Computer having a life-time counter
US5923870A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 12, 1997 |
| Grant date | Jul 13, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 12, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T403/7058
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A computer includes a base unit and an upper unit which encloses all electronic components of the computer, such as an LCD display, system board, various drives, sound card, speakers, and modem. The base unit has dimensions of only about 11 inches by 7 inches and can easily be placed in small areas. The computer contains a life time counter that counts the amount of time the computer has been used from the time of purchase. The count data is useful in accessing how often a computer has been used if a purchaser return it to the manufacturer. The counter also assists manufacturers to accurately track and resolve field failures in addition to in-house quality testing. This provides a competitive advantage by allowing the computer design to be changed based on actual use conditions and increases field reliability and reduces costs in areas which are over-designed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.