Abstract:
Disclosed is an end-to-end wireless solution for accessing, monitoring, and controlling remote devices, such as critical server systems, utilizing a mesh topology scheme via a short range, high throughput wireless connection. The present invention provides superior propagation in a multi-path environment as well as a low-power, non-intrusive solution to remotely access and control of a variety of devices. Further, the present invention enables portable management of the remote devices connected within the system.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
       [0001]     The present invention relates generally to the field of wireless remote device management. In particular, the present invention relates to a solution for accessing remote devices, such as critical server systems, utilizing a mesh topology scheme via a high throughput wireless connection. Further, the present invention provides; superior propagation in a multi-path environment as well as a low-power, non-intrusive solution to remotely access and control of a variety of devices.  
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       [0002]     In a typical computer environment, a Local Area Network (“LAN”) allows for one or more servers to be connected to several computers such that the resources of each server are available to each of the connected computers. The LAN is typically comprised of networking equipment such as routers, hubs, switches, etc. In this networked environment, a dedicated keyboard, video monitor and mouse may be employed for each computer and server.  
         [0003]     Maintaining proper operation of the LAN requires the system administrator to monitor and maintain the individual networking equipment, servers, and computers. This maintenance frequently requires the system administrator to perform numerous tasks from a user console connected to the networking equipment, server, or computer. For example, to reboot a computer or server or to add or delete files, the system administrator is often required to operate the computer or server from its local user console, which may be located at a substantial distance from the system administrator&#39;s computer and from other computers or servers connected to the LAN. Therefore, to accomplish the task of system administration, the system administrator must often physically relocate to access the local user consoles of remotely located computers and servers.  
         [0004]     As an alternative, dedicated cables may be installed from each remotely located computer and server to the system administrator&#39;s user console to allow the system administrator to fully access and operate the remote computer equipment. However, this alternative requires substantial wiring and wire harnessing, both of which may require tremendous cost. Additionally, as the distance between the system administrator&#39;s user console and the remote computer equipment increases, a decrease in the quality of the transmitted signal often results. Thus, dedicated cables between the system administrator&#39;s user console and remote computer equipment may not be a feasible alternative.  
         [0005]     In some situations, it is desirable to manage the networking equipment, servers, and computers remotely located from the system administrator. For example, a software program such as pcAnywhere may be utilized to access a remote computer over the Internet or a LAN utilizing the keyboard, video monitor, and cursor control device (e.g., a mouse) attached to a local user workstation. Remote computer access programs, such as pcAnywhere, typically require that host software is installed on the remote computer and client software is installed on the local user workstation. To access a remote computer, a user at the user workstation selects the desired remote computer from a list and enters the appropriate username and password. Once access has been granted to the remote computer, the user utilizes the keyboard, video monitor, and cursor control device attached to the local user workstation to access and operate the remote computer.  
         [0006]     Hardware solutions also exist for operating a remote computer from a user workstation over a LAN or through a dedicated network. In contrast to the software solutions, the hardware solutions do not typically require host and/or client software. Instead, the hardware solutions typically utilize a keyboard, video monitor, and mouse (“KVM”) switch, which is accessible over a LAN via a conventional network infrastructure, such as Transfer Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (“TCP/IP”). Such systems are often referred to in the art as Keyboard, Video, and Mouse over Internet Protocol (“KVMoIP.”) systems.  
         [0007]     Generally, a user or system administrator accesses the remote computers attached to the KVM switch utilizing an Internet browser or client software associated with the KVM switch. Once the remote computer has been selected, the remote computer&#39;s video signal is routed to the user workstation&#39;s video monitor and a user may then utilize a keyboard and/or mouse to control the remote computer. The KVM switch may additionally include a connection to the power source of the remote computer for a hard reboot in case of system failure. The aforementioned hardware and software solutions generally utilize a compression algorithm to reduce the necessary bandwidth required to transmit the video signals.  
         [0008]     KVMoIP devices offer several advantages over traditional KVM switches. In traditional KVM switches, one generally has to run cables from each server to switch chassis, then run more dedicated cables from switch-to-switch, and run still more cables from switches to each end-user console. The cabling is not only costly, but also laborious and requires both effort and knowledge in larger systems. Additionally, space becomes a consideration as these systems generally take up a large amount of room. KVMoIP systems offer a simplified solution to this cabling problem. The KVMoIP equipment can be anywhere the computers are located, with short cables from the KVMoIP unit to the local computers. Only one CAT5 or equivalent need be run from the KVMoIP unit to an Ethernet hub. This connection can also be done wirelessly, eliminating the need for the CAT5 cable.  
         [0009]     Additionally, KVMoIP systems make it easier to add more computers to the existing network. When computers need to be added, they do not have to be located in the same room or even the same building as in analog based KVM equipment. The only requirement is to plug in the KVMoIP unit into an accessible network. This design eliminates the need for more switch-to-switch wire runs, or other cable extenders.  
         [0010]     KVMoIP devices generally connect directly to an IP network via a Network Interface Card (“NIC”). Users accessing the KVMoIP device can select one or more of the switch inputs at any time and a number of independent user sessions are supported. Conversely, in traditional KVM switches, only one switch computer can be displayed at any time.  
         [0011]     KVMoIP software is also incorporated into the system. KVMoIP software features several methods of accessing a KVMoIP device. Local consoles, dial-up, and serial connections offer a backup. Often proprietary software is implemented within the KVMoIP device. Other systems known in the art access KVMoIP devices via standard web browsers, Virtual Network Computing (“VNC”) clients, etc.  
