David R Rhoades

US Patent:

59960744, Nov 30, 1999

Filed:

Nov 15, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/971242

Inventors:

Keith Coleman Houck - Rye NY
David B. Rhoades - Apex NC
John Joseph Edward Turek - Nyack NY

Assignee:

IBM International Business Machines Corporation - Armonk NY

International Classification:

G06F 9445

US Classification:

713 2

Abstract:

Apparatus for configuring a computer system is adapted to allow configuration to occur on the system unit without removing the system unit from its packaging. By so preparing and operating the unit that it can function to a degree as a network client, it is possible to perform steps for configuring "in the package" that violate normal self test expectations. With this abnormal operating environment and operation the system is placed in condition to be removed from the packaging at the user's location with BIOS and program image customized for the user. This approach provides a freshly configured system and yet eliminates unpacking at a configuration center and then repacking for transfer to the user or the need for refresh configuration at the user site as the system unit is set up for normal use.

US Patent:

59270500, Jul 27, 1999

Filed:

Nov 15, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/972462

Inventors:

Keith Coleman Houck - Rye NY
Howard J. Locker - Cary NC
David B. Rhoades - Apex NC
John Joseph Edward Turek - South Nyack NY

Assignee:

International Business Machines Corporation - Armonk NY

International Classification:

B65B 6900

US Classification:

53428

Abstract:

A method and apparatus for configuring a computer system is adapted to allow configuration to occur on the system unit without removing the system unit from its packaging. By so preparing and operating the unit that it can function to a degree as a network client, it is possible to perform steps for configuring "in the package" that violate normal self test expectations. With this abnormal operating environment and operation the system is placed in condition to be removed from the packaging at the user's location with BIOS and program image customized for the user. This approach provides a freshly configured system and yet eliminates unpacking at a configuration center and then repacking for transfer to the user or the need for refresh configuration at the user site as the system unit is set up for normal use.