text:
Product Details
- The CDC/HICPAC Guidelines for the Prevention of Intravascular Catheter-Related Infections base dressing change recommendations on studies with Tegaderm™ Film.
- Notched designs provide a better seal around the catheter.
- Sterile tape strips are provided on many dressings.
- Breathable film allows moisture vapor and oxygen exchange.
- Transparency allows monitoring of I.V. sites without the need to remove the dressing.
- Picture-frame style allows one-handed application and less waste. Unique, non-adhesive handles allow for hassle-free application (1655 & 1650 designs).
- Waterproof dressing provides a breathable bacterial and viral barrier{1} to outside contaminants and allows the patient to shower.
- For pediatric I.V.s, the 1610 dressing, with colorful bears, provides an ideal solution.
- Tegaderm™ IV Dressing for Nexiva™ 9525HP is specifically designed for the Becton-Dickenson (BD) Nexiva™ Closed IV Catheter System.
- Tegaderm™ Plus (9524 & 9526 designs) dressings contain iodophor impregnated adhesive.
- {1} - in vitro testing has proven Tegaderm™ and Tegaderm™ HP dressings provide a viral barrier from viruses 27 nm in diameter, (e.g. HCV) or larger (e.g. HBV and HIV) while the dressing remains intact without leakage.
2-1/2 Inch x 2-3/4 Inch, (6,5cm x 7cm), IV Advanced Securement Dressing
Extended Description
Transparent film dressings designed to secure the catheter in challenging I.V. applications. Many with notches and borders reinforced with a soft cloth fabric, designed to reduce edge lift and to seal around the insertion site.
|2.75 Inch
|Length (metric)
|7 cm
|2.5 Inch
|Width (metric)
|6.5 cm
Product Title
Application Guide
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While you're away, your dog gets to play…all day!
Have a dog with energy to spare? No problem!
Our Monday thru Saturday daycare allows your dog to play up to 11 hours.
Why take your dog to DoGone Fun for daycare?
- 5000 sqf play lots both inside and outside
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- Staff all have extensive training on dog behavior/breeds
- Staff knows your dog's name and personality
- Do not take any aggressive dogs
- Webcam access all day
- Convenient hours – 7:00-7:00
- Late pick-ups until 10:00 pm Monday-Friday

subset: commoncrawl


text: Glastonbury 2014 Glastonbury 2014 Highlights Share: About this programme A selection of performances from last weekend's festival at Worthy Farm in Somerset, which was headlined by Arcade Fire, Metallica and Kasabian. Other artists taking to the site's many stages included Metronomy, Lily Allen, Elbow, Paolo Nutini, De La Soul, Chvrches, Billy Bragg, Pixies, Manic Street Preachers, Massive Attack, the Black Keys, Ed Sheeran, Disclosure, St Vincent and Suzanne Vega. Cast and crew Crew Executive Producer Alison Howe Producer Stephanie McWhinnie Categories Music Share:


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Lawrence Edwards is a Professor in the School of Economics' University of Cape Town' and a Research Associate of the South African
Labour and Development Research Unit (SALDRU) and Policy Research on International Services and Manufacturing (PRISM). Lawrence is a graduate
of the University of Cape Town where he completed his PhD' the London School of Economics and Political Science' and Rhodes University.
Lawrence's research interests focus on the international trade and labour' the determinants of trade flows and trade policy.
He is the author (with Robert Lawrence) of Rising Tide: Is Growth in Emerging Economies Good for the United States and has published articles in
World Development' Journal of International Development' Economics of Transition' Harvard Business Review and the South
African Journal of Economics. Lawrence has consulted widely on trade policy issues for the World Bank' the African Development Bank'
the International Growth Centre' the OECD' the Southern African Development Community Secretariat and various governments
in Africa' including South Africa' Swaziland' Lesotho and Zambia. Finally' he has served as an associate editor of the
South African Journal of Economics and the South African Journal of Economics and Management Studies.
Lawrence Edwards
Managed by Commerce I.T.


text:
おくりびと [videorecording] - Okuribito
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[videorecording (DVD)]
Awards of the Japanese Academy, 2009: Best actor, Best cinematography, Best director, Best editing, Best film, Best lighting, Best screenplay, Best sound, Best supporting actor (Yamazaki), Best supporting actress (Yo).
Awards of the Japanese Academy, 2009: Best actor (Motoki), Best cinematography (Hamada), Best director (Takita), Best editing (Kawashima), Best film, Best lighting (Takaya), Best screenplay (Koyama), Best sound (Ozaki, Onodera), Best supporting actor (Yamazaki), Best supporting actress (Yo).
Feature films.
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Highly recommended especially for those that love ritual and reverence
Probably the most beautiful and gentle movie I've ever seen. After losing his orchestra job, a man moves back home and takes a job preparing bodies for departure.
If you have not watch this great foriegn film it's a must see.
It was interesting to learn about
the Japanese art of Nokanshi, beautiful method of preparing the body for cremation. This is a movie I can watch time and time again!
This is one of the most beautiful movies I've seen in a long time. I could have watched the sequences where they prepare the bodies for the casket over and over. It was like a very gentle ballet. And, yes, it is definitely a three-hankie movie.
Well acted, culturally interesting, beautifully shot movie.
maybe the best movie i ever saw...
densco47 is absolutely right - this is an Ugly Cry movie for sure. A very lovely, gentle movie. The delicate and reverential way the main character carries out his job wins everyone over in the end, and why wouldn't it? Funny moments sprinkled throughout for levity - especially enjoyed the scene on the bus and the ensuing scene at the public baths.... Loved the story of the stone letters. So much to ponder and enjoy of this movie long after it's over.
An absolutely stunning film. Funny and sad, touching and provocative. A must-see if you need an antidote to the violence and depravity of most films today.
The acting and main storyline are very nice. It was a really good and enjoyable movie that hit all the right notes.
A touching movie about life and death from a uniquely Japanese prespective. Very deserving of its Oscar.
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Join 500,000+ Artists
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Hey all! It's crossover time once more. For those who are new to the EOW, a crossover is a combination of this activity and the Industrial Design of the Week (IDW), and what happens is we co-host a weekly theme and strive for a refreshing taste of both worlds. When it comes to designing concept art, should any area be neglected, especially when you can exercise your creativity as well as challenge yourself by trying both sides of the field? Innovation and scenery together can be a feast for the eyes, and the mind, etc.
TOPIC: Children's Alley
It is a dim and dark future where the phenomenon of homeless children roaming the streets has become an everyday occurrence. The narrow, winding back alleys in this grimy city have become the particular domain of the smallest children.
1. Design an environment that adheres to the topic/theme.
2. You must post at least once in this W.I.P. thread to be included in the finals thread for the voting poll.
You do not have to participate in both rounds, but we strongly suggest you do.
Deadline: Monday, December 9
Thank you to Pixie Trick for coming up with the great theme this week.
-- Congrats to Vyse for winning round #218: Tomb of Horrors.
Post your final entries in this thread. If you need more time to get your finals in, let me know and I'll extend the deadline. Good luck!
Last edited by Vulgar`; December 8th, 2013 at 08:34 PM.
New World Creation: Designers Wanted Environment of the Week
Finished, hopefully I'll have enough time to finish off the IDOW now
The squalid alleys where the homeless children live often arouse the suspicion of the enforcers, but they never find any of the stolen food and supplies... how do they hide them so quickly?
Last edited by OverlordGunnar; December 6th, 2013 at 10:04 AM.
Dark and abandoned streets has now become a shelter for all homeless children who have decided not to come back to the normal live. From time to time they go out from shadows to observe people on the other side.
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Last edited by Corrick; December 10th, 2013 at 01:16 PM.
New World Creation: Designers Wanted Environment of the Week
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LA CROSSE, Wisconsin (WXOW) - Dec. 15th's dreary weather didn't keep a group of runners from going on a special jog.
These runners ran 7.5 miles around La Crosse...in holiday costumes!
There were reindeer, elves, and of course, Santa.
They stopped periodically at local businesses to put money into the Salvation Army's red kettles.
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text:
Shot on a Red EPIC by Mike Jensen. Opening Artwork by The Stationery Bakery. "I Want To Hold Your Hand" cover by Al Green.Special Thanks to Deep Space Mustache for being awesome.
Contact: firstname.lastname@example.com Artwork by The Stationery Bakery
Edited by Adam Henderson
4739 NW 53rd Avenue, Sutie BGainesville, FL 32653
Phone: (352) 371-0051


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5 Bites: Korean Food On Temescal's 'Kimchi Row'
As a Korean-American foodie who resides in West Oakland, I'm lucky that there's a slew of fine eateries not too far from our home all along Telegraph Avenue in Temescal.
Curious about chia seeds? Don't know where to begin? Megan Gordon develops a raw, vegan chia seed pudding recipe that capitalizes on its super food powers. And who doesn't love cherry, pistachio, and coconut? This just might be your new late-night snack.
I made three types of ice cream and, no surprise to many vegans out there but sort of a surprise to me, they were all amazingly good, exceeding my expectations on every level. My ten-year old daughter Maddie even exclaimed about the chocolate version "This is better than store-bought ice cream! It's my favorite!" I have to agree. My three flavors were almond, strawberry and chocolate. All are vegan. The first two were delightful but the chocolate was really special, and all are cholesterol and fat free.
Get the skinny on almond milk's health benefits and concerns.