         [0012]     Recently, there has been a proliferation of wireless technologies to enable computers to communicate and share resources. For example, the Bluetooth and IEEE 802.11 standards are two rapidly developing technologies that allow computers to wirelessly communicate. Many devices are commercially available that are compatible with one or both of these standards. Bluetooth devices are generally utilized for shorter-range communication, utilizing lower transmission rates than 802.11 compliant devices. 802.11 standard devices enable wireless TCP/IP communications over distances of up to three hundred (300) feet. For example, Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (“PCMCIA”) wireless cards enable laptops to communicate utilizing the TCP/IP protocol. Many newer laptops come standard with wireless communication access devices. Additionally, 802.11 compatible wireless local area networks (“WLANs”) are now often utilized in lieu of, or in conjunction with, traditional LANs.  
         [0013]     The 802.11 standard, ratified by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (“IEEE”) in 1997, is a wireless communications standard generally utilized for networking, file sharing and Internet connection sharing. In 1999, two extensions to the 802.11 standard were added, 802.11a and 802.11b. The 802.11a standard operates in a frequency range of 5 Gigahertz (GHz) at speeds of up to 54 Megabits per second (Mbps). The 802.11b standard (also known as WiFi), was designed to be more affordable, and operates in the 2.64 GHz range at speeds of up to 11 Mbps. With the proliferation of 802.11b devices, the 802.11g standard was recently ratified which allows for 802.11a speeds in 802.11b compatible frequencies.  
         [0014]     All 802.11 standards allow for computers to communicate wirelessly without the need for hubs, routers, switches, etc. The 802.11 standard allows for the creation of WLANs, which use the same TCP/IP communication protocols as traditional wired LANs. With commercially available wireless communication devices, two computers can communicate from up to three hundred (300) feet away, although with repeaters, stronger antennae, signal boosters, etc., this range may be increased.  
         [0015]     Systems that enable wireless access of a remote device are currently known in the art of computer management. For example, one such system comprises a single receiver and a single transmitter that, together, allow a user to access a remote computer using a keyboard, video monitor, and mouse. In this system, both the receiver and the transmitter are enabled for wireless communication. The receiver, coupled to the keyboard and mouse, receives keyboard and mouse data and wirelessly transmits this data to the transmitter. The transmitter is coupled to a remote computer and supplies the data to the keyboard and mouse ports of this remote computer. Simultaneously, the transmitter receives video data from the remote computer and transmits this data wirelessly to the receiver where it is displayed on the video monitor coupled to the receiver. Thus, this system enables extended length access of a single remote computer through a wireless connection.  
         [0016]     Another known system consists of a switching device for controlling multiple remote computers where the switching device comprises a wireless transmitter and a wireless receiver. The switching device is configured to enable a user to select from among multiple computing devices and wirelessly link a peripheral device with a selected computing device for user interaction. In this system, the switching device initially develops a list of available computing devices. A user chooses from this list and the switching device establishes a wireless link with the corresponding computing device. Thus, this wireless switch only enables one connection between a user and a remote computer at any instance. Further, each of the computing devices must also have wireless communications capabilities to enable wireless communication with the switch.  
         [0017]     A method for switching the utilization of a shared set of wireless input/output (“I/O”) devices between multiple computers is also known. This method includes the utilization of a software-based switching mechanism where wireless protocols enable the sharing of wireless peripheral devices between multiple computers. A wireless data packet (a “token”) is utilized to transfer control of the I/O devices utilizing a master/slave relationship for the transfer of control. The token, in the form of computer-to-computer wireless command, is utilized to transfer control of a wireless peripheral device from one device to another. Thus, in this known system, server-to-server communications are necessary for transferring the control of a wireless peripheral. Further, in this system only one computer can control a set of wireless peripherals at a time.  
         [0018]     In another known system for accessing computer systems in a computer network, each computer system provides and receives operator interface data signals containing user output and input information. Central to this system is a wireless administrator device that allows a system operator to remotely control a plurality of computer systems interconnected through a communications network. The wireless administrator device includes a wireless communications module that operates in “transmit” and “receive” modes to communicate with the wireless communication modules coupled to the computer systems. The wireless administrator device includes an operator interface with a video display, mouse and keyboard to enable user interaction in a selection mode or a control mode. The interface includes a manual connect button that allows the administrator to display, on the video monitor, a list of available computer systems that may be accessed. Upon selection of a computer, the administrator remotely controls the computer through the operator interface.  
         [0019]     Systems are also known that provide a wireless interface between a remote host computer and a personal digital assistant (“PDA”). In one such system, the PDA presents the user with a graphical user interface (“GUI”) allowing for input by way of a passive stylus, which can be used in a pen mode or a mouse mode. The PDA also includes a transceiver that communicates wirelessly with the transceiver of a remote computer. The transceivers allow the wireless device to access the remote host computer through an infrastructure or ad-hoc network. The system also allows a user to view available remote host computers through the GUI of the wireless device and to access the programs and files of the remote computer. The remote computer in turn, transmits display commands to the wireless device. A similar system utilizes Bluetooth communications to enable a PDA to recognize and identify all compliant remote devices by transmitting a broadcast message that is received by compliant remote devices. In this system, the PDA includes a GUI to display a rendering of a mechanism that can be utilized to control a remote device. For example, the rendering might be of an on/off switch. The PDA receives input from a stylus, and translates this input into a command for the remote device.  
         [0020]     Finally, a system is in known in the art for wirelessly communicating keyboard, video, and mouse data from a plurality of servers in one or more server racks to a plurality of user workstations through a KVM switch. The system discloses utilizing a combination of hardwired and wireless connections in order to reduce the cabling requirements in comparison to utilizing only hardwired connections. The system further discloses utilizing a video compression algorithm for transmitting video to the workstations. However, the system suffers from, inter alia, mouse cursor latency, a common problem in KVMoIP systems.  
