Installation

Abstract: A method and system for downloading software update data for installing a revised software product on a client computer minimizes the amount of update data to be transmitted over the network by downloading only those files needed to put the client computer in the state for installing the product. In the beginning of the downloading process, the client computer obtains from a setup server an initial setup package that includes a setup program and a list of files required for installing the software product. The setup program running on the client computer then determines whether some current or earlier versions of those files required for installation already exist on the client computer, and compiles a request list of files needed for updating the client computer. The client computer sends the request list to a download server, which maintains a collection of update files and patches. In response to the request list, the download server downloads updating files to the client. Depending of the availability of the requested files or other factors, the downloaded files may or may not be exactly those requested. Using the downloaded files, the setup program updates the existing files to provide the set of installation files on the client computer. The desired revised software product is then installed on the client computer.

Abstract: This invention includes a method for more efficiently installing a subset of software components and data files contained in a component pool in a distributed processing network such as the Internet. An installation package delivered to a requesting end user is custom configured at a remote server location prior to delivery to a client system operated by the user, in response to the user's inputs. The delivered installation package contains only the programs, data, and local installation tools required for the user's unique installation requirements. The user initiates the installation process by connecting to the remote server system via a telecommunications link within a distributed processing network, such as the Internet. Engaging in a dialog with the server which provides informational links to server-side databases, the user chooses all software components and options that he desires his software package to have. Such a package may be, for example, a subset of a software suite. After selection of all options, a single package is manufactured on the server. A single download then occurs of a single file. This is no bigger or smaller than what is absolutely required by the components and options selected. Upon receipt of the downloaded file, the user executes the file to unpack the installation directory. An auto-start feature can also be included which immediately launches the installation of the selected applications and options.

Abstract: A process controller implements an overall, user-developed control strategy in a process control network that includes distributed controller and field devices, such as Fieldbus and non-Fieldbus devices. A user defines the control strategy by building a plurality of function blocks and control modules and downloading or installing user-specified portions of the control strategy into the Fieldbus devices and the non-Fieldbus devices. Thereafter, the Fieldbus devices automatically perform the downloaded portions of the overall strategy independently of other portions of the control strategy. For example in a process control system that includes distributed field devices, controllers and workstations, portions of the control strategy downloaded or installed into the field devices operate independently of and in parallel with the control operations of the controllers and the workstations, while other control operations manage the Fieldbus devices and implement other portions of the control strategy.

Abstract: Installing and updating a software program module component. A determination is made whether the current date is on or after a date stored in a registry key on a computer. If the current date is on or after the date stored in the registry key, then a computer transmits a database query via the Internet to a database server. At the database server, a determination is made whether an upgrade package for the software program module component is available, such as by performing a database lookup. If an upgrade package for the software program module component is available, then an upgrade package message is sent from the database server to the computer. At the computer, a determination is made whether the user wants to download the upgrade package. If so, then an upgrade package query is sent by the computer via the Internet to a package server. At the package server, in response to receiving the upgrade package query, the upgrade package is retrieved and sent over the Internet to the computer. The upgrade package is then installed on the computer to update the software program module component.