DE4321237A1 - Externally powered computer system with anti-theft mechanism - incorporates control unit for monitoring external current and sounding alarm on interruption following command from authorised operator - Google Patents

Abstract

The computer system is provided with different operating voltages by a power supply unit (70) rechargeable from an external source. A buzzer (81) is sounded by an alarm driver control circuit (8) when an n-p-n transistor switch (82) and a relay contact (87) are closed. An anti-theft protection routine stored in read-only memory (52) is executed by a CPU (51) after an interrupt signal from a time (51a). When external powering is discontinued or an AC adaptor removed both switches are closed. The buzzer will continue to sound until the batteries are exhausted. USE/ADVANTAGE - With portable computers or electronic notebooks. Warning of misuse by third party is given even when the line connecting to the setting-up location is removed.

Description

The invention relates to a computer system, such as one portable (electronic) computer with theft protection mechanism and an theft protection procedure for a computer system.

So-called. Personal computers have recently been reduced experience of size and weight, so that they are easier to carry. As such portable personnel computers are book type (or laptop type) computers and pens known input computer (pen computers). According to the US PS (4) 200 883, a book type calculator includes a main body per unit with a keyboard attached to it as well one rotatable or pivotable on the main body unit mounted display unit. This type of computer can be used with operated by a battery. A pen input Computer includes a liquid crystal (LCD) display or a transparent tray mounted on the latter for Enabling data entry using a write Pin. This type of computer is also using a Battery operated.

Since this book type, pen input calculator and the like. Easily Measures against theft and plagiarism are acceptable of primary importance.

To prevent theft and plagiarism is generally mean with a computer of the specified type  a hook to be connected to a chain (an eyelet) on the rake molded main body. With this conventional me method becomes the one end of a chain on a stand attached to the computer while its other end is attached to the Hook attached (hooked into this) and thus the Computer with hook and chain at its installation location is set.

An anti-theft mechanism using a such a hook requires means for attaching the Hook, which leads to a size reduction of the calculator runs counter.

In addition, with this anti-theft mechanism a hook once the chain is separated from the hook theft cannot be prevented.

The object of the invention is to create a computer systems with a thief prevention function steel of the computer without using a special me mechanism, such as an anti-theft protection mechanism Hook and chain.

With this computer system, theft of the computer is supposed to ners can also be prevented when the computer with its installation site line is taken.

The invention relates to a computer system that by being fed by an external power supply Electricity is operable, comprising: one through which by the external power supplied rechargeable electricity Power supply unit for generating and output ver different operating voltages, a warning unit to stop Resolving an improper or unauthorized warning ter use of the computer system, a starting unit for  Start the warning unit by creating one of the Power supply unit output operating voltage to the warning unit, a command input device for Enter an operating license / delete or cancel command keyed in by an operator for the warning unit and a control unit to monitor the presence / absence of the feed of electricity from the external power supply and to the tax the starting unit for actuating the warning unit upon detection of an interruption in the power supply from the external power supply after the command input device entered an operating permit command gave.

According to a second feature of the invention, the Ge was a computer system that had a power supply has adapter and through a via the electricity supplier supply adapter, if this in a computer system main body is plugged in by an external power supply supply-supplied electricity can be operated, comprising: one by input current from the external power supplier supply rechargeable power supply unit for output different operating voltages, a warning unit for Triggering a warning about improper or improper use of the computer system, a starting unit to start the warning unit by applying one of the Power supply unit output operating voltage to the warning unit, a command input device for Enter an operating license / delete or cancel command keyed in by an operator for the warning unit and a control unit to monitor a plug-in status of the Power adapter and to control the start unit for actuating the warning unit when a Unplugging the power supply  adapters after the command entry device Entered or entered an operating permit command.

According to a third feature of the invention, the Ge was the subject of a computer system that was connected to an external system Power supply fed current is operable to summarizing: a power supply unit, which by the from the external power supply is loadable to output a predetermined operation tension; a warning unit for issuing a warning for improper or unauthorized use of the invoice nersystems; and a control unit for controlling one Start operation of the warning unit by creating one of of the power supply unit to the voltage Warning unit when the power supply from the external Power supply to the computer system interrupted or be ends is.

According to a fourth feature of the invention, the Ge was a computer system with a power supply adapter and with the ability to operate with Current from an external power supply through the with a computer system main body Power supply adapter is fed; full: a power supply unit through the input electricity from the external power supply is rechargeable, for outputting a predetermined operating voltage; a Warning unit for issuing a warning for improper use or unauthorized use of the computer system; and a control unit for controlling a start operation of the Warning unit by applying one from the electricity supplier voltage supplied to the warning unit, if the plug connection of the power supply adapter is canceled.

According to a fifth feature of the invention, the Ge the subject of an anti-theft protection procedure for a computer  with a battery device by an ex supplied electricity is rechargeable, with a warning unit for giving a warning of un correct or unauthorized use of the computer and with means for entering an operation permission / delete or cancel command issued by a Operator has been keyed in for the warning unit, whereby the computer through the external Stromver supply is operable or feedable, comprising the fol steps: a) monitoring the presence / absence lens from the external power supply to the computer supplied electricity, b) entering an operating license command by the operator and c) actuation against the warning unit by means of a voltage from the bat series unit when there is an interruption in the supply of Power from the external power supply after entering the Operating permit command by the operator is caught.

According to a sixth feature of the invention, the Ge the subject of an anti-theft protection procedure for a computer with a power adapter that works with the calculator is pluggable or plug-in, with a due to current supplied by the power supply adapter chargeable battery device, with a warning unit for Issue a warning of improper or improper tiger use of the computer and with a unit for Entry of a key entered by an operator operating permit / delete or cancel command for the warning unit, the computer with one over the Power supply adapter applied voltage to work capable of the following steps: a) Supervision a plug-in or plug-in state of the current supply adapter in the computer, b) entering a Be drive permission command by the operator and  c) actuating the warning unit by means of a voltage from the battery pack if after entering or Keying in of the operating permit command by the operator nungsperson a lifting of the plug connection of the Power adapter is determined.

If the infeed in the arrangements outlined above ended by external electricity (external energy) or the Power supply adapter disconnected (is interrupted) during the personnel account ner main body external power (i.e., external power her) is fed, a warning is sent to the warning unit certain voltage applied. This will cause the warning continuously operated until the energy in the Power supply unit, the main power supply, the Secondary power supply and the like is consumed, whereby people in the vicinity of the computer system improper or unauthorized use of the computer systems are warned. In this way the Rech ner main body and the software resources of the Computer system protected against theft.

The computer system according to the first feature identifies further characterized in that the power supply unit one removably inserted into the computer system Main power supply and an inte in the computer system branched and attached auxiliary power supply points, the control unit with a voltage from the main body (of the computer system) works while the electricity supply from the external power supply has ended, and the starting unit creates the warning unit a voltage from the secondary power supply to the warn Unit operated continuously when the main power supply supply is or will be removed from the computer system, while the warning unit is in operation.  

Furthermore, the computer system is characterized according to the second feature in that the power supply unit is removable in the main computer system via the main power supply and one in the Computer system integrated and attached auxiliary Has power supply, the control unit with a Voltage from the main body works while the electricity is on drove from the external power supply is finished, and the starting unit the warning unit by applying a Voltage from the secondary power supply to the warning unit operated continuously when the main power supply is removed or is removed from the computer system the warning unit is in operation.

Even if the main power supply to (from) the computer Main body is ended or completed and the Control unit stops operating while the Warning unit is in operation, the latter at the arrangements must be operated continuously in order to People near the computer before unsachge moderate or unauthorized use of the main computer to warn the body and to steal the same prevent.

In the computer system according to the first and second features inputs the command input device through the operator a designated password if a user drive permission command is entered or is, and they prompts for the password when an establishment cancel command is entered or will be. The command input device only gives the operation cancel command then when the password is or will be entered. The control unit controls the starting unit to terminate operation of the warning unit when the operating annul lier command entered by the command input unit  is or will be while the warning unit is operating located or working.

If in these arrangements of the warning unit a Be drive permission is granted, only a person who the registered password is known to operate the End warning unit. Even if the operation of the warning accidentally triggered, the Be driven the warning unit by a person who the Kenn word is known to be canceled.

Below are preferred embodiments of the Er finding explained in more detail with reference to the drawing. It shows gene:

Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing the overall arrangement of a computer system according to one embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 2 is a block diagram (of the assembly) of a power supply and warning unit-driving circuit of FIG. 1,

Fig. 3 is a flow diagram of a sequence in which a main central processing unit of the computer system by an operator inputs a constant eingeta warning operation command,

Fig. 4 is a flow diagram of a sequence in which the main CPU enters a through Be dienungsperson keyed Alarm Annul or lifeline to -Löschbefehl,

Fig. 5 is an illustration of a setup menu, which is displayed on a display unit when a warning operation deletion command is input by the operator,

Fig. 6 is a flowchart of a Stromver sorgungs by control processor of the power supply processing to be performed when a warning is activity deletion command inputted by the Operation person,

Fig. 7 is a flowchart of a sequence for setting SET or external power sup ply EP len information to indicate whether current is supplied from an external power supply from to, in the first execution of the invention,

Figure 8 is an anti-theft In itialisierungsverarbeitung sierungsprogramm. A flow chart in a Initiali, which is through the power sup ply control processor processed,

FIG. 9A and 9B are flow charts of the theft protection processing in the first embodiment of the invention,

Fig. 10 is a block diagram for illustrating a state of the plug-in or Einstöpselverbin dung an AC adapter in the second embodiment of the invention,

FIG. 11A and 11B are flow charts of the theft protection processing in the second exporting approximately of the invention, and

FIGS. 12A and 12B each show a pop-up menu that is displayed on a display unit when a warning operation deletion is incorrectly entered by the operator.

