Authorization key system for selectively controlling the performance of a data processing system
US6978374B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 29, 2000 |
| Grant date | Dec 20, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 13, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F11/3442
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The present invention provides methods and apparatus for authorizing a temporary or permanent increase in the performance of a data processing system while providing little or no down time. This is accomplished by including extra or additional computer resources in the data processing system when, for example, it is provided to the customer. However, only those resources required to achieve the performance level purchased by the customer are enabled for use during normal operation. To temporarily or permanently increase the performance level of the data processing system, the customer purchases an authorization key. When the customer desires increased performance, the authorization key is registered on the data processing system, which enables the use of additional hardware resources. The authorization key may be used akin to an insurance policy that allows selective increases in performance level to accommodate unplanned increases in performance requirements.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.