Energy efficient variable-function or multi-function apparatus and methods

Abstract

A variable function assembly having a power source, a computer coupled to the power source and including a power switch for allowing operative power to be provided to the computer when in an “on” position and for terminating operative power to the computer when in an “off” position, and a variable function device (e.g. a device having a microprocessor) having a generally fixed circuitry and receiving operative power from the computer when the power switch is in the “off” position. The variable function assembly also has at least one module coupled to the generally fixed circuitry so that the variable function device may provide at least one function. A method of providing a function in a variable-function device. The method comprises providing a variable-function device, transmitting operative power from a function-producing device (e.g. a computer) to the variable-function device when the function-producing device is in an “off” mode, removing a function (e.g. a computer function) from the function-producing device, and providing the removed function in the variable-function device.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.