mobile device.

Abstract: A USB peripheral device may automatically launch an application residing in its memory after it is connected to a host or after restarting the host if the USB flash drive has already been connected. Alternatively, the USB peripheral \device can automatically launch an application residing on the host or on a network, which is accessible by the host. The USB peripheral device has a USB interface and a controller, which is operative to execute instructions for sending and receiving messages through the USB interface. The controller is further operative, when executing the instructions, to send to a host a stream of emulated keystrokes, which emulated keystrokes cause the host to generate and execute a startup script. Embodiments of the invention include a USB peripheral device able to control a host and a method of using a USB peripheral device to control a host.

Abstract: A KVM switch apparatus with bridging function includes a processor with a keyboard connection interface and a mouse connection interface; a keyboard/mouse switching circuit; a USB bridge unit and at least one computer interface unit electrically connected to at least one computer. The keyboard/mouse switching circuit and the USB bridge unit are selectively connected, whereby a switching of bridging channels is provided between at least two computers.

Abstract: The Smart Mouse technology is a computer mouse with its own computer, memory, Software, OS, networking and GUI. The Mousetop Window GUI is the viewport into the mouse and gateway between the mouse and computer(s). The mouse becomes a computer network where data can be stored and retrieved in the mouse buffer memory, mouse memory or between connected computer(s). Software and licenses can be served from the mouse allowing the sharing of software and licenses across multiple computers in proximity or remotely located. Shared cursor switching, drag and drop data and other interactive functions are available. Profile storage in the mouse allows for multiple configurations of networking or isolating the window. Concepts like keyboard switching, biometric access, child security and numerous other novel concepts are included with this technology. Added physical features like removable memory and connectivity to other hand held technology like Iphone or Ipad provide expanded communication functionality.

Abstract: The smart net system has a smart net controller and one or more computers each with a smart net key. The smart net keys spawn a smart window on each computer and communicate wirelessly with the smart net controller. Via the smart net key, computer users can transmit presentations to a video display or projector attached to the smart net controller and/or communicates with other electronic devices connected to the smart net system. Data such as files, presentations, or instant messages can be shared among users by way of the smart window. The need for sharing a video cable or a computer or printing up handouts for distribution is reduced or eliminated. The efficiency of conferences, lectures, classes and workgroups is increased. Smart net for the small office provides network like communications without the traditional networking hardware allowing communications between computers without allowing computers access to each other's information.

Abstract: A computer system, and related components including network interface devices, as well as methods for implementing and/or operating network interface devices to achieve network-based communications, are disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the computer system includes a network interface device, and a bus driver in communication with the network interface device. The bus driver has access to a plurality of driver programs, and the bus driver is capable of causing an installation of one such driver program on the network interface device. Also, in at least some embodiments, the bus driver facilitates communications between multiple network interface devices and an operating system of the computer system, and/or between the network interface devices and user mode applications implementing graphical user interfaces. Further, in at least some embodiments, the bus driver governs operation of the network interface devices, for example, in relation to power management and/or interrupt handling.

Abstract: Apparatus, methods, and systems provide for remote management of a set of local computers by transferring screen frames produced by the local computer for viewing at a remote computer. A redirection module captures and transmits video signals from a local computer through over a network, such as the Internet, to a remote computer where the remote computer produces a display that contains the screen frames being transferred. The module is configured for use with and installation within a keyboard, video, and mouse switch configured for receiving the module. The redirection module is further configured for use with and installation on a server-blade to allow remote management of the server-blade.

Abstract: A PCI Express-compatible flash device can include one or more flash memory modules, a controller, and an ExpressCard interface. The controller can advantageously provide PCI Express functionality as well as flash memory operations, e.g. writing, reading, or erasing, using the ExpressCard interface. A PIO interface includes sending first and second memory request packets to the flash device. The first memory request packet includes a command word setting that prepares the flash device for the desired operation. The second memory request packet triggers the operation and includes a data payload, if needed. A DMA interface includes sending the second memory request from the flash device to the host, thereby triggering the host to release the system bus for the DMA operation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system for protecting a portable computing device wherein the system comprises a device housing adapted to protectively encase a portable computing device, a protectively hardened user input device in communication with the device housing, and a protectively hardened display in communication with the device housing. When the portable computing device is encased within the device housing, a user of the portable computing device can operate the portable computing device via the protectively hardened user input device and the protectively hardened display. The device housing may further comprise sealing elements, insulating elements, and shock-absorbing elements.

Abstract: Apparatus, methods, and systems provide for remote management of a set of local computers by transferring screen frames produced by the local computer for viewing at a remote computer. A redirection module captures and transmits video signals from a local computer through over a network, such as the Internet, to a remote computer where the remote computer produces a display that contains the screen frames being transferred. The module is configured for use with and installation within a keyboard, video, and mouse switch configured for receiving the module. The redirection module is further configured for use with and installation on a server-blade to allow remote management of the server-blade.

