Abstract: A networked heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC) system is provided. The networked HVAC system includes HVAC equipment deployed in a building and an element of HVAC equipment, which is communicatively coupled with the HVAC equipment to collect types of diagnostic information relating to the HVAC equipment. The element of HVAC equipment is normally operable in a normal mode and is selectively operable in a service mode. The normal mode is characterized in that diagnostic information is collected by the element of HVAC equipment at a first rate. The service mode is characterized in that diagnostic information is collected by the element of HVAC equipment at a second rate, which is greater than the first rate.

Abstract: A technique for providing management of a motor vehicle information system includes a number of steps. Initially, a wake-up message is received from a portable transmitter. In general, the wake-up message, unique to the portable transmitter, is provided responsive to user activation of a button that is electrically coupled to the portable transmitter. Next, it is determined whether power capability of the motor vehicle is adequate responsive to receipt of the wake-up message. When the motor vehicle power capability is adequate, power is provided to a wireless interface, a vehicle information system and a mass storage device, all of which are located within the motor vehicle. Information is then received via the wireless interface and stored in the mass storage device, when the power capability of the motor vehicle is adequate.

Abstract: A vehicle disable system including an onboard computer linked to a throttle control relay. The onboard computer is capable of communicating to a remote control center by way of telecommunications link. If certain security protocols are breached, the control center communicates a shutdown command to the vehicle by way of the telecommunications link and the vehicle initiates a shutdown procedure for incapacitating the vehicle throttle controls.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for degrading and disabling a vehicle's engine throttle. The vehicle disable system includes a throttle position sensor that generates a throttle position signal, an electronic control module (“ECM”) input connected to the ECM on which the throttle position sensor provides the throttle position signal to the ECM, and an override input that enables an idling signal to be transmitted to the ECM instead of the throttle position signal. The method of the present invention includes the steps of receiving an input signal related to the state of the driver input mechanism, interpreting the input signal, and at least one of degrading and disabling the throttle based on the interpretation of the input signal.

Abstract: Methods and systems for managing test resources are provided. In one embodiment, the methods and systems can be used by a field engineer located at a remote test site to request a test from a central test lab. The test requester can access a test management web site and display a web page for collecting test background information and parameters. This background information and parameters can be transmitted via a communications link to a test coordinator at the central test lab. The test coordinator can then determine the necessary test resources and prepare a cost estimate for the requested test. The test may require various resources, such as test instrumentation, data recording devices, and test personnel support. The test cost estimate and other pertinent information can then be sent back to the test requester for review and acceptance. If accepted, the test requester can then submit an order for the test.