Patents by Inventor Stephen W. Flaherty

Stephen W. Flaherty has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Method and system for selectively altering data processing system functional characteristics without mechanical manipulation
    Patent number: 5553144
    Abstract: A method and system are disclosed for selectively altering the functional characteristics of a data processing system without physical or mechanical manipulation. A data processing system is first manufactured having a predetermined set of functional characteristics. A multibit alterable code which includes a functional characteristic definition is then initially loaded into physically secure, nonvolatile memory within the data processing system, utilizing an existing bus, or a fusible link which may be opened after loading is complete. The functional characteristic definition is loaded from nonvolatile memory into a nonscannable register within a secure portion of a control logic circuit each time power is applied to the data processing system and the definition is then utilized to enable only selected functional characteristics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1996
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Frank A. Almquist, David F. Anderson, John E. Campbell, Michael J. Chan, Stephen W. Flaherty, Steven F. Hajek, John F. Larsen, Charles H. Milligan, Cyril A. Price, Andrew M. Simon, William F. Washburn, George A. Williams, II, Roy A. Wood