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John Scorgie
There has never been another time in human history when there has been greater genuine concern for the whole world! People today are more aware than ever before of the major issues facing the globe and all of its inhabitants. There are mega movements on this one Planet Earth affecting all of humanity. With the fact of instant, mass communication, we are now cognizant of all major happenings anywhere in the world. But please consider the comforting truth that the one true God, who made and maintains this world, is perfectly aware and perfectly capable of handling every last global concern. His arms of love encircle this "global village". His mind perceives totally this "global economy". His heart is touched with the phenomenon of "global warming". His Spirit pursues the noble cause of "global peace". God sent His Son Jesus Christ into this "global village" to minister redeeming grace in this moral "global economy" to provide "global warming" with His amazing love and to bring "global peace" through His death and resurrection. God has always had this globe on His infinite mind and heart! The perpetual truth in all ages, in all places, and in all situations is certainly this: God goes global! Praise Him!


text:
TRENTON – Gov. Chris Christie announced New Jersey will be the first East Coast state to participate in the Woodrow Wilson National Fellowship program.
The governor held a news conference Friday saying he's "proud to have that distinction" for the Garden State. The fellowship program provides $30,000 stipends for teachers to work at certain at-risk schools under three-year contracts.
"We're reaffirming our commitment to investing in teacher talent," Christie said.
Officials say the program's goal Is to provide strong math and science teachers in understaffed schools.
A polling memo prepared by a company with ties to Gov. Chris Christie shows public support for red light cameras.Read More >
Belmar mayor's race: a wave of post-Sandy project politics stirs up seaside Monmouth borough BELMAR - When Belmar Mayor Matt Doherty rolled out his re-election campaign in February, he did so still basking in the glow of what many residents of the 6,000-person Monmouth County seaside borough saw...
By MICHAEL W. KLEIN In his weekly radio address on August 16, President Obama challenged colleges "to do their part to bring down costs" and lighten the tuition burden on students. The state colleges and universities in New Jersey have... Read More >
"Christie's method for coping with scandal has been more complicated. In January, the seemingly-local issue of lane closings on the George Washington Bridge, which created a massive traffic jam in the Hudson River town of Fort Lee, became one of national interest when it was revealed that one of Christie's closest staffers had ordered them—for what looked like political retribution against a Democratic mayor. The scandal was quickly dubbed 'Bridgegate,' and unfortunately for Christie, it played into his reputation as a bully. Christie's response was to act unlike himself: humble." - Olivia Nuzzi- The Daily Beast
Visit the PolitickerNJ.com/resources page for links to the best collection of information on New Jersey state government.
Press releases are submitted by PolitickerNJ users, not by staff. They do not represent the viewpoint of PolitickerNJ.com.


text:
FurnitureDécorLightingKitchenBed & BathOutdoor
Home ImprovementBaby & KidsMore...Sales
free shippingon orders over $49*
5" Carbide Sharpening Tool
5 stars
I don't like using the wet method to sharpen my garden tools, this little tool is more my style. No mess and easier to do and much faster too. Easy to store since it is small.- Stephanie in center
Potting Scoop
5 stars
This is a really well made scoop, fits my hand nicely. I like the raised sides, less spillage that way. It digs into my bag of dirt much easier than the previous one I was using. It could be used- Stephanie in center
Twin Flower Shears in Black
4 stars
Lightweight, but works great for the price. Fits my hand nicely - may be small for a man's hand.- Dawn in center
Hori-Hori Garden Landscaping Digging Tool with Carbon Steel Blade
4 stars
An excellent weed knife, sturdy and functional. I use it to grub up pokeweed and burdock roots as well as other less challenging weeds. The blade extends into the handle making the tool- Margaret in center


text:
Ratings based on 2 Verified Reviews
They paid and stayed. We double-checked.
5.0 Room cleanliness
4.5 Service & staff
5.0 Room comfort
5.0 Hotel condition
They paid and stayed.
We double-checked.
We double-checked.
for Business Travelersby A verified traveler
Posted Mar 20, 2013 on Hotels.com
for Business Travelersby picot
Posted Sep 23, 2012 on Hotels.com


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Ginnifer Goodwin wears a super chich piecy bob.
Don't skip this step, it can make or break your wedding hairstyle. Read more »
It's time for a hot bun without looking like a hot mess. Read more »
Second-day hair? Let's shoot for the stars and try seven-day hair, with the help of our friend Marley. Read more »
Sign up now and get the scoop on the hottest new hair care tips, styles and products for your curls, coils and waves.


text:
Recipe of the Day
Chunky Vegetarian Vegetable Soup (Fast and Easy)
This chunky vegetable soup is thick with potatoes, edamame, okra, kale, and corn. You won't miss the meat in this hearty stew-like meal.
Similar Recipes | More Daily Recipes
Find five-star recipes for creamless creamy soups, rich and flavorful veggie soups, and spicy chilis.
It's easy to make most soups vegan: just substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. Get soup-making tips in these videos.
Staff Picks
Vegan Red Lentil Soup
Vegan Chili
Vegan Carrot Soup
Vegan Black Bean Soup
Tomato Soup III
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Sweet Potato Minestrone
Vegan Black and White Bean Soup
Vegan Soups and Stews
End summer with a bang with festive Labor Day recipes.
Send them to school with good-for-you food that's tasty, too.
Delicious recipes, party ideas, and helpful cooking tips! Get a year of Allrecipes magazine for just $7.99!


