I'\') '
`
`U.S. PTO
`12/077503
`
`PTO/SB/05 (07,07)
`03/18/2008
`
`Attorney
`
`Title
`
`Docket No. 019152-001115US
`UTILITY
`
`First Inventor Chu, William W. Y.
`C PATENT APPLICATION
`
`MULTIPLE MODULE COMPUTER
`0
`TRANSMITTAL
`SYSTEM AND METHOD
`'1J
`Express Mail Label No. EV 656 878 277 US
`
`Commissioner for Patents
`APPLICATION ELEMENTS
`
`ADDRESS TO: P.O. Box 1450
`See MPEP chapter
`
`
`
`
`600 concerning utility patent application contents.
`
`Alexandria, VA 22313-1450
`
`
`
`
`
`(Only for new nonprovisional applications under 37 CFR 1.53(b))
`
`
`
`ACCOMPANYING APPLICATION PARTS
`
`
`
`1.[8J Fee Transmittal PTO/SB/17)Form (e.g.,
`
`
`
`
`
`(Submit an original and a duplicate for fee processing)
`
`
`2. [8J Applicant claims small entity status.
`
`See 37 CFR 1.27.
`Pages_1_9_J
`
`3.[8J Specification[Total
`
`
`Both the claims and abstract must start on a new page
`
`
`
`(For information on the preferred arrangement, see MPEP 608.01(a))
`4. [8J Drawing(s)
`
`
`(35 U.S.C.113) [Total Sheets_4_J
`5.Oath or Declaration [Total
`Sheets _2_ J
`10. 0 37 CFR 3.73(b) Statement0 Power of
`
`
`
`a. 0 Newly executed (original or copy)
`(when there is an assignee) Attorney
`
`
`b. [8J A copy from a prior application (37 CFR 1.63 (d))
`
`(for a continuation/divisional
`with Box 18 completed)
`
`i. 0 DELETION OF INVENTOR($)
`
`
`12.0 Information Disclosure Statement
`or PT0-1449)
`(PTO/SB/08
`
`
`
`
`
`Signed statement attached deleting inventor(s)
`
`
`0 Copies of foreign patent documents,
`
`
`named in the prior application, see 37 CFR
`
`1.63(d)(2) and 1.33(b).
`
`publications, & other information
`
`6.[8J Application Data Sheet. See 37 CFR 1.76
`
`
`drawings
`
`7. 0 CD-ROM or CD-R in duplicate, large table or
`
`Computer Program
`{Appendix)
`
`0 Landscape Table on CD
`
`
`
`& document(s)) sheet (PT0-1595) 9. 0 Assignment Papers (cover
`
`
`
`Name ·�
`
`
`11. 0 English Translation Document
`(if applicable)
`
`13.[8J Preliminary Amendment, with 20 sheets of new
`
`14.[8J Return Receipt Postcard (MPEP 503)
`
`
`
`{Should be specifically itemized)
`
`Submission8.Nucleotide and/or Amino Acid Sequence
`
`
`15.0
`Certified Copy of Priority Document(s)
`
`
`items a. -c. are required)
`(if applicable,
`
`(if foreign priority is claimed)
`
`
`a.0 Computer Readable Form (CRF)
`b. Specification Sequence Listing on:
`
`under 35 U.S.C. 122 (b)(2)(B)(i).
`16.0
`
`
`Nonpublication Request
`
`
`
`Applicant must attach form PTO/SB/35 or its equivalent.
`i. 0 CD·ROM or CD-R (2 copies);
`or
`ii.O Paper
`
`Title Marked Up Version of ·
`Other:
`
`Clean Coov of Substitute ·
`
`
`
`17.[8J
`
`-
`
`
`
`of above copiesc.0 Statements verifying identity
`
`18.If a CONTINUING APPLICATION,
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`specification following the title, or in an Application Data Sheet under 37 CFR 1. 76:
`
`
`
`0 Divisional 0 Continuation.in-part (CIP) of prior application No: _ 11/166,659
`[8J Continuation
`Ra:,mond Ng2n Ph2n
`Art Unit: 2111
`Examiner
`Prior application information:
`
`
`check appropriate box, and supply the requisite information below and in the first sentence of the
`
`19. CORRESPONDENCE ADDRESS
`
`l:8J The address
`
`associated with Customer
`
`Number:I 20350 IOR D Correspondence
`
`
`
`address below
`
`Name
`
`Address
`City
`Country
`
`Signature
`
`I State
`I Telephone
`e5(')
`Name
`Kent J. Tobin
`.... (Print/Tvoe)
`
`61314773 v1
`
`Zip Code
`Email
`Date March 18, 2008
`
`No. 139.496 Registration
`(Attomey/Aaent)
`
`-
`
`Intel Corporation v. ACQIS LLC
`Intel Corp.'s Exhibit 1021
`Ex. 1021, Page 1
`
`

