Abstract: An intelligent electronic device (IED) is connected to interact with a power system to provide protection, control, and/or monitoring capabilities for the power system. The device includes a power system interface circuit for communicating with the power system and a processor coupled to the power system interface circuit. The device further includes memory storing software instructions performed by the processor for receiving electronic mail from a remote system through a communication link and for automatically transmitting electronic mail to the remote system through the communication link. The electronic mail may include information relating to operation of the power system or to operation of the intelligent electronic device.

Abstract: A method and device for displaying the condition of an information-processing device is provided. The device includes a time unit, a register unit, a display unit and a detecting mechanism. The method is to detect the condition of the information-processing device with the detecting mechanism; to store the condition information in the register unit; to display the condition through the display unit, and to update the condition information periodically by signals from the time unit.

Abstract: A method for protecting a security module includes the steps of monitoring proper insertion of the module on a device motherboard with first, second and third function units, erasing sensitive data due to an improper use or a replacement of the module with the second function unit, inhibiting the functionality of the module with the third function unit during a replacement of the security module, re-initializing the previously erased, sensitive data following proper use or replacement of the security module, and re-commissioning by enabling the function units of the security module. An arrangement implementation of the method has an unplugged status detection unit that has a circuit for resettable self-holding of a status indicator, the self-holding being triggered when the voltage level on a test voltage line deviates from a predetermined potential. A processor connected to the other function units and is programmed to identify and modify the status of the security module.

Abstract: A method, apparatus, and computer instructions for backing up data in a nonvolatile random access memory. Selected data is stored in the nonvolatile random access memory in available space in at least one electrically erasable programmable read only memory in the data processing system to form stored data. The stored data is used to restore the nonvolatile random access memory if nonvolatile random access memory becomes corrupted.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for controlling the enabling and/or disabling of an audio alarm that indicates an occurrence of a predetermined event of a power supply, such as an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). In one embodiment of the invention, the method includes programming the UPS to enable the audio alarm of the power supply during a first predetermined time period, and programming the UPS to disable the audio alarm of the power supply while the power supply is still operational during a second predetermined time period. In embodiments of the invention, the system is able to enable and disable an audio alarm during specified time periods of the day. Thus, a user can use the system to designate when an alarm will not sound so as not to disturb the user or others at an inconvenient time.

Abstract: A method for monitoring control units in a network is described, each control unit including a security function for detecting errors, a monitoring routine being assigned to each error and a plurality of monitoring routines being available, a shutdown matrix which is subdivided according to errors being assigned to the security function, at least one of the monitoring routines being selected from the plurality of monitoring routines according to the errors present in the shutdown matrix, depending on at least one first condition, the shutdown matrix containing various shutdown strategies, and on detection of at least one error by the monitoring routine, one of the shutdown strategies is carried out in the network, depending on at least the first condition and/or at least one second condition, at least one control unit in the network being shut down.

Abstract: In the microcomputer, the debug target circuit and the debugging circuit with an interface module to the in-circuit emulator are independently supplied with drive powers. Drive power is supplied to the debug target circuit and the debugging circuit, and various debug information is set by the in-circuit emulator. Thereafter, only supply of drive power to the debug target circuit is stopped. While the various debug information is held at the debugging circuit, supply of drive power to the debug target circuit is restarted. The debugging just after power throw-in is performed based on the debug information held in the debugging circuit.

Abstract: A computer system of this invention includes a power input terminal which is provided outside a personal computer, and an external fuel cell assembly connected to the power input terminal. Hence, a computer system in which water produced from the fuel cell assembly is prevented from entering the computer can be provided. A personal computer for which an operation mode for deriving the personal computer by a fuel cell assembly is prepared to prevent any trouble due to user's misunderstanding can be provided.

Abstract: An electronic system has critical circuitry, non-critical circuitry having a first section and a second section, and a power sub-system. The power sub-system has a first power assembly, a second power assembly, and a set of connections. The set of connections is configured to connect the first and second power assemblies to the critical circuitry and the non-critical circuitry such that, when the first and second power assemblies operate to power the critical and non-critical circuitry through the set of connections, (i) a failure of only the second power assembly results in the first power assembly continuing to power the critical circuitry and the first section of the non-critical circuitry, and (ii) a failure of only the first power assembly results in the second power assembly continuing to power the critical circuitry and the second section of the non-critical circuitry.