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Access to Bank Credit in Sub-Saharan Africa
AbstractThis study discusses issues of access to bank credit in Sub-Saharan Africa, and examines measures that could help facilitate access by the private sector to bank credit. It reviews in particular obstacles to credit small- and medium-scale enterprises and agriculture, and examines progress in the design and implementation of reform measures that are needed to create an institutional environment more supportive of credit activity. It also reviews bank interest rate spreads and profit margins, and their determinants, and compares such spreads with those prevailing in other regions of the world.
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Bibliographic InfoPaper provided by International Monetary Fund in its series IMF Working Papers with number 05/166.
Length: 39
Date of creation: 01 Aug 2005
Date of revision:
Handle: RePEc:imf:imfwpa:05/166
Contact details of provider:
Postal: International Monetary Fund, Washington, DC USA
Phone: (202) 623-7000
Fax: (202) 623-4661
Web page: http://www.imf.org/external/pubind.htm
More information through EDIRC
Order Information:
Web: http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/pubs/ord_info.htm
Related researchKeywords: Banking systems; Sub-Saharan Africa; Bank credit; Credit controls; Credit restraint; Interest rates; banking; banking system; financial system; working capital; financial intermediation; money market; crowding out; bonds; bank loans; liquidity ratio; money market instruments; financial statements; deposit rates; financial systems; bank liquidity; bank deposits; reserve requirements; return on equity; return on assets; financial sector; financial institutions; bank financing; accounting system; banking sector; bank of greece; financial markets; bank restructuring; banks with assets; bankers ? association; bank intermediation; bankers; net interest margin; excess liquidity; bank interest rate; interbank market; bank interest; national bank; financial resources; mortgage bonds; international financial statistics; financial stability; rediscount; small bank; cash flow; deposit rate; bank spreads; bank failures; money market mutual funds; banking institutions; moral hazard; credit union; macroeconomic stability; discounting; rediscounts; bank of portugal; issuance of mortgage bonds;
This paper has been announced in the following NEP Reports:
- NEP-ALL-2005-10-22 (All new papers)
- NEP-DEV-2005-10-22 (Development)
- NEP-FIN-2005-10-22 (Finance)
- NEP-FMK-2005-10-22 (Financial Markets)
ReferencesReferences listed on IDEAS
Please report citation or reference errors to , or , if you are the registered author of the cited work, log in to your RePEc Author Service profile, click on "citations" and make appropriate adjustments.:
- Cottarelli, Carlo & Dell'Ariccia, Giovanni & Vladkova-Hollar, Ivanna, 2005. "Early birds, late risers, and sleeping beauties: Bank credit growth to the private sector in Central and Eastern Europe and in the Balkans," Journal of Banking & Finance, Elsevier, vol. 29(1), pages 83-104, January.
- Jakob Christensen, 2004. "Domestic Debt Markets in Sub-Saharan Africa," IMF Working Papers 04/46, International Monetary Fund.
- Ivanna Vladkova Hollar & Giovanni Dell'Ariccia & Carlo Cottarelli, 2003. "Early Birds, Late Risers, and Sleeping Beauties," IMF Working Papers 03/213, International Monetary Fund.
CitationsCitations are extracted by the CitEc Project, subscribe to its RSS feed for this item.
Cited by:
- Magnus Saxegaard, 2006. "Excess Liquidity and the Effectiveness of Monetary Policy," IMF Working Papers 06/115, International Monetary Fund.
- Prachi Mishra & Peter Montiel, 2012.
"How Effective is Monetary Transmission in Low-Income Countries? A Survey of the Empirical Evidence,"
IMF Working Papers
12/143, International Monetary Fund.
- Mishra, Prachi & Montiel, Peter, 2013. "How effective is monetary transmission in low-income countries? A survey of the empirical evidence," Economic Systems, Elsevier, vol. 37(2), pages 187-216.
- Sampawende Jules Tapsoba, 2011. "Union Monétaire en Afrique de l'Ouest: Quelles Réponses à l'Hétérogénéité des Chocs ?," Working Papers halshs-00554309, HAL.
- Gerald Epstein, 2009. "Rethinking Monetary and Financial Policy: Practical suggestions for monitoring financial stability while generating employment and poverty reduction," Published Studies ilo_epstein11_09, Political Economy Research Institute, University of Massachusetts at Amherst.
- Dhaneshwar Ghura & Kangni Kpodar & Raju Jan Singh, 2009. "Financial Deepening in the CFA Franc Zone:The Role of Institutions," IMF Working Papers 09/113, International Monetary Fund.
- KAMGNA, Severin Yves & Ndambendia, Houdou, 2008.
"Excès de liquidité systémique et effectivité de la politique monétaire : cas des pays de la CEMAC
[Excess liquidity and monetary policy effectiveness: The case of CEMAC countries]," MPRA Paper 9599, University Library of Munich, Germany.
- James Heintz & Léonce Ndikumana, 2010. "Is There a Case for Formal Inflation Targeting in Sub-Saharan Africa?," Working Papers wp218, Political Economy Research Institute, University of Massachusetts at Amherst.
- Patrick Honohan & Thorsten Beck, 2007.
"Making Finance Work for Africa,"
World Bank Publications,
The World Bank, number 6626, October.
- Honohan, P. & Beck, T.H.L., 2007. "Making finance work for Africa," Open Access publications from Tilburg University urn:nbn:nl:ui:12-3125420, Tilburg University.
- Moffat, Boitnmelo & Valadkhani, Abbas & Harvie, Charles, 2008. "Identifying productivity change in Botswana's financial institutions: an application of Malmquist productivity indices," Economics Working Papers wp08-13, School of Economics, University of Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
- James Heintz & Robert Pollin, 2008. "Targeting Employment Expansion, Economic Growth and Development in Sub-Saharan Africa: Outlines of an Alternative Economic Programme for the Region," Published Studies targeting_employment_expa, Political Economy Research Institute, University of Massachusetts at Amherst.
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text:
|Table of Contents
|Vol. 84, No. 2, 2010
Issue release date: March 2010
Rare Etiology of Obstructive Uropathy: Pelvic LipomatosisMiglani U. · Sinha T. · Gupta S.K. · Doddamani D. · Sethi G.S. · Talwar R. · Agrawal S. · Chandra M. · Rana Y.P.S. · Harkar S.
We present a case of a 32-year-old hypertensive and obese male who had bilateral obstructive uropathy, and who was diagnosed as having pelvic lipomatosis on the basis of clinicoradiological findings. Cystoscopy and biopsy revealed cystitis cystica. He was successfully managed with bilateral extravesical modified Lich-Gregoir ureteric reimplantation by intraperitoneal approach. At 5 months follow-up, the patient had normal serum creatinine and was clinically asymptomatic.
|Direct payment
|This item at the regular price: USD 33.00
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you profit from a special rate for this and other single items.
This item at the discounted price: USD 23.00


text:
Columnists in Living
Most Popular in Living
- Birth Jayde Aspen Hurst
- Wedding: Brittney Harris and Dalton Nesmith
- Flora of Cortez
- Local briefs
- A humble heart of thanks
- Lloyd McNeil A life in the forest caring for the land, serving the people
- Canyon song
- Wedding Birge-Coitan
- Weekend music fest
- Evangelist Bonnke embarks on his first American crusade
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Community calendar
Email announcements to firstname.lastname@example.com and include "Community Calendar" in the subject field. Items submitted less than two weeks in advance will be less likely to be published. Entries may be edited for length and content.
Tuesday, Sept. 2
Cortez Evening Market from 4 to 7 p.m. in City Park (next to the Welcome Center). Local produce, handmade goods and live music.
The Four Corners...