`

`Effective on 12/08/2004.
`
`
`Fees pursuant to the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2005 (HR. 4818).
`
`
`Ancauon Number
`
`
`'FEE TRANSMITTAL numnate
`
`For FY 2007
`
`.
`.
`.
`
`[Z] Applicant claims small entity status. See 37 CFR 127
`
`
`Examiner Name
`Art Unit
`
`Com . lete if Known
`
`PTO/SB/17 (09—07)
`
`Unassigned
`_
`Unassrgned
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`METHOD OF PAYMENT check all that a .1
`
`
`
`
`
`FEE CALCULATION
`
`
`[:1 Check |:I Credit Card D Money Order D None D Other (please identify):
`
`XI Deposit Account Deposit Account Number: 20-1430
`Deposit Account Name: Townsend and Townsend and Crew LLP
`
`For the above-identified deposit account, the Director is hereby authorized to: (check all that apply)
`
`E Charge fee(s) indicated below
`‘ El Charge fee(s) indicated below, except for the filing fee
`
`Charge any additional fee(s) or underpayments of fee(s)
`_
`
`under 37 CFR 1.16 and 1.17
`[E Credit any overpayments
`
`WARNING: Information on this form may become public. Credit card information should not be included on this form. Provide credit card
`information and authorization on PTO-2038.
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`~
`1. BASIC FILING, SEARCH, AND EXAMINATION FEES
`FILING FEES
`SEARCH FEES
`Small Entig
`Small Entity
`Fee (fi) Fee (fl
`Fee Q) Fee (5).
`
`
`
`
`
`Design
`50
`100
`105
`210
`65
`130
`
`
`Plant
`155
`310
`105
`80
`210
`160
`
`
`
`
`
`
` Reissue 155 255 620
`510
`310
`310
`
`
`0
`100
`0
`0
`0
`Provisional
`210
`
`
`
`
`2. EXCESS CLAIM FEES
`Small Entity
`
`
`Fee 1;)
`Fee ($1
`
`
`25
`50
`105
`210
`
`
`185
`370
`Multiple Dependent Claims
`Fe_e(§) my
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`Application Type
`
`EXAMINATION FEES
`Small Entity
`Fee (fl Fee (fl
`
`Utility
`
`310
`
`155
`
`510
`
`255
`
`210
`
`105
`
`'
`
`Fee Description
`Each claim over 20 (including Reissues)
`Each independent claim over 3 (including Reissues)
`Multiple dependent claims
`Fee (fl
`Total Claims
`Extra Claims
`$25
`x
`-20 or HP =
`25
`5
`HP = highest number of total claims paid for, if greater than 20
`lndep. Claims
`Extra Claims
`Fee (fl
`x
`.3 or Hp:
`4
`1
`$105
`HP = highest number of independent claims paid for, if greater than 3
`3. APPLICATION SIZE FEE
`
`=
`
`Fee Paid Q) ,
`$105
`
`=
`
`Fee Paid (fl
`$125
`
`'
`
`Fees Paid (Q
`
`515
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`If the specification and drawings exceed 100 sheets of paper (excluding electronically filed sequence or computer
`listings under 37 CFR 1.52(e)), the application size fee due is $260 ($130 for small. entity) for each additional 50
`sheets or fraction thereof. See 35 U.S.C. 41(a)(l)(G) and 37 CFR l.l6(s).
`Total Sheets
`Extra Sheets
`Number of each additional 50 or fraction thereof
`(round up to a whole number)
`x
`
`Fee
`
`Fee Paid (g1
`
`=
`
`- 100 =
`
`/50 =
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
` Other (e.g., late filing surcharge):
`
`4. OTHER FEE(S)
`
`Fees Paid (§)
`
`Non-English Specification,
`
`$130 fee (no small entity discount)
`
`SUBMITTED BY
`
`Registration No. Name (Print/Type) Kent J. Tobin
`
`-
`
`/
`
`61314752 v1
`
`Ex. 1021, Page 2
`
`Date March 18, 2008
`
`Ex. 1021, Page 2
`
`