         [0021]     Current wireless remote management systems suffer from several limitations. Most significantly, as a result of limited bandwidth, standard wireless systems cannot offer the same performance as wired KVM systems. Specifically, the limited bandwidth results in troublesome keyboard, mouse and video signal latency between the remote device and user workstation Therefore, there is a need to incorporate efficient compression algorithms in order to minimize latency. Utilizing Ultra Wide Band (“UWB”) wireless technologies would, inter alia, further help solve the keyboard, mouse, and video signal latency experienced in current hardwired and wireless KVM systems. UWB is an emerging wireless communications technology that utilizes high bandwidth over short distances. UWB enables increased transmission speed over other wireless technologies. Currently, the technology transmits at speeds between 40-400 megabits/sec. In the future, it is expected that transmission speeds will reach 1 gigabit/sec. Under current transmission rates, UWB is generally limited to around 1-2 meters with high gain antennas. It is expected to be capable of transmitting signals over tens of feet operating at future peak transmission rates.  
         [0022]     UWB transmits ultra-low power radio signals (i.e., very short electrical pulses with durations on the order of picoseconds (1×10E-12 sec)) across all frequencies simultaneously. The simultaneous transmission over a large frequency range makes the data capacity enormous. UWB receivers must translate these short bursts of noise into data by listening for a familiar pulse sequence sent by a transmitter. Because UWB transceivers use low power short burst radio waves, they do not take as much planning to build, which results in UWB transceivers being easier and cheaper to build compared to typical spread spectrum transceivers. Additionally, as UWB operates at such low power, it has very little interference impact on other systems (i.e., UWB causes less interference than conventional radio-network solutions). Further, the relatively wide spectrum that UWB utilizes significantly also minimizes the impact of interference from other systems.  
         [0023]     In February 2002, the FCC issued a First Report and Order giving users permission to deploy low powered UWB systems within the 3.1 to 10.6 GHz spectrum. These guidelines make UWB suitable for use in relatively short-range applications such as wireless personal area networks (“WPAN”). In December 2004, the FCC certified UWB positioning tags. Significantly, the IEEE Task Group 3a within the 802.15 Work Group is continuing its work on UWB technology and the limitations and barriers have fallen with the advent of wireless standards such as 802.15.3a. One disadvantage of utilizing UWB technology is its limited transmission range, which peaks at a range of five to ten meters. This limited range significantly hinders the use of UWB wireless technologies. However, the present invention solves this problem through utilization of an elaborate mesh topology.  
         [0024]     Mesh topology, also called “mesh” or a “mesh network”, is a network topology in which devices are connected with many redundant interconnections between network nodes. In a true mesh topology every node has a connection to every other node in the network. Two types of mesh topologies are commonly used: full mesh and partial mesh.  
         [0025]     Full mesh topology occurs when every node has a circuit (or similar) connecting it to every other node in a network. Full mesh is very expensive to implement, but yields the greatest amount of redundancy. Thus, in the event that one of the nodes fails, network traffic can be directed to any of the other nodes. Therefore, full mesh is usually reserved for backbone networks.  
         [0026]     Partial mesh topology is less expensive to implement and yields less redundancy than full mesh topology. With partial mesh, some nodes are organized in a full mesh scheme while others are only connected to one or two nodes in the network. Partial mesh topology is commonly found in peripheral networks connected to a full meshed backbone. Significantly, utilizing mesh topology enables signals to traverse greater distances.  
         [0027]     In view of the foregoing, a need clearly exists for a wireless remote network management system utilizing UWB wireless technologies and mesh topology capable of non-intrusive wireless operation and control of networking equipment, servers, computers, and other remote devices. Furthermore, such a system should enable digital remote KVM access via networks such as WLANs, LANs, and the Internet. The system should allow a user to view all available remote devices via an on-screen user interface and to choose one of these devices to monitor and control. Finally, the system should capture, digitize, compress and transmit video with keyboard and mouse signals to and from a variety of remote devices.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0028]     It is often convenient to control one or more connected computers from one local set of peripheral devices (i.e., keyboard, video monitor, cursor control device, etc.). Since the majority of computers in use today incorporate or are designed to be compatible with commonly known and used computer technologies (e.g., IBM, Apple, Sun, etc.), many computers use identical or similar electrical connectors to connect a peripheral device. A computer typically contains a dedicated electrical connector for each type of peripheral device to which the computer will be connected. Generally, the cables that connect such peripheral devices to a computer are approximately six (6) feet in length, thereby limiting the distance from the computer at which the peripheral devices may be located.  
         [0029]     In many circumstances, it is desirable to separate the peripheral devices from the computer due to space constraints. However, one skilled in the art may readily appreciate that separating a computer from its peripheral devices may make it difficult to locate the remote computers because they are commonly located in another area of the building, such as in a data center, server farm, etc. Unless; each device is clearly labeled, there exists no means of differentiating computers without their attached peripheral devices.  
         [0030]     In addition to extending the distance between a computer and its peripheral devices, it is also convenient to access and operate more than one computer from one set of peripheral devices. Again, this feature is desirable when space is limited. In many situations it is difficult to run wires from the location of a server to its set of peripherals. Further, the utilization of longer wires necessarily leads to the degradation of the signals transmitted. For example, the high frequency components of such transmitted signals are often severely attenuated. It may also be desirable to access a computer through wireless communications.  
         [0031]     The present invention provides a wireless remote device management system utilizing UWB technologies with a mesh topology scheme for administrating remote computers and devices from one or more local wireless-enabled user workstations. The user workstations may comprise a mixture of wireless enabled and hardwired stations wired to a LAN. The present invention may be used within data centers comprising a series of servers, which may be rack mounted. Further, the present invention preferably includes “n” UWB wireless-enabled computer interface modules (“WCIM”) connected to “n” remote devices, where “n” corresponds to the number of remote devices. Alternatively, each WCIM may communicate with a plurality of remote devices. Each WCIM connected to a remote device bi-directionally communicates with other WCIMs and access point(s) via a mesh topology.  
         [0032]     The data center UWB network is preferably controlled by a Network Management Server (“NMS”), which has its own assigned IP address and is connected to a LAN. The NMS is preferably embedded with proprietary software to determine the Quality of Service (“QoS”), security policies, routing algorithms, network filtering, and monitoring. Importantly, controlling the QoS enables the system to minimize end-to-end latency and specify a guaranteed throughput level.  
