| 摘要 |
Methods and apparatus for configuring, updating and/or controlling devices through the use of E-mail are described. Control and/or configuration information is incorporated into the body of an E-mail message. E-mail file attachments including, e.g., device code or software updates may also be included in the E-mail message. The E-mail message is forwarded to the device(s) to be configured or controlled via one or more E-mail servers. The device receiving the E-mail message includes an interface unit for processing the E-mail message and updating its control information, configuration information, and/or executable routines based on the message's content. The E-mail message may be sent in encrypted form making it difficult for unauthorized individuals to accomplish an unauthorized control and/or configuration modification to a device. By using an E-mail message as the data input device, the need to login and enter control and/or configuration information while being on-line can be avoided. In addition, the need to be familiar with a variety of terminal emulation routines which might be needed to login to a set of devices is reduced or eliminated. A single E-mail message may be transmitted to multiple devices which have the same configuration and/or control requirements. E-mail messages can be saved in a log, modified, and used for subsequent system updates eliminating the need to re-enter all of the control and/or configuration information. A device can respond to an E-mail message, execute routines included therein and/or send relevant status information via E-mail to a control center. |
