Showing papers on "Laptop published in 2000"

Portable computing, communication and entertainment device with central processor carried in a detachable handset

Abstract: The present invention relates in general to portable processor based devices that provide computing, communication or entertainment functionality. More particularly, the present invention pertains to portable processor based devices operable while being held in its user's hand and providing communications, organizer and/or entertainment functions, such as cellular telephones, palm-sized organizers, and MP3 players, and to portable processor based devices providing general computing capabilities, such as laptop or handheld personal computers (PCs). More specifically, the present invention relates to systems that detachably mate a plurality of portable processor based devices to provide their combined functionality in an integrated structure.

Dynamic power management for portable systems

Abstract: Portable systems require long battery lifetime while still delivering high performance. Dynamic power management (DPM) policies trade off the performance for the power consumption at the system level in portable devices. In this work we present the time-indexed SMDP model (TISMDP) that we use to derive optimal policy for DPM in portable systems. TISMDP model is needed to handle the non-exponential user request interarrival times we observed in practice. We use our policy to control power consumption on three different devices: the SmartBadge portable device [18], the Sony Vaio laptop hard disk and WLAN card. Simulation results show large savings for all three devices when using our algorithm. In addition, we measured the power consumption and performance of our algorithm and compared it with other DPM algorithms for laptop hard disk and WLAN card. The algorithm based on our TISMDP model has 1.7 times less power consumption as compared to the default Windows timeout policy for the hard disk and three times less power consumption as compared to the default algorithm for the WLAN card.

Method, system and devices for wireless data storage on a server and data retrieval

Abstract: A method and system for remotely storing data on a server through a wireless connection instead of storing data locally in a consumer device, as well as devices for use with the method and system. More particularly, a video camera, still camera, laptop computer, or other consumer device which normally stores data in local memory such as film, disk, random access memory, memory sticks, or other forms of storage would transmit the data to a remote server through a wireless connection. The data would be saved on the remote server for subsequent retrieval through, for example, the Internet or a wireless connection to the server. In addition, data not originating from the user device could be downloaded to the consumer device. The data to be retrieved can be specified by the user, or sent to the user according to a user profile stored on the server.

Battery having a network communication interface

Abstract: A smart battery that has a network communication interface such that the battery can send and receive battery-related data. The battery is in conductive and communicative interface with a device, such as a cellular telephone, personal digital assistant (PDA), or laptop computer, which has a network communication pathway that the battery uses for data exchange. The smart battery can alternately be in conductive and communicative interface with a charger that is interfaced with a computer, and the charger selectively establishes a network communication pathway through the charger-computer interface for the smart battery to exchange data across the network. The smart battery preferably exchanges data with a manufacturer web site across the Internet.

Laptop touchpad with integrated antenna

Abstract: An antenna for wireless communication into a touchpad module. A touchpad module, which can be inserted into an aperture in a laptop computer, includes a touch sensor for detecting touch sensor circuit for processing signals from the touch sensor. The antenna is connected to a port (input or output) on the touchpad module. The touchpad provides an open aperture for the antenna to communicate with the outside world, without being blocked by the shielding used in a laptop computer.

Multifunctional portable computing device with special housing

Abstract: A portable computing device includes pivoting and hinging mechanisms which enable its housing to reconfigure to function in multiple modes. In one configuration the device functions as a laptop computer with keyboard input. In another configuration the device folds into a compact, hand-held, pen-based computer. In another configuration the device folds around the display for protection during transport. A set of adjustable stops enable easy and repeatable transitions between the different configurations.

