Abstract: A client on a network is provided with low power logic, at the network adaptor, that is always active and simulates network packet traffic (e.g. Ethernet packets) normally sent under control of the main client system processor(s). This logic collects client status information regarding power state and reports to the network manager such information which allows the network manager to exercise broader control and perform maintenance and upgrades which would usually require a dialog with the user and consequently limit off-hours reconfiguring of the client.

Abstract: A method of asset control and workstation computer deployment that utilizes a dual port electronic memory identification RFID tag to hold serial number and hardware and software configuration profiles as well as user information. The RFID tag is mapped into the workstation computer memory space and can also be read and written by radio frequency signalling through a wired plug and access flap in a shipping carton. Serial numbers and MAC address is stored on the tag by the manufacturer. User information, workstation profile and software image information is stored onto the tag while the computer is being received for forwarding to the final workstation destination without the need to unpack and power up the computer. The information stored on the tag is used to allow automated system configuration and software downloading to the computer.

Abstract: A method of monitoring a computer system, by detecting a power interruption to the computer system, using power down sense logic, and generating an alert associated with the power interruption. When the computer system is networked, the alert is transmitted to a remote server. The power down sense logic sends a message to an auxiliary processor (which may be an application-specific integrated circuit, or ASIC), and the auxiliary processor creates a network transmission packet indicating that the computer system is losing power. The auxiliary processor may allow selection of a transmission mode such as uni-cast transmission, multi-cast transmission, or broadcast transmission.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a method, system and computer readable medium (the present invention) for tracking memory modules in a computer system. The present invention includes identifying each of the memory modules based upon identification information added to each of the memory modules by their manufacturer to provide a unique serial number by each of the memory modules; and providing the unique serial number to a display via a browser. The identification information comprises electronically readable information which is preferably stored in an electronically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM) and from which the unique serial numbers are generated for identifying the memory modules. One aspect of the present invention further includes comparing the unique serial numbers with corresponding last known serial numbers, wherein a mismatch in the serial numbers indicates that the corresponding memory modules have been replaced.

Abstract: A client on a network is provided with auxiliary low power logic, at the network adapter, that is always active and simulates network traffic (e.g. Ethernet format) normally sent under control of the main client system processor(s). This logic receives commands from the network manager, even when the system CPU is powered down or the system is not operational; information which allows the network manager to exercise broader control and perform maintenance and upgrades which would otherwise require service call for maintenance and reconfiguration of the client system. The auxiliary logic also can receive and interpret commands from the network that conform to a predefined format.

Abstract: Described is a computer system which is operable to allow configuration to occur on the system unit without removing the system unit from its packaging. The computer system is coupled to a remote computer via a data communication link. The system is operative to detect whether it is in a configuration mode when a power source and a network connection are made through the packaging. If the configuration mode is detected by the system, the system powers on and places itself in the configuration mode to allow (1) the remote computer to transfer signals to the system via the communication link to set up data transfers to the memory of the system, and (2) the remote computer to transfer data to the memory of the system for storage therein, whereby the system is configured at least in part in its packaging.

Abstract: A method and system for manufacturing theft-deterrent computer components is disclosed. Initially, computer components are grouped in a single batch. Each of the computer components are then provided with multiple indelible indicia during manufacturing. All of the indelible indicia on each component have a common value that is different than that assigned to any other computer component.

Abstract: A tag for use in identifying and communicating with an electronic device such as a computer is disclosed. The tag is self powered from an RF interrogation signal when the electronic device is not operating. The tag is provided with DC power from the electronic device when it is communicating with the electronic device to which it is attached as a portion of memory of the electronic device.

Abstract: Described is a computer system which is coupled to a remote computer via a network cable. The computer system has a normally closed enclosure and is capable of securing data retained within the system against unauthorized access. The computer system includes an erasable memory element mounted within the enclosure for selective activation to active and inactive states and for receiving and storing a security password when in the active state. A manually operable option switch is mounted within the enclosure. The option switch is operatively connected with the erasable memory element and manually settable by a user of the computer system for setting the erasable memory element to the active and inactive states.

Abstract: Described is a system which includes at least one computer system connected to a main computer system via a data transmission network. The at least one computer system has a network connector for communicating data with the main computer. The network connector is supplied with auxiliary power and is operative to communicate with the main computer regardless of whether the at least one computer system is in a normal operating state. The main computer includes a program for detecting when the at least one computer system has been disconnected from the data transmission network. The program sends a first packet to the at least one computer system via the network. The at least one computer system is operative to receive the first packet and respond by sending a second packet to the main computer. The second packet includes data which specifically identifies the at least one computer system.

Abstract: A data processing system and method are described for permitting a server computer system to generate a detailed repair request utilized to a remote client computer system. The server and client computer systems are coupled together utilizing a local area network. In response to an error in operation of the client caused by a malfunctioning part included within the client, the client identifies the malfunctioning part. The client automatically transmits a notification of the error and an identification of the part to the server without requiring a user's presence at the client. The server generates a detailed repair request which includes the identification of the part. The repair request is detailed including an identity of the malfunctioning part to be repaired and is generated remotely by the server without a user's presence at the client being required.