         [0033]     The WCIMs communicate with one or more access points, which preferably share the same configuration and operate via the same IP subnet. The size of the data center determines the number of access points necessary. The WCIMs connect to the strongest access point signal, which is usually from the access point in closest proximity with the respective WCIM. The access points may be cascaded in order to increase the range of communications and communicate with each other and one or more of the access points communicate with a hub, which is preferably integrated into the NMS. Preferably, the integrated hub is a network power over Ethernet (“POE”) hub. Alternatively, the hub may be stand-alone and connect to the NMS. In the preferred embodiment, the NMS (which contains the hub) connects via a network (i.e., LAN, WLAN, etc.) to one or more user workstations. Advantageously, use of an access point enables connection to the Internet. Thus, a user workstation with Internet connectivity may connect to the access point remotely and in turn, control a remote device. In this embodiment there is no restriction on the location of the user workstation. Further, the user workstation is not required to have wireless capabilities.  
         [0034]     The WCIM creates and sends data packets, routed utilizing a routing algorithm with defined parameters, to the appropriate access point (i.e., to the access point that, among other things, shares the strongest connection with the WCIM). The WCIM preferably utilizes the attached remote device as a power source. It may be external or internal to the remote device. An external WCIM preferably includes at least one Universal Serial Bus (“USB”) connection for, inter alia, powering the WCIM. Alternatively, the WCIMs may be powered by a power pack included within the WCIM. The WCIM may also have serial ports for connection to the networking equipment, as well as keyboard, video, and cursor control device ports for connection to the servers and computers. In addition, the WCIMs may have parallel ports, etc., and a port for connection to a power supply capable of controlling the power to the networking equipment, server, or computer. In the internal design, the WCIM preferably is attached on a PCI slot of a remote server or other device. Further, the WCIM includes plug-n-play capabilities, auto sensing over video settings and network connection, and an address resolution protocol (“ARP”) function.  
         [0035]     The present invention preferably uses software-defined radio (“SDR”) for multiple server access and intelligent routing. SDR is a radio communication system that uses software for the modulation and demodulation of radio signals. An SDR performs significant amounts of signal processing in a general purpose computer or a reconfigurable piece of digital electronics. The goal of this design is to produce a radio that can receive and transmit a new form of radio protocol just by running new software. Software-defined radios have significant utility for the military and cell phone services, both of which must serve a wide variety of changing radio protocols in real time. The hardware of a SDR typically consists of a super heterodyne RF front end, which converts RF signals from and to analog IF signals, and analog to digital converters, which are used to convert a digitized RF signals to and from analog form.  
         [0036]     An important feature of the present invention is the ability to display a list of available remote computers (or other devices) to a user on the user&#39;s local monitor. This list can be updated or refreshed automatically as remote computers enter or leave the network. It can also be updated as computers become available for control (i.e., a different user relinquishes control). A variety of methods may be utilized to generate and display the option menu. Preferably, the user workstation includes a general purpose processor that generates an option menu. Alternatively, an on-screen display (“OSD”) processor may be utilized. In one embodiment the user workstation can be implemented as a purely software solution. In this embodiment, the option menu may be implemented as part of the user workstation software, and it can take advantage of existing APIs to display the option menu in a user-friendly fashion.  
         [0037]     The present invention enables portable administration. That is, the present invention enables a user with a laptop, PDA, or other portable device, to walk around a data center consisting of target devices. A list of all servers and other remote devices in the range of the user&#39;s transceiver appear on the user&#39;s screen. The list may be automatically updated as remote computers enter or exit the wireless network. The present invention allows a user to view a list of available remote computers and to select a remote computer from this list for control. A user can access the system via a single IP address and select a target device and communicate with it while the entire network is still monitoring the rest of the targets. Additionally, the present invention enables control and management of remote devices from various user workstations via a network such as a LAN, WLAN, etc.  
         [0038]     When the user workstation requests a connection to the WCIM, the connection request is sent over the network to the NMS. Utilizing the system&#39;s mesh topology, the request is sent to the appropriate WCIM via one or more access points and/or one or more WCIMs. Upon completion of the connection, the WCIM receives video signals from the remote computer, compresses the video signals, and utilizing the system&#39;s mesh topology, transmits the compressed video information to the user workstation via the access points, NMS, etc. In turn, the user workstation transmits keyboard and cursor control device data to the WCIM. The WCIM utilizes this data to provide emulated keyboard and cursor control device data to the keyboard and cursor control device ports of the remote computer. The user workstation decompresses the video information and provides video signals to the local monitor. In this manner, a user of the workstation can control the remote computer by utilizing the local keyboard and cursor control device, while viewing video signals from the remote computer on the local monitor.  
         [0039]     The user workstation can communicate through a wireless KVM switch. Importantly, the wireless KVM switch can be a hybrid switch thus supporting both wired and wireless connections. In this configuration, a user workstation can communicate with a WCIM, even if the user workstation does not have wireless capabilities. That is, this configuration enables users at workstations to be hardwired to the hybrid switch and thus access and control remote-devices connected to a WCIM.  
         [0040]     Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved wireless device management system that utilizes a mesh topology scheme and enables a user to control a plurality of remote computers or devices from local user workstations.  
         [0041]     It is also an object of the present invention to provide digital remote KVM access via IP networks such as a LAN, WLAN, or the Internet.  
         [0042]     It is another object of the present invention to provide non-intrusive remote access and control of remote devices.  
         [0043]     It is still another object of the present invention to require no additional software to run on the remote device in order to eliminate any potential interference with the remote device&#39;s operation or network performance.  
         [0044]     It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a secure, wireless computer management system that allows a local user workstation to wirelessly control a remote device utilizing a local keyboard and cursor control device, and to wirelessly receive video signals from the remote device.  