The first embodiment of the invention is as follows explained using the drawing.

Fig. 1 shows the arrangement or structure of a portable computer with an anti-theft mechanism according to the invention. According to Fig. 1 10 transmits an educated by a data bus, an address bus and a control system for the operation of the computer required (n) of information (s). (Yet to be written) to the system components 11 10 - connected 28th

A central processing unit (CPU) 11 controls the entire system and provides access to a ROM 12 in order to execute or execute a warning actuation and a warning deletion routine when the power supply is switched on. The ROM (read-only memory) 12 stores permanent programs and permanent data, e.g. B. a BIOS (basic input / output system). A RAM (Random Memory) 13 stores programs and data to be processed. The RAM 13 continues to be supplied with a backup or backup voltage (VBK) even when the main power supply is switched off.

A direct memory access control unit (DMAC unit) 14 performs direct memory access control. A programmable interrupt control unit (PIC) 15 is an interrupt control unit that can be set by means of a program. A programmable interval timer (PIT) 16 can be set using a program. A readout or real-time clock generator (RTC) 17 is a timer module with its own operating battery. The RTC unit 17 contains a password register 17 a for storing a password that is required to carry out warning cancellation processing.

An expansion RAM 18 is removably inserted into a predetermined slot to expand the main storage capacity of the computer. The backup voltage VBK is (also) fed to the expansion RAM 18 . A backup or backup RAM 19 serves as a data backup area for realizing a resume function. Similar to the expansion RAM 18 , the backup voltage VBK is also supplied to the support RAM 19 , so that data which are stored in a memory or a register immediately before switching off the power supply are stored in the backup or support RAM 19 can be.

An expansion connector 20 is a bus connector for feature expansion. An external hard drive (external HDD unit) or the like can be selectively connected to the expansion connector 20 if necessary. Optionally, an expansion unit with various components (e.g., keypad, cathode ray tube or CRT display, large capacity memory and personal computer installation mechanism) is selectively connected to the expansion connector 20 for feature expansion.

When the system is used as a system with a hard disk drive (HDD unit), a hard disk drive interface (HDD-IF) 21 couples a built-in HDD unit (with a hard disk drive control unit (HDC)) 31 to the system. A floppy disk control unit (FDC) 22 controls floppy disk drives or drives (FDD units) 32 A and 32 B under the control of the central unit 11 . The FDD units 32 A and 32 B provide access to floppy disks.

A printer control unit (PRT-CONT) 23 controls a printer (PRT) or an external floppy disk drive (E-FDD) 33 connected to the system as required. An RS-232C unit 34 is connected to the input / output interface (UART: Asynchronous Universal Receiver / Transmitter) 24 as needed to perform transmission / reception of data between the system and an external unit. A keyboard (or possibly a mouse) 35 is connected to a keypad control unit (KBC) 25 . The latter controls the keyboard 35 , for example in order to transmit data entered on the keyboard 35 to the central processing unit (CPU) 11 .

In the present case, a display control unit (DISP-CONT) 26 controls a liquid crystal display (LCD) 36 or a cathode ray tube display (CRT) 37 , which may be connected to the system. A VRAM (video RAM) 27 takes the backup voltage VBK and stores display image data.

A parallel / series interface (PS-IF) 28 is a power supply control interface for connecting an intelligent power supply (hereinafter referred to as "power supply") 40 to the central unit 11 via the system bus 10 . Power supply 40 includes a power supply control microprocessor 51 for its control.

In addition to a basic system power control function for carrying out a centralized management of the system power or the system power supply, the power supply 40 contains an anti-theft protection mechanism for triggering an alarm upon detection of improper or unauthorized use of the system when the supply of external power ends is. These functions are implemented by a power supply processor (PC-CPU) 51 . The power supply 40 also includes an ON or power switch 41 for removing a system power ON / OFF command from the operator.

The PC-CPU unit 51 is operated with operating current Vm, which is generated or supplied by a power supply adapter (AC adapter) 29 or main batteries 71 A and 71 B. This unit 51 always monitors and controls the current or energy, regardless of whether the system power supply is on or off, in accordance with the operation of the power switch 41st

Referring to FIG. 1, this computer includes main batteries (M-BATA and M-BATB) 71 A and 71 B for the operation of Sy stems as well as a backup or backup slave battery (S-BAT) 71 S as a built-in batteries. Each of the main batteries 71 A and 71 B for operating the system is designed as a battery pack and can be used independently in the main computer body. The auxiliary support battery 71 S cannot be removed from this main body.

The power supply 40 is connected to an alarm driver control circuit (DCS) 80 as a component of the theft protection mechanism. The DCS unit 80 is used to control or control a buzzer (Bz) 81 depending on a switching signal supplied by the power supply 40 .

The buzzer (Bz) 81 can continuously generate a sound that is strong enough to warn people in the computer system area of improper or unauthorized use of the system by a third person.

The arrangement of the power supply 40 and the anti-theft protection mechanism connected to it is explained below with reference to FIG. 2. Fig. 2 shows a block diagram of the arrangement or design of the power supply 40 of FIG. 1 and the theft protection mechanism connected to it. The latter is in this case formed by the microprocessor (PC-CPU) 51 of the intelligent power supply ("power supply") 40 for carrying out the centralized management of the system power or system energy.

The power supply 40 is formed by a power supply microcomputer 50 with the PC-CPU unit 51 and a power supply circuit 70 .

First, the power supply microcomputer 50 will be written. As mentioned above, the PC-CPU unit 51 provides constant power or power monitoring and control regardless of whether the system power supply is on or off. The PC-CPU unit 51 performs the control of the power supply circuit 70 for generating various types of operating current for system operation and current or energy output, the ON / OFF control of the system power supply when the power switch 41 is actuated, the charging control for the built-in batteries 71 A and 71 B based on charge control parameters and the like in accordance with power supply control programs stored in an internal ROM 52 . Furthermore, the PC-CPU unit 51 processes a routine for theft protection processing (to be described later). This unit 51 executes these processes in (intervals of) 64 ms in accordance with a timer 51 a integrated in the unit 51 .

The ROM 52 stores the above-mentioned power supply control programs and data and is connected to the PC-CPU unit 51 . The latter is via a bus 53 with a RAM 55 , a parallel I / O or input / output point 56 , a series I / O point 57 , an analog / digital or A / D converter circuit 58 and a charger 72 connected.

The RAM 55 takes the backup voltage VBK and stores warning actuation information WO, warning delete information WC, external power supply information EP for indicating whether external power (external power) is being fed in or not, a power supply adapter flag AF and the like. The like. At predetermined addresses. The warning operation information WO and the warning deletion information WC are set or specified by the operator when the central unit 11 is in a setup menu or popup menu mode. It should be noted that the contents of the addresses at which the mentioned information WO and WC are or will be reset in advance. The RAM 55 also stores SW1 and SW2 flags to indicate the states of switches SW1 and SW2 (to be described). When the switches SW1 and SW2 are closed (ON), the SW1 and SW2 flags are each set to "1", while when the switches are open (OFF), the flags are each set to "0". In the RAM 55 , SW1 flags = "1" and SW2 flags = "0" are set as initial sizes.

The parallel I / O point 56 converts series data or serial data, e.g. B. data from the power switch 41 , in parallel data and transfers it to the PC-CPU unit 51 or the like. The parallel I / O point 56 is with an input / output or I / O driver 59 connected for data exchange.

The row I / O point 57 is connected to the bus 53 and the PS-IF unit 28 . When data is to be transferred from the PC-CPU unit 51 to the central processing unit (CPU) 11 , the row I / O position 57 converts the data transferred from the PC-CPU unit 51 into row data and outputs it to the PS -IF unit 28 out. The latter converts the received or accepted data into parallel data and outputs it to the central unit 11 .

If data are to be transmitted from the central unit 11 to the PC-CPU unit 51 , the data transmitted or supplied by the central unit 11 are converted into row data by the PS-IF unit 28 and output to the row I / O point 57 . The latter converts the row data into parallel data and transfers it to the PC-CPU 51 . In this way, data is exchanged between the central unit 11 and the unit 51 .

The A / D converter circuit 58 (the A / D converter) converts a voltage analog signal supplied from the power supply circuit 70 into a digital signal. An input / output or I / O driver 59 is connected to the DCS unit 80 , a switching or switching circuit 73 to be described later and the parallel I / O point 56 described . This driver 59 outputs switching or switching signals to the DCS unit 80 and to the switching circuit 73 .