Abstract: A system for making automatic backup copies of files when a personal computer is switched off, comprises at least one personal computer, an internal or external storage unit, a principal power relay and configurable control software. The system runs a configurable backup of selected files from the computer's hard drive to the storage unit, after which the computer is switched off by cutting power to the power relay. The control software is accessed by means of a user code, which is also being required to restore encrypted backup copies.

Abstract: The disclosed embodiments relate generally to providing increased data integrity in computer systems and, more particularly, to using a system management processor to maintain the integrity of stored information. A system management processor detects an attempt to reboot the computer system and holds the system processor or processors in a reset state. While the system processor or processors are held in the reset state, the system management processor checks data such as the system BIOS to identify corruption. If the data checked by the system management processor is not corrupted, the system processor or processors are removed from the reset state and allowed to continue normal operation. If the data checked by the system management processor is corrupted, the system management processor repairs the corrupted data before removing the system processor or processors from the reset state.

Abstract: An event notification system for a plurality of power supplies coupled to a computer network is provided. In one embodiment of the invention, the notification system includes a computer system connected to the computer network, wherein the computer system includes a database, a data retrieval program, a comparison program and an electronic notification program. The data retrieval program obtains data from the plurality of power supplies. The comparison program compares the data from the plurality of power supplies with data of at least one predetermined event to determine if a predetermined event has occurred. The database stores information relating to an occurrence of the predetermined event and the number of the power supplies associated with the occurrence of the predetermined event.

Abstract: A power module for a CNI avionics system includes a rechargeable back-up battery (17) and a battery charger (9) in a back-up battery channel, a power conversion unit (11, 25, 27 and 29) in a power conditioning channel, and a semiconductor switch (23) for selectively coupling either the output of the power conditioning channel unit or the back-up battery channel through to the module output (24) and the electronics of external LRM's of the cryptographic section of the CNI avionics system, and a microcontroller (14) for controlling voltages and spurious signal emanations. Sensors (51, 52, 54 & 55) provide information to the microcontroller. The microcontroller senses the state of prime power, current draw on the cryptographic devices and adjusts power output between the battery and power supply in real time.

Abstract: Improved techniques for managing operations of clustered computing system are disclosed. The improved techniques provide protection against potential problems encountered in operation of clustered computing. More particularly, the improved techniques can be implemented as an integral solution that provide protection against undesired partitions in space and partitions in time. The improved techniques do not require any human intervention.

Abstract: A method and system dynamically controlling microcontroller power. In one embodiment, the method and system configures a microcontroller power state, senses its condition, and determines its suitability status, communicates that status between a POR circuit and a processor, controls certain microcontroller functions accordingly, and dynamically programs power related functions. This is enabled, in one embodiment, by dynamic interaction between the POR circuit and the processor. Microcontroller power status is ascertained, and a corresponding optimal power state determined. Optimal values for programmable independent multiples of a supply voltage is programmatically calculated and set, dynamically adjusting microcontroller power states. In one embodiment, the optimal values are communicated to a scaler in the POR circuit by the processor, and registered within a multiplexer/register matrix within the scaler.

Abstract: A power supply unit controller for a rack enclosure in which a plurality of devices communicate via a backplane is disclosed. The controller reads signal(s) indicative of output supply level(s) being provided to the backplane by a power supply unit associated the the power supply unit controller and stores value(s) associated with the signal(s). The controller further stores a scaling value associated with a respective signal and dependent on the power supply unit, and a power supply unit serial number. The controller is responsive to a request from an SES processor to return a state of the associated power supply unit to the SES processor, the state including a combination of: a summary of the current status of the power supply unit, the value (s), the scaling value(s), and the power supply unit serial number, according to the SES processor request.