text:
A computer system supports operation of a CPU at multiple clock speeds. Logic in the computer system predicts the performance requirements of the CPU, and selects the fastest clock speed to optimize performance. In one embodiment, a Keyboard controller receives user inputs from various user input devices, including a mouse and keyboard. The Keyboard controller identifies user inputs that reflect a system command, such as, for example, a mouse click, selection of the Alt key with another key, or any special function keys associated with a software application. If such a user input is detected, the Keyboard controller generates a system management interrupt (SMI) to the CPU. In response, the CPU calls a speed control algorithm that identifies the source of the SMI and increases the clock speed to the processor by providing a control input to a multiplexer or switch that selects the highest clock speed for the CPU.
1. A method for accelerating the speed of a CPU, comprising:
detecting user inputs;
comparing any user inputs to a list of inputs that indicate a system command;
accelerating the speed of the CPU if a user input indicates a system command; and
performing an operation associated with the system command, wherein the operation does not comprise changing the speed of the CPU nor causing the speed of the CPU to be changed.
2. The method of
3. The method of
4. The method of
5. The method of
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7. The method of
8. The method of
9. The method of
10. The method of
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15. The method of
16. The method of
17. The method of
18. The method of
19. The method of
20. The method of
21. The method of
22. The method of
23. A computer system, comprising:
a CPU capable of operating at two different clock speeds;
a multiplexer that selects the clock speed at which the CPU operates;
a Keyboard controller coupled to said CPU;
at least one user input device coupled to said Keyboard controller;
wherein said Keyboard controller detects input signals from said user input device that indicate a system command, and in response generates a system management interrupt to said CPU; and
wherein said CPU, in response to said system management interrupt, provides a control input to said multiplexer to accelerate the clock speed at which the CPU operates and performs an operation associated with the system command, wherein the operation does not comprise changing the clock speed of the CPU nor causing the speed of the CPU to be changed.
24. The system of
25. The system of
26. The system of
27. The system of
28. The system of
29. The system of
30. A method of accelerating or maintaining the clock speed of a CPU at its highest speed, comprising the acts of:
detecting user inputs;
analyzing the user inputs to identify a system command; operating the CPU at its highest clock speed in response to receipt of the system command; and
performing an operation associated with the system command, wherein the operation does not comprise changing the clock speed of the CPU nor causing the speed of the CPU to be changed.
31. The method of
32. The method of
33. The method of
34. The method of
35. The method of
36. The method of
37. A method of accelerating the clock speed of a processor, comprising the acts of:
detecting user inputs;
analyzing the user inputs to identify a system command;
generating an interrupt to a CPU indicating a system command has been received; and
increasing the clock speed of the processor in response to receipt of the system command; and
performing an operation associated with the system command, wherein the operation does not comprise changing the clock speed of the processor nor causing the speed of the CPU to be changed.
38. The method of
39. The method of
40. The method of
41. The method of
42. The method of
43. The method of
44. The method of
45. The method of
Not applicable.
Not applicable.
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to a computer system that includes a central processing unit that can operate at different frequencies. More particularly, the present invention relates to a portable computer system in which the speed of the central processing unit is accelerated in response to system command entries from a user.
2. Background of the Invention
Power management is an integral part of a battery-operated portable notebook computer. To maximize battery life, computer systems manage the power drain on the batteries by placing the computer system in a low power mode whenever possible. Typically, a computer system is placed in a low power mode when the computer system is inactive. The computer system is subsequently awoken in response to system activity, such as occurs when the user depresses any key on the keyboard or moves or presses a button on a mouse. See U.S. Pat. No. 5,218,704. Thus, any keystroke forms a break event that wakes the system from an idle mode.
Computer systems typically include input devices, such as a keyboard and a pointing device. The keyboard usually includes 101 alphanumeric, positioning, and function keys. A mouse or other pointing device includes some form of motion sensor, and 2 or 3 finger operated control buttons. The keyboard and pointing device connect electrically to a keyboard controller via a PS/2 bus, which is a four wire, synchronous bus. The keyboard controller typically comprises a microprocessor-based controller, such as the Intel 8042 or Intel 8051. When a key is pressed, logic inside the keyboard issues a �make code� signal to the keyboard controller. A �break code� is issued when the key is lifted. Multiple keys may be pressed, especially in combination with a �shift�, �Ctrl�, �Alt�, or �function� key. The keyboard controller identifies the �make� code and translates it to a �scan code� that is used by the operating system and application software. A mouse periodically issues a three byte packet of information. The first byte identifies if a button is pressed, and if so, which byte is pressed. The second and third bytes identify the displacement of the mouse along the X and Y axis that has occurred since the last mouse packet was sent, usually in two's complement format.
After a key press on the keyboard or mouse, or after a mouse movement, the keyboard controller generates a standard interrupt signal to the core chipset. Typically an IRQ1 is transmitted in response to a keyboard event, and IRQ12 is transmitted in response to a mouse event. The system BIOS responds to the keyboard interrupt (IRQ1), and assembles the scan codes for the operating system software to use. The mouse interrupts (IRQ12) are transmitted directly to the operating system software driver. In the Microsoft Windows Operating System, an input device driver examines the scan code and mouse data. The operating system will either message data as virtual scan codes to the application software, or will use the input data for its direct system commands.
The core chipset may include some limited power management functionality that permits the system to be placed in a low power state when the system is inactive. The system typically monitors inputs from the keyboard or mouse to determine when the system should break from the low power mode. The problem, however, is that placing the computer in a low power mode inevitably compromises system performance. A system in a low power state is not immediately responsive to user demands, and thus a user experiences some period of latency as the computer resumes its normal operational state. As the latency period becomes longer, it becomes increasingly irritating to the user.
Developing a power management system that is instantly and accurately responsive to user demands is problematic. There are two general techniques that have been used and discussed over the years for managing power in a portable computer. The first technique involves the manipulation of the operating frequency of the CPU and/or chipset. In particular, the system clock speeds are lowered to save power during periods when the system is perceived to be idle. See U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,625,826 and 5,504,908.
The manipulation of clock frequency for power management fell out of favor with the advent of techniques that completely halted the CPU by stopping the CPU clock. One technique that gained acceptance was to have the South bridge device generate a Stopclock signal to the CPU that caused the system to turn off the CPU clock, thereby placing the CPU in a suspended state. The Stopclock signal was generated in response to some event, or some indication that the system was inactive. A variation of the Stopclock technique permitted the system to resume normal operation for a fixed period to respond to a particular system event, followed by returning to the idle mode. This was commonly referred to as a Burst event. Another technique that was developed was halting the CPU in response to a software Autohalt command. The Autohalt technique required support of the application or operating system, which was supposed to report when it had finished a routine, and then instruct the CPU to go into a low power state. While both Stopclock and Autohalt have relatively minimal latency periods, they are not the most efficient techniques to control the CPU frequency, because the CPU must either be started or stopped, and cannot be throttled to slower or faster speeds. The ability to throttle the CPU to slower speeds also has the advantage of being able to lower the voltage to the CPU, while the CPU remains operational, albeit at a lower speed. Also, the Stopclock technique generally does not impact the amount of power drawn by the chipset.
Because of these limitations, power management in current portable computers has returned to the use of frequency manipulation to conserve battery power. Most CPU manufacturers now offer a frequency manipulation technique as part of current processors. For example, Intel has a technology that it markets as �Speedstep�� that enables the processor to operate at different clock speeds. Similarly, AMD has the �PowerNow!�� technology that also implements frequency manipulation of the CPU clock speed. Likewise, Transmeta� has the �LongRun�� technology that also performs frequency manipulation. Each of these techniques relies on lowering the CPU core frequency and/or chipset in response to either a system power state, a manual setting by the user, or the actual usage of the system.
As an example, the PowerNow! Technique from AMD senses the system idle time by looking at the excess capacity of the CPU. Thus, for example, if the CPU is idle greater than 20% of the time, the system can automatically lower the system clocks to 80% of their maximum clock frequency (i.e., from 600 MHz to 500 MHz. This enables the system to continue operating, but draw less power. In addition, frequency control circuitry for most manufacturers also typically includes a voltage control circuit that selects a lower CPU operating voltage level when the slower speed operating frequency is used.
Although these frequency manipulation techniques have improved the efficiency of the CPU in portable computer systems, the decision regarding when to change frequency still is archaic. Almost all systems are reactive, and thus wait to change speed until after the speed change is required. Very few (if any) systems exist that attempt to predict the performance requirement of the CPU, so as to modify the CPU clock speed at the very time that the change in speed is needed. Instead, the most advanced technique looks at an average of system idle times to determine what the current speed setting should be for the CPU. Such as system cannot efficiently match peak demands of a computer system.
One implementation suggested by the assignee of the present invention in U.S. Pat. No. 5,625,826 is to monitor the CPU memory activity to predict the frequency at which the system should operate. An absence of CPU reads from system memory was interpreted as indicating that the computer system was in a wait state, and could be slowed down. While this technique has merit in certain conditions, it is not entirely accurate in predicting the work level of the CPU. The problem with power management systems that monitor CPU inactivity is that there is an inherent latency both in detecting the requirement for higher CPU performance, and reacting to this requirement. Because almost all power management systems operate by lowering the speed of the computer system, the instantaneous performance is inherently slowed. The performance of instantaneous tasks, such as loading a file, performing a search, or refreshing a screen, are the commands that the user notices most acutely.
It would be advantageous if a power management technique could be developed that could predict the need for increased performance from the CPU. It would also be advantageous if a power management system was capable of examining requested transactions to aid in predicting CPU usage earlier in time to minimize latency. Most, if not all, current computer systems treat all user inputs equally. The only power management response that typically occurs in response to a user input is that the system will wake-up the CPU if the clocks are stopped to the CPU, to permit the CPU to process the requests. Thus, most power management systems use a user input as a break event, and do not attempt to identify the type of input for power management purposes.
The present invention solves the deficiencies of the prior art by implementing a power management system for controlling the speed of the CPU and/or chipset based on user inputs. According to the preferred embodiment, the system monitors user inputs, and distinguishes between the types of user input. In particular, any user input that indicates a system command is identified, and in response, the CPU is accelerated to a higher clock frequency. In particular, a mouse click, pressing the �alt� key in combination with another key, or pressing the �Enter� key or the �Page Up� or �Page Down� key, selection of a special function key, and other predetermined keystrokes and keystroke combinations are used to denote a system command that will require increased processor capacity. Thus, the system detects these type of user inputs, and in response, accelerates the CPU frequency. Conversely, the system preferably responds to a simple data input from the user by maintaining the low power operation.
The system command inputs may be distinguished in several ways. One possibility is to have the operating system driver distinguish system commands from data entry operations. Upon detecting a system command, the operating system driver directs the power management software to accelerate to the highest CPU speed. Another possibility is that the keyboard controller may be configured to discriminate system command keystrokes, or a combination of keystrokes, from data keystrokes by comparing user inputs to a list of system commands. Upon detecting a system command, the keyboard controller generates an interrupt to the CPU. Yet another possibility for identifying system commands is to have the system BIOS read scan codes from the keyboard, and identify system commands.
According to one exemplary embodiment, the keyboard controller or other logic monitors user inputs and distinguishes between data inputs and system command inputs. In response to a system command input, the controller generates an interrupt to the core chipset, and also generates a System Management interrupt (SMI). The SMI activates a power management speed control algorithm, which provides a control input to a frequency multiplexer that selects a higher clock frequency for the CPU. Consequently, in response to the system command input from the user, the CPU clock speed is accelerated almost instantly. After a predetermined time period, the power management algorithm may return the clock frequency to a lower speed.
According to another exemplary embodiment, a software driver reads the input device and translates user input signals into an equivalent scan code. The translated scan code is then messaged to the application currently in focus. The Operating system input device driver software compares the keyboard or mouse data against a list of keystrokes that indicate the necessity of keyboard acceleration. If a match occurs, the Operating system will direct the power management driver to increase the speed of the CPU.
In another exemplary embodiment, the system BIOS may examine user input scan codes when they are read in response to an interrupt request, or when the scan codes are retrieved in response to an interrupt request. The scan codes may be compared to a list of keystrokes that have been identified as system commands. If a match occurs, the power management software driver is directed to increase CPU speed.
These and other aspects of the present invention will become apparent upon analyzing the drawings, detailed description and claims, which follow.
For a detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary computer system constructed according to the preferred embodiment; and
FIG. 2 shows a procedure for accelerating the speed of the CPU of FIG. 1 in accordance with embodiments of the invention.
Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular system components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, computer companies may refer to a component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components that differ in name but not function. In the following discussion and in the claims, the terms �including� and �comprising� are used in an open-ended fashion, and thus should be interpreted to mean �including, but not limited to . . . �. Also, the term �couple� or �couples� is intended to mean either an indirect or direct electrical connection. Thus, if a first device couples to a second device, that connection may be through a direct electrical connection, or through an indirect electrical connection via other devices and connections. To the extent that any term is not specially defined in this specification, the intent is that the term is to be given its plain and ordinary meaning.
FIG. 1 illustrates a laptop computer system 100 constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment. The following discussion, however, should not be construed as limiting the present invention to a laptop. The present invention also may be used with a desktop system, work-station, server, handheld computer, or any other battery operated electronic computing device, such as a cellular telephone, or any device where it is advantageous to conserve power. The following discussion describes an exemplary computer system that may be used with the principles of the present invention. It should be understood, however, that the computer system architecture is arbitrary, and any architecture may be used that supports input signals from a user, whether by keyboard, mouse, trackball, voice, visual, or any other technique that is currently available or which may become available in the future.
According to the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 1, computer system 100 generally comprises a microprocessor or CPU 112 coupled to a main memory array 104 and a variety of other peripheral computer system components through an integrated bridge logic device 120. The bridge logic device 120 is sometimes referred to as a �North bridge�. The CPU 112 preferably couples to bridge logic 120 via a CPU bus 116, or the bridge logic 120 may be integrated into the CPU 112. The CPU 112 may comprise, for example, a Pentium II�, Pentium III�, or Celeron� processor by Intel�, the Athlon� processor by AMD, the Alpha� processor by Compaq, microprocessor. It should be understood, however, that computer system 100 could include other alternative types of microprocessors from a variety of manufacturers, or may be designed with multiple processors.
The main memory array 104 preferably couples to the bridge logic unit 120 through a memory bus 108, and the bridge logic 120 preferably includes a memory control unit (not separately depicted) that controls transactions to the main memory 104 by asserting the necessary control signals during memory accesses. The main memory 104 functions as the working memory for the CPU 112 and generally includes a conventional memory device or array of memory devices in which program instructions and data are stored. The main memory array may comprise any suitable type of memory such as dynamic random access memory (DRAM) or any of the various types of DRAM devices such as synchronous DRAM (SDRAM), extended data output DRAM (EDO DRAM), double data rate DRAM (DDR DRAM) or Rambus� DRAM (RDRAM).
The computer system 100 also preferably includes a graphics controller 136 that couples to the bridge logic 120 via an expansion bus 124. As shown in FIG. 1, the expansion bus 124 comprises a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus. Alternatively, the graphics controller 136 may couple to bridge logic 120 through an additional Advanced Graphics Port (AGP) bus (not specifically shown). As one skilled in the art will understand, the graphics controller 136 controls the rendering of text and images on a display device 128. In the preferred embodiment as shown in FIG. 1, the expansion bus 124 comprises a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) bus. Computer system 100, however, is not limited to any particular type of expansion bus, and thus various buses may be used, including a high speed (100 MHz or faster) PCI bus. In the preferred embodiment, any number of PCI peripheral devices 132 may reside on the PCI bus 124, including devices such as, for example, network interface cards (NICs), video accelerators, audio cards, hard or floppy disk drives, Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) drives, Small Computer Systems Interface (SCSI) adapters and telephony cards.
In addition and as mentioned above, computer system 100 can be implemented with respect to the particular bus architectures shown in FIG. 1 (i.e., PCI bus), or other bus architectures (i.e., IEEE 1394), as desired. Further, because CPU 112 preferably comprises a Pentium� III processor, the CPU bus 116 represents a Pentium� III bus. These bus protocols and the terminology used with respect to these protocols are well known to those of ordinary skill in the art. For a more thorough understanding of the PCI bus, refer to the PCI Local Bus Specification (1993). If an AGP bus also is used in the computer system, reference may be made to the Accelerated Graphics Port Interface Specification (Intel, 1996).
The computer system also includes a bus bridge 130 for coupling the expansion bus within the computer to a compatible expansion bus housed in a docking station, for example. The bus bridge 130 couples to a secondary PCI bus 125, which terminates at a docking connector 150. Because the buses 124 and 125 preferably represent PCI buses, the bus bridge 130 represents a PCI-to-PCI bus bridge.
Referring still to FIG. 1, a secondary bridge logic device 168 preferably connects to expansion bus 124. The secondary bridge logic is sometimes referred to as a �South bridge,� reflecting its location vis-�-vis the North bridge in a typical computer system drawing. The South bridge 168 couples or �bridges� the primary expansion bus 124 to other secondary expansion buses. These other secondary expansion buses may include an ISA (Industry Standard Architecture) bus, a sub-ISA bus, a USB (Universal Serial Bus), an IDE bus, an IEEE 1394 standard (or �FireWire�) bus, or any of a variety of other buses that are available or may become available in the future. In the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1, the South bridge logic 168 couples to a sub-ISA bus 140, a USB bus 148, and an IDE bus 164. As will be apparent to one skilled in this art, various peripheral devices may be coupled to each of these buses. Thus, as shown in the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1, a Keyboard controller chip 160 connects to the sub-ISA bus 140, as do a BIOS ROM 144 and various other ISA-compatible devices 142. According to the preferred embodiment, the South bridge may generate a Stopclock interrupt (not shown) to the CPU 112, requesting the CPU to stop operation based on a particular system event, or based on a user command.