The power supply circuit 70 will be described below. This includes a charging unit 72 , the switching circuit 73 , DC / DC converters 74 and 75 , a regulator 76 with three connections and a current detector 77 .

The charger 72 is controlled by the PC-CPU unit 51 to supply external power DC-IN from the AC adapter 29 to the switch circuit 73 . The latter is controlled by the PC-CPU unit 51 via the I / O driver 59 to drive the DC / DC converter 74 , in order to control or regulate the generation / output of current or energy, or the elements concerned is fed in the system. In particular, the switch circuit 73 takes the current (the energy) output from the main batteries 71 A and 71 B and from the AC adapter 29 as the primary power supply, and outputs the latter to the DC-DC converter 74 under the control of the PC-CPU unit 51 . In addition, the switching circuit 73 controls the charging of the main batteries 71 A and 71 B and the secondary battery 71 S.

The DC-DC converter 74 receives the primary current through the switch circuit 73 , generates operating current (secondary current for system operation), which is to be fed to the respective components in the system, and supplies the operating current to the respective components, with the exception of the power supply microcomputer 50 .

In contrast to the DC / DC converter 74 , the DC / DC converter 75 is not controlled by the switch circuit 73 , and it always outputs the backup or backup voltage VBK using the current or the energy from the main batteries 71 A and 71 B and the secondary battery 71 S as the primary current . As mentioned above, this backup voltage VBK is fed to the RAM 13 , the expansion RAM 18 , the backup RAM 19 , the VRAM 27 , the RAM 55 and the switch SW1 (to be written).

The controller with three connections or three-terminal controller 76 takes primary current only from the main batteries 71 A and 71 B, generates the operating voltage Vm and supplies this to the components of the power supply microcomputer 50 , with the exception of the RAM 55 . Namely, when the main batteries 71 A and 71 B are taken out or expanded, the operation of the power supply microcomputer 50 is ended. However, the information stored in the RAM 55 is retained by the backup voltage VBK, which is supplied by the auxiliary battery 71 S via the DC voltage converter 75 .

The current detector 77 detects or measures currents from the main batteries 71 A and 71 B and from the secondary battery 71 S and outputs the resulting quantities to the A / D converter circuit 58 . The PC-CPU unit 51 controls the charging of the batteries in accordance with the quantities supplied to the A / D converter circuit 58 .

The alarm driver control circuit or alarm control circuit (DCS) 80 is described in more detail below. The circuit 80 consists of switches SW1 and SW2 connected in series for supplying the fuse voltage VBK as the drive voltage to the buzzer (Bz) 81 in accordance with changeover or switching signals S1 and S2, which are output by the I / O driver 59 . The switch SW1 consists of an NPN transistor 82 and a bias resistor 83 connected between its base and collector. The fuse voltage VBK output by the DC / DC converter 75 is applied to the collector of the transistor 82 , while the switching signal S1 is embossed on the base of the transistor 82 by the I / O driver 59 . In particular, when the switching signal S1 is at the (low) level "L", the switch SW1 is or is opened to prevent the output of the fuse voltage VBK. When the signal S1 is at the (high) level "H" (high impedance), the switch SW1 is or is closed by a switch ON bias due to the fuse voltage VBK so that the fuse voltage VBK from the emitter of the transistor 82nd is delivered.

Thus, if the power supply from the power supply or AC adapter 29 is interrupted and the operating voltage Vm, which is at the power supply microcomputer 50 , is switched off when the main batteries 71 A and 71 B are removed from the battery pack housing parts, each output signal from the I / O driver 59 is set in a high impedance state, the switch SW1 being forcibly closed or switched on.

The switch SW2 is a relay circuit with a coil 84 . When the switch SW1 is closed, the fuse voltage VBK is applied to a fixed contact part 85 . The buzzer (Bz) 81 is connected to a fixed contact part 86 . An armature 87 is normally held in contact with the fixed contact part 86 by a spring or the like, so that the switch SW1 remains in a closed or ON state.

The switching signal S2 from the I / O driver 59 is fed to one side of the coil 84 , the other side of which is grounded or grounded. When the switching signal S2 of the "H" level (corresponding to a predetermined voltage Vcc or higher) is output from this driver 59 , the coil 84 operates as an electromagnet. Accordingly, the armature 87 is attracted to the coil 84 and brought into contact with a fixed contact part 88 . This operation opens switch SW2. This means that the switch SW2 is or remains in the Durchschaltzu state, unless the switching signal S2 of the level "H" (corresponding to the predetermined voltage Vcc or higher) is output by the I / O driver 59 .

In the following 3 and 4, a processing is reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. (A Warnungsbetäti supply routine and a warning erase routine) beschrie ben, which is executed when the central processing unit (CPU) 11 receives a Warnungsbetätigungs- and a warning erasure command by the operator. These routines are stored in ROM 12 . As mentioned above, the warning operation processing and the warning cancellation or cancellation processing are designated on the setup menu or on the popup menu. In the present case, the warning actuation / warning deletion routines are described on the basis of the setup menu.

First, the warning operation routine is described with reference to FIG. 3. When executing the system setup processing, the operator performs a predetermined operation using the keyboard 35 to display a setup screen such as that shown in FIG. B. is shown in Fig. 5, on the screen of the LCD or display unit 36 . When the operator selects "<ALARM MODE <ON", the CPU 11 transmits a warning operation command or a warning operation command to the PC-CPU unit 51 (step A1). This command is fed via the bus 10 to the PS-IF unit 28 in order to be converted into series data or serial data. The warning operation command converted into row data is sent to the row I / O point 57 to be converted into parallel data corresponding to the number of lines of the bus 53 . The PC-CPU unit 51 accepts the warning operation command converted into parallel data.

Upon issuing the warning operation command, the CPU 11 prompts the operator to enter a password, as indicated in a lower area of FIG. 5. In this case, the operator inputs a password of a predetermined number of characters using the keyboard 35 or the like. The central unit 11 stores the entered password in the password register 17 a of the RTC unit 17 (step A2). The RTC unit 17 has its own power supply.

Next, the warning clear or cancel routine is described with the flowchart of FIG . The warning clearing processing can be designated using the setup display, similar to the warning operation processing described above. The operator performs a predetermined operation using the keyboard 35 to display the setup display ( FIG. 5) on the screen of the display unit 36 . If it is determined that the operator selects <ALARM MODE <OFF on the setup display, the central unit 11 outputs a password input request on the screen of the display unit 36 .

If the password entered by the operator (were) is 11 checks the central processing unit (CPU) in the execution of the warning operation routine (step B1), whether the password entered a password stored in the password coincides with the register 17th With a positive result (YES) in step B1, the central unit 11 delivers the warning clear command to the PC-CPU unit 51 (step B2). This latter command is fed to this unit 51 in the same process as that for the warning operation command.

If the result is negative (NO) in step B1, the central processing unit 11 ends the warning deletion routine. With this operation, a warning clear command cannot be sent to the PC-CPU unit 51 without entering a password that is the same as the password entered in the warning operation processing. If, in the warning clearing routine described, the password entered by the operator does not match the password entered in the warning operation processing ("≠" in step B1), the routine is ended. However, the system can be designed to allow a predetermined number of password entries, so that if a correct password cannot be entered within this predetermined number of times, further password entry can be prevented.

The above description applies to the setup menu display or panel shown in Fig. 5. However, the operator can, for example, display the pop-up menu display or panel shown in Fig. 12A by using a predetermined key operation to designate warning operation / erase processing designated. In this case, when the operator designates either "enable" or "disable", the display or panel shown in Fig. 12B is displayed to prompt the operator to set or enter a password .

In the following, the processing upon receipt of a warning operation command and a warning clearing command from the central unit 11 through the PC-CPU unit 51 is described. Fig. 6 illustrates an interrupt routine to be executed when the PC-CPU unit 51 receives a command from the CPU 11 . The interrupt routine is stored in ROM 52 .

Upon receipt of a command from the CPU 11 ar, the PC-CPU unit 51 executes a predetermined interrupt routine. In this case, this unit 51 checks whether the received command is a warning operation command (step C1). If this is the case, the PC-CPU unit 51 sets the warning operation information WO in the RAM 55 (step C3). In addition, this unit 51 resets the warning clear information WC stored in the RAM 55 (step C5). If the received command is the warning operation command, the PC-CPU unit 51 ends the interrupt routine upon execution or processing of the processing described above.

If it is determined in step C1 that the received command is not the warning operation command, the PC-CPU unit 51 checks whether the received command is a warning clear command (step C7). If this is the case, this unit 51 causes the warning actuation information WO stored in the RAM 55 to be reset (step C9). In addition, the PC-CPU unit 51 sets the warning clear information WC in the RAM 55 (step C11). This unit 51 then ends the interrupt routine.

If the command received is neither a warning operation command is still a warning clear command (NO in step C1 and C7), the contents of the command are different rer or further command checked, and the corresponding Processing is carried out (step C13).  

In the manner described above, the processing according to the warning operation and clearing command is carried out by the PC-CPU unit 51 .

