Patent ID: 7421413
Filing Date: 2008-09-02
Classification: G06Q

Abstract:
1. A computer system adapted for self contained metering of usage comprising: a memory for storing data and program code; and a processor coupled to the memory wherein the processor executes a metering program without reliance on a network connection for sensing an activity level of the computer system, said metering program executing the steps comprising: measuring the activity level of the computer system for at least one point in time; comparing the activity level at each point in time to a predetermined activity threshold; storing for at least one point in time an indication of whether the activity level of the computer system is above or below the predetermined activity threshold at that point in time; measuring the activity level of the computer system at a particular later point in time; comparing the activity level at the particular later point in time to the predetermined activity threshold; if the activity level at the particular later point in time is above the predetermined activity threshold, subtracting value from a local value balance stored on the computer system at a first rate; and if the activity level at the particular later point in time is below the predetermined activity threshold, performing the following steps: