Patent ID: 6418533
Filing Date: 2002-07-09
Classification: G06F,G08B

Abstract:
A portable computer, which optionally requires entry of a valid Power On Password during system initialization and said computer is currently not requiring the entry thereof, comprising:a microprocessor; Power On Self Test (POST) code that is executed by said microprocessor during system initialization, said POST code can require a user to enter a Power On Password (POP) to enable system operation, and if the POST code requires a POP and a valid POP is not entered the computer will not complete system initialization and will be non-operational; an input/output device operatively coupled to said microprocessor; and a battery-backed wireless RF receiver operatively coupled to said microprocessor; wherein said computer implements a security mode which can be remotely activated either by transmitting a security command to said wireless RF receiver whether the computer is on or off or by the receiver failing to receive a periodic status signal; and wherein said security mode includes, if the computer is off when the security mode is activated, forcing a user to enter a valid POP the next time the computer is turned on.