Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing security based on a device identifier prior to booting an operating system on the computing device. Upon power on of a computing device, pre-execution services (PES) are loaded. The PES includes services for retrieving a device identifier from a network interface device and sending the device identifier to a validation server that validates the device identifier based on a database of valid device identifiers. The validation server may perform a lookup of the device identifier in the database and, if the device identifier is present in the database, retrieve rules associated with that device identifier to determine if the device identifier is still valid under current conditions. The rules are applied to data representing current conditions to determine if all requirements for allowing access to the computing system are satisfied. Based on the application of the rules for the device identifier, a determination is made as to whether the device identifier is valid or not.

Abstract: A room partition system for a room having a central connecting panel and hingeably attached, foldable lateral storage units. Each of the lateral storage units has a bottom-mounted wheel assembly, thereby allowing the partition system to be rolled to various locations within the room. The lateral storage units have a plurality of shelves and provide substantial storage volume for containment of various items of clothing and other accessories. The lateral storage units are attached by hinges to the central connecting panel, thereby allowing a user to fold the storage units partially or fully against the connecting panel. The partition system has an open position, wherein the storage units extend parallel to the connecting panel, and also a folded position, wherein each lateral storage unit is rotated upon its hinges to a position perpendicular to that of the connecting panel, thereby forming a partially enclosed area for use as an entertainment center, a study center, or a work center.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing security based on a device identifier prior to booting an operating system on the computing device. Upon power on of a computing device, pre-execution services (PES) are loaded. The PES includes services for retrieving a device identifier from a network interface device and sending the device identifier to a validation server that validates the device identifier based on a database of valid device identifiers. The validation server may perform a lookup of the device identifier in the database and, if the device identifier is present in the database, retrieve rules associated with that device identifier to determine if the device identifier is still valid under current conditions. The rules are applied to data representing current conditions to determine if all requirements for allowing access to the computing system are satisfied. Based on the application of the rules for the device identifier, a determination is made as to whether the device identifier is valid or not.

Abstract: A data processing system and method are described for booting a computer system from a virtual floppy diskette. A native operating system is executed by the computer system which utilizes a native file system. A boot able floppy diskette image is stored on the hard drive. The image includes a second operating system which utilizes a second file system. A master boot record stored on the hard drive is modified to include a boot bit. The boot bit is set in response to a storage of the image. The computer system is then booted from the image in response to the boot bit being set. The native operating system and the native file system are unchanged during the booting of the computer system from the image.

Abstract: A composition obtained by mixing together an aqueous solution or suspension of an ammonium or alkali metal borate and an organic polyisocyanate, and allowing the mixture to set.

Abstract: Cement compositions setting readily at temperatures below 0.degree. C are disclosed which are prepared by mixing together and allowing to cure a hydraulic cement, an inert filler, an organic polyisocyanate, water and coal tar. The organic polyisocyanate is used in an amount to provide an excess of isocyanate groups over the isocyanate-reactive groups contained in the coal tar itself; the weight of organic polyisocyanate and coal tar, taken together, is at least equal to the weight of the water used. Such compositions, improved by the addition of coal tar, exhibit advantages over conventional cement mixes and known urethane, epoxy and polyester resin-containing concretes.