As described in connection with FIGS. 3, 4 and 6, the warning operation information WO is set in the RAM 55 ; the warning clear information WC in the RAM 55 is reset in accordance with an operation performed by the operator to designate the warning operation processing. In addition, the warning operation information WO is reset, and the warning cancellation information WC is set to designate (ie, select the warning cancellation processing) according to an operation performed by the operator.

The PC-CPU unit 51 sets or supplies the external power supply information EP to indicate whether the external power is input or not. This processing is described below with reference to FIG. 7. The PC-CPU unit 51 executes an EP setting routine stored in the ROM 52 at (intervals of) 64 ms in accordance with the timer 51 a during an operation or an operation of the power supply microcomputer.

When executing the EP setting routine, the PC-CPU unit 51 detects a voltage VEP applied by the external power supply or AC adapter 29 via the A / D converter circuit 58 (step D1). The unit 51 then checks whether the detected voltage VEP is equal to or less than a voltage Vhigh (step D3). If it is determined that the voltage VEP is equal to or less than the voltage Vhigh (YES in step D3), the PC-CPU unit 51 checks whether the voltage VEP is equal to or higher than a voltage Vlow (step D5 ). If the result is affirmative (YES) in step D5, this unit 51 sets the external power supply information EP in the RAM 55 (step D7) to thereby store data indicating that the external power is being supplied.

If it is determined or determined in step D3 that the voltage VEP is higher than the voltage Vhigh, or it is determined in step D5 that the voltage VEP is lower than the voltage Vlow, the PC-CPU unit 51 causes the im RAM 55 stored external power supply information EP (step D9). With this operation, the data to indicate that no external power is being supplied is stored in the RAM 55 .

With the above-described processing performed by the PC-CPU unit 51 , the external power supply information EP can be set / reset to indicate that the external power is being supplied or that the external power supply is on. Accordingly, whether the external power is input or not can be determined by referring to the external power supply information EP stored in the RAM 55 .

An anti-theft protection initialization routine and a theft protection routine performed by the PC-CPU unit 51 will be described with reference to FIGS . 8, 9A and 9B. The anti-theft initialization routine of FIG. 8 is part of an initialization program that is executed when the power supply microcomputer 50 is or is reset. In normal operation of Stromversor microcomputer supply 50, the PC-CPU unit 51 performs the processing of FIGS. 9A and 9B in accordance with an internal interruption by, all of 64 ms is performed on the basis of the built-in timer 51a. As described above, the SW1 flag = "1" and the SW2 flag = "0" are set as initial values in the RAM.

OPERATION 1 (Initialization)

The following is first the anti-theft initialization routine to be executed when the power supply microcomputer 50 is reset for any reason and the PC-CPU unit 51 initiates or starts the initialization.

When starting the execution of the Diebstahlschutzinitia Fig according lisierungsroutine. 8, the PC-CPU 51 checks first whether the stored in the RAM 55 SW1 and SW2 label as SW1 flag = "1" and SW2 characteristic sign = "1" are set (step E1). If no changes have been made to the SW1 and SW2 flags stored in RAM 55 , SW1 flags = "1" and SW2 flags = "0" are set. As a result, "NO" is obtained in step E1.

The PC-CPU unit 51 then initializes various types of information in the RAM 55 . First, this unit 51 effects the resetting of information units at predetermined addresses of the RAM 55 , at which the warning actuation information WO and the warning deletion information WC are stored. Here, the PC-CPU unit 51 sets the power supply adapter flag AF to "1". Furthermore, this unit 51 sets the respective characters stored in the RAM 55 to SW1 = "1" and SW2 = "0" in order to close or open the switches SW1 and SW2 of the DCS unit 80 (step E5).

In this case, the PC-CPU unit 51 controls the I / O driver 59 via the bus 53 and the parallel I / O point 56 to output the switching signal S1 of level "H" (high impedance) to close the switch SW1 and for outputting the switching signal S2 of the level "H" (corresponding to the predetermined voltage Vcc or higher) to open the switch SW2. The switching signal S1 of the "H" level is applied to the base of the transistor 82 . Upon receipt of the switching signal S1 of the "H" level, the transistor 82 switches through in order to output the fuse voltage VBK present at the collector to the fixed contact part 82 of the switch SW2. The switching signal S2 of the "H" level is fed to the coil 84 of the switch SW2. Because of this, the coil 84 becomes an electromagnet, so that the armature 87 is brought into contact with the fixed contact part 88 . Accordingly, the fuse voltage VBK applied to the fixed contact part 85 is not impressed on the buzzer (Bz) 81 .

When performing the theft protection initializer The power adapter label becomes routine AF = "1" set, switch SW1 closed (by switched), the switch SW2 opened, the SW2 indicator chen = "1" set and the SW2 indicator = "0" ge puts.

If YES in step E1, the PC-CPU unit 51 drives the I / O driver 59 to switch signal S1 of level "H" (high impedance) to close switch SW1 and switch signal S2 of level "L""to close switch SW2 (step E3). Then, this unit 51 ends the theft protection initializing routine.

OPERATION 2 (Processing to be carried out if after the In externalization is not supplied)

Next, a case will be described in which no external power (external power) is supplied after initialization. It is assumed that the external power supply information EP has already been reset in accordance with the interrupt routine shown in FIG. 7.

The PC-CPU unit 51 refers to the external power supply information EP stored in the RAM 55 to check whether the external power is being supplied (step F1). Since this relevant information EP has been reset, the PC-CPU unit 51 determines that no external power is supplied (NO in step F1). Then, the unit 51 checks whether the power supply adapter flag AF = "1" (step F7). Since this flag AF was initially set to "1" in step ES in FIG. 8, the PC-CPU unit 51 delivers the result YES in step F7, so that the switch SW1 is closed and the SW1 flag is set to " 1 "be set (step E9).

The PC-CPU unit 51 checks whether the warning clear information WC is set at a predetermined address (step F11). Since this information WC has been reset in advance, the PC-CPU unit 51 judges NO in step F11 and ends the theft protection routine started by internal interruption. This means that if no external power is supplied after the initialization, only the processing in steps F1, F7, F9 and F11 is carried out in the theft protection routine.

If no external power is supplied to the computer, The following conditions are therefore retained: Stromver supply adapter indicator AF = "1", external power supply care information EP = "reset", warning operation Warning information WO = "reset", warning delete information mation WC = "reset", switch SW1 = ON, switch SW2 = OFF, SW1 mark = "1" and SW2 mark = "0".

OPERATION 3 (Processing to be carried out if after the In externalization is supplied)

Next, the sequence of a theft protection routine is described, which is to be carried out when external power is supplied after the initialization. It is assumed that the external power supply information EP has been set according to the routine of FIG. 7.

If the execution or processing of the theft protection routine is or is set by internal interruption, the PC-CPU unit 51 refers to the external power supply information EP Check whether the external power is supplied (step F1). In this case, as described above, this information EP has been set according to the routine of FIG. 7. As a result, the result YES is obtained in step F1.

The PC-CPU unit 51 checks whether the SW1 flag = "1" and the SW2 flag = "1" are set (step F3). During initialization, SW1 flags = "1" and SW2 flags = "0" are set. Accordingly, the result NO is obtained in step F3. Said unit 51 then sets the power supply adapter flag AF = 1, switch SW1 = "OFF" and SW1 flag = "0" (step F5).

Thereupon, the PC-CPU unit 51 checks whether the warning deletion or cancellation information WC is set (step F15). Since this information WC is kept in a reset state until it is set by the operator, the result NO is obtained in step F15. Thereafter, the PC-CPU unit 51 checks whether the warning operation information WO is set (step F19). Since this information WO has been reset, similarly to the warning deletion information WC, the result NO is obtained in step F19, and the unit 51 ends the anti-theft protection routine started by internal interruption. Namely, if external power is supplied after initialization, the revision is performed after steps F1, F3, F5, F15 and F19.

So when external power is supplied to the computer, the following conditions remain: Power supply adapter adapter mark AF = "1", external power supply supply information EP = "set", warning actuation formation WO = "reset", warning deletion information WC = "reset", switch SW1 = "OFF", switch SW " = "OFF", SW1 code = "0" and SW2 code = "0".

OPERATION 4 (Processing to be performed when the warning actuation information WHERE by the operator in is set to an ON state while external electricity is supplied)

An operation of the PC-CPU unit 51 in an anti-theft routine after the warning operation processing designated or specified by the operator will be described below. It is assumed that external power is supplied to the computer. It should be noted that the warning operation processing according to the routine of FIG. 3 is designated and the PC-CPU unit 51 executes the interrupt processing of FIG. 6 to the warning operation information WO and the warning cancellation information WC at predetermined addresses to set or reset.

As explained in OPERATION 3 described above, other information and flags are or are set as follows: power supply adapter flag AF = "1", external power supply information EP = "ge set", switch SW1 = "OFF", switch SW2 = "OFF ", SW1 mark =" 0 "and SW2 mark =" 0 ".