Gesture sensing split keyboard and approach for capturing keystrokes

Abstract: A gesture sensing split keyboard can couple the hand and keyboard rotations, can sense hand rotation and one or more keystrokes of each hand, can produce symbolic, control, command, and other types of information based upon all the sensed inputs, and can present the produced information to a computing, communications, or control device through electrical conductors, infrared transceivers, or other communications technologies. The various embodiments can be mounted on the operator's hands, arms, or belt, on a desktop or other stable surface, or may be embedded in the target device, such as a laptop computer. The ability of certain embodiments to fold into a compact size for storage while providing ease-of-use of a full-sized keyboard when unfolded for typing makes them well suited for laptop computers. The ability of certain other embodiments to be mounted on the body of the user and to enable a wide range of user motion makes them well suited for mobile and pervasive computing applications and for potentially reducing repetitive stress injuries.

Computer case/table

Abstract: A computer case/table for a laptop computer. When used as a case, the compact design allows for easy and convenient transport of a laptop computer from one location to another. Upon reaching the destination, the user may readily convert the case to a computer table on which the laptop computer can be placed for use. The case includes retractable, telescopic legs and a variety of computer accessories, such as a backup battery pack, and connectors for telephone and Internet access. An internal support system allows the laptop computer to rise in a forward tilted position from a stowed position to an upward position. Upon lifting of the case lid. This allows for the comfortable use of the computer, and promotes cooling of the rear portion of the computer, where heat tends to build up, by exposure to and promotion of the circulation of cooling environmental air.

Laptop computer support

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device (12) for conveniently supporting a laptop computer (10) on the lap of the user thereof, and more particularly to such a device (12) which is substantially universally adjustable for supporting the computer (10) in a preferred and optimal position for use. In its broadest aspects, the present invention is directed to a portable, adjustable laptop (notebook) computer support (12). The invention can also be used to support other portable data devices that have keyboards, such as pen-input-type computers and personal, electronic data organizers. The invention is highly advantageous in that it provides for conveniently supporting a laptop computer (10) on the lap of the user (16) thereof in a preferred and optimal position for use even when the user (16) is seated in any one of a wide variety of sub-optimal positions. The device is further advantageous in that it is lightweight, portable and substantially universally adjustable within a defined range of support surface angles. The device comprises three or more hinged panels (20, 28, 32) which can be selectively folded and secured relative to one another in a preferred operational configuration.

The PC goes ready-to-wear

Abstract: Concentrating the computational power of a multimedia desktop or laptop computer into a central processing unit only slightly larger than a hand-held organizer, wearable PCs are finding plenty of users in the commercial world. What wearable computers have to offer is job-critical information to people whose hands must be free for other work. Assembly line workers, for example, can access a database and look at drawings of what's being worked on and see step-by-step instructions for putting it together. These are shown on a small color display that hangs before a worker's eye, supported there by a head-mounted boom. The rest of the system-its central processing unit (CPU), which includes a microprocessor, RAM, and hard drive-is worn in a belt around the waist. The display is a small liquid-crystal chip, whose image is picked up by a silvered mirror, or transmitted through a prism, and reflected or redirected into the user's eye. The display is held at the end of a toothbrush-sized boom, supported by a headboard, say, or by a larger eye-covering mirror or prism arrangement. Thanks to magnifying optics and despite the closeness of the image to the eye, the viewer has the illusion of reading a normal-sized desktop screen at the usual arm's length viewing distance. Commands are either keyed into a small keyboard worn on the wrist or spoken into a microphone. A video camera is an option, and the computers have standard I/O ports for adding peripherals. In addition, the machines can handle off-the-shelf applications, such as database management and word processing, written for Windows or Linux operating systems. Just what is displayed varies, of course, depending upon the imagination of the system designer and the application. The computers are not cheap, ranging from US $5000 to $10000. They may be worth it, though, for what they can add to a person's job effectiveness.