As will be understood by one skilled in the art, the Keyboard controller 160 preferably includes a keyboard controller and associated logic for interfacing with the busses and other devices connected thereto. The Keyboard controller 160 preferably interfaces various input devices, including a mouse 161, a keyboard 163, a floppy disk drive, and various input switches such as a power switch and a suspend switch. A low speed serial bus 160, which generally is a bus with only one data signal, may provide an additional connection between the Keyboard controller 160 and South bridge 168. The Keyboard controller typically comprises an ISA bus interface (not specifically shown) and transmit and receive registers (not specifically shown) for exchanging data with the South bridge 168 over the serial bus. The Keyboard controller is responsible for receiving user commands from the various input/output devices, such as mouse 161 and keyboard 163, and for formatting and relaying these inputs to the South bridge, where the signals are formatted and transferred to appropriate devices in the computer system 100, such as the CPU 112. Typically, software applications running on the CPU receive the data relayed from the input devices, and execute routines to process that data, in accordance with known techniques.
The Keyboard controller 160 generally has the capability to handle power management functions such as reducing or terminating power to components such as the floppy drive (not shown), blocking the clock signals that drive components such as the bridge devices and CPU 112, and initiating sleep mode in the peripheral buses. The Keyboard controller 160 further asserts
System Management Interrupt (SMI) signals to various devices such as the CPU 112, North bridge 120, and South bridge 168 to indicate special conditions pertaining to input/output activities such as sleep mode. The Keyboard controller 160 typically incorporates a counter or a Real Time Clock (RTC) to track the activities of certain components such as the hard drive and the PCI bus 125, and may induce a sleep mode or reduced power mode after a predetermined time of inactivity. The Keyboard controller may also place the computer system into a low-power mode, in which the power to all devices except the Keyboard controller 160 itself shuts off completely. Although the Keyboard controller 160 initiates many of the power functions, the Keyboard controller 160 typically acts according to instructions from the South bridge logic 168.
In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the Keyboard controller examines the input signals received from the input devices, including the mouse 161 and keyboard 163. Logic in the Keyboard controller preferably distinguishes particular input signals for power management control purposes. In particular, the Keyboard controller identifies input signals that reflect a system command to the computer system. Thus, input signals reflecting that one of the mouse buttons has been depressed is interpreted by the Keyboard controller as indicating a command sequence. Similarly, depressing a special function key, an �Alt� key, a �Ctrl� key, a �Page up� or �Page down� key, or an �Enter� key is interpreted by Keyboard controller as indicating a command has been issued by the user. In response to the detection of one of these or other command inputs from the input devices 161, 163, the Keyboard controller transmits a system management interrupt (SMI) to a speed control algorithm 185 preferably stored in the BIOS ROM 144 that executes on the CPU 112 or on another programmable device in the computer system. In addition, the Keyboard controller 160 assembles the input signals from the input devices, and relays these signals to the South bridge 168 in accordance with normal convention by issuing a interrupt signal indicating input data has been received at the Keyboard controller 160.
More specifically, and in accordance with the preferred embodiment, the keyboard and mouse (or other pointing device) connect electrically to the Keyboard controller 160 via a PS/2 bus, which is a four wire synchronous bus. When a key is depressed on keyboard 163, logic inside the keyboard issues a �make code� signal to the keyboard controller 160. The keyboard logic also issues a �break code� signal when the key is lifted. Multiple keys may be pressed substantially simultaneously, especially in combination with the �shift�, �Ctrl�, �Alt�, or �function� keys. The Keyboard controller 160 identifies the �make code� and translates it to a scan code that is used by the operating system and application software.
The mouse periodically issues a three-byte packet of information. The first byte of the mouse packet identifies if a button has been pressed, and if so, which button has been depressed. The second and third bytes identify the displacement of the mouse along the X and Y axis since the last mouse packet was sent. The Keyboard controller 160 generates a standard interrupt request to the CPU. Thus, in the case of a keyboard event, the Keyboard controller 160 transmits an IRQ1 to the CPU, and, in response to a mouse event, the Keyboard controller 160 transmits an IRQ12.
According to one exemplary embodiment, the Keyboard controller 160 also examines the keyboard and mouse packets to determine if the user is signaling a command by pressing a system command key or combination of keys. If the event is a keystroke, the Keyboard controller 160 compares the keyboard �make code� signal with a subset of possible make codes that are held in the local memory of the Keyboard controller 160. According to this embodiment, the Keyboard controller 160 compares the �make code� signal against a list of preset acceleration values that reflect system command inputs:
Keyboard System Command Identification Table
If, conversely, the information is a mouse packet, the Keyboard controller will test bits 0-2 of byte 1 of the packet, which identify if one of the mouse buttons has been pressed. In particular, bit 0 represents the left mouse button, bit 1 indicates the right mouse button, and bit 2 indicates the middle mouse button. Setting any of these bits to a logical �1� indicates that the associated mouse button has been depressed. According to this embodiment, the keyboard controller accepts a �double-click� of any of the mouse buttons as a system command. A double click is determined by observing the mouse button (bits 0-2 of mouse packet byte 1) transition high, then low, then high within 500 milliseconds. Conventional Keyboard controllers do not typically distinguish double-clicks, so either the Keyboard controller must be modified, or the Operating System monitors this transition to detect the double-click of a mouse button.
If the �make code� is listed in the System Command Identification table in the Keyboard controller 160, or if a mouse button has been double-clicked, the Keyboard controller 160 will assert its SMI source to the CPU. Conversely, if the make code represents another key is pressed (for example, the scan code is �33h� signifying that the �h� key is pressed), or if the mouse packet indicated X/Y movement, or a single button press, then no SMI will be generated and the CPU will stay in its most efficient power mode (low speed CPU frequency) state.
As an alternative to the hardware implementation described above in relation to FIG. 1, the present invention may also be implemented using software techniques. Thus, according to this embodiment, the discrimination of user inputs occurs at the software level, instead of at the Keyboard controller. In particular, the system software or BIOS may be used to detect system command acceleration keystrokes, instead of having the Keyboard controller 160 identify system commands and generate an SMI to the CPU.
Software discrimination of system commands from keystroke characters has certain advantages. One advantage of distinguishing system command keystrokes in software is that specific keystrokes may be dynamically enabled as system commands. While, the Microsoft Windows Operating system supports simultaneous multitasking operation of several applications, the operating system can only focus on a single program at any given time. Thus, the operation of the user input devices only applies to the program that is in the active window. Accurately predicting the requirement for increased processor performance relies, at least in part, on the correct association of the user inputs to the requirements of the active program. For example, a mouse click in the middle of a text document may not suggest the need for increased performance because the user may only be positioning the cursor for subsequent data entry on the keyboard. Conversely, a mouse click on a Command bar would suggest a task requiring significant performance demands. As another example, pressing the key for the letter �f� when working in a text file may simply denote a data entry. If, however, the letter �f� is depressed while a �Find� dialog frame is active may initiate a CPU-intensive process, demanding increased CPU performance.
A second advantage to software discrimination is that the operating system may reassign any input key for any function. Thus, the mouse buttons may be reassigned for a left or right-handed user. Similarly, a 101-key keyboard may have different conventions for different languages. While the hardware implementation can also support reassignment of the keys, a delay typically would be encountered while the new key assignments are downloaded from the operating system to the keyboard controller.
A third advantage to using software to discriminate system commands is that a broader set of input devices may be recognized as system command inputs. In particular, software recognition of system command input signals enables the use of USB peripheral input devices, without requiring a keyboard controller to interpret make codes and predict acceleration.
The system software can dynamically set the appropriate acceleration keystrokes. The Operating system will give the focus to the application program that is enabled for the keyboard or mouse. In the case of the mouse, the focus may move very quickly from one software application to another, as the mouse points to different application windows. The Operating system will give the mouse focus to the client area window which it instantaneously overlays. According to one embodiment, the active application program will message to the Operating system with a list of keystrokes (or comparison table) that indicate the necessity for CPU acceleration. Messaging is the method that the Operating system and Windows application software use to communicate common system information. The communication is typically accomplished through a polling operation.
The Operating system manages common resources to the application programs. The input devices are common hardware resources whose information will be interpreted by the Operating system before any data is provided to the application. An Operating system software routine will be initiated every time the keyboard or mouse is actuated. For the example, if the keyboard is connected to the system bus through a USB connection, the software driver will read the input device and translate the USB data stream into an equivalent scan code. The Operating system input device software will compare the keyboard or mouse data against the list of keystrokes that indicate the need for software acceleration. If the comparison identifies a match, then the Operating system will directly (or through a power management driver) increase the speed of the CPU. Thus, in this software implementation, the input device driver discriminates system command inputs from simple data inputs, and directs the power management software directly.
The Windows Operating system currently identifies system commands, and thus a link between the Operating system and the power management system may be established to implement the CPU acceleration upon detection of a system command. The Operating system driver identifies system commands, such as mouse clicks and function key selection. These inputs are referred to in the Windows Operating system as �keyboard accelerators�, and will directly call the initiation of a routine or child window to a parent application. One example performs static functions of the Operating System, such as switching the active focus from program to program by selecting the Alt-tab key combination. Another example is dynamic functions from open applications, such as pressing the Alt-V key combination to enable the view menu in Microsoft Word, or pressing F1 to initiate the help menu for the active program. In this instance, the application will message the keystrokes that are appropriate for its menus.
When the Operating system identifies that a pressed key is in its static accelerator list, it will message a WM SYSCOMMAND message. If the keystroke is in the open application accelerator list, the Operating system will message a WM COMMAND to the application. If a menu is active and then user presses a keystroke that is not on the Accelerator list, a WM MENUCHAR message is sent to the application. Mouse clicks are also messaged to the application or used directly by the Operating system. Typical messages are WM NCLBUTTONDOWN for a left mouse button click, and WM NCLBUTTONDBLCLK for a double-click of the mouse button.
Because the Operating system already identifies system command keys, the input driver may be modified according to the present invention to direct the power management of the system. Upon recognition of a System command keystroke by the input driver, an event may be sent to the power management software. The power management software selects the fastest CPU speed by actuating the speed switch so the CPU operates at its highest frequency.
As another alternative, the system BIOS could be used to identify system command inputs from the user. As noted above, the keyboard controller generates make codes to the keyboard controller, which translates the make codes to scan codes. The keyboard controller then generates a system hardware interrupt request (IRQ1 For the PC/AT keyboard) when the keyboard buffer is becoming full. The system BIOS responds to the interrupt request (IRQ1) and reads the scan codes from the keyboard controller buffer. The Operating system or application then calls the system BIOS through a software interrupt call (INT 9 or INT16) to retrieve the recent scan codes. This sequence could be altered, according to an alternative embodiment, to allow the system BIOS call (the IRQ1 hardware routine, or the INT9 or INT16) to compare the scan code with a list of system command inputs to determine if the user has initiated a system command event.
Referring again to FIG. 1, the USB bus 148 supports various peripherals, especially video peripherals such as video cameras for teleconferencing purposes. Moreover, it should be understood that the mouse and/or keyboard may be coupled via the USB bus 148 to the South bridge logic 168. In that event, the operating system or system BIOS may be used to distinguish system commands from data inputs, as described above. In addition to the buses discussed above, the South bridge 168 also preferably connects to interrupt signal lines and power management signal lines Referring still to FIG. 1, the CPU 112 preferably is capable of operating at multiple frequencies. Two such frequencies are depicted in FIG. 1 for purposes of illustration, labeled �Fast� and �Slow�. According to the preferred embodiment, two different clock signals are provided, either from separate oscillators, or from the same oscillator using some form of frequency division or multiplication. Although two clock frequencies are depicted in FIG. 1, more than two frequencies may be provided. As shown in FIG. 1, a frequency multiplexer 190 selects the clock signal that will be applied to the CPU based on a control input signal that is generated by the speed control algorithm 185 running on the CPU or some other device capable of executing software routines. In similar fashion, a plurality of voltage signal levels may be applied to the CPU 112 to operate the CPU. A voltage multiplexer 195 preferably selects the voltage signal to apply to the CPU 112 based on a control signal from the speed control algorithm 185, or some other circuitry. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, circuitry other than multiplexes 190, 195 may be used to select the appropriate frequency and voltage to apply to the CPU 112.
The speed control algorithm preferably forms part of the BIOS or the operating system software, which may be stored in the BIOS ROM 144 or some other read only memory device. The speed control algorithm 185 preferably loads in response to receipt of the SMI from the Keyboard controller 160 to implement acceleration of the CPU clock speed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. Alternatively, the speed control algorithm may be called by the Operating system or the system BIOS in response to a determination that a system command input has been received.
In response to the receipt of the SMI from the Keyboard controller 160, or as directed by the Operating system or system BIOS, the speed control algorithm 185 is activated by the CPU 112. The speed control algorithm 185 preferably instructs the CPU 112 to generate a control output to the frequency multiplexer 190, preferably causing the frequency multiplexer to select the fast (or highest speed) clock signal, as the clock input to the CPU 112. If more than two clock signals are provided, the speed control algorithm may provide further control to select the appropriate clock speed, based on the user inputs. The CPU clock speed may be returned to the slower speed after the expiration of a predetermined time period, or after the CPU enters an idle mode in response to an Autohalt or Stopclock signal.
According to the preferred embodiment, the speed control algorithm 185 also may control the voltage level to the CPU 112 by proving a control signal to the voltage multiplexer 195 that selects the appropriate voltage level. Alternatively, if voltage control is provided, it may be implemented as a hardware solution that adjusts the voltage levels based on the clock frequency.
FIG. 2 shows a procedure 200 for accelerating the speed of a CPU 112 in accordance with embodiments of the inventions. The procedure 200 begins by the CPU 112 executing the system BIOS 144. The keyboard controller 160 detects user inputs to the system 100 (block 304), and the scan codes associated with the detected user inputs may be stored (block 306) in a buffer 165 (FIG. 1). When the buffer 165 is becoming full, the keyboard controller 160 generates an interrupt (block 308), and the system BIOS 144 reads the scan codes stored in the buffer 165 (block 310). The system BIOS 144 compares the scan codes with a list of inputs that indicate a system command (block 312), and if a match is detected, calls power management software (block 314 ) to accelerate the CPU 112.
The present invention may be varied in several respects to adjust the CPU clock speed based on predicting the need for increased performance. In addition to detecting specific input commands, the speed control algorithm may be designed as an adaptive algorithm that associates user inputs and other system signals with system commands. Thus, for example, if a particular software application has specific keystrokes that result in the generation of a system command signal, the speed control algorithm may thereafter associate this keystroke combination with a system command, and thus may accelerate the CPU clock speed in response to these keystrokes.
The present invention may also be adapted to work with burst events. As noted in the Background, burst events are used as a power management technique to wake the system from a Halt or Stopclock mode in response to a particular event, and then to return the system to the idle condition after a specific time period. The speed control algorithm 185 of the present invention may disable the burst mode so that the system is not returned to the idle mode. Alternatively, the speed control algorithm 185 may modify the preset time of the burst so that the CPU has a longer period to respond to the user commands.
The present invention may be used for other devices other than the CPU. For example, the principles of the present invention may also be applied to a graphics processor, or to other processors in the computer system. Any device in the computer system that can operate at multiple clock speeds may benefit from the principles outlined herein, including busses, peripheral devices, and bridge devices.
The above discussion is meant to be illustrative of the principles and various embodiments of the present invention. Numerous variations and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art once the above disclosure is fully appreciated. It is intended that the following claims be interpreted to embrace all such variations and modifications.
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Rules On Volunteer Activities Raise Legal Concerns
A nasty fight is brewing between the firefighters' union and volunteer firefighters. The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) and several locals, are trying to restrict members from serving as volunteer firefighters in their off-duty time...
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It is reasonable that a private organization may set criteria for membership. The volunteer restriction is consistent with the IAFF goal of promoting the interests of paid, full-time firefighters and paramedics. And, of course, it is the role of government, and not private organizations, to watch out for the public interest. Determining whether a restriction is in the public interest is a highly political debate, as illustrated by the heated rhetoric that surrounded the Connecticut legislation.
Balanced against this, however, are at least two important legal and public policy concerns. First, there is a basic individual freedom to do whatever we please on our own time. Second, a restriction on volunteering could be expensive to jurisdictions with limited budgets. Further is the reality that the union's action carries with it, to some extent at least, an implicit government sanction. In many departments, mandatory union membership is written into the collective bargaining agreement.
Undoubtedly, this controversy will end up in court. Groups such as the National Right to Work Campaign are eager to see the matter litigated. The outcome may depend on how the case is framed. Indeed, the result may vary from state to state. But, the courts may well determine whether union restrictions on outside volunteer activities are legal on the basis of whether any significant state action is required.
Steve Blackistone, a Firehouse® contributing editor, is an attorney and a member of the Bethesda-Chevy Chase Rescue Squad in Montgomery County, MD.
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When the rain came down and clouds rolled in, some gutters gushed, but others clogged.
"I noticed that my front yard was washing away with all the heavy rains," David Jones said.
He lives in Taylors and said Friday afternoon he came home to a flooded yard.
"It was just the gutters getting clogged up with all the big trees and leaves around," Jones said. "I just purchased this home about a month ago and in the process of renovating."
Now, he's worried water damage and dirty ditches could set him back a bit.
"Well, there's a crawl space and partial basement with water in it," he said.
And the steady rain and claps of thunder shook Linda Campbell's nerves too.
"I was nervous and then heard that big thunder boom," Campbell said.
That's because she is dealing with more than water woes.
"It was a big ole' tree, it was big tree - huge," she said.
The tree smashed her cars and is now cut into pieces scattered throughout her yard.
"It fell all the way across straight in the backyard," she said.
The tree and Campbell became victims of a storm that whipped through the Pinckney area of Greenville Thursday night.
"I couldn't believe it. I said, 'what!'" Campbell recalled when she saw the tree.
So, from downed trees to dirty drains and ditches, spring storms could make for a long summer.
Copyright 2014 FOX Carolina (Meredith Corporation). All rights reserved.