First, the PC-CPU unit-51 refers to the external power supply information EP stored in the RAM 55 to check whether the external power is being supplied (step F1). This information EP has been set according to the routine of FIG. 7, which is why the unit 51 determines that external power is supplied (YES in step F1). Then the PC-CPU unit 51 checks whether the flags SW1 and SW2 in the RAM 55 are set as SW1 flag = "1" and SW2 flag = "1" (step F3). Since - as described above - SW1 flag = "0" and SW2 flag = "0" are set, the result NO is obtained in step F3. The PC-CPU unit 51 sets the power adapter flag AF = "1", switch SW1 = "OFF" and SW1 flag = "0" (step F5).

The PC-CPU unit 51 checks whether the warning clear information WC is set (step F15). Since this information WC has been reset in accordance with the routine shown in FIG. 6, the unit 51 decides NO in step F15 and checks whether the warning operation information WO is set (step F19). In this case, this information WO has been set in accordance with the interrupt routine shown in FIG. 6, so that the result YES is obtained in step F19. If YES in step F19, the PC-CPU unit 51 again refers to the external power supply information EP for checking the operation of the power supply microcomputer 50 to check whether the external power is being supplied (step F21). Since this information EP has been set, the result YES is obtained in step F21. To check the operation of the power supply microcomputer 50, the PC-CPU unit 51 checks whether the SW1 flag = "1" and the SW2 flag = "1" are set (step F25). Since both flags SW1 and SW2 = "0", the result NO is obtained in step F25.

The PC-CPU unit 51 then sets the following: power supply adapter flag AF = "1", switch SW1 = "OFF", switch SW2 = "ON", SW1 flag = "0" and SW2 flag = "1" (Steps F27 and F29) and it ends the processing.

When external power is supplied and the warning operation processing by the operator is therefore the processing of the steps F1, F3, F5, F15, F19, F21, F25, F27 and F29 in the thief steel protection routine executed every 64 ms.

With this processing, the respective informa tion and markings as follows: Electricity supplier  adapter adapter mark AF = "1", external power supply supply information EP = "set", warning actuation information WO = "set", warning deletion information WC = "reset", switch SW1 = "OFF", switch SW2 = "ON", SW1 flag = "0" and SW2 flag = "1".

OPERATION 5 (Processing to be performed when the warning operation processing by the operator is drawn while no external power is being supplied becomes)

The following describes an operation of the PC-CPU unit 51 in an anti-theft routine to be performed when the warning operation processing is designated by the operator while no external power is being supplied. It should be noted that the warning operation processing is designated in accordance with the routine of FIG. 3. The PC-CPU unit 51 performs the interrupt processing shown in FIG. 6 to set the warning operation information WO and to reset the warning cancellation information WC.

As described in connection with OPERATION 2 , other information and indicators are or are set as follows: power supply adapter indicator AF = "1", external power supply information EP = "reset", switch SW1 = "ON", switch SW2 = "OFF" , SW1 mark = "1" and SW2 mark = "0".

The PC-CPU unit 51 determines, based on the external power supply information EP, that no external power is being supplied (NO in step F1). Since the power adapter flag AF is set to "1", the unit 51 has the switch SW1 closed and sets the SW1 flag to "1" (steps F7 and F9).

The PC-CPU unit 51 checks whether the warning clear information WC is set (step F11). This information WC has been reset according to the interrupt routine of FIG. 6, so that the result NO is obtained in step F11, whereupon the unit 51 ends the processing.

If the warning operation by the operator designated or elected while no external power is supplied, the processing is therefore direction after steps F1, F7, F9 and F11 in the theft protection routine executed every 64 ms (i.e. in the all 64 ms anti-theft protection routine).

The respective information and characteristics remain in following conditions: Power adapter label Chen AF = "1", external power supply information EP = "reset", warning operation information WO = "ge sets ", warning deletion information WC =" reset ", Switch SW1 = "ON", switch SW "=" OFF ", SW1 indicator chen = "1" and SW2 mark = "0".

Even if the main computer body in this operation No external power is supplied to the operator designate person to process the warning operation or select without triggering an alarm.

OPERATION 6 (Processing to be performed when the warning Deletion information WC after setting the warning button supply information WHERE is set)

The following describes an operation of the PC-CPU unit 51 in an anti-theft routine to be performed when the warning deletion or cancellation processing is designated by the operator after the warning operation processing is designated. Designating the warning erasure processing is performed by the CPU 11 in accordance with the routine shown in Fig. 3. In response to the control performed by the CPU 11 processing, the PC-CPU unit, the interrupt processing 6 performs 51 according to Fig. Out to the warning operation information WO reset and set the warning deletion information WC.

If WO ex t is fed in, the respective In Formations and marks in the following states: Power adapter label AF = "1", external Power supply information EP = "set", switch SW1 = "OFF", switch SW2 = "ON", SW1 mark = "0" and SW2 flag = "1" as described above.

First, the PC-CPU unit 51 checks, based on the external power supply information EP, whether external power is being supplied (step F1). In this case, external power has already been supplied, and the external power supply information EP has been set according to the routine shown in FIG. 7. As a result, the result YES is obtained in step F1. The PC-CPU unit 51 then checks whether the two flags SW1 and SW2 are "1" (step F3). Since the flag SW1 = "0", the result NO is obtained in step F3, and the unit 51 carries out the processing after step F5. More specifically, the unit 51 sets the power adapter flag AF to "1", the switch SW1 to "OFF" and the flag SW1 to "0". It should be noted that these information units have already been set and therefore will not change.

Then, the PC-CPU unit 51 checks whether the warning clearing information WC is set (step F15). Since this information WC has been set in accordance with the routine of FIG. 6, the result YES is obtained in step F15. As a result, this unit 51 executes the processing in step F17 to open the switch SW2 and set the flag SW2 to "0". Thereafter, this unit 51 checks whether the warning operation information WO is set (step F19). Since this information WO has been reset, the result NO is obtained in step F19, so that the interrupt processing is ended.

If the warning clear information WC is set, select External power is supplied as described above ben, steps F1, F3, F5, F15, F17 and F19 in the theft protection performed by interruption routine executed or processed every 64 ms.

The respective information and characteristics remain therefore in the following states: Power supply adapter Indicator AF = "1", external power supply information tion EP = "set", warning actuation information WO = "reset", warning deletion information WC = "ge sets ", switch SW1 =" OFF ", switch SW2 =" OFF ", SW1 mark = "0" and SW2 mark = "0".

If the warning operation information WO is set or is, while no external power is supplied to the personal computer that is, by the main batteries 71 A and 71 B is fed, the respective Informatio are NEN and maintained indicator in the following states: power supply adapter plate AF = "1" , external power supply information = "reset", switch SW1 = "ON", switch SW2 = "OFF", flag SW1 = "1" and flag SW2 = "0". If the warning clearing information WC is then set while no external power is being supplied, the PC-CPU unit 51 operates in the theft protection routine as follows:

First, the PC-CPU unit 51 refers to the external power supply information EP for checking whether external power is being supplied (step F1). Since the external power supply is switched off, the result NO is obtained in step F1. The unit 51 then checks whether the power supply adapter flag AF = "1" (step F7). Since this flag AF = "1", the unit 51 carries out the processing after step F9 to close the switch SW1 or to have it closed and to set the flag SW1 to "1". It should be noted that these information units have already been set.

Subsequently, the PC-CPU unit 51 checks whether the warning clear information WC is set (step F11). This information WC is set in the RAM 55 , so that the result YES is obtained in step F11. The unit 51 executes the processing after step F13 and ends the interrupt processing. In step F13, who opened the switch SW2 and set the flag SW2 to "0". It should be noted that the switch SW2 = "OFF" and flag SW2 = have already been set.

If, as described above, the warning clear information tion WC is or will be set while no external Power is supplied, steps F1, F7, F9, F11 and F13 in the theft occurring every 64 ms protection routine executed.

The respective information and marks are there kept in the following states: power supply adapter label AF = "1", external power supply information EP = "set", warning activation information mation WO = "reset", warning deletion information WC = "set", switch SW1 = "ON", switch SW2 = "OFF", code SW1 = "0" and code SW2 = "0".

OPERATION 7 (Processing to be carried out when the feed of external electricity according to the designation of the warning actuators processing is ended or interrupted)

The following describes the operation to be performed by the PC-CPU unit 51 when the supply or supply of external power is stopped for some reason after the warning operation processing by the operator is designated .

When external power is supplied in the above-described manner and the warning operation processing is designated by the operator, information and flags are kept in the following states: power supply adapter flag AF = "1", external power supply information EP = "set", warning operation information WO = "set", warning deletion information WC = "reset", switch SW1 = "OFF", switch SW2 = "ON", flag SW1 = "0" and flag SW2 = "1". However, since the supply of external power is stopped or interrupted for some reason, the external power supply information EP is reset according to the routine of FIG. 7.

After completion or interruption of the external power supply, the PC-CPU unit 51 performs the following processing in accordance with the internal interruption, which occurs every 64 ms based on the timer 51 a. Referring to the external power supply information EP, the PC-CPU unit 51 determines that no external power is supplied (NO in step F1). The unit 51 checks whether the power supply adapter flag AF = "1" (step F7). Since this flag AF is or remains at "1" as described above, the result YES is obtained in step F7. For this reason, this unit 51 closes the switch SW1 and replaces the flag SW1 to "1" (step F11). As a result, both switches SW1 and SW2 are closed and the buzzer (Bz) 81 is actuated to trigger an alarm.