`

`U.S. PTO
`12/077503
`
`03/18/2008 PTO/SB/OS (07-07)
`
`O E \
`
`g e
`
`019152-001115US
`UTILI | Y
`22;
`
`00 E
`
`
`8=———— 3
`PATENT APPLICATION
`Chu, William w. Y.
`——=— .
`MULTIPLE MODULE COMPUTER
`
`
`E:— 3
`TRANSM'TTAL
`
`
`
`o
`(Only for new nonprovisional applications under 37 CFR 1. 53(b))
`
`
`-
`APPL'CAT'ON ELEMENTS
`See MPEP chapter 600 concerning utility patent application contents.
`
`ADDRESS TO:
`
`ev 656 878 277 us
`
`Commissioner for Patents
`Po. Box 1450
`Alexandria, VA 22313-1450
`
`1. X Fee Transmittal Form (e'gq PTO/SB/17) —(Submit an original and a duplicate for fee processing)
`ACCOMPANYING APPLICATION PARTS
`2' E 3:53:32;[13€175 small entity status.
`9. E] Assignment Papers (cover sheet (PTO-1595) & document(s))
`]
`19
`3. E Specification
`[Total Pages
`Name of Assignee
`Both the claims and abstract must start on a new page
`(For information on the preferred arrangement, see MPEP 608.01(a))
`
`412] Drawing(s) (35 u.s.c.113)
`
`[Tote/Sheets
`
`4
`
`1
`
`[Total Sheets
`5. Oath or Declaration
`a. D Newly executed (original or copy)
`b. El A copy from a prior application (37 CFR 1.63 (d))
`(for a continuation/divisional with Box 18 completed)
`i. [:1 DELETION OF |NVENTORtSi
`Signed statement attached deleting inventms)
`named in the prior application, see 37 CFR
`1-63(d)(2) and 1-33(b)-
`
`2
`
`]
`
`[:l
`
`E] Power of
`10. D 37 CFR 3.73(b) Statement
`Attorney
`(when there is an assignee)
`.
`’
`_
`.
`11'
`English Translation Document (’f applicable)
`12. E] Information Dlsclosure Statement (PTO/SB/OB or PTO-1449)
`El Copies Of foreign patent documents,
`publications, & other information
`
`'
`
`6. X Application Data Sheet. See 37 CFR 1.76
`7. E] CD-ROM or CD-R in duplicate, large table or
`Computer Program (Appendix)
`Landscape Table on CD
`8. Nucleotide and/or Amino Acid Sequence Submission
`(if applicable, items a. _ c. are required)
`a. D Computer Readable Form (CRF)
`b.
`Specification Sequence Listing on:
`
`i, E] CD—ROM or CD-R (2 copies); or
`ii- El Paper
`c. D Statements verifying identity of above copies
`
`13_ E Preliminary Amendment, with 20 sheets of new
`d'aw'"95
`14. IX] Return Receipt Postcard (MPEP 503)
`(Should be specifically itemized)
`.
`-
`.
`15. D Certified Copy of Priority Document(s)
`(If forelgn p”0th Is alarmed)
`16. D Nonpubllcation Request under 35 U.S.C. 122 (b)(2)(B)(i).
`Applicant must attach form PTO/SB/35 or its equivalent.
`17_ IX] Other: Title Page. Marked Up Version of Specification,
`Clean Copy Of Substitute Specrficatlon
`
`18. If a CONTINUING APPLICATION. check appropriate box, and supply the requisite information below and in the first sentence of the
`specification following the title, or in an Application Data Sheet under 37 CFR 1. 76:
`
`X Continuation
`
`L—J Divisional
`
`[:l Continuation-in-part (ClP)
`
`of prior application No:
`
`_ _1_1_l_166,656
`
`Pn'or application information:
`
`Examiner Ramond Ngan Phan
`
`Art Unit: 2111
`
`19. CORRESPONDENCE ADDRESS
`
`OR E] Correspondence address below
`E The address associated with Customer Number:
`
`
`
`
`61314773 v1
`
`Ex. 1021, Page 3
`
`Ex. 1021, Page 3
`
`

