Apparatus is disclosed which automatically times non-play time for coin operated amusement devices and provides a predetermined period when the device may be actuated to provide a free play.

An apparatus for combination with a standard range having burners thereon and a power line connected thereto is provided and senses the current through the power line for a pre-set level, times the current once the pre-set level is reached, interrupts the current, signals when interruption of the current has occurred and includes controls for controlling the timing and the signalling in the apparatus.

An apparatus for controlling electrical power in a data processing system having one or more central processor units and a plurality of peripheral units, including circuitry for selectively connecting a voltage signal to each peripheral unit to cause power to be supplied thereto, and metering means for measuring the amount of time the voltage signal is provided to each separate peripheral whereby the supply of power to any one of the peripheral units may be centrally controlled and monitored. Also included is a circuit for sequentially connecting the voltage signal to the peripheral units.

A program timer for use with commercial or consumer appliances provides a single user knob interface that allows the desired selection of a programmed cycle and a push-to-start function. To preclude inadvertent program operation and enhance the life of the program timer, a snap-action switch is utilized to provide the push-to-start functionality. As such, actuation of the start switch provides a positional hysteresis that prevents teasing of the switch. The rapid snap-action opening and closing of the switch contacts precludes or minimizes the arc sustained between the contacts so as to greatly increase the life of the start switch. In one embodiment an actuation wheel larger in diameter than the program cam stack of the timer is utilized to pivot a lever to actuate the snap-action switch.