Abstract:
In a token-based local area network, the token may be selectively redirected out of its normal even rotational sequence among all of the active nodes of the network to pass the token more frequently through a priority group of nodes than through a non-priority group of nodes. The priority group is more likely to have messages to initiate from either a numerical or immediacy standpoint, compared to the non-priority group which is less likely to have messages to initiate. When token redirection is not desired, the token is passed in this normal even rotational sequence. Despite redirection, the token is still passed through all of the active nodes on the network in a periodic manner so as to assure normal network activity. Multiple messages can be initiated from a single node before the token is passed to any other node. Token redirection can be controlled in a predetermined pattern to accommodate either the actual or anticipated message traffic from the priority group of nodes, and can be controlled in response to a queue of messsages waiting to be initiated from a priority node.
Abstract:
Multiple different operational capabilities, such as data transfer rates or communication protocols, are selectable for use on a single LAN. Enchanced nodes of the LAN have the capability of utilizing either an enhanced capability or a common capability in communicating with other nodes. Those basic nodes which are not of the enhanced variety have the capability of communicating utilizing the common capability. The enhanced nodes dynamically select the operational capability for the most efficient communication with other nodes.
Abstract:
An output clock signal is synchronized with predetermined phase accuracy relative to an internal stable frequency reference clock signal upon the application of a transition of an asynchronous event signal. A plurality of phase shifted versions of the reference clock signal are derived. Upon the occurrence of the asynchronous signal, the states of the phase shifted versions are sampled, and that information is utilized as a code to select one of the phase shifted versions from which the output clock signal is derived. Synchronization occurs rapidly within the metastable settling time of the flip-flops of a register which sample or decode the states of the phase shifted versions, or by logical gating arrangements which avoid the necessity for considering the metastable signal. Synchronization is typically obtainable in less than the period of one reference clock signal.
Abstract:
Two different communication protocols are interoperatively combined for use in a local area network (LAN). An enhanced protocol can be selected as an alternative to a common protocol during communication between enhanced nodes of the LAN. Signals communicated between nodes of the LAN in the first and second protocols create the appearance of valid activity in both protocols, and always communicate at least some valid information in one of the protocols and selectively communicate additional valid information in a second protocol. Preferably the signals applied in the second or enhanced protocol include signals which are inserted in such a way that they are transparent to the first protocol. Improved network management capabilities and data transfer rates are available as a result of the information communicated in the second protocol.
Abstract:
A transceiver for a LAN is capable of communicating multiple bits per signal element to increase the data throughput of the LAN. The transceiver includes a transmitter which receives a multiple bit digital input value originating at a node of the LAN at which the transceiver is present. The transmitter converts the multiple bit digital input signal into a pulse-like analog signal which is amplitude and phase modulated. A receiver of a transceiver at a receiving node the transmitted analog signal converts its amplitude and phase into a corresponding multiple bit digital output value. A time-domain filter of the receiver creates a primary signal from the received analog signal. To sample the primary signal at its maximum amplitude point, a derivative of the primary signal waveform is used to establish the zero derivative point at which the primary signal attains its maximum amplitude, and to establish a fixed sampling point for subsequent signals. The sampling point is synchronized in phase with the stream of received analog signals. The residual intersymbol interference (ISI) effect of preceding signals on the LAN medium is eliminated prior to converting the primary signal to the digital value. To adjust and compensate for attenuation and amplification created by the LAN medium, the signal values are normalized.
Abstract:
An upright ESFR sprinkler includes a generally tubular body, at least one frame arm, a closure assembly, an unactuated heat responsive trigger assembly and a deflector assembly with a K-factor greater than 14, and preferably 16.8. The passageway extends between inlet and outlet openings. The closure is positioned proximate the outlet so as to occlude the passageway with a Belleville seal. An ejection spring is coupled to the closure assembly. The heat responsive trigger assembly has a Response Time Index of 40 meter1/2-second1/2 (m1/2sec1/2) or less. The deflector assembly includes a nosepiece and a plate like redirecting member. The plate like redirecting member faces the outlet and is coupled to the at least one frame arm and spaced from the outlet opening. The plate shaped member includes a first generally planar portion, a conical second portion, and a third portion extending from the conical second portion. The third portion includes a plurality of tines and a plurality of slots with at least one slot disposed between every two tines so that, when the heat responsive trigger assembly is actuated and the closure is positioned to allow a density of water to flow from the outlet of the body so as to suppress a fire of a particular commodity situated beneath the ceiling of 35 feet or less. System and methods relating to the upright sprinklers are also provided.
Abstract:
An early suppression fast response pendent-type fire protection sprinkler is suitable for use in accordance with one or more of NFPA 13, NFPA 231 and NFPA 231C to protect single row rack storage, double row rack storage and multiple row rack storage, the sprinkler having a K-factor of about 25 and flowing pressure of about 15 pounds per square inch. Preferably, the sprinkler has a body defining an orifice and an outlet for delivering a flow of fluid from a source, and a deflector mounted with a first surface opposed to flow of fluid from the outlet. The deflector defines at least one pair of generally opposed reentrant slots extending from the first surface through the deflector, the reentrant slots extending from slot openings at an outer peripheral edge of the deflector inwardly from the peripheral edge toward a deflector axis.
Abstract:
A memory system for an I/O controller which includes a memory with multiple memory blocks, a supply voltage control circuit providing power to each memory block, and control logic. Each memory block retains stored information with reduced power consumption when receiving a reduced voltage level. The control logic allocates buffers in the memory and controls the supply voltage control circuit to provide the full voltage level to at least one memory block of at least one allocated buffer and to provide the reduced voltage level to remaining memory blocks. Each memory block includes one or more buffers. In various embodiments the control logic fully powers each memory block of a buffer or less than all of the memory blocks. A linked buffer structure may be used to reduce the memory blocks of an allocated buffer receiving full power, such as only one memory block in the buffer.
Abstract:
A context controller for managing multitasking in a processor and a method of operating the same. In one embodiment, the context controller includes: (1) an event recorder that records occurrences of predetermined events and (2) an event acknowledger, associated with the event recorder, that acknowledges ones of the events based on an identity of a currently-active context.
Abstract:
An early suppression fast response pendent-type fire protection sprinkler is suitable for use in accordance with one or more of NFPA 13, NFPA 231 and NFPA 231C to protect single row rack storage, double row rack storage and multiple row rack storage, the sprinkler having a K-factor of about 25 and flowing pressure of about 15 pounds per square inch. Preferably, the sprinkler has a body defining an orifice and an outlet for delivering a flow of fluid from a source, and a deflector mounted with a first surface opposed to flow of fluid from the outlet. The deflector defines at least one pair of generally opposed reentrant slots extending from the first surface through the deflector, the reentrant slots extending from slot openings at an outer peripheral edge of the deflector inwardly from the peripheral edge toward a deflector axis.