`

`PTO/SB/17 (09—07)
`
`
`
`Effective on 12/08/2004,
`
`Fees pursuant to the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2005 (HR. 4818).
`A. “cation Number
`
`
`
`' FEE TRANSMITTAL Filin Date
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`For FY 2007
`.
`.
`.
`[Z] Applicant claims small entity status. See 37 CFR 1.27
`
`Examiner Name
`Art Unit
`
`TOTAL AMOUNT OF PAYMENT ($) 745
`
`Attorney Docket No.
`
`Com . lete if Known
`
`Unassigned
`_
`UnaSSIgned
`
`019152-001115US
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`METHOD OF PAYMENT Check all that ac cl
`
`1:] Check El Credit Card El Money Order D None D Other (please identify):
`& Deposit Account Deposit Account Number: 20-1430
`Deposit Account Name: Townsend and Townsend and Crew LLP
`For the above-identified deposit account, the Director is hereby authorized to: (check all that apply)
`E Charge fee(s) indicated below
`‘ El Charge fee(s) indicated below, except for the filing fee
`Charge any additional fee(s) or underpayments of fee(s)
`[E Credit any overpayments
`under 37 CFR 1.16 and 1.17
`WARNING: Information on this form may become public. Credit card information should not be included on this form. Provide credit card
`information and authorization on PTO-2038.
`FEE CALCULATION
`
`~
`1. BASIC FILING, SEARCH, AND EXAMINATION FEES
`FILING FEES
`SEARCH FEES
`Small Entig
`Small Entity
`Fee (fl Fee (§)
`Fee (§) Fee Q)
`310
`155
`510
`255
`210
`105
`100
`50
`210
`105
`310
`155
`
`Application Type
`Utility
`Design
`Plant
`
`'
`
`EXAMINATION FEES
`Small Entity
`Fee I§l Fee l§l
`210
`105
`130
`65
`160
`80
`
`Fees Paid i§l
`515
`
`Reissue
`
`Provisional
`
`310
`
`210
`
`155
`
`100
`
`510
`
`255
`
`O
`
`0
`
`620
`
`310
`
`0
`
`0
`
`2. EXCESS CLAIM FEES
`Fee Description
`Each claim over 20 (including Reissues)
`Each independent claim over 3 (including Reissues)
`Multiple dependent claims
`Fee (§)
`Total Claims
`Extra Claims
`$25
`x
`-20 or HP =
`25
`5
`HP = highest number of total claims paid for, if greater than 20
`lndeg. Claims
`Extra Claims
`Fee (fl
`x
`-3 or HP:
`4
`1
`$105
`HP = highest number of independent claims paid for, if greater than 3
`3. APPLICATION SIZE FEE
`
`=
`
`=
`
`Small Entity
`Fee Q)
`Fee (fi)
`25
`50
`105
`210
`185
`370
`Multiple Dependent Claims
`Fee (s) my
`
`Fee Paid (fi)
`$125
`
`'
`
`Fee Paid (§)
`$105
`
`.
`
`If the specification and drawings exceed 100 sheets of paper (excluding electronically filed sequence or computer
`listings under 37 CFR 152(6)), the application size fee due is $260 ($130 for small. entity) for each additional 50
`sheets or fraction thereof. See 35 U.S.C. 41(a)(1)(G) and 37 CFR l.16(s).
`Total Sheets
`Extra Sheets
`Number of each additional 50 or fraction thereof
`(round up to a whole number)
`x
`
`Fee
`
`Fee Paid (5)
`
`=
`
`- 100 =
`
`/ 50 =
`
`4. OTHER FEE(S)
`
`Fees Paid (§)
`
`Non-English Specification,
`
`$130 fee (no small entity discount)
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
`
` SUBMITTED BY
`
`
`
`Other (e.g., late filing surcharge):
`
`.
`
`,
`
`Registration No.
`
`
`
`Name (Print/Type) Kent J. Tobin
`
`Date March 18, 2008
`
`61314752 v1
`
`Ex. 1021, Page 4
`
`Ex. 1021, Page 4
`
`

`

`Application Data Sheet
`
`Application Information
`
`Application number::
`
`Filing Date:
`
`Application Type:
`
`Subject Matter:
`
`Suggested classification:
`
`Suggested Group Art Unit:
`
`CD-ROM or CD-R??:
`
`Number of CD disks:
`
`Number of copies of CDs:
`
`Sequence Submission::
`
`Regular
`
`Utility
`
`Computer Readable Form (CRF)?::
`
`Number of copies of CRF:
`
`Title:
`
`MULTIPLE MODULE COMPUTER SYSTEM AND
`
`Attorney Docket Number::
`
`019152-001115US
`
`METHOD
`
`Request for Early Publication:
`
`Request for Non-Publication:
`
`Suggested Drawing Figure:
`
`Total Drawing Sheets:
`
`Small Entity?::
`
`Latin name:
`
`Variety denomination name:
`
`Petition included?:
`
`Petition Type:
`
`Licensed US Govt. Agency:
`
`Contract or Grant Numbers One:
`
`Secrecy Order in Parent App|.::
`
`Page 1
`
`No
`
`No
`
`Yes
`
`No
`
`No
`
`Initial 3/18/08
`
`Ex. 1021, Page 5
`
`Ex. 1021, Page 5
`
`

