Abstract: A computer using a passive backplane internal architecture is provided. In particular, a CPU board is provided that has a plurality of I/O interfaces (e.g., IDE, EIDE, SCSI, wide SCSI, etc.) so as to reduce the need to upgrade the system over time. However, once repair or upgrade is needed, the plug-in board configuration of the computer greatly facilitates such activity, which reduces the need for specialized (and expensive) technicians to maintain the computer. The power supply of the computer is preferably provided on an additional board within the computer. This improves the airflow of cooling air in the computer, thereby enhancing system reliability.

Abstract: A financial information and transaction system comprising a host financial computer system, which host system maintains records of user account information; at least one terminal providing a user interface for accessing the host financial computer system, the at least one terminal including a means for transmitting and receiving data corresponding to the user account information, and a smart card interface device; wherein access to the records of user account information are organized in a hierarchy of three or more levels, which hierarchy comprises an initial level, a final level, and one or more intervening levels; wherein the records of user account information are accessed by passing through the hierarchy of three or more levels; and wherein means are provided for allowing access to the final level in the hierarchy by an automated task without passing through the one or more intervening levels is described.

Abstract: A security enclosure with an electronic lock, a concealed hinge door and lock wheel which operates a lock internal to the security enclosure. The electronic lock operates by a key pad into which a required security code may be entered. When the correct code is entered, a solenoid within the enclosure retracts moving a pin which allows the lock wheel to rotate. When the lock wheel is rotated, strike bolts extending into the top and bottom of the enclosure and left and right strike bars extending to the sides of the enclosure are retracted enabling the door to be pulled open. The door construction is such that there are no external hinges which may be drilled out, and the door itself is recessed so that it cannot be pried open. Attempts to turn the lock wheel when the solenoid is engaged have no effect because the wheel cannot be turned without breaking.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method for transferring funds. The invention supports funds transfers from a source account to a cash access file which can be accessed virtually twenty-four hours a day by both customers and non-customers. Access is achieved by the recipient entering a codeword selected by the sender, along with a transaction code randomly generated by the system. Once the sender provides the codeword and the transaction code to the recipient, the recipient can receive transferred cash through an ATM, even without using a card to access the system. Cash may be transferred across international borders and dispensed in a currency different than that of the sender's source account. Although cash is made available to a recipient virtually as soon as the requested transfer is approved and confirmed by the sender, the sender's account is not debited until the cash is actually received by the recipient. Other features, including security, cancellation, and status inquiries are also described.

Abstract: A delivery system and method allow a financial institution to provide financial services to a plurality of remote devices, such as personal computers, personal data assistants, and screen phones. In addition to providing services to these remote devices, the system and method provide services to automatic teller machines (ATMs), external service providers, and internally within the financial institution to staff terminals and to the individual branches of the financial institution. The delivery of financial services is not limited to any particular network but rather may be provided through dial-in access, Internet access, on-line service provider access, or other types of delivery networks. The system is comprised of a set of reusable global components which are modular and are organized into services sets.

Abstract: A method and apparatus to provide easy installation and removal of peripheral devices in a computer is disclosed. A bracket for engaging a peripheral device is installed in a manner that a bottom portion couples to a computer housing; a side portion extends at an acute angle; and an engaging flange is positioned at the end of the side portion.

Abstract: An apparatus for protecting the confidentiality and security of sensitive data which has been encrypted as it is being processed in data communications systems. The apparatus uses a metallic plate which covers the encryption circuitry and a memory in which the encryption key is stored and includes circuitry which erases the stored encryption key when an attempt is made to remove the protective cover. The metallic plate is formed into top and bottom cover plates for the top side and bottom side respectively of a printed circuit board which are secured together with a screw. An integrated circuit, which is located within the top and bottom cover plates stores the encryption key, an erase circuit and a switch which changes position when the screw is rotated causing a signal to be generated by the erase circuit which erases the encryption key stored in the integrated circuit.

Abstract: An enclosure or chassis for a high-performance personal computer which is portable, provides easy access to its internal components for servicing, and provides mechanisms which allow peripheral devices such as hard disks, floppy disks and CD-ROM drives to be quickly and easily installed and removed. The chassis provides an efficient cooling mechanism so that a heat sink required for a high-performance processor can be smaller than would be the case without such efficient cooling mechanism. The chassis opens up into a top portion and a bottom portion. The top portion houses the peripheral devices, and the bottom portion houses the motherboard, power supply and cooling fans. A tamper switch is provided which monitors the state of the chassis (open or closed) and reports over a network whenever the chassis is opened. However, the computer can still be operated when the chassis is opened for inspection, service and repair.