         [0045]     Additionally, it is an object of the present invention to provide a wireless KVM network that enables a user workstation to provide a list of available remote computers and devices wherein the list is automatically updated as remote computers and devices become available.  
         [0046]     Further, it is an object of the present invention to provide a modular, wireless, computer management system that allows one or more sets of peripheral devices to access and operate one or more remote computers as if the local peripheral devices were directly connected to the remote computers.  
         [0047]     Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to allow information technology (“IT”) personnel to easily manage a volume of servers for both small-scale computer centers and large-scale computer centers such as data-centers, server farms, web-hosting facilities, and call-centers.  
         [0048]     It is another object of the present invention to enable users to access a plurality of remote devices via a single IP address.  
         [0049]     It is yet another object of the present invention to enable the WCIMs to automatically sense the video settings and network connection of the remote device.  
         [0050]     It is still another object of the present invention to provide an ARP function for each WCIM.  
         [0051]     It is still yet another object of the present invention to utilize the remote device as a power source for the WCIMs.  
         [0052]     Finally, it is an object of the present invention to provide a wireless modular computer management system that eliminates the need for a set of peripheral devices for each remote computer thereby minimizing the space required to house the remote computers.  
         [0053]     Other objects, features, and characteristics of the present invention, as well as the methods of operation and functions of the related elements of the structure, and the combination of parts and economies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon consideration of the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, all of which form a part of this specification.  
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0054]     A further understanding of the present invention can be obtained by reference to a preferred embodiment set forth in the illustrations of the accompanying drawings. Although the illustrated embodiment is merely exemplary of systems for carrying out the present invention, both the organization and method of operation of the invention, in general, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, may be more easily understood by reference to the drawings and the following description. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of this invention, which is set forth with particularity in the claims as appended or as subsequently amended, but merely to clarify and exemplify the invention.  
         [0055]     For a more complete understanding of the present invention, reference is now made to the following drawings in which:  
         [0056]      FIG. 1  is a schematic representation of the UWB data center KVM network according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention illustrating the bi-directional communication between users at user workstations and a plurality of remote devices, where each remote device is directly connected to a wireless-enabled computer interface module (“WCIM”) through a Network Management Server (“NMS”) and UWB access points.  
         [0057]      FIG. 2  is a schematic representation of the WCIM shown in  FIG. 1  according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention illustrating a block diagram of the internal structure of the WCIM and connectors for a keyboard port, a video monitor port, and a cursor control device port.  
         [0058]      FIG. 3  is a schematic representation of the portable administration feature of the remote device management system according to the present invention  
         [0059]      FIG. 4  is a flow chart that details the exchange of information between a WCIM and a portable user station to setup a connection between a user workstation and a remote device.  
         [0060]      FIG. 5  is a schematic representation of the remote device management system according to an alternate embodiment of the present invention illustrating the connection of multiple remote devices to one composite WCIM.  
         [0061]      FIG. 6  is a schematic representation of the composite WCIM shown in  FIG. 5  illustrating a block diagram of the internal structure of the composite WCIM and connectors for multiple keyboard ports, video monitor ports, and cursor control device ports. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT  
       [0062]     As required, a detailed illustrative embodiment of the present invention is disclosed herein. However, techniques, systems and operating structures in accordance with the present invention may be embodied in a wide variety of forms and modes, some of which may be quite different from those in the disclosed embodiment. Consequently, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative, yet in that regard, they are deemed to afford the best embodiment for purposes of disclosure and to provide a basis for the claims herein, which define the scope of the present invention. The following presents a detailed description of the preferred embodiment (as well as some alternative embodiments) of the present invention.  
         [0063]     Referring first to  FIG. 1 , depicted is a schematic representation of the UWB data center KVM network according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention illustrating the bi-directional communication between users at user workstations and a plurality of remote devices. While it is preferred that UWB communication standards are used, it is foreseeable that other short-range, high-throughput standards may alternatively be utilized. Each remote device  101  is directly connected to a wireless-enabled computer interface module (“WCIM”)  103 . WCIMs  103  are preferably powered via the connected remote device  101 . WCIMs  103  communicate with each other and UWB access points  105  utilizing a mesh topology. WCIMs  103  preferably utilize a partial mesh topology, although it is foreseeable that other topologies such as full mesh may be utilized. For simplicity of the drawing,  FIG. 1  only depicts part of the hopping technique preferably used by the present invention.  
         [0064]     Wireless paths  102  illustrate multiple hops from a WCIM  103  to an access point  105 . Wireless paths  104  show a direct path to UWB access point  105 . WCIMs  103  communicate with UWB access point  105  via direct wireless path  104  based on signal strength and latency between WCIM  103  and UWB access point  105 . While only three (3) UWB access points  105  are shown, one of skill in the art may readily appreciate that any number of UWB access points  105  may be incorporated into the system depending on the size of data center and the number of remote devices  101  installed.  
         [0065]     UWB access points  105  preferably utilize 802.15.3a/f protocols or similar protocols, which eliminate the necessity for dedicated power runs to each access point. UWB access points  105  route user data, maintain network integrity by polling WCIMs  103  and provide load balance and QoS. UWB access points  105  bi-directionally communicate with NMS  109 . NMS  109  includes embedded proprietary software for, inter alia, determining QoS, providing security (i.e., encryption, user name and PIN identification, RFID authentication, biometric authentication, etc.), routing algorithms, network filtering and monitoring. Importantly, determining QoS enables the present invention to minimize end-to-end latency and specify a guaranteed throughput. NMS  109  has its own IP address and preferably includes a network POE and a database of UWB access points  105  and WCIMs  103 . Alternatively, the network POE may be stand-alone and connect to NMS  109  via standard cabling.  
