Communication connectivity initialization and verification system and method of use

Abstract

A system and method is disclosed for in-field communication connectivity initialization and verification between centralized on-line centers, and a number of in-field subscribing stations. The substations each have associated therewith an in-field product controlled by software which requires periodic upgrading, maintenance, service, and general monitoring. The system and method includes a computer program and a computer data signal embodied in a carrier wave for carrying out the process, which includes submitting customer and product data electronically to a centralized on-line center, which in turn creates a configuration module based on the submitted customer and product data. The configuration module is then transmitted to the subscribing station by the on-line center. The configuration module is loaded into the subscribing station to allow future communications between the on-line center and the subscribing station. After logging off the subscribing station, the on-line center automatically initiates a call-back to the subscribing station and uploads a file from the subscribing station to the on-line center to verify connectivity. If the in-field product is capable of dialing out, the configuration module causes the subscribing station to initiate a dial out test within a predetermined period after disconnection with the on-line center to ensure proper configuration for future automatic communications.