Thereupon, the PC-CPU unit 51 checks whether the warning clearing information WC is set. Since this information WC is reset, the unit 51 ends the anti-theft routine (NO in step F11).

Therefore, if the supply of external power is terminated for any reason after designating the warning operation processing by the operator, the buzzer (Bz) 81 generates a sound. Then he buzzer (Bz) 81 continues to produce a tone until the energy stored in the batteries 71 A, 71 B and 71 S has been used, unless a deletion or cancellation operation (to be described later) by entering a password is performed.

OPERATION 8 (Processing to be carried out when the feed solution of external power resumes during the Buzzer (Bz) produces a sound)

The processing performed by the PC-CPU unit 51 in the following anti-theft routine is described below. In this anti-theft routine, the external power adapter 29 is connected to a power connector or the like to resume the external power supply while the buzzer (Bz) 81 produces a sound after the external power supply is cut off for some reason.

While the buzzer (Bz) 81 emits an alarm tone, who the or the respective information and indicators are held in the following states: power supply adapter label AF = "1", external power supply information EP = "reset", warning actuation information WO = " set ", warning deletion information WC =" reset ", switch SW1 =" ON ", switch SW2 =" ON ", flag SW1 =" 1 "and flag SW2 =" 1 ". However, since the supply of the external current follows again, the external power supply information EP is set in accordance with the routine according to FIG. 7 at a predetermined address of the RAM 55 .

First, the PC-CPU unit 51 refers to the external power supply information EP for checking whether the external power is supplied (step F1). Since - as described above - the external current is fed in again, the external power supply information EP is set. As a result, the result YES is obtained in step F1.

The PC-CPU unit 51 then checks whether the two flags SW1 and SW2 are set to "1" (step F3). While the buzzer (Bz) 81 is generating (operating) a tone, the flags SW1 and SW2 are each set to "1", so that the result YES is obtained in step F3. The unit 51 checks whether the warning cancellation information WC is set at a predetermined address (step F11). Since this information WC has been reset, the result NO is obtained in step F11, and the unit 51 ends the theft protection routine.

Therefore, while the buzzer (Bz) 81 continues to generate a tone, it does not stop generating the tone even when the supply of the external power is resumed.

OPERATION 9 (Processing to be performed when batteries 71A and 71B are removed or removed while buzzer (Bz) 81 continues to produce a sound)

The following is the processing to be performed by the PC-CPU unit 51 in the theft protection routine when the removable main batteries 71 A and 71 B are removed or removed while the buzzer (Bz) 81 continues to generate a sound.

While the buzzer (Bz) 81 issues an alarm, the respective information and indicators are held in the following states: power supply adapter indicator AF = "1", external power supply information EP = "reset", warning actuation information WO = "set", warning deletion information WC = "reset", switch SW1 = "ON", switch SW2 = "ON", code SW1 = "1" and code SW2 = "1". However, if the main batteries 71 A and 71B are removed or dismantled, the power supply to the three-terminal regulator 76, and the application of the operating voltage Vm to the power supply microcomputer 50 to be terminated. Accordingly, from the components of the power supply microcomputer 50, the components working on the basis of the operating voltage Vm, e.g. B. the PC-CPU unit 51 and the I / O driver 59 , their functions. For this reason, the DCS unit 80 cannot be controlled by the PC-CPU unit 51 via the I / O driver 59 .

As a result, the switch signal S1 remains in a high impedance state because the application of the operating voltage Vm to the I / O driver 59 has ended. As described above, however, the switch SW1 of the DCS unit 80 is set to an ON or closed state when the switch signal S1 supplied by the I / O driver 59 is at "H" (high impedance) level. As a result, the switch SW1 is kept in a closed state to apply the backup voltage VBK applied from the sub-battery 71 S to the fixed contact part 85 of the switch SW2.

The armature 87 of the switch SW2 remains connected to the fixed contact part 86 on the ON side by the force of a spring or the like, unless a voltage of at least a predetermined size is applied to the coil 84 . This means that the armature 87 remains connected to the fe most contact part 86 (in contact with this) as long as the I / O driver 59 is in a stop position. Consequently, the switch SW2 outputs the fuse voltage VBK applied or supplied by the switch SW1 to the buzzer (Bz) 81 . Due to this operation, the buzzer (Bz) 81 continues to generate sound until the energy stored in the secondary battery 71 S is used up.

Even if - as described above - the main batteries 71 A and 71 B are removed or are, while the Sum mer (Bz) 81 generates a sound, the backup voltage VBK from the secondary battery 71 S via the switches SW1 and SW2 to the buzzer (Bz) 81 created. Even if the main batteries 71 A and 71 B are removed or removed during the sound generation by the buzzer (Bz) 81 , the buzzer (Bz) 81 continues to generate the sound until the energy stored in the secondary battery 71 S is used up .

OPERATION 10 (Processing to be carried out when the main batteries 71 A and 71 B are temporarily removed and then reinserted while the buzzer (Bz) produces a sound)

Next, a case will be described in which the main batteries are temporarily removed and then reinserted while the buzzer (Bz) 81 is sounding. When the main batteries 71 A and 71 B are taken out, the operating voltage Vm is not output to the power supply microcomputer 50 . As a result, the components using the operating voltage Vm in the power supply microcomputer 50 are deactivated.

Since the RAM 55 works with the backup voltage VBK, the following information and identifiers stored in it are retained: the identifiers SW1 and SW1, the warning actuation information WO, the warning deletion information WC, the power supply adapter identifier AF and the external power supply information EP to indicate the presence / absence of external power. The following states are therefore present: code SW1 = "1", code SW2 = "1", warning actuation information WO = "set", warning deletion information WC = "reset", code AF = "1" and external power source information EP = "reset" .

When the main batteries 71 A and 71 B are or are reinstalled, the PC-CPU unit 51 of the power supply microcomputer 50 executes a predetermined initialization program to effect the initialization of the components concerned. This unit 51 operates the initialization theft protection routine shown in FIG. 8.

The PC-CPU unit 51 checks whether the two flags SW1 and SW2 in the RAM 55 are in the "1" state (step E1). Since the backup voltage VBK abuts 71 S on the RAM 55 from the sub-battery, are in the RAM 55 still flag SW1 = "1" and flag SW2 = "1", as set at the beginning of the actuation of the buzzer (Bz) 81 is stored. As a result, YES is obtained in step E1.

The PC-CPU unit 51 then controls the I / O driver 59 to switch on or switch through (step E3). Are treated with the above-described operation, the Initiali s ierungsverarbeitung in the power supply microcomputer is terminated in a case 50 in which the main batteries temporarily taken out 71 A and 71 B and subsequently used ßend again while the buzzer (Bz) 81 generates a tone.

Although the initialization of the relevant components is carried out by the PC-CPU unit 51 when the main batteries 71 A and 71 B are temporarily removed and later used again, the buzzer (Bz) 81 does not interrupt its sound generation.

The PC-CPU unit 51 then works according to the interruption related to the timer 51 a the theft protection routine according to FIGS . 9A and 9B.

First, the PC-CPU unit 51 refers to the external power supply information EP for checking whether external power is being supplied (step F1). Since the supply of external current remains interrupted, the result NO is obtained in step F1. The unit 51 then checks whether the power adapter flag AF is "1" (step F7). Since this flag AF is held at "1" in the RAM 55 , the result of YES is obtained in step F7. The unit 51 then turns on the switch SW1 and sets the flag SW1 to "1" (step F9). Note that the switch SW1 has been closed and the flag SW1 in the RAM 55 is kept at "1".

Thereupon, the PC-CPU unit 51 checks whether the warning clear information WC is set (step F11). This information WC has been reset in the initialization processing so that the result NO is obtained in step F11. The unit 51 then ends the processing in the theft protection routine.

In the processing described above, the buzzer (Bz) 81 continues to generate a tone until the energy stored in the main batteries 71 A and 71 B and the secondary battery 71 S is used up.

OPERATION 11 (Processing to be performed when the warning delete processing designated by the operator while the buzzer (Bz) is generating a tone or issues)

While the buzzer (Bz) 81 is actuated in the manner described, the respective information and signs remain in the following states: power supply adapter flag AF = "1", external power supply information EP = "reset", warning actuation information WO = "ON ", Warning deletion information WC =" OFF ", switch SW1 =" ON ", switch SW2 =" ON ", code SW1 =" 1 "and code SW2 =" 1 ".

It is assumed that the operator has a pop-up menu, e.g. B. the one shown in Fig. 12A, on the screen of the display unit 36 opens or appears and enters a correct password (a pop-up unit shown in Fig. 12B) on the keypad to designate the warning clearing processing. In this case, the CPU 11 delivers a warning clear command to the PC-CPU unit 51 according to the routine of FIG. 4 (step B2 in FIG. 4). Depending on this command, the unit 51 resets the warning operation information WO (step C9 in FIG. 6) and sets the warning clearing information WC (step C11 in FIG. 6).

Accordingly, the information in question and mark changed as follows: Power supply  adapter label AF = "1", external power supply information EP = "reset", warning operator formation WO = "reset", warning deletion information WC = "set", switch SW1 = "ON", switch SW2 = "ON", code SW1 = "1" and code SW2 = "1".

