Re: [NTLK] Serial numbers

From: Victor Rehorst (victor_at_newtontalk.net)
Date: Mon Oct 18 2004 - 06:18:33 PDT


Robert Benschop wrote:
> On 18-okt-04, at 1:35, Frank Gruendel wrote:
>
>>>The n=B0 near the reset button on MP 120, or the code barre below the
>>>int=
>>>erconnect port on MP 2xxx aren't serial numbers ?
>>
>>No, they aren't. The serial number is only available on Newton 2000,
>>2100
>>and eMate, and it is in a chip on the main logic board.
>
>
> So the number next to the interconnect port on a 2x00 isn't the same as
> the serial number?
>

Well apparently it depends on who you ask.

If it was 1998 and you called Apple to get service, and they asked you for
your serial number, that would be the string on the sticker underneath the
port cover. If Apple replaced your main logic board, your serial number would
not change.

But there is also a 'serial number' contained on a special chip on the main
logic board that is accessable through an API. This is documented in the NOS
2.x QAs, particularly this one:

http://www.unna.org/unna/apple//documentation/developer/QAs-2.x/html/serlnumb.htm

Right at the bottom of the document is the note:

"Please note that the serial number provided by the chip does NOT match the
serial number that Apple Computer and other Newton device manufacturers may
put on the outside of the case. When supporting a device, Apple and its
licensees will most likely request the user-visible serial number, typically
found on a sticker on the case."

Despite this, many developers used the serial number chip to secure software
registrations to a single unit (particularly, Adam Tow's NewtonID scheme).

-- 
Victor Rehorst - victor_at_newtontalk.net - chuma_at_chuma.org
NewtonTalk list administrator - http://www.newtontalk.net
Will the last person to leave the platform please turn off the backlight?
-- 
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