`

`Applicant Information
`
`Applicant Authority Type:
`
`Inventor
`
`Primary Citizenship Country:
`
`US
`
`Status::
`
`Given Name::
`
`Middle Name:
`
`Family Name::
`
`Name Suffix::
`
`Full Capacity
`
`William
`
`W. Y.
`
`Chu
`
`City of Residence::
`
`Los Altos
`
`State or Province of Residence::
`
`Country of Residence::
`
`CA
`
`US
`
`Street of Mailing Address:
`
`1320 Miravalle Avenue
`
`City of Mailing Address:
`
`Los Altos
`
`State or Province ‘of mailing address:
`
`Country of mailing address::
`
`CA
`
`US
`
`Postal or Zip Code of mailing address:: 94024
`
`Correspondence Information
`
`Correspondence Customer Number::
`
`20350
`
`Representative Information
`
`Representative Customer Number:
`
`20350
`
`Domestic Priority Information
`
`Application:
`
`Continuity Type:
`
`Parent Applicationzz Parent Filing Date::
`
`This Application
`11/166,656
`
`Continuation of
`Continuation of
`
`11/097,694
`10/772,214
`09/569,758
`
`Continuation of
`Continuation of
`Non-Provisional of
`
`11/166,656
`11/097,694
`
`10/772,214
`09/569,758
`60/134,122
`
`06/24/05
`03/31/05
`
`02/03/04
`05/12/00
`05/14/99
`
`Page 2
`
`,
`
`lnitial 3/18/08
`
`Ex. 1021, Page 6
`
`Ex. 1021, Page 6
`
`

`

`Assignee Information
`
`Assignee Name::
`
`ACQIS Technology, Inc.
`
`Street of mailing address::
`
`1621 W. El Camino Real
`
`City of mailing address::
`
`Mountain View
`
`State or Province of mailing address::
`
`CA
`
`Country of mailing address::
`
`US
`
`Postal or Zip Code of mailing address:: 94040
`
`Page 3
`
`Initial 3/18/08
`
`Ex. 1021, Page 7
`
`Ex. 1021, Page 7
`
`

`

`Attorney Docket No.:019152-001 llOUS
`
`PATENT APPLICATION
`
`MULTIPLE MODULE COMPUTER SYSTEM AND METHOD
`
`Inventor:
`
`Assignee:
`
`William W.Y. Chu
`1320 Miravalle Avenue
`
`Los Altos, CA 94024
`a citizen of US.
`
`ACQIS Technology, Inc.
`I621 W. El Camino Real
`
`Mountain View, CA 94040
`
`Entity:
`
`Small
`
`TOWNSEND and TOWNSEND and CREW LLP
`
`Two Embarcadero Center, 8'h Floor
`San Francisco, California 941 l 1-3834
`(415) 576—0200
`
`Ex. 1021, Page 8
`
`Ex. 1021, Page 8
`
`