         [0066]     Preferably, NMS  109  connects to one or more user workstations  113  preferably via network  106 , which may be a LAN, WLAN, etc. Network  106  may also connect to access point  115 , which wirelessly communicates with user station  119  via wireless connection  108 . Preferably, access point  119  and user station  119  communicate via 802.11 protocol, although one of skill in the art will readily recognize that other protocols may be utilized without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Advantageously, 802.11 protocol extends the distance over which user station  119  can communicate with remote devices  101 . User stations  113  and  119  may be a desktop computer with attached peripherals (including a keyboard, cursor control device, and video monitor), laptop computer, tablet PC, PDA, etc. Additionally, user stations  113  and  119  may include a user interface module, which connects to user station and communicates with NMS  109 . Advantageously, such a design, inter alia, eliminates any need to install additional software on the user station itself and helps further minimize latency.  
         [0067]     A user at user station  113  transmits keyboard and cursor control device signals, preferably as TCP/IP data packets via network  106  to NMS  109 , which sends converts the data packets into a format suitable for transmission to UWB access point  105 . UWB access point  105  further converts the data packets as necessary. The converted data packets are then routed to the selected WCIM  103  on a hopping technique. It is preferred that such a hopping technique incorporates an intelligent routing algorithm, such as Software Defined Radio (“SDR”) based on a series of parameters, including but not limited to, routing tables, signal strength, location and latency. Importantly, utilization of SDR enables simultaneously multiple access to several remote devices  101 .  
         [0068]     While user station  113  is transmitting data to NMS  109  and subsequently to the selected WCIM  103 , the selected WCIM  103 , utilizing a mesh topology, transmits compressed video data signals, preferably as UWB data packets, over wireless communications paths  102  and/or  104  to the appropriate UWB access point  105 , which converts the received packets as necessary. If-multiple UWB access points  105  are cascaded together, the data packets are transmitted along the UWB access points  105  until the packets reach the UWB access point  105  connected to NMS  109 . If there are no cascaded UWB access points  105 , the packets are transmitted directly to NMS  109 . Once the packets reach NMS  109 , they are converted and sent to the appropriate user workstation  113 . Thus, the system of the present invention enables a user at user workstation  113  to view and control any one of a plurality of remote devices  101 . One of skill in the art will recognize that a similar communication process occurs for users at user station  119 .  
         [0069]     One of the primary purposes of the present invention is to enable a user at a user workstation  113  to select and subsequently control a remote device  101 . This selection may be accomplished through a variety of methods. In one embodiment, a menu or list of available remote devices  101  is displayed on the screen of video monitor attached to user station  113 , which can utilize information provided by the network to update the option menu displayed to the user With a list of available remote devices. The option menu may also give the user the ability to manually adjust video settings to improve the quality of the transmitted video.  
         [0070]     User station  113  interfaces with a keyboard, video monitor, cursor control device, and/or other peripheral devices such as USB peripherals, serial devices, etc. in order to control any of a plurality of remote devices  101 . The keyboard and cursor control device may be connected utilizing PS/2 connectors, serial connectors, USB connectors, etc. Monitors are typically connected to a computer through a DB15 port. In one embodiment, during operation, a general purpose processor preferably within user station  113  receives the keyboard and cursor control device signals. The processor interprets these signals and generates data packets that include data representative of the keyboard and cursor control device information from the received keyboard and cursor control device signals. The data packets are combined with other information (such as destination information) and are included in TCP/IP communications sent via network  106  to NMS  109 .  
         [0071]     Keyboard and cursor control device signals may be transmitted bi-directionally in the system of the present invention. That is, these signals can also be transmitted from remote device  101  to user workstation  113 . In this direction of transmission, keyboard and cursor control device signals are received as part of the data transmitted to the appropriate UWB access point  105  via paths  102  and/or  104 . The UWB access points  105  communicate with each other and NMS  109  to send the data to user workstation  113 . The processor uses this information to emulate or interpret the keyboard and cursor control device signals from remote device  101 . These signals can be utilized to, inter alia, determine if the remote computer is responsive to the user&#39;s cursor control device and keyboard.  
         [0072]     Unidirectional digital compressed video signals are received at user workstations  113  as part of TCP/IP data. As discussed in  FIG. 2  below, WCIM  103  includes hardware and software to digitize and compress video received from remote device  101 . This compressed data is received by UWB access point  105  via paths  102  and/or  104 . UWB access point  105  converts this data as necessary and sends it to NMS  109 , which subsequently converts and sends the data to user workstation  113 . The user workstation&#39;s processor receives the compressed video data, decompresses and converts this data to an analog format compatible with a video monitor (or equivalent) located at user workstation  113 . The system of the present invention may utilize the compression, digitization, and decompression method described in application Ser. No. 10/233,299, incorporated in its entirety herein by reference.  
         [0073]     The user selects a remote device  101  for control by choosing from the computers on the menu. Preferably, the user station&#39;s processor utilizes existing application program interfaces (“APIs”) to present a user friendly (e.g., with extensive graphics) interface to the user. An advantage of a software based implementation is that standard software APIs can be utilized to generate the option menu. Further, the menu can have a look and feel that is more familiar to the user (e.g., if Microsoft development software or Java APIs are utilized, the menu will resemble other Windows or Java applications). Utilizing commonly available APIs, the option menu may include graphics, icons, pull-down menus, etc. to present a more user-friendly interface.  
         [0074]     Alternatively, the option menu can be generated by circuitry within user workstation  113 . For example, the user workstation (or a device attached to the user workstation) may include an on-screen display (OSD) processor. The OSD can be instructed by a microprocessor to display a list of available remote devices  101 . However, because most commercially available OSDs are character based, providing only a rudimentary interface to the user, a general purpose processor is preferred.  
         [0075]     To switch to another connected device, the user preferably depresses a “hotkey”, which results in the display of the option menu on the video monitor thus allowing a user to select a new remote device  101 . The option menu produced on the video screen may refresh automatically as remote devices  101  enter and exit the network. Alternatively, the option menu may refresh every time a user wishes to be interfaced with a different remote device  101 .  
