Operating system-independent computing system user feedback mechanism

Abstract

A computing system employs a user feedback mechanism to monitor operating conditions of the computing system and to alert a user to the operating conditions independently of an operating system of the computing system. The user feedback mechanism includes a display panel to display operating condition messages to the user and includes a controller to monitor operating condition signals. Some examples of operating conditions include a connection state of the computing system to the Internet, a connection state of a peripheral device to the computing system, a new e-mail notification message, a new Internet message and atomic time from a network server coupled to the computing system. The user feedback mechanism may include a safety button to signal a power supply to power off the computing system independently of the operating system.

Description

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09 / 478,153, entitled "DIGITAL FEEDBACK DISPLAY PANEL AND SUPPORTING SOFTWARE FOR A COMPUTER USER," filed Jan. 5, 2000, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes.[0002] 1. Field of the Invention[0003] The present invention generally relates to operating condition user feedback for computing systems, and more particularly to an operating system-independent user feedback mechanism of a computing system.[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art[0005] User feedback with respect to operating conditions or states of a computer system has typically been provided by a monitor, audio alerts, light emitting diodes (LEDs) or directly by an operating system of the computer system. Each of these forms of user feedback in effect depends upon operating system control. Where an operating condition relates to an error with the operating system itself, the operating system cannot detec...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Where an operating condition relates to an error with the operating system itself, the operating system cannot detect such an error.

A lock-up of the operating system is therefore particularly difficult for a user to detect.

One drawback of relying upon the operating system and the monitor to provide user feedback is that neither the operating system nor the monitor are available at all times. A computer system is typically configured to enter a low power or sleep mode after a certain period of idle time where neither the monitor nor the operating system are available.

Because of the unavailability of the monitor and the operating system in a low power mode, certain operating conditions are not communicated to a user.

For example, a user cannot determine when a new e-mail is available during a low power mode.

Many computer users tend to be frustrated with user feedback in the form of audio alerts and LEDs.

Audio alerts are perceived by users as annoying.

Many users therefore lower the volume of their computer systems, defeating the purpose of the audio alerts.

LEDs (including the hard disk drive LED of a computer system) are perceived by users as confusing, particularly where flashing patterns of the LEDs signify different operating conditions of the computer system.

Even when users somewhat understand an operating condition conveyed by the monitor, audio alerts or LEDs, most users are fearful of touching and inadvertently "crashing" or depowering their computer systems, thereby risking a loss of data.

Users also have difficulty detecting when a computer system is in fact connected to the Internet.

In the case of a user who frequently moves his or her desktop computer, such a user may be forced to check one or more cable connections if the computer does not power-up after the computer is relocated.

Users thus are typically not well informed of the operating conditions or events of computer systems, if at all, and must resort to contacting the computer manufacturer, contacting the Internet service provider, examining the user's manual or examining the computer itself when a perceived problem develops.

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