Service processor and system and method using a service processor
US7039918B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 24, 2001 |
| Grant date | May 2, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 27, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F11/2736
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A service processor is provided for a computer system that includes a host processor and the service processor. The service processor includes a management interface including a first port forming an external user interface and a second port forming an internal console interface. The service processor is operable to provide system management functions within the computer system. It is also operable to respond to external mode switching commands received via the user interface to operate one of two modes. The first mode is a management mode in which commands received via the user interface are processed by the service processor. The second mode is a console mode in which commands received via the user interface are passed by the service processor to the console interface for processing by the host processor. The service processor can be implemented by a dual-ported microcontroller. Remotely controlled management functions and console functions can thus be supported via a single external interface port by effecting mode switching internal to the service processor.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.