In the theft protection routine which is executed or processed in accordance with the interruption related to the timer 51 a, the PC-CPU unit 51 refers to the external power supply information EP for checking whether external power is being supplied (step F1). As mentioned above, this information EP has been reset so that the result NO in step F1 will be obtained. The unit 51 then checks whether the power adapter flag AF = "1" (step F7). Since, as mentioned, this flag AF has been set to "1", YES is obtained in step F7. The unit 51 closes the switch SW1 and sets the flag SW1 to "1" (step F9). It should be noted that the switch SW1 has already been set to ON and the flag SW1 to "1".

Subsequently, the PC-CPU unit 51 checks whether the warning clear information WC is set (step F11). Since this information WC has already been set in accordance with the interrupt processing shown in FIG. 6, the result YES is obtained in step F11. The unit 51 opens the switch SW2 and sets the flag SW2 to "0" (step F13). With this operation, the supply of the backup voltage VBK to the buzzer (Bz) 81 is ended, so that the buzzer (Bz) 81 ends its output.

The processing to be performed by the PC-CPU unit 51 in the following case is described below.

In this case, the external power supply adapter 29 is connected to an external power supply to resume supply of the external power while the buzzer (Bz) 81 is generating a sound, and the warning cancellation processing is then performed based on the routine shown in FIG called.. 4 When the warning clearing processing is designated by the operator or the like, the external power supply information EP is set according to the routine of FIG. 7. In addition, the PC-CPU unit 51 , as described above, causes the warning operation information WO to be reset and the warning deletion information WC to be set in accordance with the interrupt processing shown in FIG. 6. As a result, the respective information and flags follow in the state held: power supply adapter indicator AF = "1", external power supply information EP = "set", warning actuation information WO = "reset", warning cancellation information WC = "set", switch SW1 = "ON", switch SW2 = "ON", Code SW1 = "1" and code SW2 = "1".

First, the PC-CPU unit 51 refers to the external power supply information EP to check whether the external power is supplied (step F1). Since the supply of the external power has been started by the operator, the external power supply information EP is set. As a result, YES is obtained in step F1. The unit 51 checks whether the two flags SW1 and SW2 are each at "1" (step F3). Since flag SW1 = "1" and flag SW2 = "1" apply while the buzzer (Bz) 81 is actuated, the result YES is obtained in step F3.

The PC-CPU unit 51 checks whether the warning clear information WC is set (step F11). In this case, since this information WC has already been set in the interrupt routine according to FIG. 6, the result YES is obtained in step F11. Accordingly, the unit 51 causes the switch SW2 to be opened and the flag SW2 to be set to "0" (step F13), to thereby terminate the processing. By opening the switch SW2, the operation of the buzzer (Bz) 81 is terminated, so that the buzzer (Bz) 81 no longer emits any sound.

If the operator or the like accidentally operates the buzzer (Bz) 81 in these operations, he can stop the operation of the buzzer (Bz) 81 by using a password set or specified when the warning operation processing is designated.

In the first embodiment of the invention, when the application of a voltage from an external power supply (AC adapter 29 ) is terminated after the actuator 13678 00070 552 001000280000000200012000285911356700040 0002004321237 00004 13559g- or operational state of the theft protection mechanism is set while the main body of the portable computer external power is supplied, the buzzer (Bz) 81 of the anti-theft mechanism is operated continuously. With this operation, persons in the vicinity of the portable computer are warned against unauthorized use of the computer by a third person, so that the main body of the portable computer and the software information of the system are protected against theft.

Even if the theft protection routine is stopped, the buzzer (Bz) 81 can be operated as follows. After the operation of the anti-theft mechanism is set while external power is being supplied to the main body of the portable computer, the supply of this power is stopped. In addition, the battery packs containing the main batteries 71 A and 71 B are taken out and the operation of the power supply control processor is terminated, thereby stopping the theft protection routine. Consequently, people in the vicinity of the portable computer are warned of unauthorized use of the computer by a third person in order to protect the main body of the portable computer and the software information of the system from theft.

In the first embodiment of the invention, even if the supply of external power is accidentally interrupted by the operation of the sum (Bz) 81 , the warning operation processing can be deleted using a password that has been registered in the designation of the warning operation processing.

In the following the second embodiment of the inven tion is described with reference to the drawing. In the second embodiment, after the operation of an anti-theft protection mechanism has been set, the removal of the plug-in connection of an AC adapter 29 is mechanically detected, as a result of which a buzzer (Bz) 81 is actuated. In Fig. 10, the components of FIGS. 1 and 2 corresponding components with the same reference numerals as previously designated and are therefore not described in detail.

Fig. 10 illustrates the arrangement of a Einsteckver binding state detector circuit of the AC adapter 29th

A power supply output connector 91 is used to output a power supply voltage generated by the AC adapter and has connection electrodes 911 and 912 .

In the main body (or main housing) of the portable computer, a plug socket 92 for the plug 91 is formed. This socket 92 contains connection electrodes 921 , 922 and 923 . The connection electrodes 921 and 923 are connected to a charger 72 of a power supply circuit 70 . Each connection electrode 922 and 923 has a conductive section at its distal end which can be brought into or brought into contact with the connection electrode 912 . Only the conductive sections from the connecting electrodes 922 and 923 can be made conductive, that is, establish a conductive connection. The terminal electrode 922 takes a predetermined voltage across a protective resistor (pull-up resistor) 93 to be pulled up to a predetermined voltage VDD (level "H"). The connection electrode 923 is grounded or grounded.

When the power supply output connector 91 is not plugged into the socket 92, the conductive portion of the terminal electrode 922 is in contact with the terminal electrode 923 . However, since the conductive portion of the terminal electrode 922 is not in contact with the conductive portion of the terminal electrode 923 , the terminal electrode 922 is not electrically connected to the terminal electrode 923 . As a result, the terminal electrode 922 is pulled up or raised to the potential VDD.

On the other hand, when the plug 91 is plugged into the socket 92 , the conductive portions of the connection electrodes 922 and 923 are in contact with the connection electrode 912 . Consequently, the connecting electrodes 911 , 922 and 923 are electrically connected. Since the connection electrode 923 is , as mentioned, grounded, the connection electrode 922 is at earth or ground potential (level "L").

The potential (level "H" / level "L") of the connection electrode 922 is locked as a connection status detection signal by an I / O register (parallel I / O location) 56. In addition, this detection signal is converted into a PC-CPU Unit 51 loaded to be used to check whether AC adapter 29 is connected.

FIG. 11A and 11B illustrate an anti-theft routine according to the second embodiment, for on the basis of a Verbin charge state detection signal taking place Check whether the AC adapter 29 is connected using a device. Similar to the anti-theft routine according to the first embodiment, this routine is stored in a ROM 52 and is executed or executed under the control of the PC-CPU unit 51 .

. In the anti-theft routine shown in FIGS 11A and 11B is checked if the AC adapter is included is instead - if external power is supplied to the anti-theft routine to check - form according to the first execution Figures 9A and 9B..

In the theft protection routine of the first embodiment, it is checked in steps F1 and F21 whether external power is supplied or not, with reference to the external power supply information EP stored in the RAM 55 in accordance with the external power supply information setting routine according to FIG. 7. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, in steps G1 and G21, it is checked whether the level (size) of the mentioned link state detection signal is "H" or "L" to check whether the AC adapter is connected or Not. As mentioned, said detection signal is set to "H" level when the power supply output connector 91 is not plugged into the socket 92 and to "L" level when this plug 91 is plugged.

Specifically, in step G1, the PC-CPU unit 51 loads a connection state detection signal locked by the I / O register (parallel I / O location 56 ). When this detection signal is "H" level, the unit 51 determines that the AC adapter 29 is not connected, and carries out the processing after step G7. When said detection signal is "L" level, the unit 51 determines that the AC adapter 29 is connected and executes the processing after step G3.

When the connection state detection signal is "H" in step G21, the PC-CPU unit 51 determines that the AC adapter 29 is not connected, and executes the processing in step G25. When this detection signal is "L" level, the unit 51 determines that the AC adapter 29 is connected, and executes the processing after step G25.

As described above, by checking in the theft protection routine whether the AC adapter 29 is connected instead of checking whether external power is being supplied, the external power supply information EP can be dispensed with. Since this information EP is not required, the RAM 55 does not store this information EP and the ROM 52 does not save the setting routine for this information EP shown in FIG. 7.

The anti-theft routine is shown in FIGS 11A and 11B are the same as the anti-theft routine in the first embodiment, except for the processing in steps G1 and G21. a more detailed description of this routine can therefore be dispensed with.

If the change in the described second embodiment of the invention, the AC adapter 29 while canceling the male or Einstöpselverbindung power adapter 29, after setting the operating or operating state of the anti-theft mechanism, currency rend external power to the main body of the portable computer is ners fed separately ( is pulled out of the socket), the buzzer (Bz) 81 of the thief steel protection mechanism is operated continuously. Through this operation, persons in the area of the portable computer are warned against unauthorized use of the computer by a third person, as a result of which the main body of the portable computer and the software information of the system are or are protected against theft.

