Abstract: A computer system and method where a user is authenticated to both an authentication server and to a client machine, but no link between the client machine and authentication server is needed. Login information is provided from the client machine to the technician machine in an encrypted format using a public key so that the technician machine cannot access the login information. The technician machine communicates the encrypted login information to an authentication server, which decrypts the login information using a private key and provides the decrypted login information to the technician machine if the technician machine can authenticate itself to the authentication server. The invention is particularly useful in enabling field service technicians to access client computer systems from remote locations such as field offices, hotel rooms, airports and the like.

Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are provided for authorized remote access to a target system. The apparatus, system, and method include a security module and an authorization module that cooperate to authenticate a remote user using three passwords. The apparatus, system, and method selectively generate an encrypted key in response to a first password. The authorization module decrypts the encrypted key and determines a third password in response to authenticating a second password and identifying a remote user within an authorized user list. The third password is then used to gain secure, traceable, and in certain embodiments, restricted remote access to a target system.

Abstract: An apparatus for selectively activating a component on a computing device includes an authorization server that authorizes activation of a component on a computing device in response to an activation request, a component management module that activates the component in response to receiving authorization from the authorization server, and a tracking system that receives transaction data corresponding to the component in response to activating the component. The apparatus may also include a billing system that charges a customer account in response to activation of the component. In certain embodiments, the component management module includes a detection module that requests component activation in response to detecting an increased computing load on the computing device. The detection module may also request component deactivation in response to detecting a decreased computing load on the computing device.

Abstract: A transmitter comprises an oscillator, a phase lock loop, a serializer, and an electrical-to-optical converter. The oscillator is enclosed in a metal shield. The metal shield is soldered to a ground ring of the printed circuit board. In one embodiment, the oscillator is voltage-controlled oscillator.

Abstract: An automated liquid handler includes a probe assembly with a probe foot that can be moved down against the top of sample containers of a variety of sizes and shapes defined by racks, tubes or plates. A seal at the bottom of the foot provides a seal between the foot and the containers making it possible to prepare a SPE sample by using positive, probe introduced pressure within the containers to force liquid samples out through media at the bottom of the container. The foot seal is self sealing without the need for adhesives or other potential contaminates, and is removeably mounted to the probe foot.