Abstract: A wireless mobile phone is provided with one or more buttons and complementary logic to facilitate entry of encoded representations of a variable length encoding scheme of alphanumeric data. As a result, a user may use the provided facilities to engage in non-verbal communication for sensitive subject matters in the middle of a call. In one embodiment, the encoded representations are Morse codes. In another embodiment, the encoded representations are custom designed. In one embodiment, the complementary logic further facilitates echoing on a display, alphanumeric data corresponding to any entered encoded representations. Additionally, each of the code entry buttons includes one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), and the LEDs are lit to visually echo the encoded representations of the variable length encoding scheme of letters, numbers or punctuations entered through a standard input keypad.

Abstract: Disclosed is a wireless remote network management system for interfacing a series of remote devices (e.g., computers, servers, networking equipment, etc.) to one or more user workstations. The system is multifunctional to allow multiple users to control remote devices through serial access or keyboard, video, and cursor control device access via wireless and hard-wired connections. The remote devices are preferably coupled to a wireless-enabled remote management unit through a chain of computer interface modules, and each user workstation includes a wireless user station coupled to a keyboard, a video monitor and a cursor control device. The remote management unit and user stations preferably communicate via a wireless network, which enables a user workstation to access, monitor and control any of the remote devices.

Abstract: A computing system with an adaptive input mechanism that facilitates intuitive and powerful user/computer interaction is disclosed. One example embodiment includes a logic subsystem, a display link configured to connect a display subsystem to the logic subsystem, and an adaptive device link configured to operatively couple an adaptive device to the logic subsystem. The embodiment further includes an active desktop to host an active application and present the active application on the display subsystem, the active application having active focus. An active-desktop director may pass non-adaptive-device input to the active application having active focus. The embodiment further includes a hidden desktop to host a hidden application having hidden focus specific to the adaptive device while the active application has active focus on the active desktop. A hidden-desktop director may route adaptive-device input to the hidden application having hidden focus.

Abstract: Apparatus, methods, and systems provide for remote management of a set of local computers by transferring screen frames produced by the local computer for viewing at a remote computer. A redirection module captures and transmits video signals from a local computer through over a network, such as the Internet, to a remote computer where the remote computer produces a display that contains the screen frames being transferred. The module is configured for use with and installation within a keyboard, video, and mouse switch configured for receiving the module. The redirection module is further configured for use with and installation on a server-blade to allow remote management of the server-blade.

Abstract: Apparatus, methods, systems, and computer-readable media are provided for remotely controlling the connection between a host computer and a multitude of connected devices. One apparatus described herein includes a multiplexer that has a host port for connection to a host computer, device ports for connection to the devices, and control lines. The multiplexer is operative to connect a device port to the host port based upon the status of the control lines. The apparatus further includes a controller connected to the multiplexer. The controller has an input interface and is operative to receive control data on the input interface that identifies a device port on the apparatus that should be connected to the host port. In response to receiving such control data, the controller is operative to place signals on the control lines that cause the multiplexer to connect the identified device port to the host port.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention describe KVMP switch system that can individually control each peripheral device and KVM ports connected to the KVMP switch system and methods of operating the same.

Abstract: An AIO PC has its LVDS link or interface, between the mother board and the LCD, modified by the insertion of an LVDS Switch which can connect to a second LVDS source such as LCD controller which takes its input from a socket mounted on the housing of the AIO PC. The LVDS switch and LCD controller are located within the enclosure or housing of the AIO PC. The LVDS switch is controlled by a physical electromechanical switch.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a Keyboard-Video-Mouse (KVM) cable capable of indicating at least one switching status of a KVM switch for at least one computer coupled thereto. The KVM cable further comprises a set of transmission lines for transmitting indicating signals from the KVM switch to the indicator. The KVM cable comprises a plurality of connectors. A first indicator may be disposed on a first connector for indicating a console switching status. A second indicator may be disposed on a second connector for indicating a peripheral switching status. Alternatively, both the first and second indicators can be disposed on the same connector for indicating the console switching status and the peripheral switching status respectively. Moreover, a color mixing LED may also be disposed on either of the first and second connectors for indicating the console switching status and the peripheral switching status by different colors.

Abstract: A host-peripheral adaptor includes a host adaptor and a portable peripheral adaptor. The host adaptor includes a substantially flat peripheral-adaptor-side interface. The peripheral-adaptor-side interface is designed in a way that it is not easy to tamper with. The portable peripheral adaptor includes a host-adaptor-side interface that is designed to operatively connect to the peripheral-adaptor-side interface of the host adaptor. The portable peripheral adaptor also includes one or more peripheral-side interfaces for accommodating one or more peripheral devices such as a storage media. The portable peripheral adaptor and the host adaptor include a set of data lines and the host adaptor also includes circuitry for recognizing the specific type of a peripheral device and, based on its specific type, for setting a suitable communication path to transfer data between a host and the peripheral device.

Abstract: A system comprising a communication (COM) port server that, together with a COM port client, establishes COM port redirection over a network and communicates data with a serial port, at least one embedded application which is configured to communicate data via a serial port, and at least one virtual serial port application communicatively coupled to the embedded application and the COM port server. The virtual serial port application translates data communicated between the COM port server and the embedded application as if the COM port server and the embedded application were connected by a serial communication link.