It is assumed that the plug-in connection of the Wech selstrom adapter is released 29 after the Opera tion state of the anti-theft mechanism is set, while the main body of the portable computer ex ternal power is supplied, and that the criteria the Hauptbat 71 A and 71 H-containing battery packs are removed and (thus) the operation of a power supply control processor is ended in order to end the theft protection routine. The buzzer (Bz) 81 can also be actuated in this case. With this operation, persons in the vicinity of the portable computer are warned against unauthorized use of the computer by a third person in order to protect the main body of the portable computer and the software information of the system from theft.

In the second embodiment of the invention, even if the plug-in connection of the AC adapter 29 is accidentally canceled by operating the buzzer 81 after the warning operation processing is designated, the latter processing can be canceled using a password that is registered when designating the warning operation processing has been.

In the first and second embodiments, the anti-theft mechanism is implemented by using the PC-CPU unit 51 of the power supply 40 . However, the thief protection mechanism can also be implemented by a control processor specially designed for theft protection processing or only by hardware.

In the first and second embodiments, by the buzzer generates or emits an alarm. It can however, for example an integrated circuit (IC) for sound or tone generation, d. H. a sound driver be used, or there can be a sound card in the Rech ner main body can be used to give a warning or an alarm using a digitally generated voice give. In this case, the calculator can use a battery use that specifically (exclusively) for the An control of an alarm unit is used.  

The system configuration of a device for which the theft protection processing is carried out; Arrangement of components of the anti-theft mechanism mus u. Like. Are not on those in the above be described embodiments limited. The invention is on systems of different arrangements or Ausge events applicable.

In the second embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the terminal or connection state detection signal which is set to the "H" level when the power supply output connector 91 is plugged into the socket 92 and is set to the "L" level when this connector 91 is not plugged in, through the protective resistor 93 pulled up connection electrode 922 locked by the I / O register (parallel I / O position) 56 , in order to check whether the alternating current -Adapter 29 is connected or not. However, the invention is not limited to this. For example, a three-pin power connector can be used or a detection signal can be used which, when the power supply connector 91 is plugged in, to the "L" level, and when this connector 91 is not plugged in, to the level "H" is set. This means that any mechanism can be used as long as the plug-in or plug-in connection of the AC adapter 29 can be detected.

Claims (20)

1. computer system which can be operated by electricity supplied by an external power supply,
marked by
a power supply unit ( 70 ) which can be charged by the current supplied by the external power supply for generating and outputting different operating voltages,
a warning unit ( 81 ) for triggering a warning of improper or unauthorized use of the computer system,
a starting unit ( 80 ) for starting the warning unit by applying an operating voltage output by the power supply unit to the warning unit,
a command input device ( 54 , WO, WC) for entering an operating permit / delete or cancel command which has been keyed in by an operator for the warning unit and
a control unit ( 51 ) for monitoring the presence / absence of the supply of power from the external power supply and for controlling the starting unit for the operation of the warning unit upon detection of an interruption of the power supply from the external power supply after the command input device receives an operation permission command has entered. 2. System according to claim 1, characterized in that
the power supply unit has a main power supply ( 71 A, 71 B) which is removably inserted into the computer system and a secondary power supply ( 71 S) which is integrated in the computer system and fastened therein,
the control unit works with a voltage from the main body (of the computer system) while the power supply from the external power supply has ended, and
the starting unit continuously actuates the warning unit by applying a voltage from the secondary power supply to the warning unit when the main power supply is or is removed from the computer system while the warning unit is in operation. 3. System according to claim 2, characterized in that the control unit with a through the main stream supply generated voltage works and the start unit for continuous operation or operation ben of the warning unit controls when the main power ver supply temporarily from the computer system removed and then switched on again or later is set while the warning unit is in operation located. 4. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit the starting unit to end an operation of the warning unit controls when by the command input means an operation clear is entered incorrectly while the warning unit is in operation. 5. System according to claim 4, characterized in that the command input means one by the operator  person entering an operating license incorrectly entered password of the password requests when a business wipe is or is entered incorrectly, and the operating enter delete command only if the password is entered given is. 6. System according to claim 5, characterized in that the command input device has a display unit and reproduces a setup menu on the display unit ( 36 ) when an operating permit / delete is incorrectly entered or is. 7. System according to claim 5, characterized in that the command input device has a display unit ( 36 ) and reproduces a popup menu on the display unit when an operating permit / delete is incorrectly entered or is. 8. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the warning unit is a unit for delivering a war using digitally generated (digitized) language having. 9. Computer system, which has a power supply adapter ( 29 ) and by an on the Stromversor supply adapter, if this is plugged into a main body of the computer system, powered by an external power supply, characterized by
a power supply unit ( 70 ), which can be charged by input current from the external power supply, for outputting different operating voltages,
a warning unit ( 81 ) for triggering a warning of improper or unauthorized use of the computer system,
a starting unit ( 80 ) for starting the warning unit by applying an operating voltage output by the power supply unit to the warning unit,
a command input device ( 54 , WO, WC) for entering an operating permit / delete or cancel command that has been keyed in by an operator for the warning unit and
a control unit ( 51 ) for monitoring a plug-in state of the power supply adapter and for controlling the starting unit for actuating the warning unit upon detection of a disconnection of the power supply adapter after the command input device inputs or has entered an operating permission command. 10. System according to claim 9, characterized in that
the power supply unit has a main power supply ( 71 A, 71 B) which is removably inserted into the main body of the computer system and a secondary power supply ( 71 S) which is integrated in the computer system and fastened therein,
the control unit works with a voltage from the main body while the power supply from the external power supply is ended, and
the starting unit continuously actuates the warning unit by applying a voltage from the secondary power supply to the warning unit when the main power supply is or is removed from the computer system while the warning unit is in operation. 11. System according to claim 10, characterized in that the control unit with one through the main power supply generated voltage works and  the starting unit for continuous operation or operating the warning unit controls when the Main power supply temporarily from the computer system main body removed and then or later used again while the Warning unit is in operation. 12. System according to claim 9, characterized in that the control unit the starting unit to end an operation of the warning unit controls when by the command input means an operation clear is entered incorrectly while the warning unit is in operation. 13. System according to claim 12, characterized in that that the command input means a by the Be Operator when entering an operating license commanded password, the input of the password requests when an operation delete command is entered or will be and the operating enter delete command only if the password is entered given is. 14. System according to claim 13, characterized in that the command input device has a display unit ( 36 ) and a setup menu on the display unit reproduces when an operating permit / delete command is or is entered. 15. System according to claim 13, characterized in that the command input device has a display unit ( 36 ) and reproduces a popup menu on the display unit when an operating permit / delete command is or is entered. 16. System according to claim 9, characterized in that the warning unit is a unit for delivering a war using digitally generated (digitized) language having. 17. Theft protection method for a computer with a battery device ( 71 A, 71 B, 71 S) which can be charged by current supplied by an external power supply, with a warning unit ( 80 ) for giving a warning of improper or unauthorized use of the computer and with a device ( 54 , WO, WC) for entering an operating permit / delete or cancel command that has been keyed in by an operator for the warning unit, the computer being operable or feedable by the external power supply through the following steps:

• a) monitoring the presence / absence of the current supplied to the computer by the external power supply ( FIG. 7),
• b) Entering an operating permit command by the operator ( Fig. 6) and
• c) actuating the warning unit by means of a voltage from the battery unit if an interruption in the supply of current from the external power supply is detected after the operator has given the operating permit command ( FIG. 9A).

18. The method according to claim 17, characterized in that step b) includes entering a password set or predetermined by the operator at the same time as entering the operator license command ( FIG. 3) and the method further comprises:

• d) requesting the input of the password when an operation clear command for the warning unit is input by the operator while the warning unit is in operation ( Fig. 4), and
• e) stopping the operation of the warning unit only when a password identical to the password is entered ( FIG. 4, FIG. 9A).

19. Theft protection method for a computer with a power supply adapter ( 29 ) which can be plugged or plugged into the computer, with a battery device ( 71 A, 71 B, 71 C) that can be charged by the power supplied by the power supply adapter, with a warning unit ( 80 ) to give a warning of improper or unauthorized use of the computer and with a unit for inputting a user-keyed operating permit / delete or cancel command for the warning unit, the computer being able to work with a voltage applied via the power supply adapter , characterized by the following steps:

• a) monitoring a plug-in or plug-in state of the power supply adapter in the computer (step G1),
• b) Entering an operating permit command by the operator ( Fig. 6) and
• c) Actuation of the warning unit by means of a voltage from the battery unit if, after the operator gives or picks up the operating permit command, a removal of the plug-in connection of the power supply adapter is ascertained ( FIG. 11A).

20. The method according to claim 19, characterized in that step b) includes entering a password set or predetermined by the operator simultaneously with the entry of the operating permission command ( Fig. 3) and the method further comprises:

• d) requesting the input of the password when an operation clear command for the warning unit is input by the operator while the warning unit is in operation ( Fig. 4), and
• e) stopping the operation of the warning unit only when a password identical to the password is entered ( FIG. 4, FIG. 9A).