Method and system for integrating a laptop PC in a cockpit

Abstract: A system and method for processing information on an aircraft in an economically efficient manner, in which a non-FAA certified removable laptop PC is intermittently coupled to and integrated with FAA certified avionics equipment on-board the aircraft, and the laptop is used to perform tasks which are not mandated by the FAA

Scalable Connectivity Processor for Computer Music Performance Systems

Abstract: Standard laptop computers are now capable of sizeable quantities of sound synthesis and sound processing, but low-latency, high quality, multichannel audio I/O has not been possible without a cumbersome external card cage. CNMAT has developed a solution using the ubiquitous 100BaseT Ethernet that supports up to 10 channels of 24-bit audio, 64 channels of sample-synchronous control-rate gesture data, and 4 precisely time-stamped MIDI I/O streams. Latency measurements show that we can get signals into and back out of Max/MSP in under 7 milliseconds. The central component in the device is a field programmable gate array (FPGA). In addition to providing a variety of computer interface capabilities, the device can function as a cross-coder for a variety of protocols including GMICS. This paper outlines the motivation, design, and implementation of the connectivity processor. 1. Context and Prior Work Hardware development for computer music performance systems has followed the standard pattern of technology evolution passing through the first two phases of design focus, function and price, to the final phase: usability. We have identified size and connectivity as primary usability issues for computer music performance systems. Laptop computers have recently become available with fast signal processing capabilities at a moderate cost and although their size makes them very attractive for musical performance, their constrained expansion capabilities limit connectivity. Currently there are no commercially available, low-latency, high-reliability, compact, multi-channel audio solutions for laptop computers. Furthermore the architecture of current laptops and most computers makes it impossible to synchronize acquired gestural data and sound I/O to satisfy the low latency/jitter needed for satisfactory reactive performance systems: 10±1ms (Freed, et al., 1997). The 10 ms latency criterion is not difficult to meet, but a maximum latency variation of ±1ms is difficult to achieve, especially when the stimulus gesture is represented as a MIDI event or a low rate signal from a nonsample-synchronous input source like a data acquisition card rather than a sample-synchronized audio input signal. The only computers with the requisite unified clock management and operating systems support for such tight synchronization are from Silicon Graphics. Unfortunately, even the smallest configurations of their machines, the O2 and Octane are too large and expensive for most performing musicians. One of our key design goals was to eliminate virtually all latency variation in low sample rate inputs like those from gestural input devices.

Docking station for a laptop computer

Abstract: A laptop computer and a docking station are disclosed. The laptop computer includes a microprocessor and a first video card in electrical communication with the microprocessor. The docking station includes a projector and a second video card in electrical communication with the projector. Upon a mounting of the laptop on the docking station, an electrical communication is established between the microprocessor and the second video card, and an electrical communication is established between the projector and the first video card. The microprocessor selectively provides control signals to either the first video card or the second video card. The first video card provides video signals to the projector in response to the control signals, and the second video card provides the video signals to the projector in response to the control signals. The projector provides video images in response to the video signals as received from either the first video card or the second video card.

Portable laptop computer workstation

Abstract: A laptop computer workstation accessory for an automobile includes a portable case adapted to be transported manually by the driver and placed in an automobile intermediate the driver seat and the passenger seat. The case includes a lower portion with a pivotal laptop computer support structure on which to mount a laptop computer with hook-and-loop fabric fastener, and a lockable upper portion pivotally connected to the lower portion for movement between a closed position in which the upper portion covers the laptop computer support structure and an open position in which it exposes the laptop computer support structure to the driver. The upper portion is adapted to hold a pad of writing paper and the lower portion includes a moveable printer support structure behind a moveable side panel on the passenger side. One embodiment includes a carrier harness with a shoulder strap arrangement for use in manually transporting the accessory to and from the automobile.

Laptop Computers in the K-12 Classroom. ERIC Digest.

Abstract: Laptop Computers in the K-12 Classroom. ERIC Digest.................... 1 EMERGENCE OF LAPTOPS IN SCHOOLS............................... 2 TRANSITIONS TO LAPTOPS................................................ 2 PORTABLE ALTERNATIVES................................................ 3 CLASSROOM EXPERIENCES...............................................3 DOES RESEARCH SUPPORT THE USE OF LAPTOPS?.............. 4 EQUITY CONTROVERSY.................................................... 4 SUMMARY....................................................................... 5 BIBLIOGRAPHY AND FURTHER READING.............................. 5

A Case for Ubiquitous, Integrated Computing in Teacher Education.

