Business method for pay-as-you-go computer and dynamic differential pricing
First Claim
Patent Images
1. A method for supplying a computer comprising:
- providing a computer, the computer comprising a resource;
providing at least one usage plan;
providing data for provisioning a value balance in the computer;
providing a usage metric corresponding to use of the resource, allowing the resource to consume the value balance according to the usage plan.
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Accused Products
Abstract
A system for supplying computers with little or no upfront payment has a service provider, a computer, and an optional funding account. The computer is adapted to render itself substantially useless unless provisioned by the service provider. The service provider has a capability to collect funds from the user and to provide the data necessary for continued operation of the computer. Cryptographic means may be employed to generate and receive the data necessary for continued operation of the computer. The computer'"'"'s self-imposed sanctions may include slowed operation, reduced graphics capability, limited communication, and limited access to peripherals.
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Citations
31 Claims
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1. A method for supplying a computer comprising:
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providing a computer, the computer comprising a resource;
providing at least one usage plan;
providing data for provisioning a value balance in the computer;
providing a usage metric corresponding to use of the resource, allowing the resource to consume the value balance according to the usage plan. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12)
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13. A method of enabling use of a computer, the computer comprising a resource, a metering module, and a communications capability for receiving a provisioning packet, the method comprising:
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receiving a request to provide the provisioning packet;
confirming a payment capability;
preparing the provisioning packet; and
sending the provisioning packet to the computer. - View Dependent Claims (14, 15, 16)
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17. A computer configured for pay-per-use operation comprising:
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a resource supporting a function of the computer;
a metering module coupled to the resource, the metering module for monitoring the use of the resource; and
a circuit, coupled to the metering module and the resource, wherein the circuit limits an operation of the computer responsive to the metering module. - View Dependent Claims (18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25)
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26. A computer-readable medium having computer-executable instructions for performing steps comprising:
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recording use of a first resource;
comparing the use of the first resource against a first limit; and
limiting a function of a second resource when the use of the first resource reaches the first limit. - View Dependent Claims (27, 28, 29, 30, 31)
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Specification