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Down on the farm.
Added On: 09/13/11 | Time: 1:33 | Views: 40753 | Comments: 14 | Favorites: 60
Me doing a little whip practice.
Showing 1 to 10 of Comments
fuchskapuze - 550 days ago
I would love to receive at least 200 lashes by the bullwhip in this way!!!
arsewhipping - 899 days ago
Where can I see the full length vid?? Love to meet these kind of guys who love to be LASHED!!! nice slow strokes building up to INTENSE lacerating strokes!!! email@example.com
hhoncho2 - 995 days ago
The only multi tail whip I use is whiskers which is a 9 tail hybrid kind of thing.. its fun!
vickwelt - 1002 days ago
any experience with using the feared british cat o nine tails?
i'd love to do a judicial punishment one!!
contact me...vickwelt at... firstname.lastname@example.com


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Baby Storytime: A Beginner's Guide
Recently on the Storytime Underground Facebook group, people have been asking questions about how to run a baby storytime. Baby storytime is also known as simply babytime or lapsit. Yes you get to be surrounded by super cute babies, but I find interacting with caregivers, especially with regards to providing early literacy training, a key component to a successful babytime. I thought I'd create a resource guide for anyone new to the field or just starting a baby storytime at their library.
As always, please leave a comment with your ideas or links to resources I can add to this list.
Our Resources:
- Baby Storytime Resources Playlist
- Lap Bounces
- Diaper Changing Songs
- Movement and Dancing Songs
- Lullabies and Soothing Songs
- Baby Storytime Books and Songs Pinterest Board
- Baby Storytime Outline
- Baby Storytime Outline with Play Ideas
- Lifting Songs for Babytime
Blogs with Baby Storytime Outlines and Ideas:
Please note, these links will take you directly to their baby storytime pages or blog posts.
- Mel's Desk
- Abby the Librarian – plus her What to Read at Baby Storytime series
- Read, Sing, Play
- Library Village
- Storytime Secrets
- Storytime with Miss Tara and Friends
- Literary Commentary
- Jen in the Library
- Library Noise
- Anne's Library Life
- Time for Storytime
- Allison's Library
- Getting Giggles
- Laptime and Storytime
- Miss Meg's Storytime
- Storytime with Ms. Kelly
- Storytime Steph
- The Show Me Librarian – Best Books to Use in Babytime
- Reading with Red: My Baby Storytime
Other Helpful Websites
- Burnaby Public Library's Babies Love Books!
- Mother Goose on the Loose
- Storytime Share (lots of great early literacy tips)
- Zero to Three
- ALSC Storytime Resources
- Baby Storytime Magic (2014) by Kathy MacMillan
- What'll I Do With Baby-O (2006) by Jane Cobb
- Storytimes for Everyone: Developing Young Children's Language and Literacy (2013) by Saroj Nadkarni Ghoting
- Lapsit Services for the Very Young II (2001) by Linda L. Ernst
- Baby Rhyming Time (2008) by Linda L. Ernst
- Babies in the Library (2003) by Jane Marino
Also, check out this huge list of Resource Books for Baby Storytime by CLEL.


