System for permitting access to an electronic device when the password is not known

Abstract

An electronic device will include physical access protection over which a user has control, such as by a key, and password protection which may have been forgotten or otherwise is not in the immediate possession of the user. The apparatus is configured so that removal of power to the apparatus followed by reapplication of power, such as by a switch or a fuse, is recognized by the apparatus, which is configured to permit the user a predetermined period of time to gain access to the apparatus. After access is gained, the user then has an unlimited time to change the password to an alternate password recognizable by the apparatus or to determine the original password or eliminate the password protection. The user then has the ability to alter the functional configuration of the apparatus, such as through changing user-defined settings, providing upgraded firmware for the apparatus or other functions.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.