Abstract: Blade-based systems and methods are provided that support a plurality of application-specific functions associated with data processing, communication and/or storage. Exemplary embodiments include a chassis for receipt of a plurality of blades. The blades are programmed/loaded with application-specific software, e.g., wireless communication software, that facilitates data-related operations. The chassis may also contain cooling vents, power supply modules and/or circuitry, and a backplane for requisite communications. Additional structural features and components may include mounting brackets, cooling/exhaust fans and detachable front/rear faces to facilitate mounting and/or service of associated components.

Abstract: A network topology generator identifies addresses and locations of multiple stations connected to a single access port of a communications network by determining a pair of identifiable network units between which the multiple stations are connected, sequentially deactivating access ports between the pairs of identifiable network units and issuing selected message frames to the stations whose location is unknown. The message frames returning from said stations are monitored to detect the state of the Address Recognized (AR) bit. If the bit is set, this indicates that the station is still on the network. Therefore, the deactivate/polling routine is repeated until the AR bit in a returned message is in an "off" state, indicating that the station is not on the network and is connected to the last deactivated port.