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Bad Cat Amps Hot Cat 15R 2x12 Combo$2,499.00
Sharing the lineage and design of the award winning Hot Cat 30, only in a 15 watts, club friendly platform. Two channels running into a dual EL84 Class A power section. Channel 1, the cleans are 3-D lush and chime. When pushed the cleans...- Read More
Do you need help with something? Click here to speak with a live support agent.
What type of payments do you accept?
We accept payments from MasterCard, Visa, Discover, American Express and PayPal. You can read about our financing options here.
What is your shipping policy?
We will ship completed orders Monday-Friday. Orders placed and paid before 1:00pm. PST will ship that same day. All completed orders after the cutoff time will ship the following business day. RGS does not ship on Saturday or Sunday.
What is your return policy?
We offer a 30 day Exchange policy for new purchases. We ask that you please return the product in the original product packaging along with all included materials (manual, warranty card, all accessories) and in the original condition that it was received and we will exchange it for any product on ours site. Please note that we do charge a $5 dollar exchange fee to cover our shipping cost. We are a small business and do not offer a cash refund. We cannot take returns on sealed product. We do not accept returns for guitars and amplifiers under any circumstances. Unfortunately we also cannot cancel orders or pre-orders. We are happy to exchange for another product if you are no longer interested in the new release or backordered items