Abstract: A method for battery condition testing. In one embodiment, the method is comprised of interrupting AC power service to a data storage system. The interruption causes an exhaustible power source to provide operating power to the data storage system. The exhaustible power source is coupled to said data storage system. The exhaustible power source is adapted to provide operating power to the data storage system when the AC power service to the data storage system is interrupted. The method is further comprised of discharging the exhaustible power source by operating the data storage system with the exhaustible power source for a specified period of time less than full discharge but sufficient to fully flush the cache. The exhaustible power source passes the condition testing provided the exhaustible power source provides operating power to the data storage system for the specified period of time.

Abstract: Processor modules (2) are supported side-by-side with one another to slide in and out of a cabinet (1) on tracks (6, 7), each module (2) including a PC-CPU motherboard (11) and a hard-disk unit (16) mounted on a metal plate (3). Power is supplied to all the modules (2) in parallel from two power-supply units (18) mounted in the back of the cabinet (1), each comprising a pair of power-supply modules (19). The pairs of power-supply modules (19) supply power in parallel with one another to the processor modules (2). Diode circuitry (20) is included in each power-supply module (19) to isolate that power-supply module (19) from its paired power-supply module (19) in the event that a fault occurs by which the output voltage of the respective power-supply module (19) fall below that of the power-supply module (19) with which it is paired.

Abstract: According to an embodiment of the invention, a method and apparatus for computer memory power backup are described. According to one embodiment, a memory system includes a first memory; a second memory coupled to the first memory and to a host, the second memory to transfer data between the first memory and the host; and a backup power source, the backup power source providing power to the first memory and the second memory if a main power source fails.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for the power supply of auxiliary implements of computers via the bus system of the computer, wherein an energy store is provided within the auxiliary implements, which is supporting the power supply of the auxiliary implement and which by means of a suitable charge circuit is connected to the power supply in the bus system of the computer.

Abstract: A memory device tester capable of testing for proper operation of reduced power states in memory devices. The memory device tester can include a processor or a state machine, each configured to send commands to the memory device, and to compare results. An example of a memory device that can be tested by the memory device tester is a Direct Rambus Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRDRAM). The described processing systems and other circuits can test a DRDRAM for proper operation in a standby (STBY) state. When the DRDRAM is in STBY, the column decoder is shut off to conserve power, and the DRDRAM should not respond to column packets on the column control bus. The method and apparatus provide for testing that the column decoder is shut off when in STBY with no banks active, which is the recommended usage pattern for the part.

Abstract: A method for handling data between a clock and data recovery system CDR and a data processing unit DP of a telecommunications network node TNN of an asynchronous communications network, using a bit rate adaptation circuit BAS, the bit rate adaptation system BAS comprising a memory unit MEM with a write process circuit Wp controlled by the recovered clock Rclk and a read process circuit Rp controlled by the local clock Lclk wherein the bit rate adaptation system BAS also comprises a pointer synchronization controller PSC which, depending on the data detected on the input data signal DIb1 of the bit rate adaptation system BAS, sets the read and write pointers to a fixed initial address value. A Clock and Data Recovery system and a telecommunications network node TNN of an asynchronous network, which comprise a bit adaptation circuit BAS according to the invention, are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for transitioning the CPU of a computer system to a lower performance level upon removal of AC power. Circuitry within the system input power control detects the removal of the AC power. The circuitry generates an event that causes power management software to immediately transition the CPU to a lower performance level sufficient to prevent the unwanted shutdown of the system. The AC power removal detection and CPU transition are effected while the system maintains an operational power level due to residual power in the system capacitors.

Abstract: A file data storage apparatus includes an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) and a file data storage device. The file data file data storage device may include at least one of electronic storage, magnetic storage, and optical storage. The file data storage apparatus may further include a common communications transceiver circuit configured to provide communications for the UPS and the file data storage device. A computer-based apparatus capable of interfacing with such a file data storage apparatus includes a computer including a communications port configured to be coupled to both a UPS and an external file storage medium and to communicate with the external file storage medium and the UPS using a common communications transceiver. The computer may be configured to implement a UPS-based file data storage agent. A computer program product for providing a UPS-based file data storage comprises program code configured to implement a UPS-based file data storage agent in a computer.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method that enables a smart card to exchange data with an apparatus, which is intended to supply the smart card with a permanent clock signal in a permanent mode of operation. The method according to the invention includes the steps of detecting, in the course of the permanent mode of operation, of an impending disappearance of the permanent clock signal, wherein the detecting step includes a comparison of the value of the amplitude of the permanent clock signal with a predetermined value; and substituting an auxiliary clock signal for the permanent clock signal. The invention enables the smart card to receive, after the disappearance of the permanent clock signal, a number of clock pulses which suffices for completing pending read/write operations.

