Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1993-1994
Title: Innovations by Peter C. Norwood
Introduction
Peter C. Norwood is a notable inventor based in Austin, TX, recognized for his contributions to fault-tolerant computer systems. With a total of 2 patents, he has made significant advancements in ensuring the reliability and efficiency of computer systems during power failures.
Latest Patents
One of his latest patents is a "Fault-tolerant computer system with auto-restart after power-fall." This innovative system employs a power supply that includes a battery backup, allowing for an orderly shutdown during AC power failures. Upon restoration of power, the system can execute a restart procedure that restores the previous state, ensuring minimal disruption. The design features multiple identical CPUs and memory modules that work together to detect faults and maintain operation even when one unit fails.
Another significant patent is the "Fault-tolerant computer with three independently clocked processors." This system utilizes three identical CPUs executing the same instruction stream, with self-checking memory modules that store duplicate data. The architecture allows for synchronized operations among the CPUs, ensuring that memory references and interrupts are handled efficiently. This design enhances the reliability of the system, making it resilient to individual component failures.
Career Highlights
Peter C. Norwood has made substantial contributions to the field of computer engineering through his work at Tandem Computers Incorporated. His innovative designs have paved the way for more reliable computing systems, which are crucial in various applications where uptime is essential.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, Norwood has collaborated with talented individuals such as Douglas E. Jewett and Nikhil A. Mehta. These collaborations have fostered an environment of innovation and creativity, leading to the development of advanced technologies in fault-tolerant computing.
Conclusion
Peter C. Norwood's work in fault-tolerant computer systems has significantly impacted the field of computer engineering. His patents reflect a commitment to enhancing system reliability and efficiency, making him a key figure in the industry.