Abstract: A remote communication mechanism is provided for creating a secured channel for direct interaction with kernel-level components, such as device drivers, of designated systems. By connecting directly to managed kernel-level devices, as opposed to connecting to user space software which then connects to these devices, management of those resources is simplified, better secured, and partitioned from general system administration utilities and configuration.

Abstract: A distributed computer system service monitor provides information to a user regarding the status of services available on the computer system. The computer system includes plural host computers which act as servers and clients in connection with the services. The computer system is logically segregated into functional entities and sub-entities which define service regions and system layers. At least one host computer serves as the service monitor and includes a discovery function for passing a set of queries to other host computers and for using the responses (i) to identify functional entities and sub-entities served by each host computer and (ii) to determine whether each host computer acts as a server or a client or both and (iii) to determine the service or services performed or consumed by each host computer. The service monitor constructs a database which stores service information for each functional entity.

Abstract: A filter-bed assembly comprises two adjacent beds each including adsorbent materials held between perforate sheets. The perforate sheets form the sides of the beds and have upstanding pleats therein to add rigidity thereto and to serve as spacers between the beds. Some of the pleats extend into the adsorbent material, and others of the pleats extend away from the adsorbent material toward the adjacent bed.