Abstract: In a communication system for downloading programs from a center to in-vehicle terminals, a center can check whether downloading has been completed normally or a program is operating normally in an in-vehicle terminal. According to the timing of activating a downloaded program, an in-vehicle terminal checks whether the program is activated to operate normally. The information is transmitted to the center. Based on the information, the center becomes aware of the fact that downloading has been completed without any problem and that the program is operating normally in the in-vehicle terminal.

Abstract: An enclosure for a storage system includes a housing, redundant power supply slots for receiving one or more power supplies, redundant fan slots for receiving one or more fan cards, and redundant bus controller card slots for receiving one or more bus controller cards. The redundant controller card slots have a first backplane connector for coupling to an odd bus and a second backplane connector for coupling to an even bus. The odd bus and the even bus are accessible independently through the enclosure.

Abstract: In an information storage apparatus including an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), a sequence of operation from when a power failure occurs to when power of the UPS is turned off is automatically accomplished completely without human power to thereby guarantee user data. For this purpose, the apparatus includes a disk array, a host, and a plurality of UPSs to supply power to the disk array and the host. The UPSs monitor a state change of power on a host side by a host ac control line or an SCSI unit to sequentially execute processing in an order of processing of host termination, processing for cache flush of the disk array, processing of host UPS termination, processing of disk array termination, and processing for termination of disk array UPS. Between the UPSs and the Host and between the UPSs and the disk array, there is provided an interlocking control signal to monitor current states thereof so as to control the respective operations.

Abstract: A method for using volatile memory for data storage includes using volatile memory device back up systems to provide power to both the volatile memory and non-volatile memory in the event of power failure. The method also connects the volatile memory directly to an expansion bus of the host computer system, such as a PCI bus. Therefore, the method of the invention includes a high-speed path to the host computer system and the volatile memory devices designed using the methods of the invention are faster than prior art devices, use less power and are lower cost.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for using a point-on-load (“POL”) control unit to program and/or monitor a POL regulator. Specifically, in one embodiment of the present invention, a power supply controller is adapted to provide initial-configuration data to at least one POL regulator. A POL control unit (located within the POL regulator) then stores at least a portion of the initial-configuration data in a storage device and uses at least a portion of the initial-configuration data to produce an output. The POL control unit is further adapted to store fault-monitoring data in the storage device and provide at least a portion of the fault-monitoring data to the controller. If the provided portion violates a known parameter, the controller (or POL control unit) may respond by perform a particular action (e.g., disable the POL regulator, etc.).

Abstract: A network switch and method of switching are provided, in which first and second signal converters convert electrical signals to optical signals and vice versa. The network switch monitors alarm contacts and power drawn by the first and second signal converters, and switches from one to the other in the case of an alarm condition or power loss. In order to force a corresponding switch at the remote end, power is removed from one of the signal converters in order to force an alarm in the corresponding signal converter at the remote end.

Abstract: A device for powering a load from an ambient source of energy is provided. The device includes an energy harvesting device for harvesting energy from the ambient source of energy wherein the rate energy is harvested from the ambient source of energy is below that required for directly powering the load. A storage device is connected to the energy harvesting device. The storage device receives electrical energy from the energy harvesting device and is for storing the electrical energy. A controller is connected to the storage device is for monitoring the amount of electrical energy stored in the storage device and for switchably connecting the storage device to the load when the stored energy exceeds a first threshold.