         [0076]     Referring next to  FIG. 2 , depicted is the preferred embodiment of WCIM  103  according to the present invention. WCIM  103  includes KVM port  301  to communicate with video port  303 , keyboard port  305 , and cursor control device port  307  of remote device  101 . During normal operation, WCIM  103  receives video signals unidirectionally from remote devices  101  through cable  302 . WCIM  103  also transmits keyboard and cursor control device signals to keyboard port  305  and cursor control port  307  through cable  302 . Alternatively, each of video port  303 , keyboard port  305  and cursor control device port  307  may be connected to WCIM  103  utilizing separate cables for each port. Additional connections, e.g., serial, USB, parallel port, etc. may also be utilized. In another alternative embodiment, WCIM  103  is connected internally within remote device  101  via a PCI slot or similar. In this design, no additional cables are necessary.  
         [0077]     Keyboard and cursor control device signals are wirelessly transmitted bi-directionally between remote device  101  and user station  113 . Video signals are unidirectionally transmitted from remote device  101  to user station  113 . To accomplish the transmission of video, keyboard, and cursor control device data, WCIM  103  preferably includes video conditioning circuit  309 , WCIM CPU  311 , buffer-in  313 , buffer-out  315 , UART  317 , memory  319 , and wireless device  119 . Wireless device  119  enables WCIM  103  to communicate over wireless communications paths  102  and/or  104 . One of skill in the art may readily appreciate that the wireless path  104  will transmit signals to other WCIMs  103  or an access point  105  based on the mesh topology and hopping technique and that wireless path  104  will transmit signals to access point  105  in closest proximity.  
         [0078]     During operation, video signals are transmitted from video port  303  of remote device  101  to KVM port  301  of WCIM  103  via cable  302 . From KVM port  301 , the unidirectional video signals are transmitted to video conditioning circuitry  309 , which converts the analog video to compressed digital video data. Video conditioning circuit  309  preferably utilizes the compression method and hardware described in co-pending application Ser. No. 10/233,299. This method utilizes a compression algorithm that takes advantage of the spatial and temporal redundancies typical of the video output of a remote computer. The method also utilizes algorithms that encode the red, green and blue components of the video signal for transmission over a digital connection. The digitized and compressed video, which may be temporarily stored in buffer-out  315 , is transmitted by wireless device  119  to the appropriate UWB access point  105  or another WCIM  105  over wireless communications paths  102  and/or  104  utilizing the aforementioned mesh topology and hopping technique. Each WCIM  103  may receive and transmit data from other WCIMs  103  in order enable the data to be transmitted over the network. UWB access point  105  converts that data as necessary and routes it to NMS  109 , which converts and transmits the data to user station  113 .  
         [0079]     Keyboard and cursor control device signals received from keyboard port  305  and cursor control device port  307 , respectively, are transmitted via cable  302  to KVM port  301 , whereupon the signals are sent to transceiver CPU  311 . Transceiver CPU  311  creates data packets based upon information received from keyboard port  305  and cursor control device port  307 . These data packets, which may be temporarily stored in buffer-out  315 , are transmitted to UWB access point  105  by wireless device  119  utilizing UWB data protocol sent over wireless communications paths  102  and/or  104 . Before reaching the desired UWB access point  105 , the data may be routed through one or more WCIMs  103 , depending on the system design. Similar to the video data, the keyboard and cursor control device data is transmitted to NMS  109 , which converts and transmits the data to user station  113  via network  106 .  
         [0080]     Conversely, wireless device  119  receives data packets sent over the system from user station  113  through wireless communications paths  102  and/or  104 . The data packets contain data related to a user&#39;s utilization of keyboard and cursor control device (or equivalents) associated with user station  113 . These data packets may be temporarily stored in buffer-in  313 , and are ultimately sent to transceiver CPU  311 . Transceiver CPU  311  interprets the data packets received from user station  113  and generates emulated keyboard and cursor control device signals. These emulated signals are sent to KVM port  301  through UART  317 . Specifically, UART  317  converts data from transceiver CPU  311  into a serial protocol understood by keyboard port  305  and cursor control device  307 .  
         [0081]     WCIM  103  also contains memory unit  319 , which stores identification information for WCIM  103  and its connected remote device  101  including the assigned name, group, address, etc. This identification information is sent over the system by wireless device  119  to user station  113  for purposes of providing the user a list of available remote devices  101 . Further, the identification information can be utilized in the routing of wireless data to the correct WCIM  103 . In the preferred embodiment, remote device  101  provides power to WCIM  103 . Thus, the equipment and cabling required for a dedicated WCIM power source is eliminated saving space and money.  
         [0082]     Preferably, WCIM  103  is compatible with all commonly used computer operating systems and protocols, including but not limited to those manufactured by Microsoft (Windows), Apple (Macintosh), Sun (Solaris), DEC, Compaq (Alpha), IBM (RS/6000), HP (HP9000) and SGI (IRIX). Additionally, local devices may communicate with remote computers via a variety of protocols including Universal Serial Bus (“USB”), American Standard Code for Information Interchange (“ASCII”) and Recommend Standard-232 (“RS-232”). WCIM  103  is compatible with, and preferably implements, encrypted or secure wireless transmission. Various standards for secure wireless transmission of data are known in the art. WCIMs  103  provide, inter alia, plug-n-play capabilities, auto sensing of video and network sensing and ARP functionality.  
         [0083]     Turning to  FIG. 3 , depicted is the portable administration feature of the present invention whereby a user with portable user station  304  (i.e., a laptop, PDA etc.) moves throughout the data center. User station  304  preferably operates via UWB protocol (i.e., 802.15.3a/f or equivalent) and includes a UWB transceiver for bi-directional communication with remote devices  101 . Advantageously, UWB protocol enables short range, high throughput transmissions. As the user moves around the data center, all of the remote devices  101  within range of the user station&#39;s transceiver appear on the user station&#39;s screen. The user may select and communicate with a specific remote device  101  via wireless communication paths  306 ,  102 , and/or  104 . Simultaneously, the rest of the remote devices  101  may be monitored by user workstations  113  and/or  119 , as discussed above in reference to  FIG. 1 .  