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of an integrated, laptop-based approach on pre-service teachers' computer attitudes, ability and use. Pre-post program analysis revealed significant differences in behavioural attitudes and perceived control (self-efficacy), but not in affective and cognitive attitudes. In addition, there was a significant improvement in all 10 computer ability areas (operating systems, communication, World Wide Web, word processing, spreadsheets, database, graphics, multimedia, web page design, and programming). Finally, pre-service teachers used laptop computers significantly more in a university setting than in their field placements

Conformable portable computer hand pads

Abstract: This invention relates to ergonomic hand rests for computers and other electronic devices. In particular, the invention relates to soft, conforming hand pads constructed integrally with the keyboard body of portable laptop or notebook computers.

Dynamic power management of laptop hard disk

Abstract: Summary form only given. Optimal power management policies for a laptop hard disk are obtained with a system model that can handle non-exponential interarrival times in the idle and the sleep states. the measurement results on a Sony Vaio laptop show that our policy has 1.7 times less power consumption as compared to the default Windows timeout policy with still high performance.

Generic external portable cooling device for computers

Abstract: A device for assisting the cooling of computers, especially laptop computers, provides material having an upper surface distributed over at least two levels, preferably a corrugated surface, whereby it contacts the base of the laptop over only a part of said base, permitting the free passage of air across the support and between the laptop and the support, said support being formed from a material of high thermal conductivity, with a surface adapted for rapid transfer of heat between the material and air passing over said surface.

Laptop carrying case

Abstract: A laptop carrying case (20) is disclosed as including a pair of sides (22, 24) and a carriage assembly (28). The sides (22, 24) are connected together by a hinge (26) and are configured to enclose a laptop computer (144) and the carriage assembly (28) in a closed position. The carriage assembly (28) is configured for retaining the laptop (144) and for sliding the laptop (144) between a carry position and a work position.

System for wireless based electronic financial transactions has a connection made between a mobile communication unit and a remote system using the Internet

Abstract: System has mobile communication unit, e.g. telephone, laptop computer, (2) used together with smart card (3). Linked to unit is printer (7) having built in reader that allows such as a check (9) to be read and checked. Transaction between mobile unit and remote center is carried out over network using service provider (5), activated by keying in smart card PIN code so service provider number stored on card is selected and connection made. Transaction is confirmed by digital signature.

Modular lcd monitors

Abstract: LCD and flat screen displays are made as one piece, with active TFT screens being more expensive than passive screens. They are as stand-alone monitors (single or cluster), or mounted (single) with desktop computers or used on laptop computer monitors (single). Some of the stand-alone single LCD monitors can be rotated. Some LCD monitors can be detached but are reattached on same axis and position. The laptop computers include notebooks, sub-notebooks and smaller units. The proposal is two fold. The LCD or flat panel screen monitor is made from multiple (two or more) modular pieces to form a single larger screen of various sizes. Both standard LCD and these modular LCD screens as single monitors and/or as a cluster of multiple screens, on laptop computers or when attached to desktop computers, have the special feature of being detached and reattached or shifted (without being detached) to a different axis and/or position relative to the original position. The use of two or more smaller sizes (including undamaged smaller pieces cut from larger damaged pieces) is to form a single larger modular LCD screen. The special feature of the LCD (standard and modular) screen being detached and reattached or shifted (without being detached) to a different axis and/or position relative to the original position is unique for laptop computers and when the LCD monitor is attached to the desktop computer. The cluster concept of multiple LCD monitors (standard and modular) on a single laptop is unique to the laptop computers which currently has only a single LCD monitor for each laptop. LCD monitors include any other type of flat panel display.