Abstract: An information processing system includes an information processing apparatus and a disk storage device. The information processing apparatus includes a first power supply unit, a unit that generates a first power-failure notice signal, which indicates that power supply from the first power supply unit is to be stopped, before the power supply from the first power supply unit is stopped, and a disk control unit. The disk storage device includes a second power supply unit, and a unit that sends a second power-failure notice signal, which indicates that power supply from the second power supply unit is to be stopped, to the information processing apparatus before the power supply from the second power supply unit is stopped. The disk control unit includes a unit which halts access to the disk storage device upon receiving one of the first and second power-failure notice signals.

Abstract: A system and method for maintaining the upset rate of microcircuits within acceptable limits, while optimizing performance and, optionally, not increasing power consumption. The system comprises a variable power supply, which supplies power to the microcircuit; a controller which provides an instructions to the variable power supply to vary voltage depending on susceptibility to upsets; and an actuator for sending an actuating signal to the controller. The system can include a variable frequency clock for varying the clock rate of the microcircuit and the controller can send instructions to vary the clock rate in order to keep power consumption constant.

Abstract: When a reset signal /RESET is “L”, a flip-flop circuit holds “1”; on the other hand, a flip-flop circuit holds “0”. When the reset signal /RESET becomes “H”, the flip-flop circuits captures data in synchronous with a clock signal. When a power supply voltage returns to the initial value after an instantaneous blackout occurs, the data of the flip-flop circuits have the same value. An output signal of an exclusive-OR gate circuit becomes “L”, the output is held in a flip-flop circuit. As a result, an instantaneous blackout detection signal becomes “H”.

Abstract: A method for preserving data resident in a volatile memory of a data storage unit having at least one rotatable disk platter in the event of an interruption of a primary supply power. The method includes monitoring the status of the primary supply power to the data storage unit. Following the detection of a loss of the primary supply power, kinetic energy inherent in the spinning disk platter is converted into electrical energy. Electrical energy derived from the kinetic energy of the disk platter is then utilized to power the data storage unit to write the data in the volatile memory to an outer-most track of the rotatable disk platter.

Abstract: A synchronous flash memory includes an array of non-volatile memory cells, and has a package configuration that is compatible with an SDRAM. The memory device includes a memory array, a programmable register circuitry to store protection data, and a voltage detector to determine if a memory power supply voltage drops below a predetermined level. Control circuitry is provided to program the register circuitry and prevent erase or write operations to the memory array in response to the voltage detector. In operation, the memory monitors a power supply voltage coupled to the memory, and prohibits write or erase operations from being performed if the supply voltage drops below a predetermined value.

Abstract: A computer system comprising a first computer coupled to a primary PCI bus via a first PCI bus switch and a second computer coupled to the primary PCI bus via a second PCI bus switch. A monitor system is coupled to both the first and second computers as well as the first and second PCI bus switches. In the event of a malfunction in the first computer, the monitor system decouples the first computer from the primary PCI bus, by opening the first PCI bus switch and coupling the second computer to the primary PCI bus by closing the second PCI bus switch.

Abstract: An apparatus controls supply of power to an electronic device coupled thereto via one or a plurality of uninterrupted power supply units each receiving power from a corresponding external power source or including a battery unit. Each of the uninterrupted power supply units outputs power failure information when no power is received from the corresponding power source. The apparatus includes a first controller which controls input of power from the one or plurality of uninterrupted power supply units to the electronic device, and a second controller which controls the first controller in response to the power failure information received from at least one of the uninterrupted power supply units.

Abstract: An apparatus for power failure identification in a programmable household appliance includes an electronic program control apparatus having a first device disposed upstream of the mains switch on the power supply system side and a second device disposed downstream from the mains switch on the appliance side for identifying an electrical variable of the external power supply system or of the supply system in the household appliance. The program control apparatus compares the signals produced by each of the devices from the electrical variables to decide whether the failure or the change in the electrical variable of the household appliance is due to a failure of the external power supply system, or due to the household appliance being switched off deliberately.

