Single-board computer

Abstract: A general purpose modified single board computer (MSBC) device (162) for operational and performance enhancement of computer systems. The modification configures the bus interface of the MSBC (162) such that it can reside on the expansion-bus (104) of a host computer system and operate as an add-in card to the hosting system. This device provides means to employ the resources of a full computer system, to enhance the operation and performance of an information system hosting this device. The MSBC (162) permits a 'system in system' architecture thus efficiently enabling advanced capabilities for existing and future computer and information systems.

Abstract: Event logging using a single board computer control card configurable onto a backplane containing target processor(s) being monitored. A high resolution clock on the control card time stamps events. Memory on the control card provides a central buffer to store event data, and stores a control program effecting functionality of the card A network interface a facilitates communication with host computer(s) for post processing of event data and to control, communicate with and access the control card. A control program effects event data collection and organization/storage of events in control card memory. The control program coordinates retrieval of events from an event interface area of memory on slave target processors prior to processing by the control card. The control program coordinates offloading of event data from the control card to host computer(s) for post processing by known software visualization tools. Target software is instrumented with calls to a macro which in turn calls the logging function to effect recording of events. The event records are temporarily stored in an event interface portion of memory on the control card or in a buffer on the target processor(s).

Abstract: An improved user terminal specifically designed for use in the home for accessing a wide variety of service computers is disclosed. The terminal comprises a single board computer including a microprocessor remotely reconfigurable programmable gate array logic, several types of solid-state memory, and various input-output units. The programmable gate array forms the logical connection between the microprocessor, the memory, and the input-output elements, and allows the computer to functionally mimic an IBM Personal Computer, thus allowing it to run a wide variety of software. The programmable gate array can be remotely reconfigured, and a so-called FLASH-EPROM memory is used to store reconfiguration code. This allows the hardware to be reconfigured remotely in order to add additionally function, or to cure a particular problem such as to prevent a "virus" or the like from attacking the system.

Abstract: A small size self-contained autonomous mobile robot has been implemented as a platform for experimental research of sensor based behavior. This robot can move in two dimensional environment using two driving wheels and have optical and ultrasonic range sensors. Each hardware function of the robot is modularized as a single board computer and master module located in center to control the whole system.