摘要:
Described is an architecture and protocol for exchanging messsages within a distributive data processing system. Instead of transmitting a frame with a beginning flag field (SDEL) followed by an address field as is the usual case, the SDEL field and address field collapsed and merged into a single field. The field includes a control bit whose setting determines whether the field is the beginning of a frame or otherwise. A second control bit within the single field is used to identify the type of message being transmitted and the response that a recipient station is permitted to return to a control unit issuing the message. The protocol is well suited for framing messages in the well known SDLC communications format. In this format it allows the detection of delimiters without resorting to bit stuffing.
摘要:
A procedure for bringing-up and/or establishing the operability of a distributive data processing system comprises the steps of providing, at each terminal of said system, a display having a plurality of individually activatable indicators and/or indicia configured in a predetermined geometrical pattern with the position in the pattern and the electrical state of each indicator being representative of the operational readiness of an assigned terminal; running a series of operational tests in each terminal and selectively enabling the indicator and/or displaying an alphanumeric character representing said terminal on the successful completion of the operability tests.
摘要:
Apparatus and method for defining I/O devices connected to terminals of a distributive data processing system and for downloading programs from a control computer into said terminals. A global listing containing identities of all devices that can be coupled to the terminal is prepared at each terminal. A configuration list of devices which are actually coupled to the terminal is derived from the global list. The configuration list is stored at the terminal and at the control computer. Thereafter, only programs that are required for controlling the devices that are actually coupled to the terminal are downloaded into the terminal.
摘要:
Aspects of a self checkout system are described. The system includes a product imaging scanner. Also included is a bag rack with scales substantially adjacent the product imaging scanner for holding a bag to receive imaged products. A computer system is coupled to the product imaging scanner and the bag rack for processing data from the product imaging scanner and the bag rack to ensure complete and secure product purchasing.
摘要:
Apparatus and method are disclosed for communicating between a central location and a plurality of identification tags or labels located in a container or in a space without separately passing each tag or labeled product through a read station. The disclosure includes use of hashing to reduce the amount of time needed to read the possible tags in the space. Reading is accomplished using radio communication with a combination of broadcast and time division multiplex architectures.
摘要:
Aspects of a self checkout method are described. The method includes utilizing an imaging scanner to image products being purchased; providing a bag rack with scales substantially adjacent the imaging scanner for holding a bag to receive imaged products; and utilizing a computer system to process data from the imaging scanner and the bag rack to ensure complete and secure product purchasing. The method also includes utilizing the computer system to process image data from the product imaging scanner to track movement of each imaged product relative to the bag rack and determine whether each imaged product is entering or exiting the bag.