Abstract: A multi-state indicator includes a section connecting a first trace to a second trace adapted to facilitate application of force to said section to disconnect said section from said first and/or second trace(s) and to disconnect said first trace from said second trace. In addition, the multi-state indicator includes circuitry to indicate a state based on whether said first trace connects to said second trace.

Abstract: A method and system for protecting against unauthorized modification of a product to enhance its performance or function are disclosed. Low end products that are part of an electronic product family can be safeguarded against unauthorized enhancement of the product by hardware, software, and firmware bypasses. The operating software of the products can detect the unauthorized modification of the product or input/output device connecting to the product by reading the unique product group ID code and determining the validity of the code. Other background measures including hardware and firmware safeguards can be used to hinder or prevent the unauthorized modification. Other product specific information data can also be used to verify that the product group ID code has not been modified in an attempt to bypass the software safeguard.