`

`Attorney Docket N0.: 019152-001 l lOUS
`
`PATENT
`
`MULTIPLE MODULE COMPUTER SYSTEM AND METHOD
`
`CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
`
`The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No.
`
`60/134,122 filed May 14, I999, commonly assigned, and hereby incorporated by
`
`reference.
`
`10
`
`I5
`
`20
`
`25
`
`3O
`
`BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
`
`The present invention relates to computing devices. More particularly, the
`
`present invention provides a system including a plurality of computer modules that can
`
`independently operate to provide backup capability, dual processing, and the like. Merely
`
`by way of example, the present invention is applied to a modular computing environment
`
`for desk top computers, but it will be recognized that the invention has a much wider
`
`range of applicability.
`It can be applied to a server as well as other portable or modular
`computing applications.
`I
`
`Many desktop or personal computers, which are commonly termed PCs,
`
`have been around and used for over ten years. The PCs often come with state-of-art
`
`microprocessors such as the Intel PentiumTM microprocessor chips. They also include a
`
`hard or fixed disk drive such as memory in the giga-bit range. Additionally, the PCs
`
`often include a random access memory integrated circuit device such as a dynamic
`random access memory device, which is commonly termed DRAM. The DRAM devices
`
`now provide up to millions of memory cells (i.e., mega-bit) on a single slice of silicon.
`
`PCs also include a high resolution display such as cathode ray tubes or CRTs. In most
`
`cases, the CRTs are at least 15 inches or 17 inches or 20 inches in diameter. High
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`resolution flat panel displays are also used with PCs.
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`Many external or peripheral devices can be used with the PCs. Among
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`others, these peripheral devices include mass storage devices such as a ZipTM Drive
`
`product sold by lomega Corporation of Utah. Other storage devices include external hard
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`drives, tape drives, and others. Additional devices include communication devices such
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`Ex. 1021, Page 9
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`Ex. 1021, Page 9
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`2
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`as a modem, which can be used to link the PC to a wide area network of computers such
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`as the Internet. Furthermore, the PC can include output devices such as a printer and
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`other output means. Moreover, the PC can include special audio output devices such as
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`speakers the like.
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`PCs also have easy to use keyboards, mouse input devices, and the like.
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`The keyboard is generally configured similar to a typewriter format. The keyboard also
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`has the length and width for easily inputting information by way of keys to the computer.
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`The mouse also has a sufficient size and shape to easily move a curser on the display
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`from one location to another location.
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`IO
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`Other types of computing devices include portable computing devices such
`
`as "laptop" computers and the like. Although somewhat successful, laptop computers
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`have many limitations. These computing devices have poor display technology.
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`In fact,
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`these devices often have a smaller flat panel display that has poor viewing characteristics.
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`Additionally, these devices also have poor input devices such as smaller keyboards and
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`15
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`the like. Furthermore, these devices have limited common platforms to transfer
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`7
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`information to and from these devices and other devices such as PCs.
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`20
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`25
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`Up to now, there has been little common ground between these platforms
`
`including the PCs and laptops in terms of upgrading, ease-of—use, cost, performance, and
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`the like. Many differences between these platforms, probably somewhat intentional, has
`
`benefited computer manufacturers at the cost of consumers. A drawback to having two
`
`separate computers is that the user must often purchase both the desktop and laptop to
`
`have "total" computing power, where the desktop serves as a "regular" computer and the
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`laptop serves as a "portable" computer. Purchasing both computers is often costly and
`
`runs "thousands" of dollars. The user also wastes a significant amount of time
`
`transferring software and data between the two types of computers. For example, the user
`
`must often couple the portable computer to a local area network (i.e., LAN), to a serial
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`port with a modem and then manually transfer over files and data between the desktop
`
`and the portable computer. Alternatively, the user often must use floppy disks to "Zip" up
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`files and programs that exceed the storage capacity of conventional floppy disks, and
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`30
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`transfer the floppy disk data manually.
`
`Another drawback with the current model of separate portable and desktop
`
`computer is that the user has to spend money to buy components and peripherals the are
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`duplicated in at least one of these computers. For example, both the desktop and portable
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`Ex. 1021, Page 10
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`Ex. 1021, Page 10
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`3
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`computers typically include hard disk drives, floppy drives, CD-ROMs, computer
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`memory, host processors, graphics accelerators, and the like. Because program software
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`and supporting programs generally must be installed upon both hard drives in order for
`
`the user to operate programs on the road and in the office, hard disk space is often wasted.
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`One approach to reduce some of these drawbacks has been the use of a