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Home Performance with ENERGY STAR (HPwES)
Schedule Your Home Energy Audit today!
Eligible Delaware homeowners receive an immediate 50% discount (max. $200) bringing the cost of the HPwES audit down to $200 (in most cases). Homeowners also receive the following energy-saving items (up to a $220 value) at no additional cost: light bulbs, showerheads, faucet aerators, pipe insulation, and smart power strips - contact for complete details.
Click here or call 877-524-1339 to have our on-staff Energy Advisors contact you to:
- Answer questions about the process, typical upgrades, and available rebates (up to $4,500)
- Schedule and conduct the HPwES energy audit (click here to view a sample audit video)
- Review your HPwES audit report and recommended improvements
- Explain special 5.99% home energy loans and financing up to $15,000 (for up to 10 years)
- Recommend participating contractors who can complete the recommended work
- Help you review bids and contracts from participating contractors
- Assist you at any time along the way - we are here to help!
Find a Participating Contractor
BPI-certified Energize Delaware HPwES participating contractors can also conduct your HPwES energy audit. These approved contractors are specifically trained and certified to use the most advanced, state-of-the-art equipment to test your home and identify energy efficiency improvements throughout your home, top to bottom, inside and out. After the audit, they can provide you with a detailed list of energy-saving, comfort-improving recommendations, as well as a detailed work order. Then, at your direction, they will complete the energy-saving improvements to your home and secure your Energize Delaware rebates (up to $4,500). They do it all - saving you time, hassle, and money.
Click here to schedule your Energize Delaware Home Performance Energy Audit with one of our program-approved BPI-certified participating contractors.
Special note: For your peace-of-mind, HPwES energy audits and home energy improvements completed by our participating contractors are randomly checked by on-staff QA/QC personnel to ensure quality of workmanship and resident's safety and health.
Energize Delaware is proud to be a local sponsor of Home Performance with ENERGY STAR®, a national program from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).
Home Performance with ENERGY STAR


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9/1/2014 1:47:47 AM, by SPEEDYDOG
Part 1: One Percent Not so long ago, I was thinking a Pivot Mach 6 could be a good addition to my stable. The Pivot Mach 6 is a bonafide mo... Read more
Have you posted your own blog? If not, learn blogging basics in the article "Using Your Blog at SparkPeople."Learn About Blogging
Return To the Team Scientists Unite!
9/1/2014 1:47:47 AM, by SPEEDYDOG
Part 1: One Percent Not so long ago, I was thinking a Pivot Mach 6 could be a good addition to my stable. The Pivot Mach 6 is a bonafide mo... Read more
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I got a new gym bag... and it's really cool!
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Just when I thought I was fully functional again... I may be having more foot trouble. WTH.
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And I'm happy to say I'm winning it! Down another pound - that's six in five weeks! It's a nice, steady, slow, and very sustainable pro... Read more
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Well, espresso really. Cafe Cubano to be precise. I had it late last night and I was up for hours. I won't do that again, because ... Read more
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The vary tragic events in Ferguson, Missouri seem to have people on both sides jumping to contrary conclusions. Maybe a deeper understanding and... Read more
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Today I did not balance well. I allowed work to dominate my time to the degree that I didn't exercise as planned for the first time in month... Read more
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aining-week-6/ ... Read more
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uly/ ... Read more
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Linking Medical Errors, Nurses' 12-Hour Shifts
Rebecca Hendren, for HealthLeaders Media, October 5, 2010
- Staggered shifts—Nurses who want to be full time but not work more than two 12-hours shifts in a row could take two 12-hour shifts and two eight hour shifts, which gives them three days off (and five evenings) to be with family and friends each week
- Group sharing—A group of nurses bands together and signs up for eight-hour shifts, but they match each other to ensure the entire 24 hours are covered
- Peak-time shifts—Eight-hour, four-hour, two-hour-shifts—or any combination—make a huge difference on units during busy hours
- Multi-task shifts—Combine roles within a regular shift, such as four-hours patient care, two hours precepting and mentoring new nurses, and two hours in committee work
- Job sharing—Two or more nurses split a full-time schedule
Of course, one of the biggest barriers may be nurses themselves. Many like being able to work a full time job in only three days and have a long period of time off, which is especially attractive to young generation Y nurses who place high value on having a work-life balance. Twelve-hour shifts are a relatively new invention, however, and nurses used to be just fine working eight-hour shifts.
If we accept the fact that nurse fatigue is a serious issue, then eliminating 12-hour shifts seem like an obvious place to start.
See Also:
Top 10 Most Costly, Frequent Medical Errors
Rebecca Hendren is a senior managing editor at HCPro, Inc. in Danvers, MA. She edits www.StrategiesForNurseManagers.com and manages The Leaders' Lounge blog for nurse managers. Email her at email@example.com.
Comments are moderated. Please be patient.
39 comments on "Linking Medical Errors, Nurses' 12-Hour Shifts"
Sandra Sumers (10/28/2013 at 6:36 PM)
All I can say is, when my daughter tells me she fell asleep driving on the way home from her 7PM to 7AM shift, I'm suing somebody if she gets in an accident. She has no time with her kids. She has to sleep the day before she works and recover the next day. That's a full 48 hours she has no time with her family since their hours are different than hers. There is a two year waiting list to get on the day shift, but because she is new in the field, she must work nights. This is in Houston, at a major hospital in the medical center. I'm thrilled that she is able to realize her dream of becoming a nurse, but in my opinion the hours are reprehensible.
John Smith (4/15/2013 at 10:25 AM)
My daughter like the 12 hrs. shift but I'm concern about the number of nurses accidents driving back home after the third 12 hrs. shift on top of the possible medical errors.
EMR Saves Lives (10/23/2010 at 9:34 AM)
This is common sense. Scheduling problems are notorious in hospitals and nursing homes. I feel bad for the patients and the nurses.
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Home media server/ Workstation Combo Build
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