Patent ID: 6128741
Filing Date: 2000-10-03
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
An apparatus for preventing unauthorized use of software executable on a computer having an I/O port, comprising:a circuit board assembly having a plurality of apertures therethrough, the apertures operatively coupled to a processor for performing software security routines;a plurality of pins disposed through the apertures to provide electrical communication between the computer I/O port and the processor, each pin having a first pin portion adapted for operative coupling with the I/O port, and a second pin portion adapted for operative coupling with a peripheral device;an interrupt pin, having an interrupt pin first portion adapted for operative coupling with the I/O port in a first axis, and an interrupt pin second portion electrically isolated from the interrupt pin first portion and adapted for operative coupling with the peripheral device in the first axis; andwherein the second interrupt pin portion is communicatively coupled to the male portion via the processor in accordance with the software security routines.