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`docking station with a portable computer. Here, the user has the portable computer for
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`"on the road" use and a docking station that houses the portable computer for office use.
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`Similar to separate desktop and portable computers, there is no
`
`commonality between two desktop computers. To date, most personal computers are
`
`constructed with a single motherboard that provides connection for CPU and other
`
`components in the computer. Dual CPU systems have been available through Intel’s slot
`
`1 architecture. For example, two Pentium II cartridges can be plugged into two “slot 1”
`
`card slots on a motherboard to form a Dual-processor system. The two CPU’s share a
`
`common host bus that connects to the rest of the system, e.g. main memory, hard disk
`
`drive, graphics subsystem, and others. Dual CPU systems have the advantage of
`
`increased CPU performance for the whole system. Adding a CPU cartridge requires no
`
`change in operating systems and application software. However, dual CPU systems may
`suffer limited performance improvement if memory or disk drive bandwidth becomes the
`limiting factor. Also, dual CPU systems have to time-share the processing unit in running
`
`multiple applications. CPU performance improvement efficiency also depends on
`
`software coding structure. Dual CPU systems provide no hardware redundancy to help
`
`fault tolerance.
`
`In running multiple applications, memory and disk drive data throughput
`
`will become the limiting factor in improving performance with multi-processor systems.
`
`Thus, what is needed are computer systems that can have multiple
`
`computer modules. Each computer module has dedicated memory and disk drive, and
`
`can operate independently.
`
`SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
`
`According to the present invention, a technique including a method and
`
`device for multi-module computing is provided.
`
`In an exemplary embodiment, the
`
`present invention provides a system including a plurality of computer modules that can
`
`independently operate to provide backup capability, dual processing, and the like.
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`Ex. 1021, Page 11
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`Ex. 1021, Page 11
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`4
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`In a specific embodiment, the present invention provides a computer
`
`system for multi-processing purposes. The computer system has a console comprising a
`
`first coupling site and a second coupling site, e.g., computer module bay. Each coupling
`
`site comprises a connector. The console is an enclosure that is capable of housing each
`
`coupling site. The system also has a plurality of computer modules, where each of the
`
`computer modules is coupled to one of the connectors. Each of the computer modules
`
`has a processing unit, a main memory coupled to the processing unit, a graphics controller
`
`coupled to the processing unit, and a mass storage device coupled to the processing unit.
`
`Each of the computer modules is substantially similar in design to each other to provide
`
`independent processing of each of the computer modules in the computer system.
`
`In an alternative specific embodiment, the present invention provides a
`
`multi-processing computer system. The system has a console comprising a first coupling
`
`site and a second coupling site. Each coupling site comprises a connector. The console is
`
`an enclosure that is capable of housing each couplingvsite. The system also has a plurality
`
`of computer modules, where each of the computer modules is coupled to one of the
`
`connectors. Each of the computer modules has a processing unit, a main memory coupled
`
`to the processing unit, a graphics controller coupled to the processing unit, a mass storage
`
`device coupled to the processing unit, and a video output coupled to the processing unit.
`
`Each of the computer modules is substantially similar in design to each other to provide
`
`independent processing of each of the computer modules in the computer system. A
`
`video switch circuit is coupled to each of the computer modules through the video output.
`
`The video switch is configured to switch a video signal from any one of the computer
`
`modules to a display.
`
`Numerous benefits are achieved using the present invention over
`
`previously existing techniques.
`
`In one embodiment, the invention provides improved
`
`processing and maintenance features. The invention can also provide increased CPU
`
`performance for the whole system. The invention also can be implemented without
`
`changes in operating system and application software. The present invention is also
`
`implemented using conventional technologies that can be provided in the present
`
`10
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`IS
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`20
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`25
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`3O
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`computer system in an easy and efficient manner.
`
`In another embodiment, the invention provides at least two users to share
`
`the same modular desktop system. Each user operates on a different computer module.
`
`The other peripheral devices, i.e. CDROM, printer, DSL connection, etc. can be shared.
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`Ex. 1021, Page 12
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`Ex. 1021, Page 12
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`5
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`This provides lower system cost, less desktop space and more efficiency. Depending upon
`
`the embodiment, one or more of these benefits can be available. These and other
`
`advantages or benefits are described throughout the present specification and are
`
`described more particularly below.
`
`In still further embodiments, the present invention provides methods of
`
`using multiple computer modules.
`
`These and other embodiments ofthe present invention, as well as its
`
`advantages and features, are described in more detail in conjunction with the text below
`
`and attached Figs.
`
`BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
`
`Fig.
`
`l is a simplified diagram of a computer system according to an
`
`embodiment of the present invention;
`
`Fig. 2 is a simplified block diagram of a computer system according to an
`
`alternative embodiment of the present invention;
`
`Fig. 3 is a simplified block diagram of a compeer system according to a
`
`further alternative embodiment ofthe present invention; and
`
`Fig. 4 is a simplified flow diagram of a method according to an
`
`embodiment of the present invention.
`
`DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS
`
`According to the present invention, a technique including a method and
`
`device for multi-module computing isprovided.
`
`In an exemplary embodiment, the
`
`present invention provides a system including a plurality of computer modules that can
`
`independently operate to provide backup capability, dual processing, and the like.
`
`Fig. l
`
`is a simplified diagram of a computer system lOO according to an
`
`embodiment of the present invention. This diagram is merely an illustration and should
`
`not limit the scope of the claims herein. One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize
`
`other variations, modifications, and alternatives. The computer system 100 includes an
`
`attached computer module (i.e., ACM) l 13, a desktop console 10] , among other
`
`elements. The computer system also has another ACM module 1 17. Each ACM module
`
`has a respective slot 12 l ,
`
`l 19, which mechanically houses and electrically couples each
`
`ACM to the computer console. Also shown is a display I l l, which connects to the
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`10
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`20
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`25
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`30
`
`Ex. 1021, Page 13
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`Ex. 1021, Page 13
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`6
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`console. Additionally, keyboard 109 and mouse 115 are also shown. A second display
`
`102, keyboard 105, and mouse 107 can be coupled to the console in some optional
`
`embodiments to allow more than one user to operate the computer system. The computer
`
`system is modular and has a variety of components that are removable. Some of these
`
`components (or modules) can be used in different Computers, workstations, computerized
`
`television sets, and portable or laptop units.
`
`In the present embodiment, each ACM 1 13 includes computer
`
`components, as will be described below, including a central processing unit ("CPU"), IDE
`controller, hard disk drive, computer memory, and the like. The computer module bay
`
`(i.e., CMB) 121 is an opening or slot in the desktop console. The CMB houses the ACM
`
`and provides communication to and from the ACM. The CMB also provides mechanical
`
`protection and support to the ACM. The CMB has a mechanical alignment mechanism
`
`for mating a portion of the ACM to the console. The CMB further has thermal heat
`
`dissipation sinks, electrical connection mechanisms, and the like. Some details of the
`
`ACM can be found in co—pending Patent Application Nos. 09/149,882 and 09/149,548
`
`filed 9/8/98, commonly assigned, and hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.
`
`In a specific embodiment, the present multiple computer module system
`
`has a peripheral console that has two or more computer bays that can receive a removable
`
`computer module or ACM. Multiple computer module system can function as a personal
`
`computer with only one ACM and the peripheral console. The second and additional
`
`ACM can be added later to increase overall system performance and reliability. The
`
`ACM operates independently as self-contained computer, communicates with each other.
`
`through a high-speed serial communication and share most peripheral devices within the
`
`peripheral console. Each ACM controls its independent graphics subsystem and drives
`
`separate video output signals. A practical implementation is a dual ACM system.
`
`In a
`
`dual ACM system, two monitors can be used to display the two ACMs’ graphics outputs
`
`at the same time. For a single monitor, a RGB switch is used to switch between the
`
`video outputs of the two ACMs and can be controlled by a command from the user.
`
`Similarly, input devices (i.e. keyboard and mouse) are switched between the two
`
`computer systems with a command from the user. Command from the user can be in the
`
`form of either a dedicated key on the keyboard or a special icon on the screen that the
`
`mouse can click on.
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`10
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`15
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`20
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`25
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`30
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`Ex. 1021, Page 14
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`Ex. 1021, Page 14
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`In most embodiments, the ACM includes an enclosure such as the one
`
`described with the following components, which should not be limiting:
`
`7
`
`l) A CPU with cache memory;
`
`2) Core logic device or means;
`
`3) Main memory;
`
`4) A single primary Hard Disk Drive ("HDD") that has a security
`
`program;
`
`5) Flash memory with system BIOS and programmable user password;
`
`6) Operating System, application software, data files on primary HDD;
`
`7) An interface device and connectors to peripheral console;
`
`8) A software controllable mechanical lock, lock control means, and
`
`other accessories.
`
`The ACM connects to a peripheral console with power supply, a display
`
`device, an input device, and other elements. Some details of these elements with the
`
`present system are described in more detail below.
`
`In a dual ACM system, the primary
`
`ACM can connect directly to the peripheral board in the peripheral console. The second
`
`ACM can connect either directly or indirectly to the peripheral board. For indirect
`
`connection, a receptacle board is added to allow a cable connection to the peripheral
`
`board. This is to facilitate the mechanical positioning ofthe second ACM inside the
`
`computer chassis. The receptacle board approach can even be used for the primary ACM
`
`if a high bandwidth peripheral bus, e.g. PC] Bus, is not connected from the primary ACM
`
`to the peripheral board.
`
`The shared peripheral console has a chassis and a motherboard that
`
`connects the following devices:
`
`I) Input means, e.g. keyboard and mouse,
`
`2) Display means, e.g. RGB monitor,
`
`3) Add—on means, e.g. PCI add—on slots,
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`20
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`4) Two Computer Module Bays (CMB) with connectors to two ACMs,
`
`5) A serial communication Hub controller that interfaces to serial
`
`30
`
`communication controller of both ACMs,
`
`6) Shared storage subsystem, e.g. Floppy drive, CDROM drive, DVD
`
`drive, or 2nd Hard Drive,
`
`7) Communication device, e.g. modem,
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`Ex. 1021, Page 15
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`Ex. 1021, Page 15
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`8
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`8) Power supply, and others.
`
`The computer bay is an opening in the peripheral console that receives an
`
`ACM. CMB provides mechanical protection to ACM, mechanical alignment for
`
`connector mating, mechanical locking system to prevent theft and accidental removal,
`
`and connectors at the end of the opening for connecting to ACM. The interface bus
`
`between ACM and the peripheral console has a video bus, peripheral connections, serial
`
`communication connection, control signals and power connection. Video bus includes
`
`video output of graphics devices, i.e. analog RGB and control signals for monitor. Power
`
`connection supplies the power for ACM.
`An implementation of peripheral sharing is the use of Ethernet controllers
`
`10
`
`to bridge the communication between the two ACMs. Some of the peripheral devices
`
`residing in the peripheral console are shown in the simplified diagram of Fig. 2. As
`
`shown, the diagram is merely an illustration which should not limit the scope of the ‘
`
`claims herein. One of ordina