         [0084]     Referring next to  FIG. 4 , depicted is a flow chart that details the exchange of information between a WCIM  103  and portable user station  304  necessary to establish a connection between a remote device  101  and portable user station  304 . The flow chart begins with WCIM  103  (coupled to remote device  101 ) and portable user station  304  entering the same network (steps  401  and  403 ). Entering the network may simply entail coming within a range of communications, being powered-on, etc. UWB technology provides for dynamic entry and exit of devices whereby wireless devices can automatically enter into the UWB wireless network.  
         [0085]     WCIM  103  sends a message  406  that preferably includes identification information related to its associated remote device  101  (step  405 ). WCIM  103  may be configured to periodically send these messages to alert portable user station  304  entering the network of the availability of the associated remote device  101 . Immediately after entering the network, portable user station  304  enters a state in which it listens for these messages (step  407 ). Upon receipt of a message, portable user station  304  updates the list of available devices displayed on the user station&#39;s video display (step  409 ). As the user with portable user station  304  moves around the data center, portable user station  304  continues to look for new remote devices  101  now within range of the user station&#39;s transceiver. Portable user station  304  sends messages that request responses from WCIMs  103 . Upon receipt of the message, WCIM  103  responds with identification information about its associated remote device  101 . Portable user station  304  updates the list of available remote devices  101  utilizing the identification information.  
         [0086]     Portable user station  304  displays a list of available remote devices  101  to the user, which is updated upon detection of any WCIM  103  entering or leaving the network (step  409 ). If the user selects a remote device  101  from this list (step  411 ), portable user station  304  sends a connection request  414  (step  413 ). WCIM  103 , which is in a waiting state (step  415 ), can deny the request or accept the request (step  417 ). For example, if the associated remote device  101  of WCIM  103  is under control of a different portable user station  304 , WCIM  103  may deny the request. If WCIM  103  denies the request, a denial message is sent to portable user station  304 .  
         [0087]     If WCIM  103  accepts the request, WCIM  103  sends acknowledgment message  419  to portable user station  304 . Once portable user station  304  sends connection request  414 , it enters a waiting state (step  421 ) where it remains until it receives acknowledgment message  419 . Upon acceptance of the connection, WCIM  115  sends acknowledgment message  419 . Portable user station  304  then begins to transmit UWB data  424 , which includes keyboard and cursor control device data (step  423 ), over wireless communications paths  306 ,  102  and/or  104  to WCIM  103 . WCIM  103  receives the data and utilizes it to generate signals for the keyboard port  305  and cursor control device port  307  of the remote device  101 .  
         [0088]     Simultaneously, WCIM  103  begins to receive video data from its associated remote device  101 . WCIM  103  receives the video data, digitizes and communicates it, preferably as UWB data  422 , through wireless communications paths  306 ,  102 , and/or  104  (step  421 ). This communication continues until the user of portable user station  304  selects a different remote device  101  to control.  
         [0089]     To choose a different remote device  101 , a user with portable user station  304  preferably depresses a designated “hot-key”, which instructs portable user station  304  to display an option menu of available remote devices  101 . The option menu includes a list of available remote devices  101 , as determined by the receipt of the messages from associated WCIMs  103  (step  409 ). The option menu may be a GUI, which can include groups and descriptions of available servers, icons representing each server, etc. If the option menu is developed with software, it can have the look and feel of a standard environment (e.g., Windows, Macintosh, Java, etc).  
         [0090]     Next,  FIG. 5  depicts an alternative embodiment of the present invention in which multiple remote devices  101  (within server racks  501 ) interface with a composite WCIM  503 . Composite WCIM  503  is similar to WCIM  103 , but with increased capabilities (e.g., additional KVM ports and additional wireless devices). Similar to WCIMs  103  shown in  FIG. 1 , composite WCIMs  503  utilize a mesh topology to communicate with each other and/or UWB access points  105 . Wireless paths  502  illustrate multiple hops from a composite WCIM  503  to an access point  105 . Wireless paths  504  show a direct path to an access point  105 . Advantageously, composite WCIM  503  enables the present invention to connect multiple remote devices  101  with minimal hardware. Utilization of composite WCIM  503  is ideal in server rack environments. In these racks, there is minimal space between servers often making it difficult and cumbersome to connect multiple devices to the servers within the server rack. Preferably, composite WCIM  503  is powered by a combination of one or more connected remote devices  101 .  
         [0091]     Although the architecture of a composite WCIM  503  can vary, one example is shown in  FIG. 6 . Notably, composite WCIM  503  comprises similar components to WCIM  103  ( FIG. 2 ), including transceiver CPU  711 ; buffer-in  713 , buffer-out  715 , and memory  719 . To accommodate multiple remote devices  101  (three (3) are shown in  FIG. 6 , but more could be accommodated), composite WCIM  503  comprises multiple KVM ports  701 , multiple UARTs  717  and multiple video conditioning circuits  709 . Transceiver CPU  711  must have the capability to receive input from multiple sources and memory  719  must be capable of storing identification information for each attached remote device  101 . Finally, composite WCIM  601  may have multiple wireless devices  119 .  
         [0092]     While the present invention has been described with reference to the preferred embodiments and several alternative embodiments, which embodiments have been set forth in considerable detail for the purposes of making a complete disclosure of the invention, such embodiments are merely exemplary and are not intended to be limiting or represent an exhaustive enumeration of all aspects of the invention. The scope of the invention, therefore, shall be defined solely by the following claims. Further, it will be apparent to those of skill in the art that numerous changes may be made in such details without departing from the spirit and the principles of the invention. It should be appreciated that the present invention is capable of being embodied in other forms without departing from its essential characteristics.