Abstract: A transmission apparatus comprises a power-supply unit, a first detection unit for detecting a power-supply recovery of the power-supply unit, a request unit which is used for transmitting a demanding command to an adjacent transmission apparatus completing line setting based on line-setting information to request the adjacent apparatus to transmit alarm information when the first detection unit detects a power-supply recovery, wherein the alarm information includes disabled-reception and recovered-reception times, that is, times at which reception of a signal from the transmission apparatus is disabled and recovered respectively, a first reception unit for receiving the alarm information from the adjacent transmission apparatus and a second detection unit for detecting a period of time with a transmission line affected between a disabled-reception time and a recovered-reception time of the adjacent transmission apparatus included in the alarm information received by the first reception unit.

Abstract: A structure including volatile memory devices that are used by the host computer system as the storage media. The volatile memory devices include volatile memory device back up systems to provide power to both the volatile memory and non-volatile memory in the event of power failure. The volatile memory devices also connect directly to an expansion bus of the host computer system, such as a PCI bus. Therefore, the volatile memory devices of the invention include a high-speed path to the host computer system and the volatile memory devices of the invention are faster than prior art devices, use less power and are lower cost.

Abstract: A method and system are provided by the present invention for developing functional software element that operates in an environment comprising a plurality of computer programs that are being simultaneously developed. A test facilitating computer program product is utilized to simulate the plurality of computer programs as seen by the functional software element. The functional software element has one or more internal software interfaces that interact with one or more simulated external software interfaces to provide an environment in which the operation of the functional element and the internal software interfaces thereof can be monitored. The test facilitating tool permits creation of files that may be utilized to create an operational scenario during which messages that are received by and sent from said functional software element can be monitored.

Abstract: A multiple communications port unit for coupling plural peripheral devices to a computer. The multiple communications port unit includes a network port for being coupled to a supervisory computer, communications ports for being coupled to the peripheral devices, and a power supply unit suitable for using the substation battery at an electric distribution substation for input power. The power supply unit includes redundant power supplies, an input conditioning circuit, and a sensing and annunciation circuit for providing a warning of a power supply malfunction.

Abstract: In a communication system for downloading programs from a center to in-vehicle terminals, a center can check whether downloading has been completed normally or a program is operating normally in an in-vehicle terminal. According to the timing of activating a downloaded program, an in-vehicle terminal checks whether the program is activated to operate normally. The information is transmitted to the center. Based on the information, the center becomes aware of the fact that downloading has been completed without any problem and that the program is operating normally in the in-vehicle terminal.

Abstract: When a device is removed during recording, there is a possibility such that a fatal error may be caused in the device. Information for device control is read out from the device. When it is detected that a cover which covers the device is opened or that a power voltage is equal to or less than a predetermined value during the operation with a battery, a control unit invalidates the read-out control information for the device. Therefore, when the device is erroneously taken out during the recording or when a battery output drops during the recording, a fatal error is not caused in the device.

Abstract: A network includes a host personal computer (PC) that can securely communicate with other PCs connected to the network based on the use of security association information. A power-loss detection circuit receives an input signal indicative of a voltage supply level to the network and outputs an output signal indicative of a change in the voltage supply level. The security association information is stored in a storage device if the output signal from the detection circuit indicates that a change in the voltage supply level, such as a power failure or change in power states, has occurred. The security information or other information can be stored in the storage device while the voltage supply level is falling.

Abstract: An apparatus comprising a first circuit and a second circuit. The first circuit may be configured to precisely generate a reset when the apparatus is in a first operational mode. The second circuit may be configured to generate the reset when the apparatus is in a second operational mode.

Abstract: A circuit comprising a clocked device having at least one comparison circuit. The comparison circuit checks at least one signal from a network to obtain a reference voltage in order to determine that voltage applied to the core circuitry is acceptable for a mode of operation of the processor. The clocked device is also coupled to a voltage regulator.

Abstract: A non-volatile memory device with a built-in laser indicator. The non-volatile memory device includes a connective port, a buffer, a non-volatile memory unit, a memory controller, a battery and a laser indicator. The connective port connects electrically to a host machine. The host machine transfers data and provides power to the connective port through an external bus. The buffer holds the data transmitted to the connective port temporarily. The memory controller controls the transfer of data from the buffer into the non-volatile memory unit. The battery receives host power and stores up some host power to serve as backup power. The battery also provides the power for driving the laser indicator.